Israel has destroyed a major underground Hezbollah complex beneath the Ali al-Taher Ridge in southern Lebanon, using more than 1,100 tonnes of explosives, according to the Israeli military.

The operation demolished tunnels extending for more than 2 kilometres, while the massive explosions were followed by a 4.1-magnitude seismic tremor recorded in the area, according to the US Geological Survey. 

The operation marks another escalation around the strategically important ridge near Nabatieh, where Israeli and Hezbollah forces have continued to clash despite a US-brokered framework aimed at ending the fighting.

Israel Says Tunnel Was Hezbollah's Major Command Centre

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said the underground complex contained rockets, missiles, drones, firearms, anti-tank weapons and hundreds of mines and other explosives.

According to the IDF, the tunnels served as a major command and logistics centre for Hezbollah's Badr regional division, which operates in southern Lebanon north of the Litani River. The military also said the facility included command rooms, weapons storage areas and living quarters. 

Israel said the infrastructure had been developed over more than two decades and was financed and planned with Iranian support. These claims have been made by the Israeli military and were not independently verified.

1,100 Tonnes of Explosives Used

The scale of the demolition was unusually large.

The IDF said more than 1,100 tonnes of explosives were used to destroy the underground complex. Israeli military reporting said the two tunnels extended more than two kilometres beneath the ridge. (The Times of Israel)

The explosion was powerful enough to generate a tremor measured at magnitude 4.1. The US Geological Survey recorded the seismic event, while residents in parts of southern Lebanon reported feeling the blast and ground shaking. 

The tremor was therefore associated with the large-scale demolition rather than necessarily representing a naturally occurring earthquake.

IDF Says Fighters Were Found Inside the Network

The Israeli military has also released footage showing troops operating inside the tunnel system.

According to the IDF, Hezbollah fighters had been using the underground network and some were killed during the operation. Israeli forces also reported finding bodies and military equipment inside the complex.

The IDF said some fighters may have escaped from the area before the network was fully destroyed. 

Details regarding the number of Hezbollah fighters killed or their identities have not been independently established.

Netanyahu Says Mission Has Been Completed

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz said the destruction of the underground complex completed Israel's operational control of the Ali al-Taher Ridge.

Netanyahu also described the operation as a completed mission and issued a New Year greeting following the demolition. 

Israel has been seeking to maintain a security zone in southern Lebanon, arguing that Hezbollah's military infrastructure in the area poses a threat to northern Israel.

Why Ali al-Taher Ridge Matters

The ridge is strategically located near Nabatieh and overlooks important parts of southern Lebanon.

The area has been a major point of confrontation since the latest escalation between Israel and Hezbollah. The United States has been mediating efforts aimed at implementing a framework under which Israel would withdraw from Lebanon in exchange for Hezbollah's disarmament.

However, implementation has stalled, with disagreements over Hezbollah's weapons and the extent of Israel's withdrawal.

The destruction of the tunnel network could therefore strengthen Israel's military position while adding pressure to already fragile negotiations.

Fighting Continues Despite Ceasefire Framework

The latest demolition comes despite the broader ceasefire framework reached in June.

Israel has continued military operations in parts of southern Lebanon, while Hezbollah has also carried out attacks against Israeli forces in the region. Recent Israeli strikes have caused civilian casualties, according to Lebanese authorities, while Israel has said its operations target Hezbollah military infrastructure. 

The destruction of the Ali al-Taher tunnels is consequently unlikely to end the wider dispute on its own.

Instead, it highlights the continuing struggle over territory, weapons and military infrastructure in southern Lebanon, even as diplomatic efforts seek to prevent another major escalation.

The Israeli prime minister praised Donald Trump and Scott Bessent after Washington launched Operation Economic Outcast, targeting Iran’s financial and trade networks.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has backed the latest US sanctions against Iran, praising President Donald Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent for what he described as measures that would impose a “steep price” on Tehran and those supporting its actions. Netanyahu made the remarks shortly after Washington launched a new economic campaign aimed at cutting Iran off from international financial and commercial networks. 

In a post on X, Netanyahu congratulated Trump and Bessent over the latest sanctions against the Iranian regime. He said the measures were aimed at Iran and those he accused of assisting its continued aggression. 

