Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has warned that his country is on the verge of a new war following Israel’s airstrikes on Hezbollah positions. The strikes targeted rocket launchers and a command centre in Lebanon after a rocket attack on Metula. Lebanon’s state media confirmed two casualties, including a young girl, and eight injuries. Israeli Army Chief Eyal Zamir stated that Lebanon must uphold ceasefire agreements. Metula’s mayor has expressed security concerns, urging residents not to return under current conditions. The situation remains tense as both sides brace for further escalation.
HAMAS REJECTS US WAR CLAIMS
Hamas has rejected US claims that it “chose war” over releasing hostages, calling it a distortion of facts. The statement was issued in response to US National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes, who blamed Hamas for the ceasefire breakdown. Following the failure of negotiations, Israel resumed military operations in Gaza, targeting Hamas positions. Israeli officials accuse Hamas of rejecting offers mediated by the US. Meanwhile, families of hostages have condemned the Israeli government, fearing renewed attacks endanger their loved ones. Protests have erupted, reflecting frustration over the handling of the crisis as tensions continue to rise.
DEADLY WILDFIRES RAVAGE SOUTH KOREA
South Korea is battling over 20 wildfires, with a major blaze in Sancheong County claiming at least four lives, including three firefighters. The fire, which began Friday, has burned over 500 hectares and forced the evacuation of more than 200 residents. High winds and mountainous terrain are hampering firefighting efforts, with only 35% of the fire contained. Acting President Choi Sang-mok has declared disaster zones and urged emergency agencies to deploy all resources. Severe fire warnings have been issued in 12 regions, including Busan and Daejeon, as authorities struggle to control the escalating crisis.
ISRAEL STRIKES HEZBOLLAH AMID TENSIONS
Israel launched multiple waves of airstrikes in Lebanon, targeting suspected Hezbollah sites after rocket fire toward Israeli territory. The escalation, marking the most significant flare-up since the ceasefire, resulted in at least five deaths, including a child, and 21 injuries. Israeli officials declared Lebanon responsible for all activities on its soil, while Hezbollah denied involvement, accusing Israel of seeking a pretext for aggression. The Lebanese military is investigating the rocket launches. The UN peacekeeping force in Lebanon has urged all parties to uphold the fragile truce, warning of severe regional consequences if hostilities continue.
TURKEY DETAINS PROTESTERS OVER MAYOR
Turkish authorities have detained 343 people in nationwide protests against the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu. Demonstrations erupted in multiple cities, including Istanbul and Ankara, after Imamoglu, a key opposition leader, was detained on charges of graft and aiding a terrorist group. The government cited public order concerns for the mass arrests, warning against further “chaos and provocation.” Riot police used water cannons to disperse protesters. Imamoglu’s party, the Republican People’s Party (CHP), condemned the arrest as politically motivated. The incident has intensified tensions ahead of upcoming elections, with growing opposition to President Erdogan’s government.
