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.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that the United States and Israel are preparing to deepen their long-standing defence partnership through expanded collaboration in military technology, artificial intelligence and advanced research, following the inclusion of a new provision in the proposed US National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for 2027.

Speaking during an interview with Fox News, Netanyahu said the relationship between the two allies is entering a new phase, with Israel transitioning from being primarily a recipient of American military assistance to becoming a strategic technology partner.

"The time has now arrived for us to move from aid recipient to partner," Netanyahu said, adding that both governments are working to align their defence frameworks to address future security challenges.

Technology Partnership Proposed

The proposed legislation includes Section 224, officially titled the United States-Israel Defense Technology Cooperation Initiative, which seeks to institutionalise greater cooperation in next-generation defence technologies.

If approved, the initiative would encourage joint development and research in areas including artificial intelligence, autonomous military platforms, quantum computing, advanced drone systems and emerging defence technologies. The proposal also aims to expand cooperation between defence industries, research institutions and military agencies of both countries.

The draft further envisions enhanced sharing of defence-related data and broader collaboration in research, production and innovation programmes.

No Unified Military Command

Despite the proposed expansion, the initiative does not seek to establish a unified military command or integrate the armed forces of the United States and Israel.

Instead, the focus remains on strengthening technological cooperation and accelerating the joint development of advanced military capabilities while preserving each country's independent command structure.

Supporters argue that closer collaboration will improve interoperability and help both nations respond more effectively to evolving regional and global security threats.

Political Debate in Washington

The proposal has also generated political debate in the United States.

Democratic Representative Ro Khanna introduced an amendment seeking to remove Section 224 from the defence bill, arguing that the measure could grant Israel excessive influence over American defence policy.

Following the rejection of his amendment during a voice vote, Khanna said many Americans wanted Washington to maintain greater control over its defence priorities rather than expand cooperation with Israel.

Supporters of the initiative, however, contend that the legislation merely formalises an already extensive strategic partnership while promoting innovation in defence technology and strengthening industrial collaboration between the two countries.

Part of Wider Strategic Cooperation

The proposed initiative reflects decades of close military cooperation between Washington and Jerusalem, including joint missile defence programmes, intelligence sharing and defence research.

Officials backing the measure believe emerging technologies such as AI-enabled defence systems, cyber capabilities and autonomous platforms will play an increasingly important role in future warfare, making deeper technological collaboration strategically significant.

The proposal also aligns with broader efforts by both countries to modernise defence capabilities amid evolving geopolitical and security challenges.

Legislative Process Still Pending

The defence technology cooperation initiative currently remains part of the draft 2027 National Defense Authorization Act.

Before becoming law, the NDAA must receive approval from both the US House of Representatives and the US Senate, followed by the President's signature.

Until the legislative process is completed, the proposed framework remains subject to debate, amendments and final congressional approval.

If enacted, the initiative could mark one of the most significant expansions of US-Israel defence technology cooperation in recent years, further strengthening collaboration in advanced military research and innovation.

Fresh Israeli drone strikes in southern Lebanon on Tuesday killed at least four people, according to Lebanese media reports, hours after US President Donald Trump publicly criticised Israel's military actions and warned that continued attacks were undermining a broader regional understanding involving Iran.

The latest strikes targeted two vehicles in southern Lebanon, the Lebanese state-run National News Agency (NNA) reported. Several others were injured in the attacks. The incident has further heightened tensions in the region amid ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing conflict across West Asia.

The strikes came shortly after Trump, speaking on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France, expressed dissatisfaction with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's handling of the conflict in Lebanon. The US President said Israel's continued military operations were casting a "negative light" on the emerging understanding with Iran and questioned the scale of destruction caused during operations against Hezbollah.

Trump indicated that the conflict had dragged on for too long and suggested that military actions should be more targeted. His remarks marked one of the strongest public criticisms of Netanyahu's Lebanon strategy from Washington in recent months.

Despite those comments, Israel proceeded with fresh operations in southern Lebanon. Lebanese authorities have accused Israel of maintaining a sustained military campaign across the country. According to figures cited by Lebanese officials, Israeli attacks since March have resulted in thousands of deaths, although independent verification of the overall casualty figures remains difficult amid the ongoing conflict.