The comments came after the US Treasury Department announced Operation Economic Outcast on August 24, describing it as a broad, government-wide campaign against Iran and entities supporting its activities. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the objective was to disrupt the financial connections and revenue streams that sustain the Iranian government.

US Expands Economic Pressure

The latest US measures target nearly 60 individuals, entities and vessels, according to reports, over alleged links to Iran’s military activities, procurement networks and petroleum and petrochemical trade. Washington has also identified five sectors that it says are being used by Iran to support its economy: digital assets, technology, gold, aviation and shipping.

Bessent said the Treasury had mapped networks that Iran allegedly uses to move oil and evade sanctions. He warned that US agencies would move against sources of revenue linked to the Iranian regime and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. 

The campaign represents an escalation in Washington’s economic pressure on Tehran. Rather than focusing only on Iranian entities, the United States is also seeking to pressure companies and other actors outside Iran that maintain business relationships with the country.

Netanyahu Supports Trump

Netanyahu's response reflects Israel's broader support for Washington's efforts to restrict Iran's economic resources. Israel has long viewed Iran's nuclear programme, missile capabilities and regional activities as major security concerns.

The Israeli prime minister's latest comments did not announce any new Israeli sanctions. Instead, they endorsed the US measures and praised the Trump administration's approach towards Tehran. 

The statement also comes amid heightened tensions involving Iran and the United States, with Washington increasing economic pressure while keeping the possibility of further action open.

Iran Faces New Pressure

Bessent has framed the campaign as a choice for Tehran between continued international isolation and returning to the global economy. He said the United States wanted to cut the financial lifelines that support the Iranian regime while leaving a route open for Iran to normalise its economic relations if it changes course.

The Treasury chief also indicated that Washington was communicating with international partners and warning countries and businesses about the consequences of continuing certain dealings with Iran. Reuters reported that the US has been seeking to persuade countries and companies to reduce their business ties with Tehran or face possible sanctions. 

Global Trade Impact

The expanded sanctions could have implications beyond Iran because the campaign is aimed partly at international networks involved in Iranian trade. Oil, shipping, aviation and financial transactions are particularly sensitive because restrictions on these sectors can affect companies and countries that maintain commercial links with Tehran.

The United States has previously used secondary sanctions to deter foreign businesses from dealing with Iran. The latest campaign indicates a stronger effort to enforce those measures across international networks.

For now, Netanyahu's statement adds political backing from Israel to Washington's latest economic offensive. The immediate focus will be on how Iran and other countries respond to the expanded US sanctions and whether the pressure leads to changes in Tehran's economic or diplomatic position.

 Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing a stronger political challenge ahead of the country's upcoming elections, with a new opinion poll showing former military chief Gadi Eisenkot's Yashar party ahead of Netanyahu's Likud.

According to a survey published by Zman Israel on Thursday, Yashar is projected to win 25 seats in the 120-member Knesset, while Likud is estimated to secure 21 seats.

The four-seat gap marks a notable change from several recent surveys, in which Eisenkot's party had maintained only a narrow advantage over Likud. In some polls, the two parties had been tied or separated by just one or two seats.

The election is scheduled for October 27, leaving both camps with roughly two months to consolidate support and build potential governing alliances.

Majority Still Out of Reach

Despite Yashar emerging as the largest individual party in the latest survey, Eisenkot would still face a difficult path to forming a government.

Israel's Knesset has 120 seats, and a governing coalition requires at least 61 seats for a parliamentary majority.

The poll projects that the broader anti-Netanyahu Change Bloc could win around 58 seats, leaving it three seats short of the majority mark.

Parties supporting Netanyahu are projected to collectively secure approximately 50 seats, while Arab parties could hold around 12 seats.

The Ram Party and Hadash-Ta'al are each projected to win six seats, according to the survey.

The figures indicate that neither major political camp currently appears capable of forming a government independently, making coalition negotiations likely to play a decisive role after the election.

Eisenkot Pushes Largest-Party Claim

Eisenkot has previously argued that the leader of the largest party within the anti-Netanyahu bloc should receive the opportunity to form the next government.

His position could become important if Yashar maintains its lead and emerges as the largest opposition party after the election.

The question of who would become prime minister has already created tensions within the opposition camp.

