Retaliation Threatened: Pro Iranian Iraqi Militias Prepare Action Within 72 Hours After Joint US Saudi Strikes

Pro Iranian militias in Iraq warned they are preparing retaliatory actions within 72 hours following joint US Saudi airstrikes that killed six Iranian military advisors and 20 militia operatives in Salah ad Din province. Pro Iranian militias operating in Iraq have warned that they are preparing to carry out retaliatory actions within 72 hours following joint US and Saudi airstrikes against their positions. A senior official within the pro Iranian militia network told Lebanese newspaper Al-Akhbar on Thursday that resistance forces in Iraq are coordinating with regional partners, including Houthi forces in Yemen, to execute a broader regional response. The official declared that the strikes have collapsed any previous negotiations regarding the surrender of militia arms, stating that "the resistance's weapons will remain and are not subject to negotiation."

The official added that the US and Saudi action "will not pass without a price" and warned of severe domestic fallout if official government coordination with Washington is proven. "If it turns out that there was governmental coordination with Washington, this will lead to an unprecedented internal crisis," the official warned. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump stated in an interview with Fox News that the airstrikes against the militia groups in Iraq were executed in direct coordination with the Iraqi government in Baghdad.

A senior official from Kata'ib Sayyid al-Shuhada, a prominent pro Iranian militia group in Iraq, declared that "the blood of the martyrs will not be spilled in vain," promising that the group's response will be "shattering." The official noted that the timing and precise method of the response depend on strict military calculations, adding that the United States "will regret" the operation while hinting at potential attacks against American and Saudi assets in the region.

Initial reports from Western sources indicate that the airstrikes in Salah ad Din province killed six Iranian military advisors from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force, alongside 20 operatives belonging to the Popular Mobilization Forces, while injuring approximately 30 others. These sources confirmed that the militia units responsible for launching recent drone and missile attacks toward Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Jordan operate under the direct command of Quds Force officers holding diplomatic passports. (Ed note: Uh-oh. Did Assyria just raise its ugly head? Psalm 83:8)   (Read More)

US officials: If Israel refuses the deal, Trump will be disappointed

US and Board of Peace officials brief reporters on Gaza demilitarization deal, reveal that Tehran attempted to sabotage negotiations and warn that a rejection from Israel would disappoint Trump.

US administration officials and members of the Gaza Board of Peace spoke with reporters on Thursday night regarding the historic agreement announced by President Donald Trump, under which Hamas and other terrorist organizations in the Gaza Strip will disarm. Senior administration officials emphasized the close coordination with Jerusalem throughout the negotiation process, saying that the Americans coordinated “very closely" with Israel at every step. The officials acknowledged that the Israelis were extremely skeptical, but added “they are not being asked to do much right now".

They further stated that this agreement is not based on trust, but on fulfilling conditions on the ground and added that Washington will ensure that Israel honors its commitments as well. At the same time, a senior US official noted that Israel was dissatisfied with the decision to include Turkey and Qatar on the Board of Peace executive. Despite this, he maintained that both nations - alongside Egypt - played a vital role in advancing the process and exerting heavy pressure on Hamas to reach terms. A US official added that "if Israel refuses the agreement, President Trump will be disappointed."

A Gaza Board of Peace representative noted that, for the first time, Hamas and all other factions have agreed to accept the framework in full alongside its implementation plan. The official stated that there will be an “absolute monopoly" on weapons, and that Hamas will completely step down from governing Gaza. According to the official, by the end of the process, the transitional government established by the Board of Peace will hold complete control over weaponry in the Strip.

American officials clarified that the planned technocratic government will serve as "an alternative to both the Palestinian Authority and Hamas." They also revealed that Tehran attempted to derail negotiations: "Iran tried to convince Hamas to reject the deal, but the US managed to overcome that." (Ed note: First, "President Trump will be disappointed." REALLY! Turkey truly does hate Israel, and Qatar hates Israel, and is perhaps a bigger financial supporter of Hamas than Iran is. Second, Hamas is playing the Hezbollah game of, "you get Israel to stop hitting us after we hit them, and make them completely leave Gaza, then we may talk." And of course, what ever happened to Hamas who was supposed to disarm? Trump is being played and Israel is being thrown under that bus.) (Read More)

Sources to 'Post': Israel rejects Hamas disarmament plan, no IDF pullout until Gaza demilitarized

Israel is demanding the complete disarmament of Hamas, including the removal of weapons from Gaza and the full demilitarization of the Gaza Strip, as a precondition for any withdrawal process, a diplomatic source told The Jerusalem Post on Thursday. The 15-point document under discussion does not adequately address these demands, and Israel conveyed its reservations on the matter to former UK prime minister Tony Blair, who is serving as an envoy. There will be no Israeli withdrawal from the Yellow Line in the Gaza Strip before Hamas is disarmed and the Gaza Strip is demilitarized, the source emphasized.

Notably, the issue of Gaza did not come up at all during the meeting between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump, the source added. In contrast, Axios reported that the US expects to make a deal with Hamas in the coming days. "We think we've managed to bring Hamas to a place where they can't say no," one source familiar with negotiations said. The source added that the Trump administration and the Board of Peace were working towards cutting off Hamas's funding sources abroad.

Another official told Axios that Israel was briefed on the meeting in Cairo. "Everything is fully coordinated, and Israel knows all the details," a separate source told Axios. "This is a good deal for Israel because it takes care of the Gaza problem," the source said. "If Hamas cheats, everything stops, and Israel will not have given up anything." (Read More)

Hamas's letter to Trump and its demands

Hamas has reportedly sent a letter to the White House requesting a 'hudna' during which Israel would halt military operations and targeted killings.

