Israel’s military Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir announced that half of Iran’s missile launchers have been destroyed in recent IDF airstrikes. He credited a “powerful and surprising opening strike” for the success, which also targeted Iran’s senior military leadership and nuclear infrastructure. Surface-to-air missile systems were also eliminated, some just moments before launch. Zamir emphasized the need for Israel to prepare for a prolonged campaign, linking the operations to efforts to free the remaining 53 hostages held by Hamas. He warned of “difficult days ahead” and said Israel is bracing for multiple future scenarios in the ongoing conflict.
IRAN SLAMS ISRAEL
Iran has condemned Israel’s recent airstrike as a “war crime,” calling it a betrayal of diplomacy, just two days before planned nuclear talks with the US and European leaders. The strike reportedly targeted a nuclear research facility and came during a critical window for de-escalation. Iran retaliated with missile attacks on Haifa and Beersheba, injuring civilians. Protests erupted in Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon. Meanwhile, IAEA warned against nuclear plant attacks, and European nations pushed for talks. UN chief Guterres warned the conflict could spiral uncontrollably if diplomacy fails to gain traction.
TRUMP MULLS IRAN STRIKE DECISION
US President Donald Trump has announced he will decide within two weeks whether to join Israel in military action against Iran. This follows Iran’s missile strikes on Israel that damaged the Soroka Hospital and hit an army intelligence center. Israel retaliated with multiple airstrikes on Tehran, escalating tensions. The WHO condemned attacks on medical facilities, and the UN warned of civilians being treated as collateral damage. Trump’s decision may hinge on possible negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program. Meanwhile, Iran threatens to shut the Strait of Hormuz, raising global security and oil supply concerns.
UK APPROVES ASSISTED DYING
In a historic move, the UK Parliament has passed a bill legalizing assisted dying for mentally competent, terminally ill adults with less than six months to live. The vote passed narrowly, 314–291, and now moves to the House of Lords for further scrutiny. Supporters call it a compassionate step toward dignity in death, while critics worry about potential coercion and weakened safeguards. This marks one of Britain’s most significant social reforms in decades, aligning it with countries like Canada and Australia. Emotional scenes unfolded outside Parliament as supporters celebrated and opponents stood in silence.
GAZA DEATH TOLL RISES
At least 44 Palestinians were killed in Gaza on Friday, including 25 reportedly shot while seeking food aid near Netzarim. Israel claimed militants were in the crowd and that warning shots and airstrikes were used. The UN’s children’s agency, UNICEF, warned that Gaza is facing a man-made drought, with water systems collapsing and children at risk of death from thirst. Aid access remains chaotic and dangerous, with confusion over routes and locations. The death toll in Gaza has neared 55,700 since the war began, as malnutrition, displacement, and violence spiral out of control.