Yair Lapid's Yesh Atid has indicated that it would not stand in the way of efforts to establish an alternative government to Netanyahu. However, when asked whether his party would support Eisenkot as prime minister, Lapid did not provide a definitive answer.

Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett is also considered a potential contender for the top post.

Bennett Example Remains Relevant

The debate over who should lead a coalition has historical significance in Israeli politics.

Bennett became prime minister in 2021 despite his party holding only seven seats in the Knesset. He led a broad coalition involving parties with significantly different political positions before his government ended in 2022.

Eisenkot's argument that the leader of the largest party should get the first opportunity to form a government is therefore significant in the context of the opposition's current political calculations.

Whether other anti-Netanyahu parties would ultimately support an Eisenkot-led government remains uncertain.

Security Concerns Grow

Alongside the political contest, security concerns surrounding Eisenkot have also emerged.

A report by Channel 12 said there were indications of Iranian efforts to target Israeli political figures. While Netanyahu already receives government-provided security protection, Eisenkot does not currently have the same formal entitlement.

His growing political profile has therefore raised questions about his personal security as the election campaign intensifies.

Israel's internal security agency, Shin Bet, is reportedly considering providing Eisenkot with armed protection.

Election Campaign Set to Intensify

The latest polling has added uncertainty to an already competitive political landscape.

A four-seat lead for Yashar over Likud could strengthen Eisenkot's position within the opposition, but the figures also show that the anti-Netanyahu camp remains below the 61-seat threshold required to govern.

For Netanyahu, retaining Likud as the largest party would remain crucial to his efforts to build another governing coalition.

With the election approaching, the contest is likely to focus not only on which party wins the most seats but also on which political groups can assemble the alliances required to cross the majority threshold.

The final outcome could therefore depend as much on coalition arithmetic as on the performance of individual parties.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sparked a fresh controversy after describing the United Kingdom as the “Islamic Republic of Britain” and claiming that it could become the “first Islamic republic” to possess nuclear weapons. His remarks came amid already strained relations between Israel and Britain over the Gaza war and London’s increasingly critical position on Israel’s military campaign.

Netanyahu made the comments during a podcast-style interview for Israel’s Army Radio, where he was discussing Britain’s changing political landscape and its relationship with Israel. The remarks were reported by The Guardian and have since triggered debate over the Israeli leader’s characterization of British society and politics.

Netanyahu’s ‘Islamic Republic’ Remark

While discussing Britain and referring to the legacy of former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, Netanyahu contrasted the country's past relationship with Israel with what he described as its present political environment.

He referred to modern Britain as the “Islamic republic of Britain” and later said that someone had described it as the “first Islamic republic with nuclear weapons.”

The statement appears to draw on a far-right narrative that portrays Britain as being increasingly influenced by its Muslim population. Muslims, however, remain a minority in the United Kingdom, which is not an Islamic republic.

Reference to Pakistan

Netanyahu’s comments also appeared to reference Pakistan, whose official name is the Islamic Republic of Pakistanand which has possessed nuclear weapons since the 1990s.

By describing Britain in similar terms, Netanyahu appeared to suggest a hypothetical future in which Britain could become an Islamic republic while retaining its nuclear capabilities.

The remarks have attracted attention because they came from the Israeli prime minister at a time when relations with one of Britain’s historically important Western allies are already under pressure.

UK-Israel Relations Under Strain

Relations between London and Jerusalem have deteriorated over Israel’s military operations in Gaza, Britain's position on Palestinian statehood and its criticism of Israeli policies in the region.

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has adopted a more critical approach towards the Israeli government. Before becoming prime minister, Burnham had acknowledged that Labour had not handled its initial response to the Gaza conflict correctly and said the party needed to take a different approach.

In July, Burnham said Britain would do more to put pressure on the Israeli government. He also indicated that London could consider additional sanctions against individuals and organisations and restrictions related to goods produced in Israeli settlements.

These developments have contributed to growing diplomatic tensions between the two countries.

Remarks Echo JD Vance

Netanyahu’s latest comments also resemble remarks made by US Vice-President JD Vance during the 2024 US presidential campaign.

Vance had previously warned that Britain could become the first “truly Islamist country” to obtain nuclear weapons. Netanyahu’s description of Britain appears to follow a similar line of argument about the country’s changing demographics and politics.

