Germany proposes to replace UNIFIL with EU-led force to prevent 'security vacuum'
An EU force could replace UNIFIL and prevent Hezbollah from returning to areas vacated by the IDF, Germany’s foreign minister said.
Middle East
Iran's IRGC claims it targeted US command center in Syria, state media reports
Sirens sound across Gulf countries as renewed US-Iran conflict enters sixth day
CENTCOM 'holding Iran accountable,' completes sixth night of strikes against military targets
Sirens sound across Bahrain, Kuwait as Iran threatens 'heavy costs' following US strikes
The sirens were activated following a reported Iranian attack on US helicopters and reconnaissance aircraft at the Shakir Airbase, the country’s military airport.
Syria arrests former officer accused of overseeing production of sarin bombs
Potential charges could include murder and participation in the use of prohibited weapons, as well as war crimes or crimes against humanity if supported by evidence.
Herzog says Israel-Saudi peace is his dream, 'unsurprised' by renewed Iran conflict, in interview
President Isaac Herzog discussed the unfolding situation with Iran and the prospect of normalization in the region in a Thursday interview with Saudi state-owned Al-Arabiya.
Iran judiciary denies Trump statement that American prisoner was freed
Trump announced the alleged release in a post on Truth Social, claiming that the unnamed detainee was “safely outside of Iran and in good condition.”
Trump expected to expand Iran military campaign as Tehran warns of broader retaliation
Sources cautioned that it remains unclear when the next phase of the operation will begin or what level of increased military activity Trump will ultimately authorize.
Arab leaders tell Trump that Netanyahu is an 'obstacle' to the president's Mideast plans - report
Arab diplomats familiar with the discussions said regional governments increasingly view Netanyahu as an impediment to Trump’s diplomatic ambitions in the Middle East.
Dubai denies reports of explosions as Iran claims US struck in Bandar Abbas, Qeshm Island
Witnesses told Reuters that they heard blasts in downtown Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on Thursday, however, Dubai's official media office called these reports "false."
Gulf State leadership tried to dissuade Trump from implementing Hormuz tolls - report
According to a CNN report, leaders from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Qatar were among those who convinced Trump to abandon the proposed 20% fee on cargo.
Houthis to strike Saudi oil facilities if Riyadh escalates in Yemen, leader warns
The warning came after the Houthis fired missiles at Saudi Arabia, accusing the kingdom of bombing an airport under their control on Monday, marking a rupture in a four-year truce.
Lebanon, Syria launch talks to reset trade ties, review Assad-era deals
The two countries have been undertaking a reset in ties since the end of nearly half a century of Assad family rule that saw Syrian troops stationed in Lebanon for almost 30 years.
