Hezbollah’s Hashem Safieddine, a top official expected to succeed the slain leader Hassan Nasrallah, was killed in an Israeli attack, the group confirmed. Safieddine had been running Hezbollah alongside the deputy secretary general and was expected to be formally elected as the next secretary general. His death further erodes the group’s leadership as Israeli strikes continue to target Hezbollah strongholds in Lebanon.
The situation in Lebanon remains dire, with tens of thousands of people fleeing their homes due to the Israeli airstrikes. Discussions on potentially deploying international forces alongside the Lebanese army in case of a ceasefire are ongoing, with a focus on bolstering the implementation of UN resolution 1701.
In a recent interview with Al Arabiya, a senior Hamas official criticized US Secretary of State Antony Blinken for his visit to Israel, urging him to stop the aggression and work towards a ceasefire. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is deteriorating, with civilians facing hardships due to escalating Israeli actions.
The UK government has suspended export licenses to Israel for items that could be used in the conflict, emphasizing the need for an immediate ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza. Meanwhile, Israel’s defense minister has warned of potential strikes in Iran, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the region.
US and Israeli authorities have issued warnings of a possible terrorist attack in southern Sri Lanka, prompting Israelis in tourist areas to leave immediately. Germany’s foreign minister, visiting Beirut, emphasized the importance of all parties abiding by international law and protecting peacekeeping forces in Lebanon.
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