Such comments have repeatedly faced criticism from British political figures and Muslim community representatives, who argue that they contribute to Islamophobic narratives.

Criticism Within Israel

The remarks have also drawn criticism inside Israel.

Avi Dabush, a candidate from Israel’s opposition Democrats party, accused Netanyahu of attacking an important Western ally at a time when Israel is already facing increasing international isolation.

Critics have argued that Netanyahu’s comments could further complicate Israel’s diplomatic position, particularly as the country seeks continued political and strategic support from Western governments.

No Official Response Yet

According to The Guardian, Netanyahu’s office did not immediately respond to questions about whether the description of Britain represented the official position of the Israeli government.

The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office also had not immediately issued a response to the remarks.

Netanyahu’s comments are likely to add another layer of tension to an already difficult relationship between Britain and Israel, especially as London continues to reassess its position on the Gaza conflict and its broader Middle East policy.

Trump’s Gaza Peace Plan Remains ‘Operative’ Despite Netanyahu’s Objections, US-Backed Board Says

The roadmap links a phased Israeli withdrawal to Hamas disarmament, but the two sides remain divided over which commitment must be implemented first.

US President Donald Trump’s Gaza peace roadmap remains active and negotiations with Israel are continuing despite Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s objections, according to an official of the US-backed Board of Peace.

The official’s statement came after Netanyahu told his right-wing government that Israel would not withdraw from Gaza until Hamas was fully disarmed. The Israeli leader has said that disarmament must include heavy and light weapons and must occur before Israeli forces leave territory.

The Board of Peace official said the framework was designed to advance in verified stages and that Israel would not be required to make irreversible moves based only on promises. Discussions with the Israeli government were continuing, the official told Reuters.

The dispute is not simply over the broad goals of the plan. Israel, Hamas and mediators disagree over timing, verification and which party must act first.

What the roadmap proposes

Trump announced a breakthrough last month and said the roadmap would end military operations, disarm Hamas and other armed groups, and lead to a phased Israeli withdrawal.

An International Stabilization Force would work with a new Palestinian police service to provide security. A technocratic Palestinian administration operating under international supervision would manage daily affairs and reconstruction.

Hamas has avoided using the word “disarmament”. Its officials have said the group is prepared to hand over weapons for storage under a US-backed administration, but only if Israel first stops attacks and begins withdrawing.

Netanyahu says Israel cannot surrender territory or reduce military pressure until Hamas’s weapons have been removed and rendered unusable. Far-right members of his coalition oppose withdrawal and want the group’s complete destruction.

Political and humanitarian pressure

Netanyahu faces an election on October 27 and is under pressure from two directions. The United States, Israel’s most important military ally, wants progress towards ending the conflict. Far-right Israeli ministers warn that accepting the roadmap on Hamas’s terms would waste the gains of the war.

Israel’s military has scaled back attacks in Gaza under US pressure, according to Reuters. However, the ceasefire remains fragile, and violence has continued since it was agreed in October 2025.

More than 1,250 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks since the ceasefire began, most of them civilians, according to Gaza health officials cited by Reuters. Hamas does not provide a separate count of fighters killed. Israel says four of its soldiers have died in militant attacks during the same period.

Israeli forces control and have depopulated about two-thirds of the enclave, leaving most of Gaza’s more than two million residents confined to a narrow coastal area. Many people are living in tents or damaged buildings and remain dependent on humanitarian aid.

Why the plan is difficult to implement

The roadmap’s central challenge is sequencing. Israel wants verified disarmament before withdrawal. Hamas wants withdrawal and an end to attacks before surrendering weapons. Without a trusted mechanism to carry out both commitments in parallel, either side can accuse the other of delaying.

Questions also remain about who would command the international force, which countries would contribute troops, how Palestinian police would be selected and who would finance reconstruction.

For India, the outcome matters because continued conflict affects citizens and workers across West Asia, energy prices, shipping costs and diplomatic relations with Israel, Palestine and Arab partners.

The Board of Peace says the plan is advancing, but no final implementation schedule has been announced. Until the parties agree on verifiable first steps, the roadmap remains a diplomatic framework rather than a secured end to the conflict.

 Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi following a phone conversation between the two leaders, during which they discussed the evolving situation in West Asia and reviewed the progress of the India-Israel Special Strategic Partnership.

The conversation took place as tensions continue across West Asia, with the prolonged conflict raising concerns over regional security, energy supplies and international trade routes.

Netanyahu Thanks PM Modi

Netanyahu shared PM Modi's post on X and thanked the Indian Prime Minister for the conversation.

"Thank you, my friend, Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi. Together we continue to strengthen the bond between Israel and India," Netanyahu wrote.

Earlier, PM Modi had shared details of the phone call, saying that he and Netanyahu discussed recent developments in West Asia and reviewed cooperation between the two countries.

PM Modi said the India-Israel Special Strategic Partnership continues to strengthen across various areas. The two leaders also exchanged views on the current situation in West Asia.

Focus on Bilateral Partnership

According to the Prime Minister's Office, Modi and Netanyahu reviewed the sustained progress of the India-Israel Special Strategic Partnership.

The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening bilateral cooperation across various sectors for the mutual benefit of both countries.

India and Israel have developed close cooperation in areas including defence, technology, agriculture, innovation, trade and security.

The leaders also agreed to remain in contact as developments in West Asia continue to unfold.

West Asia Tensions Continue

The conversation comes against the backdrop of continuing tensions across West Asia. The prolonged conflict has created concerns not only for regional security but also for global energy markets and trade routes.

The Strait of Hormuz remains particularly important because of its role in international energy shipments. Any prolonged disruption or instability around the waterway could affect crude oil supplies, prices and wider global markets.

India Maintains Diplomatic Engagement

India has been closely monitoring developments in West Asia while maintaining diplomatic engagement with countries across the region.

New Delhi's approach has focused on regional stability, the safety of Indian nationals, energy security and maintaining relations with key strategic partners.

The latest conversation between Modi and Netanyahu underlines the continued communication between the leaderships of India and Israel.

While the two leaders did not announce any major new agreement following the call, they reiterated the importance of strengthening bilateral ties and staying in touch over developments in West Asia.

The conversation also comes as India continues to balance its strategic partnerships with its broader diplomatic and economic interests in a region facing prolonged instability.

 A bipartisan proposal in the US Congress is seeking to redefine the United States' long-standing security relationship with Israel by replacing billions of dollars in annual military aid with a broader framework of defence, intelligence and technology cooperation.

The proposal comes at a time when public support for Israel has weakened, particularly among younger Americans, amid continued debate over the country's military operations in Gaza.

Aid Model May Be Replaced

According to reports, lawmakers are considering legislation that would gradually move away from the current system of providing at least $3.8 billion in annual US military assistance to Israel.

Instead, the proposal envisions legally mandated collaboration in areas such as defence technology, intelligence-sharing, weapons development, defence manufacturing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, missile defence and autonomous military systems.

Supporters argue that such an arrangement would create a more balanced partnership by allowing both countries to benefit directly from joint research, innovation and industrial cooperation rather than relying primarily on financial assistance.

New Pentagon Office Proposed

As part of the legislation, Congress is proposing the establishment of a dedicated office within the US Department of Defense to oversee strategic cooperation between Washington and Tel Aviv.

The office would coordinate joint development, testing and deployment of advanced military technologies while expanding defence-industrial collaboration.

The proposed legislation would also require the US President and the Director of National Intelligence to strengthen intelligence-sharing mechanisms with Israel.

Support from Trump and Netanyahu

The proposal has received backing from US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The bill has already cleared the House of Representatives and is currently awaiting consideration in the Senate.

If approved, it would mark one of the most significant structural changes in US-Israel defence relations in decades.

Public Opinion Becoming More Critical

The congressional initiative comes despite growing public scepticism about US support for Israel.

Recent opinion surveys indicate that younger Americans have become increasingly critical of Israel following the conflict in Gaza that began in 2023.

According to a Pew Research Center survey, a majority of Americans aged 18 to 29 now hold an unfavourable opinion of Israel.

Another national survey reportedly found that a significant proportion of younger Republican voters also oppose continued military and economic assistance to Israel, reflecting a broader shift across sections of the American electorate.

Critics Warn of Risks

While supporters describe the proposal as a strategic evolution of the bilateral relationship, critics argue that it could further integrate Israel into the US defence and intelligence framework without sufficient safeguards.