Regional tensions have also intensified following statements from Iran. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said any future Israeli military action in Lebanon would be viewed as a violation of the understanding reached between Tehran and Washington. He argued that any lasting peace arrangement in the region must also address Israeli military presence in territories occupied during the conflict.

The Iranian position links the broader diplomatic process with developments on the ground in Lebanon, raising concerns that continued hostilities could complicate already fragile negotiations.

Meanwhile, Netanyahu has maintained that Israeli forces will continue operations for as long as necessary to address security concerns along the northern border. Israeli officials have repeatedly argued that military measures are required to counter threats posed by Hezbollah.

Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz had earlier stated that security arrangements in southern Lebanon would remain in place until Israeli authorities are satisfied that cross-border threats have been eliminated. Israeli leaders have also indicated that military control over certain areas may continue for an extended period.

The humanitarian situation in southern Lebanon remains a major concern. Reports from Lebanese authorities indicate that hundreds of thousands of residents have been displaced since the escalation of hostilities. Large sections of infrastructure, residential buildings and public facilities have also suffered damage.

The latest strikes are likely to increase international scrutiny of Israel's military campaign at a time when diplomatic efforts are focused on reducing tensions across the region. With Washington, Tehran and regional actors publicly exchanging warnings and demands, developments in Lebanon are increasingly becoming a central factor in the wider geopolitical landscape.

Further details regarding the victims of Tuesday's strikes and the broader diplomatic response are awaited.

Seeking to salvage stability in the oil-rich West Asia region, leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) nations on Wednesday pledged to actively contribute to the implementation of US President Donald Trump’s newly announced deal with Iran.

The declaration came via a joint statement on geopolitical issues at the ongoing annual G7 summit in the French resort town of Évian-les-Bains.

A primary focus of the G7's commitment involves a multinational maritime initiative spearheaded by France and the United Kingdom. According to the joint statement, this coalition aims to facilitate the immediate resumption of commercial shipping traffic through the highly sensitive Strait of Hormuz.

Officials indicated that the initiative will deploy assets to protect merchant vessels, reassure commercial ship operators, and assist in verification operations to ensure the vital shipping lane is entirely cleared of sea mines.

The annual summit of the wealthy nations' club—comprising the US, UK, France, Germany, Italy, Canada, Japan, and the European Union—has been heavily overshadowed this year by the severe economic and geopolitical fallout of the recent, widely criticized American military campaign against Iran.

The Ballistic Blindspot and Regional Escalation

While the G7 leaders officially welcomed the US-Iran deal as a "historic opportunity" to permanently block Tehran's nuclear ambitions, the joint statement papered over glaring diplomatic vulnerabilities.

The 14-point Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) previously published by Iran explicitly excludes any restrictions on Tehran’s ballistic missile programme. It also completely omits Iran's funding and logistics support for armed proxy groups across the region.

Despite these gaps, the G7 communique maintained a firm line on the nuclear issue.

"We underline the need for the negotiation to this end to address the threats posed by Iran in the region and beyond and ensure that they never obtain a nuclear weapon," the statement read, adding that verification would require deep involvement from international partners, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Netanyahu’s Lebanon Offensive Draws Trump’s Ire

The fragile peace process faces immediate collapse, not from Tehran, but due to escalating friction between Washington and Tel Aviv. The G7 leaders issued a sharp call for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon, demanding the disarmament of Hezbollah and the protection of Lebanese territorial integrity.

The issue has become the biggest roadblock to the US-Iran accord. The Islamic Republic has directly pegged the survival of the deal to regional peace, warning that any further Israeli strikes inside Lebanon will be treated as an outright violation of the agreement.

On the sidelines of the summit in Évian-les-Bains, President Trump explicitly broke ranks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Speaking to reporters, Trump admitted that the ongoing Israeli operations in Lebanon cast a "negative light" on his diplomatic breakthrough with Iran. Slamming Netanyahu for what he termed the indiscriminate bombardment of Lebanese territory, Trump stated bluntly that he was "not satisfied" with Israel's current military trajectory.

Despite the diplomatic pressure, Israeli airstrikes have continued, killing at least five people in Lebanon since the announcement of the US-Iran deal.

