The National

The US is deploying dozens of refueling aircraft to Israel in preparation for a potential expansion of strikes on Iran, while the IRGC vows to continue retaliatory attacks until calm returns to southern Iran. The Lebanese army redeployed to two southern towns under a framework deal with Israel, and the UN chief called for a new diplomatic push amid escalating US-Iran hostilities. Israeli settlement activists were detained after illegally crossing into Syria.

President Trump announced that the US will strike Iran “very hard” tonight and stated an intention to seize Kharg Island in the future, even as US-Iran negotiations continue. The IDF expanded ground operations in southern Lebanon, achieving operational control of Wadi Saluki and preparing an offensive toward Nabatieh. In the West Bank, two IDF soldiers were wounded by an IED in Jenin, where Israel is establishing its first permanent military post in Area A. The Israeli cabinet is set to approve funding for 61 new settlements.

US forces struck Iranian coastal radar sites after shooting down four Iranian drones launched toward the Strait of Hormuz. Iran retaliated by firing seven ballistic missiles at US bases in Kuwait and Bahrain, with CENTCOM intercepting six. In Lebanon, an Israeli airstrike killed several Lebanese Army troops, including an officer, while Hezbollah claimed 32 attacks on Israeli forces. In the West Bank, the IDF killed a seven-month-old Palestinian baby in Hebron, prompting an investigation.

Prime Minister Netanyahu acknowledged that Israel has expanded its hold on Gaza to 60%, beyond the ceasefire line, while the IDF struck Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon and a drone attack sparked a fire at the UAE’s Barakah nuclear plant. The security cabinet convened amid reports of US-Israeli preparations for renewed strikes on Iran, and the ICC denied reports it had issued new arrest warrants for Israeli officials.