They contend that Washington and Tel Aviv already maintain one of the world's closest military and intelligence partnerships, and expanding institutional cooperation could complicate future policy decisions.

Analysts also note that the proposal arrives amid continuing political debate in the United States over military aid, Middle East policy and the humanitarian impact of the Gaza conflict.

The Senate's decision on the legislation is expected to determine whether the proposed shift from direct financial assistance to long-term strategic collaboration becomes the next phase of the US-Israel security partnership.

Israel Rejects US Proposal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly rejected US President Donald Trump's proposal calling for Hamas' disarmament and a phased Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, marking the sharpest public disagreement between the two leaders over the ongoing Gaza conflict.

In a video statement shared on Facebook, Netanyahu said Israel had not accepted the draft proposal presented by the United States, insisting that it did not reflect Israel's position.

"We did not agree to it. It was not our draft," Netanyahu said, adding that Israel had submitted its own comments and amendments to the proposal.

No Withdrawal From Gaza

Netanyahu also made it clear that Israel has no plans to withdraw from Gaza at this stage.

According to the Israeli prime minister, the US administration believes Hamas can be persuaded to disarm and demilitarise the Gaza Strip through negotiations. While Israel is reviewing the proposal, Netanyahu stressed that his government has not endorsed the framework presented by Washington.

His remarks represent the first public confirmation that Israel has formally objected to key elements of the American initiative.

Trump's Peace Proposal

The proposal is part of President Trump's broader Board of Peace initiative aimed at ending the Gaza conflict.

Last week, Trump announced what he described as an in-principle understanding under which Hamas would gradually surrender its weapons in exchange for a phased Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza.

The US president said the arrangement would pave the way for Gaza to be administered by a new Palestinian authority working alongside the Board of Peace, while ensuring Israel's long-term security by preventing the territory from being used for future attacks.

Growing Rift Between Allies

Netanyahu's rejection highlights an emerging policy divide between Washington and Jerusalem over the future of Gaza.

According to US officials, the proposed disarmament-and-withdrawal framework is an extension of Trump's earlier 20-point Gaza peace plan, which Israel had previously accepted in principle.

A senior US official warned last week that President Trump would be "very disappointed" if Israel blocked the latest proposal, arguing that rejecting the framework would undermine commitments already made by the Israeli government.

The disagreement is widely seen as the most significant diplomatic rupture between Trump and Netanyahu since the current conflict began.

Board of Peace Efforts Continue

Following Trump's announcement, Board of Peace Director General Nikolay Mladenov held talks with Netanyahu, urging Israel to suspend military operations in Gaza for two weeks to facilitate negotiations with Hamas.

The Board of Peace later clarified that Israel would only be required to complete its withdrawal after Hamas had fully disarmed.

It also stated that Hamas would be expected to surrender all categories of weapons, including heavy arms, tunnel infrastructure and light firearms, before any final withdrawal took place.

Despite those assurances, Netanyahu's latest remarks indicate that Israel remains unconvinced by the proposed sequence of events and is unwilling to commit to a withdrawal under the current framework.

Negotiations Face Fresh Uncertainty

The public disagreement has cast fresh uncertainty over diplomatic efforts to end the Gaza conflict.

While the United States continues to push for a negotiated settlement combining Hamas' disarmament with a phased Israeli withdrawal, Israel's leadership maintains that its security concerns remain paramount.

With both sides holding differing interpretations of the proposed agreement, negotiations are expected to continue in the coming days as international mediators seek to bridge the divide.

Joint airstrikes follow wave of drone attacks as tensions escalate across the Middle East despite ongoing diplomatic efforts

The United States and Saudi Arabia carried out coordinated airstrikes against Iran-aligned armed groups in Iraq on Wednesday, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions following a series of drone attacks targeting US forces and Saudi energy infrastructure.

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the precision strikes targeted logistics hubs and weapons facilities allegedly used by Iran-backed militias operating in eastern Iraq. According to CENTCOM, the operation was launched after more than 30 drone attacks directed at US military installations and Saudi oil facilities over the past 72 hours.

In a statement posted on X, CENTCOM said the drone attacks failed to achieve their objectives but warned that Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its allied groups must cease attacks on American personnel and regional partners or face further military action.