The crisis has also crippled wider humanitarian efforts. While G7 leaders called for a massive acceleration of reconstruction in the Gaza Strip and an immediate end to Jewish settler violence against Palestinians in the West Bank, sources admit the wider peace process remains entirely stalled by Tel Aviv’s refusal to halt its campaign.

With the West Asia conflict triggering a prolonged global energy crisis, the G7 energy ministers used the summit to pledge an accelerated diversification of global supply routes. As part of this transition, the bloc welcomed projections from Canada to significantly scale up its oil and gas delivery capacity to international markets in the coming years.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday confirmed that the crew of a US Army Apache helicopter that crashed near the Strait of Hormuz was safely rescued, even as tensions in West Asia remained high with Israel vowing to continue operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon.

The incident involving the AH-64 Apache occurred on Monday while the helicopter was patrolling regional waters. Both pilots were rescued within hours and are in stable condition, according to US Central Command. Trump, speaking to reporters, assured that the crew members were unharmed and no injuries were reported. US military officials have initiated a probe into the cause, which remains unclear — whether due to a technical issue or hostile action. A detailed report is expected soon.

The crash comes at a delicate moment, with a fragile ceasefire between Iran and Israel showing signs of strain following recent escalations.

Trump Pushes for Quick West Asia Deal

President Trump expressed optimism about ongoing diplomatic efforts, stating that the US was in the "final throes" of brokering a significant peace agreement in West Asia. Speaking after attending an NBA Finals game, he told reporters the deal could materialise in "two or three days." He also mentioned a recent conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, suggesting that Israel and Iran had agreed to "leave each other alone for another week."

Trump further warned Netanyahu to exercise caution, reportedly telling him that Israel risked being "on your own very soon" if actions jeopardised the broader US-brokered understanding with Tehran. Despite these differences, Trump projected confidence, hinting at a declaration of "total victory" over the Iran situation within two weeks.

 Israel Signals Continued Lebanon Operations

Meanwhile, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz made it clear that military operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon would persist. In his first major comments after the recent Iran-Israel flare-up, Katz warned that Israel would strike Beirut if Hezbollah launched attacks on Israeli territory. He also rejected Iranian threats, underscoring Israel's determination to counter the group.

Hezbollah claimed responsibility for multiple strikes on Israeli forces in southern Lebanon on Monday, targeting troop positions and vehicles in areas including Beit Yahoun, Rachaf, Naqoura, and others. Lebanese sources reported Israeli strikes continuing in several towns, with casualties including civilians and civil defence personnel. At least four people were killed in attacks in southern Lebanon, according to the National News Agency.

Evacuation orders issued by the Israeli military for residents of Tyre and surrounding areas added to the humanitarian concerns. Rescuers have been focusing on moving vulnerable populations, including the elderly, to safer locations amid repeated strikes.

India Monitors Situation, Confirms Crew Rescue

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi issued statements on the regional conflict, calling for de-escalation and dialogue. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasised diplomacy as the way forward to restore peace.

In a related maritime incident, the MEA confirmed the safe rescue of 24 Indian crew members from the disabled Palau-flagged oil tanker MT Marivex off the coast of Oman. The vessel had some communication with the US Navy prior to the incident. All crew are reported safe.

Broader Regional Fallout

The developments have impacted markets, with the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange slipping amid uncertainty over the US-Iran peace process. Oil prices edged higher on fears of renewed disruptions. Iran, for its part, warned of responses if attacks on Lebanon continued and reiterated support for Hezbollah. Tehran also acknowledged the deaths of two air defence personnel in Israeli strikes.

Analysts note that while a temporary pause in direct Iran-Israel exchanges holds, the situation in Lebanon remains volatile, with risks of wider escalation.

Diplomatic Nuances and Challenges

Reports of differences between Trump and Netanyahu have surfaced, with some former Israeli officials describing the relationship as diverging. However, Israel's ambassador to the US downplayed tensions, likening them to "lovers having a spat" while stressing aligned interests. Vice President JD Vance reiterated that the US was in a strong position for negotiations.

