US President Joe Biden, along with the leaders of France, Germany, Italy, and Britain, are urging Iran to stop making threats against Israel. They issued a joint statement calling on Iran to back down from its military attack threats on Israel. The leaders emphasized the serious consequences for regional security if such an attack were to occur. They also highlighted the need for an immediate end to the fighting and the release of all hostages held by Hamas.
The White House national security spokesman, John Kirby, stated that the US has increased its regional force posture in response to concerns about a potential Iran-backed attack following the assassination of a Hamas leader in Tehran. Kirby shared Israel’s assessment that an attack could be imminent and emphasized the need to be prepared for significant potential attacks.
Israeli military Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari confirmed that Israel is closely monitoring developments in Iran and is prepared to update the public on any changes promptly. The US has also announced the resumption of offensive weapons sales to Saudi Arabia, signaling a shift in focus from human rights concerns to resolving conflicts in the region.
International mediators have invited Israel and Hamas to resume negotiations to ease tensions following deadly strikes in Gaza and the killing of Iran-aligned militant leaders. Israel has accepted the invitation, while Hamas is calling for the implementation of a three-phase plan endorsed by the UN Security Council. The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged both sides to rejoin negotiations and reach a ceasefire agreement.
Israel’s Defence Minister Yoav Gallant stated that defensive measures have been strengthened in response to potential threats from Iran and Beirut. Pressure for a ceasefire in Gaza has mounted after an Israeli airstrike on a school housing displaced Palestinians resulted in numerous casualties. The UN has condemned the strike, while Israel maintains that it targeted militants operating from the school complex.
As tensions continue to escalate in the region, diplomatic efforts are underway to prevent further violence and reach a peaceful resolution. The international community is closely monitoring the situation and calling for all parties to engage in dialogue to de-escalate the conflict and avoid further loss of life.
