China completes phase II of Shenhai Yihao ultra-deepwater Gas field
The Shenhai Yihao ultra-deepwater gas field, or Deep Sea No. 1, is China's first independently developed ultra-deepwater gas project, located in the South China Sea.
Israel
Get comprehensive coverage of Israel, including latest updates, analysis, insights, and expert commentary.
Targeting Hezbollah: Who’s next after Aqil and Shukr?
For years, Hezbollah's Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah has been frequently discussed as a potential target for Israeli operations. Analysts suggest that his removal could be a strategic objective, especially given the ongoing tensions in the region. There are historical precedents for such actions; for instance, the killing of former Hezbollah leader Abbas Musawi had far-reaching ramifications, illustrating the potential fallout from targeting high-ranking officials.
Airspace closed in Northern Israel amid escalating violence
Reports indicate that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have conducted over 100 strikes in Lebanon in retaliation for 25 rocket attacks launched from the region. The Lebanese health ministry has reported at least 31 fatalities due to the Israeli airstrikes in Beirut, including several high-ranking Hezbollah commanders. This escalation marks a significant intensification of hostilities between Israeli forces and Lebanese militant groups.
IDF foils Hamas looting of humanitarian aid truck in Gaza
IDF surveillance footage captured the events, revealing a vehicle that approached the front of a line of aid trucks, with armed individuals exiting. An IDF soldier noted the presence of militants armed with AK-47s, confirming their identification and movements before authorizing a targeted strike. The command for the strike emphasized the need to avoid civilian casualties, demonstrating the military's attempt to mitigate harm during such operations.
Escalating violence in Lebanon and Gaza
Simultaneously, Israeli forces conducted a missile strike in Gaza, killing at least 22 people, predominantly women and children, in an attack on a school compound. The Israeli military claims the site was being utilized as a Hamas command center, asserting that precautions were taken to minimize civilian casualties. However, reports from Gaza’s Health Ministry and eyewitness accounts suggest a tragic scene, with many families caught unawares. A witness described the chaos, stating, “There was no warning... Where is the conscience?”
Iraq sends medical assistance to Lebanon amid unprecedented security incident
Lebanon, already grappling with economic turmoil and political instability, faces an unprecedented crisis as authorities scramble to investigate the source of the pager malfunctions.
UN votes on resolution to end Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories
Scheduled for a vote on Wednesday, the resolution also calls for sanctions and an arms embargo against Israel. The backdrop of this move is the escalating violence in the West Bank and the nearing anniversary of Israel's conflict with Hamas, which began on October 7, 2023.
Analysts question strategic impact of Israel’s pager attack on Hezbollah
Opinions are divided on whether the operation reflects a short-term reaction or a long-term strategy. Some analysts speculate that Israel may have acted swiftly out of fear that Hezbollah had discovered its ability to sabotage the pagers, leading to an urgent preemptive strike. Conversely, others suggest a more calculated intent behind the operation, positing that Israel hoped to coerce Hezbollah into reconsidering its military aggression amid ongoing negotiations concerning Gaza.
U.S. urges diplomatic solution to Israel-Hezbollah conflict, White House says
The explosions, which occurred simultaneously across various regions in Lebanon, including Beirut’s southern suburbs, the Bekaa Valley, and southern Lebanon, have been attributed by Hezbollah and Lebanese officials to Israel. Hezbollah has vowed retaliation for what it calls a “criminal aggression.”
Senior Israeli officials hold emergency talks after explosion of Hezbollah devices
“This is an opportunity to alter the current dynamics of the conflict with Hezbollah,” said Yiftah Ron-Tal, a major general in the Israeli army reserves, as quoted by Israel’s Channel 14.
Israel expands war goals to secure return of northern residents
The move comes in response to continued cross-border strikes from Hezbollah, which have intensified since the outbreak of war with Hamas on October 7. Thousands of Israelis have been displaced from towns along the northern border, which have sustained considerable damage from Hezbollah’s rocket fire. These residents remain unable to return to their homes, adding to the broader humanitarian crisis.
Israel’s business leaders urge Netanyahu to retain Defence Minister Gallant amid political turmoil
Recent reports suggest that Netanyahu, facing pressure from far-right coalition partners, is considering replacing Gallant with Gideon Saar, a former ally now in the opposition. This potential shift comes as Israel remains engaged in a protracted conflict with Hamas in Gaza and faces the looming threat of an escalation with Hezbollah in Lebanon.
UNRWA reports 90% coverage in Gaza’s polio vaccination campaign
The high coverage rate in Gaza underscores the effectiveness of the campaign and the extensive efforts made by UNRWA, local health authorities, and international partners.
Israel allegedly exploiting African asylum seekers for dangerous operations in Gaza
According to the report, Israeli defense officials have recognized an opportunity to utilize the asylum seekers' services, leveraging their desperation for permanent status in Israel as a bargaining chip.
Yemen’s Al-Hodeida port remains inactive two months after Israeli strike
Since the Israeli strike, no major tankers have docked at Al-Hodeida. The port, a critical hub for oil and gas shipments, has been effectively shut down, with cranes damaged and operational capacity reduced to approximately 30% of its pre-attack level. Efrat's observations indicate that the port now handles minimal unloading, with a significant drop in the frequency of tanker arrivals.
Israel’s market slumps amid speculation of Defense Chief’s dismissal
The speculation arose from recent political developments and discussions within Netanyahu’s government. The Prime Minister’s office has not confirmed any decision, but the mere possibility of a leadership change in the Defense Ministry has rattled investor confidence. The Defense Chief plays a crucial role in shaping Israel’s security policies, and such a move could signal significant changes in the country’s defense strategy.
Palestinian Foreign ministry warns of Israel’s evacuation plans as potential precursor to annexation
Palestinian officials argue that these actions could pave the way for the annexation of Gaza, a significant shift that would alter the region's demographic and political landscape.