The coming days are expected to be crucial as Washington pushes for a comprehensive understanding, even as ground realities in Lebanon and lingering maritime incidents test the fragile stability.

US President Donald Trump has issued a blunt warning to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating that Israel risks losing vital American backing and could find itself isolated if it continues to escalate military action against Iran.

"I said, 'Bibi, you better be careful, or you will be on your own very soon,'" Trump said in a recent interview with news outlet Axios, highlighting the deepening structural cracks in the Washington-Tel Aviv partnership exactly 100 days into the West Asia war.

The emergency diplomatic intervention came after a fragile regional truce collapsed into a chaotic, 24-hour cycle of tit-for-tat violence, including an Israeli airstrike in Lebanon and direct Iranian ballistic missile retaliations.

Red lines crossed in Beirut

The weekend’s rapid escalation was ignited on Sunday morning when Israeli warplanes launched targeted strikes on the southern suburbs of Beirut. According to an Israeli security source, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) informed US Central Command (CENTCOM) shortly before the jets took off but bypassed direct notification to the White House.

The unilateral strike reportedly infuriated Trump, who had explicitly demanded restraint during a highly contentious phone call with Netanyahu just days prior.

Iran immediately fulfilled its long-standing strategic warning that any direct violation of the Lebanon ceasefire would be met with direct force, launching a massive salvo of ballistic missiles targeting northern Israel and the Ramat David airbase.

Midnight diplomacy from Washington

As missile sirens wailed across Israel, Trump initiated an urgent, half-hour phone call with Netanyahu on Sunday evening. Sources familiar with the matter described this conversation as notably calmer than their previous encounter, where an exasperated Trump had reportedly referred to the Israeli premier as "fking crazy."

During the call, Trump urged Netanyahu to hold his fire, claiming that a comprehensive, final diplomatic agreement with Tehran was "days away" from being signed.

The US President stressed that a reckless return to full-scale regional warfare would derail these high-stakes negotiations and force the US to re-evaluate its military blanket over Tel Aviv.

Limited strikes target petrochemicals

Despite the heavy pressure from Washington, Netanyahu informed the White House that complete inaction was politically and strategically impossible. Following an emergency meeting at the Kirya military headquarters in Tel Aviv, Israeli officials coordinated a heavily altered, limited retaliation plan with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

"They were already on their way. But eventually I had [the Israeli strike] limited," Trump later told reporters, complaining about the minimal notice provided by the Israelis.

🇮🇱 Israel's Target Package:

└── Central & Western Iran

    ├── Key component of Iran's largest petrochemical facility

    └── Select military air defence installations

Tehran responded to these limited penetrations by launching a second wave of missiles toward Haifa and Tel Aviv, further destabilising global energy markets and pushing Brent crude futures back above $95 a barrel.

Global pressure on the White House

The escalating crisis sparked widespread panic among regional stakeholders. Trump revealed that leaders from five West Asian nations contacted him in rapid succession, begging Washington to restrain the Israeli war cabinet.

According to US officials, intermediate backchannels remained active throughout the crossfire. Iranian diplomats reportedly sent messages to Washington indicating they were prepared to immediately halt their missile offensive if Israel agreed to stand down.

"They called us and said that they are not doing any more attacks and asked us to tell Israel not to do any more attacks," Trump noted, defending his administration's decision to force a pause.

Fighters stood down on the runway

The most critical moment occurred on Monday afternoon. With dozens of sensitive targets mapped out, Israeli fighter jets were already idling on the runways for what senior defense officials described as the largest planned strike package against Iran since the April truce.

Trump intervened personally a second time, delivering his final "go it alone" ultimatum to Netanyahu.

Recognising the severe implications of fighting without American logistical and defensive coordination, Netanyahu relented. Local authorities subsequently confirmed that the massive strike package was officially suspended, provided Tehran maintained its end of the current, uneasy silence.

Diverging political survival tactics

While a temporary calm has returned to the region's skies, analysts note that the underlying systemic friction between Washington and Tel Aviv remains unresolved.

"Bibi needs the war to continue to stay politically alive in Israel, and Trump needs the war to end to stay politically alive in the US," a senior US official noted under anonymity to Axios.