Netanyahu meets Trump at White House

The military operation coincided with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to Washington, where he held a nearly 90-minute meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House.

Following the talks, Netanyahu described the meeting as one of the most productive discussions he had ever held with the US President.

In a video statement, the Israeli Prime Minister said both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and discussed broader regional security issues.

"Our shared objective remains ensuring that Iran never develops nuclear weapons," Netanyahu said, adding that both governments remain fully coordinated on strategic matters concerning Israel's security.

Iraqi militia reports casualties

Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) condemned the strikes, calling them a violation of Iraqi sovereignty and describing the attacks as a dangerous escalation.

The PMF's command in Nineveh province claimed that eight members were killed and four others injured in the strikes, while separate reports indicated damage to militia facilities in Basra and other regions.

The Iraqi armed group said authorities were assessing the extent of casualties and infrastructure damage.

Regional tensions continue to rise

The latest military action comes amid renewed instability across the Middle East despite ongoing diplomatic efforts to reduce hostilities.

Jordan said its air defence systems intercepted five Iranian missiles that crossed its airspace early Wednesday after the IRGC claimed to have targeted a US military base and Central Command facilities in the kingdom.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia confirmed that the joint operation was carried out under its right to self-defence following repeated drone attacks on petroleum facilities in the kingdom. Riyadh maintained that it does not seek further escalation but would continue responding to threats against its territory and critical infrastructure.

Shipping concerns persist

The security situation in key maritime routes also remained volatile.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard claimed it had stopped three oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, warning that vessels following what it described as "illegal" US navigation directives could face similar action.

Shipping activity through Hormuz remains significantly lower than normal, while traffic through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait has increased, according to maritime monitoring reports.

The continued disruptions have renewed concerns over global energy supplies and shipping security, although crude oil markets remained relatively stable during early trading.

Diplomatic efforts continue

Despite the military exchanges, diplomatic engagement has not completely stalled.

Officials from several Gulf countries continue to push for de-escalation, while negotiations involving regional stakeholders remain ongoing to prevent the conflict from expanding further.

However, the latest exchange of strikes underscores the fragile security environment in West Asia, where military operations and diplomatic initiatives continue to unfold simultaneously.

 Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to brief US President Donald Trump on Iran's alleged efforts to revive its nuclear programme at the Pickaxe Mountain underground complex during their upcoming meeting in Washington, according to media reports.

Citing an Israeli source, reports said Netanyahu intends to present what Israel describes as evidence suggesting that Tehran is continuing to advance its nuclear programme despite publicly expressing willingness to pursue diplomacy.

The issue is expected to feature prominently in discussions between the two leaders as tensions over Iran's nuclear activities remain high.

Israel to Present Intelligence Claims

According to reports, Netanyahu is expected to argue that Iran has not been genuine in its diplomatic engagement and has continued strengthening its nuclear infrastructure.

Israeli officials reportedly believe that parts of Iran's nuclear programme have been relocated to the Pickaxe Mountain complex, which they view as evidence that Tehran continues to pursue sensitive nuclear activities.

Earlier reports had also suggested that Israel had gathered intelligence indicating that centrifuges were moved to the underground facility following a memorandum of understanding reached between the United States and Iran.

Iran has not publicly responded to these specific allegations.

Underground Facility Under Spotlight

Pickaxe Mountain has increasingly drawn international attention because of its proximity to the Natanz nuclear facility, one of Iran's principal uranium enrichment sites.

According to reports, the underground complex is located around 1.5 kilometres south of Natanz and was allegedly constructed beginning in 2020.

The Natanz facility itself was reportedly targeted multiple times during the recent conflict involving Iran.

Trump Previously Commented on Site

President Donald Trump has made several public remarks regarding the Pickaxe Mountain facility in recent weeks.

Earlier, he stated that the site had not been targeted during military operations because the United States lacked sufficient intelligence indicating active nuclear operations inside the complex.

However, during a subsequent meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Trump suggested that military action against the facility remained under consideration.

In another interview earlier this month, the US President also indicated that Washington continued monitoring developments at the site while noting that intelligence agencies had not confirmed active centrifuge operations inside the underground complex.

