Israel’s defence minister has warned of potential war with Hezbollah in Lebanon, saying Israel has the capability to take the country “back to the stone age.” However, diplomatic solutions are preferred. Meanwhile, the US has paused a shipment of bombs to Israel over concerns of civilian deaths in Gaza. In Gaza, intense fighting continues with reports of attacks on Israeli forces. Turkish president accuses western powers of supporting Israeli plans to attack Lebanon. The Vatican urges peace proposals in the region.
The IDF disputes claims of extensive destruction in Gaza, stating they have destroyed 16% of permanent structures and 36% of temporary structures. Thousands of buildings have been destroyed to create a buffer zone between Gaza and Israel. Amid the conflict, there are reports of Israeli strikes in Damascus and a blast in the Jenin refugee camp in the West Bank.
Overall, the situation in the Middle East remains volatile, with ongoing fighting and escalating tensions. Calls for peace and diplomatic solutions are being made as the region faces a critical moment. The potential spread of war to Lebanon is described as “potentially apocalyptic” by the UN humanitarian chief. The international community is closely monitoring the situation as efforts to de-escalate the conflict continue.
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