In a televised address late Monday, Netanyahu maintained a defiant tone, asserting that Israel retains an absolute right to self-defence. He warned that while the IDF is currently holding its fire, any renewed aggression from the "terror regime in Tehran" would be met with overwhelming force.

Israeli PM's Jordan Valley remarks spotlight how India moved from decades of pro-Palestine solidarity to one of Israel's closest partnerships in Asia

Netanyahu's Remarkable Tribute

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, speaking at a leadership programme in the Jordan Valley on Thursday, called India a "huge power" with "absolutely crazy love for Israel" — even as he acknowledged the Jewish state faces delegitimisation across much of the world.

"We are expanding our alliances and what you are talking about is expanding these alliances to a large space. And the larger space is really our unique relationship with a huge power called India," Netanyahu said. A video of the remarks was released by Israel's Government Press Office.

The words landed with weight. Not because praise between allied leaders is unusual, but because of how far India has travelled to reach this point.

From Nehru to Netanyahu

Post-Independence India was, for decades, among the most vocal champions of Palestinian self-determination. The ideological roots ran deep — Mahatma Gandhi had opposed the imposition of a Jewish state on Arab land as far back as 1938, framing it as an extension of colonial logic. Nehru, scarred by India's own Partition, voted against the UN's Palestine partition plan in 1947 and opposed Israel's admission to the UN in 1949.

India recognised the State of Palestine in 1988 — among the earliest countries to do so. Yasser Arafat enjoyed an almost fraternal relationship with Indian leadership through those years.

Yet even then, the story had a quieter subplot. Israel supplied military assistance to India during the 1962 war with China, the 1965 conflict with Pakistan, and again during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. Covert intelligence cooperation reportedly predated formal ties by decades.

1992: The Quiet Opening

The Cold War's collapse forced a rethink. Economic liberalisation under Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao brought India closer to Western markets and, simultaneously, to Israel. Full diplomatic relations were established in 1992 — a turning point that set the stage for everything that followed.

The 1999 Kargil War deepened the bond further. Israel reportedly supplied laser-guided bombs, surveillance drones and critical equipment on short notice, cementing a perception inside India's security establishment that Israel was a reliable partner when it mattered most.

Modi Changes the Optics Entirely

The shift became most visible after 2014. Earlier governments had quietly deepened ties with Israel while keeping the public posture tilted toward Palestine. Narendra Modi changed that calculus openly. In 2017, he became the first Indian prime minister to visit Israel — and notably, did not pair the trip with a Palestine stop, as his predecessors had done. He visited Ramallah separately in 2018.

Earlier this year, Modi made a second official visit to Israel, addressing the Knesset to a standing ovation and pledging "friendship, respect and partnership" with Israel at a time when its global standing has been under strain due to the Gaza war.

Ahead of that visit, Modi said India "deeply values its enduring friendship with Israel, built on trust, innovation, and a shared commitment to peace and progress."

Defence Ties: The Backbone

The strategic partnership is not simply rhetorical. India and Israel have significantly strengthened bilateral relations across defence, agriculture, water management, cybersecurity, healthcare, and emerging technologies. According to SIPRI data cited in earlier analyses, India accounted for roughly one-third of Israel's arms exports between 2020 and 2024 — drones, missile systems, radar technology, surveillance equipment.

October 7 and the Tone That Changed

The Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023 was another inflection point. Prime Minister Modi was among the first world leaders to characterise it as a "terrorist attack" and express solidarity with Israel. India's subsequent abstentions on UN resolutions calling for humanitarian ceasefires in Gaza drew attention globally — a marked departure from India's earlier posture of careful balance.

New Delhi has continued to formally support the two-state solution and Palestinian statehood. But the diplomatic signals have been unmistakable.

The Balance India Still Tries to Keep

The transformation does not mean India has abandoned its older ties. Gulf nations remain critical partners — for energy imports, Indian diaspora remittances, and investment. India maintains warm relations with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and other Arab states, and cannot afford to be seen as wholly aligned with Israeli military policy in the region.

But Netanyahu's "crazy love" remark — offhand as it may have sounded — captures something real. He made the comment precisely while discussing Israel's need to expand international partnerships amid security challenges on multiple fronts. India's name came up first, and it did not come up accidentally.