Ceasefire and Regional Security Also on Agenda

Apart from Iran's nuclear programme, Netanyahu is also expected to discuss efforts to preserve ceasefire arrangements in Lebanon and Gaza, where Iran-backed groups remain active.

According to reports, discussions are likely to include the broader regional security situation and recent diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions in West Asia.

Trump has recently indicated support for renewed diplomatic engagement even as the United States continues to maintain pressure on Iran over its nuclear programme.

High-Level Meeting Amid Regional Tensions

The planned meeting comes at a time when negotiations over Iran's nuclear activities remain uncertain and regional security continues to dominate international diplomacy.

While Washington and Tehran have periodically explored diplomatic channels, concerns over Iran's nuclear infrastructure and missile capabilities continue to shape US-Israel strategic cooperation.

Neither the White House nor the Israeli Prime Minister's Office has officially disclosed the full agenda for the meeting.

 Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he plans to travel to New York to address the United Nations General Assembly, despite an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant and opposition from New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who has argued that Netanyahu should be arrested if he visits the city.

Speaking during an interview with Fox News, Netanyahu said he intends to present Israel's position before the UN and reaffirm the strength of the Israel-US alliance.

"I intend to come and speak the truth—speak for Israel and for the Israeli-American alliance from the podium of the United Nations," Netanyahu said.

ICC Warrant and Political Row

The proposed visit comes amid continuing international attention over the ICC warrant against Netanyahu. While the court's warrant has sparked diplomatic debate, US President Donald Trump recently stated that Netanyahu would not face arrest during any visit to the United States, dismissing concerns over possible legal action.

The issue has also intensified political tensions in New York after Mayor Zohran Mamdani suggested that legal options regarding Netanyahu's visit were still under consideration.

Netanyahu Targets Mamdani

During the interview, Netanyahu criticised Mamdani, accusing him of creating divisions within New York's communities.

"He’s fomenting hate. He’s supposed to be the mayor of all New Yorkers—Jews, Christians, Muslims, everyone," Netanyahu said, adding that many Jewish Americans had expressed concerns about the current political climate.

Survey Reflects Divided Opinion

An Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research survey conducted in June found mixed views among Jewish Americans regarding Mamdani. Around 44% viewed him favourably, while 39% held an unfavourable opinion.

The same survey also indicated that Netanyahu's popularity among Jewish Americans remains divided, with nearly 60% expressing an unfavourable opinion, while roughly one-third viewed him positively.

Netanyahu's proposed UN visit is expected to draw international attention as diplomatic, legal and political debates surrounding the ICC warrant continue.

 Two mosques in the occupied West Bank were set on fire on Sunday in separate attacks allegedly carried out by Israeli settlers, according to Palestinian officials and local residents, in the latest escalation of violence in the region.

The attacks took place in the villages of Qusra and Kour in the northern West Bank. Palestinian authorities said settlers also attempted to torch a third mosque near Kour, but local residents intervened and prevented the attack.

Graffiti reading "Jewish Revenge" was reportedly spray-painted on the walls of the damaged mosques, adding to tensions already heightened by recent clashes in the occupied territory.

Violence Follows Deadly Confrontation

The incidents came two days after a deadly confrontation in the West Bank left four Palestinians and two Israelis dead, following clashes that reportedly began when armed settlers entered the Palestinian village of Tal.

In response to the violence, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered an intensified security operation across the West Bank, deploying additional troops, establishing new checkpoints and authorising a broader crackdown in the area.

Growing Concern Over Settler Attacks

The latest attacks are part of a continuing wave of violence involving Israeli settlers and Palestinian communities in the occupied West Bank.

According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), more than 1,000 settler-related incidents causing casualties or property damage were recorded between January and June 2026, the highest number documented during a comparable period.

The UN said the attacks affected more than 230 Palestinian communities and displaced over 2,200 people, describing 2026 as the worst year on record for settler violence in the occupied territory.

International Scrutiny Intensifies

Israeli settlements in the West Bank are regarded as illegal under international law by most countries and the United Nations, although Israel disputes that interpretation.

Critics have accused Israel's current government of encouraging settlement expansion and failing to curb violence by extremist settlers, allegations the Israeli government has consistently rejected.

The latest attacks are expected to draw renewed international attention as tensions continue to rise across the occupied West Bank amid the broader Israel-Palestinian conflict.