The arc from Nehru's vote against Israel at the UN to Modi's address to the Knesset spans seven decades. It has been shaped by security pragmatism, ideological evolution, economic interests and geopolitical realism. Whatever India's official position on the conflict in Gaza, that arc tells its own story.

Tensions in the Middle East have escalated sharply after reports emerged that Iran’s Parliament is preparing a controversial bill that could offer a reward of more than ₹500 crore to anyone involved in the assassination of US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

According to reports, Iran’s National Security Commission is drafting legislation titled “Retaliatory Action of the Islamic Republic’s Military and Security Forces.” The proposed bill reportedly comes amid heightened tensions following the deaths of several Iranian military and political figures, including close associates of Iran’s top leadership. Iranian lawmaker Mahmoud Nabavian reportedly stated that the Parliament may soon vote on the proposal, which would reward individuals responsible for targeting Trump and Netanyahu. The remarks have intensified global concerns over the rapidly deteriorating situation in the region.

The development comes at a time when President Trump claimed he had postponed a military strike on Iran that was reportedly expected on Tuesday. Trump said leaders from Gulf nations including Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates requested additional time to allow diplomatic talks and de-escalation efforts to continue. Trump shared the update through a post on his social media platform Truth Social, saying that discussions were still ongoing and that there remained a narrow window for negotiations. However, he also warned Iran to reach an agreement quickly or face severe consequences.

In one of the strongest statements issued so far, Trump reportedly told Iran that “time is running out” and warned that if a deal is not reached soon, “nothing will be left.” The comments have further fueled speculation about possible US-Israel coordinated military action against Iran. Reports also suggest that dozens of cargo aircraft carrying weapons and military equipment have arrived in Israel from American military bases in Germany. Sources claim that Trump and Netanyahu have held discussions regarding possible future military operations targeting Iranian positions.

Meanwhile, tensions in the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz have continued to rise. Reports indicate that nearly 1,500 commercial ships are currently stranded in the region amid fears of maritime blockades, missile attacks and drone strikes. More than 20,000 sailors are believed to be onboard these vessels, raising concerns over global oil supply disruptions and international shipping security. The regional situation worsened further after Saudi Arabia claimed its air defence systems intercepted and destroyed three drones that allegedly entered its airspace from the direction of Iraq. Both Kuwait and Qatar condemned the incident and described it as a threat to regional stability and national sovereignty.

Another development drawing international attention is the emergence of videos from Iran allegedly showing young girls receiving AK-47 rifle training. The footage reportedly shows participants learning to assemble and disassemble assault rifles amid growing fears of a wider regional conflict involving the United States and Israel. Security analysts believe the latest rhetoric and military movements indicate one of the most dangerous phases in Middle East geopolitics in recent years. Experts warn that any direct confrontation involving Iran, the United States and Israel could have serious consequences for global oil markets, maritime trade and regional stability.

Diplomatic channels remain active, but international observers say the situation remains highly volatile. Gulf nations are reportedly pushing for urgent negotiations to avoid a broader war that could destabilize the entire region.

US Delays Planned Strikes on Iran After Gulf Leaders' Request

Trump Warns of Major Attack if Diplomacy Fails

US President Donald Trump has postponed a planned military strike on Iran, originally expected on Tuesday, following requests from leaders of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates for more time to pursue diplomatic negotiations. 

Trump announced the decision via a post on Truth Social, stating that serious talks were underway and that a mutually acceptable deal remained possible. He instructed Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and military leadership, including Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Dan Caine, to stand down for the time being. 

However, the US President issued a clear warning: if negotiations collapse, American forces are prepared to launch a large-scale operation. The core demand, he reiterated, is that Iran must never acquire nuclear weapons. 

Gulf Leaders Seek Breathing Room

Leaders from key Gulf nations urged the delay to prevent immediate escalation and allow space for talks. The move comes amid heightened regional tensions, with diplomats working behind the scenes on possible arrangements involving Iran's nuclear programme and broader security concerns.

Sources familiar with the discussions indicated that while indirect channels remain active, differences persist over the sequencing of any agreement—particularly whether to first halt the current conflict before addressing wider issues. Pakistani officials, citing US media reports, noted that Washington prefers announcing comprehensive deals together, while Tehran is pushing for a separate arrangement to end hostilities.

Maritime Disruptions Hit Global Supplies

Tensions in the Gulf have already disrupted critical shipping lanes. Nearly 1,500 commercial vessels are reportedly stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, with over 20,000 sailors aboard. Defence experts have highlighted risks of missile or drone attacks, noting the unpredictable nature of potential Iranian targeting.

In India, the fallout was felt immediately at fuel pumps. Petrol and diesel prices rose by around 0.9 rupees per litre on Tuesday — the second hike in a week. In Delhi, petrol now costs 98.64 rupees a litre and diesel 91.58 rupees, according to PTI reports. Analysts link the increase directly to fears over supply disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz.

Regional Flashpoints Multiply

Parallel developments have added to the volatility. Saudi Arabia reported intercepting three drones approaching from Iraq’s direction, prompting condemnation from Kuwait and Qatar as a violation of sovereignty. 

In Tehran, hundreds of newly married couples held a car rally at Azadi Square, blending wedding celebrations with public displays of support for the Iranian military and government. Videos circulating on social media also showed young Iranian women training with AK-47 rifles, signalling heightened domestic preparedness.

Israeli forces continued operations in the region, including actions against aid ships bound for Gaza and reported strikes in Lebanon. US cargo aircraft carrying weapons have reportedly landed in Israel, while Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have discussed possible military options.

Oil Markets React to Pause

Global oil prices eased slightly following Trump’s announcement. US crude futures fell over 2% in early Asian trading, with the July West Texas Intermediate contract dropping to around $102 per barrel as immediate fears of supply shocks receded.

Separately, the US extended a sanctions waiver for 30 days, allowing certain energy-vulnerable countries to purchase Russian seaborne oil amid the disruptions. Treasury officials described the step as a temporary measure to stabilise supplies. 

Domestic US Debate on War Powers

In Washington, political oversight is also sharpening. The US Senate is set to vote again on a War Powers Resolution aimed at limiting presidential authority for action against Iran. Senator Lindsey Graham emphasised that any final deal must receive Congressional approval, outlining key conditions including zero uranium enrichment by Iran, control over its enriched stockpile, free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, and an end to support for regional proxies.

Iran’s embassy in Ghana issued a cryptic response to Trump’s post, while Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel criticised US fuel restrictions on his country as “immoral, illegal and criminal.”

What Lies Ahead

Diplomats and military observers are watching closely to see whether the brief pause leads to tangible progress or merely delays confrontation. Trump has stressed that time is running out for Iran, warning of “serious consequences” without a deal. 

For now, the region remains on edge, with global energy markets, shipping routes, and fuel prices reflecting the uncertainty. Further updates are expected in the coming hours as negotiations continue. 

'Sea of Oman will become your graveyard': Iran hardliner warns US as Israel readies for renewed strikes

Tehran's Expediency Council member Mohsen Rezaei says US naval blockade amounts to 'act of war', as Israeli media reports military on high alert for fresh hostilities

A senior Iranian official has warned the United States to lift its naval blockade of Iranian ports, cautioning that the Sea of Oman could turn into a "graveyard" for American forces if tensions escalate further.

Mohsen Rezaei, a member of Tehran's Expediency Council and former commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, made the remarks during an interview with state television on Monday morning. He described the US blockade, first imposed on April 13, as an "act of war" and said Iran's military was fully prepared for additional confrontation.

"We advise the US military to end the siege before the Sea of Oman becomes your graveyard," Rezaei said. "The longer they prolong the naval blockade of Iran, the greater the damage to countries around the world will be."

Israeli military on high alert

The warning came as Israeli media reported that the Israel Defense Forces have been placed on high alert amid preparations for possible renewed hostilities with Iran. Public broadcaster Kan, citing an unnamed security official, said Israel would join any fresh American strikes and could target Iranian energy infrastructure.

The report followed a phone call lasting more than 30 minutes between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday. Trump has maintained that the blockade will continue until Iran agrees to a peace deal on US terms.

Meanwhile, dozens of US cargo planes carrying ammunition from military bases in Germany landed in Tel Aviv over the past 24 hours, according to Channel 13. The broadcaster said the shipments were part of preparations for a possible resumption of military operations against Iran.

UAE nuclear plant attack draws Indian concern

India on Monday expressed concern over the reported drone attack targeting the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the United Arab Emirates, calling it a "dangerous escalation" and urging all sides to exercise restraint.

The UAE has blamed Iran or one of its proxies for the strike, which caused a fire just outside the nuclear facility. Officials confirmed there were no injuries or radiation alerts, with the emirate's nuclear regulator stating there was no radioactive leak or risk to the public.

In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said the attack was unacceptable and stressed the need for an immediate return to dialogue and diplomacy amid rising regional tensions.

Oil prices surge as diplomacy stalls

Oil prices rose another 2 per cent on Monday, with Brent crude trading at $110.72 a barrel – more than 50 per cent higher than before the US-Israel war on Iran began. Trump's warning that the "clock is ticking" for a peace deal has added to market jitters.

Iran signalled tighter control over the Strait of Hormuz earlier in the day, with authorities saying all vessels passing through the crucial shipping route must now coordinate with Iranian military forces. Reports from Hormuz Island said IRGC naval units have claimed authority over the strait, warning that military vessels would not be allowed to pass.

According to Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, talks continue through Pakistan as a mediator, with both Tehran and Washington sending comments on a recent Iranian proposal. But Rezaei' rhetoric suggested any diplomatic breakthrough remains distant.

Strikes continue in Lebanon, Gaza

The Israeli military said it struck more than 30 Hezbollah infrastructure targets in southern Lebanon on Monday, including a weapons warehouse and observation posts. In Gaza, local reports said three Palestinians were killed when Israeli forces struck a kitchen providing meals to displaced people.

At least 871 people have been killed since the so-called "ceasefire" began last October, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sharply accused Iran of plotting what he described as “another Holocaust”, escalating already tense rhetoric in the Middle East. Speaking at a state memorial event, Netanyahu alleged that Tehran had devised a plan involving nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles aimed at Israel.

The statement comes amid ongoing regional tensions and is being seen as one of the strongest warnings issued by Israel in recent months.

Claims of Major Threat

Netanyahu said Iran’s leadership intended to “destroy Israel” through a coordinated military strategy. According to him, the alleged plan involved both nuclear capabilities and thousands of missiles, posing an existential threat to the country.

He asserted that Israel had already taken steps to counter the danger, adding that the operation was aimed at dismantling what he termed a “destructive mechanism”.

Action Already Taken

The Israeli Prime Minister claimed that, in coordination with allies including the United States, Israel had neutralised an “immediate threat”. While he did not provide operational details, his remarks suggest recent or ongoing military or intelligence actions.

Officials, however, have not publicly confirmed specifics of the alleged intervention. As per reports, such claims often remain classified due to security concerns.

Memorial Event Context

Netanyahu made these remarks during a ceremony at Mount Herzl, marking Israel’s Memorial Day. The occasion commemorates fallen soldiers and victims of conflict, often used by leaders to highlight national security concerns.

Linking the current threat to historical trauma, Netanyahu invoked the Holocaust, a reference that carries deep emotional and political significance in Israeli discourse.

Reference to Druze Community

During his speech, Netanyahu also highlighted the contribution of the Druze community, mentioning a Druze officer killed in southern Lebanon last month. He emphasised unity among different communities serving in the Israeli military.

The Druze, a small religious minority primarily based in Syria, Lebanon, Israel, and Jordan, are known for their participation in Israel’s defence forces.

Background Tensions Rise

Tensions between Israel and Iran have remained high for years, particularly over Tehran’s nuclear programme and its support for armed groups in the region. Israel has consistently opposed Iran’s nuclear ambitions, calling them a direct threat to its existence.

Recent months have seen increased rhetoric, covert operations, and sporadic escalations, keeping the region on edge. This development is part of a broader pattern frequently covered under Latest News Today and global security updates.

What Lies Ahead

The latest remarks are likely to intensify geopolitical concerns and may trigger diplomatic responses from Iran and other stakeholders. Analysts believe such statements could impact ongoing international discussions around nuclear policy and regional stability.