Nearly three years after the October 7 massacre, a long-term ceasefire in the Gaza Strip appears to be taking shape amid growing momentum toward an agreement with Hamas. Israel's Channel 13 News

revealed Thursday evening that Hamas has asked U.S. President Donald Trump for a 10- to 15-year "hudna" (long-term truce) in Gaza. According to the report, Hamas leaders drafted a letter in English that was sent to the White House. In it, they tell President Trump that they are prepared to honor an agreement and disarm, but request a long-term ceasefire under which Israel would refrain from attacking Gaza, cease targeted killings of senior Hamas officials, and begin a gradual withdrawal of its forces from the Strip. Israeli officials have rejected the proposal, describing it as a Hamas "spin." They argue that its terms do not correspond to the Trump framework agreed upon in October of last year.

Israeli sources said the proposed agreement "has no chance" of being accepted, describing it as a "desperate attempt" by Hamas to buy time. They added that Hamas is primarily trying to avoid being declared in violation of Trump's agreement, since such a breach would allow Israel to resume military operations in Gaza. Earlier Thursday, Channel 13 disclosed additional details of the proposed agreement. Under its terms, Hamas would commit to surrendering its weapons gradually over several years but would not commit to handing over its heavy weaponry.

In addition, Arab states would pay millions of dollars in "retirement compensation" to Hamas officials who would be replaced by a technocratic committee. For its part, Israel would commit to a long-term ceasefire, including an end to targeted killings in the Gaza Strip. The IDF would not withdraw from the "Yellow Line" security zone but would gradually evacuate certain areas.

American, regional, and Palestinian sources told Channel 13 that such an agreement amounts to a "fiction," arguing that Hamas is unlikely to surrender all of its weapons to a third party it does not trust. The proposal also contains no commitment to disclose or dismantle Hamas's tunnel network. A senior Israeli official said, "The issue of Gaza did not come up at all during the meeting between Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Trump. Israel demands the complete disarmament of Hamas, including the removal of all weapons from Gaza and the full demilitarization of the Strip as a precondition for any process." (Read More)

Over 10 terror tunnel routes dismantled, including one used to hold hostages

Troops from the 188th Brigade dismantled more than 10 underground terror tunnel routes used by Hamas, including 1 in which hostages were held.

Troops from the 188th Brigade, operating under the Gaza Division, together with Yahalom personnel, dismantled more than 10 underground terror tunnel routes used by the Hamas terrorist organization to advance terrorist activity. One of the tunnel routes had been used to hold hostages.

The troops also located a large quantity of weapons, including rocket launchers, rockets, grenades, explosive devices, and Kalashnikov rifles. In addition, they established new defensive routes and posts in order to strengthen the defensive posture in the area.

Troops from the 188th Brigade, operating under the Gaza Division, have spent the past eight months conducting defensive operations in the southern Gaza Strip to clear the Yellow Line area of terrorist infrastructure. IDF troops under the Southern Command remain deployed in the area in accordance with the ceasefire framework and will continue operating to remove any immediate threat. (Source)

IDF demolishes Hezbollah tunnels below southern Lebanon’s Beaufort Ridge

The Israeli military has blown up Hezbollah’s tunnel system beneath the Beaufort Ridge in southern Lebanon, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz announced late Thursday night in a joint statement. They said the Israel Defense Forces used 700 tons of explosives to demolish the subterranean facility. The demolition was planned for an earlier date but was postponed because of the framework deal reached in June. Netanyahu and Katz said the destruction of the tunnel system was in response to Hezbollah’s “blatant” violation of the ceasefire agreement on Wednesday, when it targeted an unmanned bulldozer with an explosive drone.

The tunnel, which journalists toured earlier this month, served as a “central part of the Hezbollah terror organization’s invasion plan against the Galilee communities,” the statement said. “The State of Israel will not accept any violation of the ceasefire agreement. Any attempt by Hezbollah to harm IDF troops or Israeli civilians will be met with a severe and powerful response that will exact a heavy price from the terrorist organization,”. Netanyahu and Katz said, adding that the IDF “will remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon and will continue to destroy all terror infrastructure in order to prevent any attempt by Hezbollah to restore its capabilities.”

The IDF in its own statement said it demolished “several key underground routes in the Beaufort Ridge area.” “Over the past several weeks, IDF troops completed securing the Beaufort Ridge area, while taking control of and clearing the underground infrastructure and preparing it for destruction,” the military said. The military had already on July 13 demolished a tunnel that was part of the Beaufort Ridge area underground system. With the latest demolition, most of the tunnel network in the area has been destroyed. (Ed note: Beaufort Ridge in southern Lebanon is located on the Latani River. Its historic fortress is about 18 miles north of the Israeli border.) (Read more)

Iranian agents cut protester's royalist tattoos before killing him

Iranian security agents allegedly cut away skin bearing tattoos of Reza Shah and an imperial crown before killing a 21-year-old protester before later shooting him dead, according to sources close to his family. The sources told Iran International that Amirhossein Nobakht Pardasti was wounded by pellet fire and detained during the January protests at around 10 p.m. on January 8 near 30-Metri Street in Bagher Shahr, south of Tehran. They said he was taken to hospital, where agents used blades and box cutters to remove skin and flesh bearing the tattoos before shooting him dead in what they described as an execution-style killing. Nobakht Pardasti had previously been arrested during the 2022 Woman, Life, Freedom uprising, when he was 16.

‘Signs of torture’

His family said they received no information about his whereabouts after his detention. When they eventually recovered his body from Kahrizak, they found extensive signs of torture, according to the sources, including severe bruising across his face and body and apparent fractures to his jaw, nose and shoulders. The section of his arm bearing the tattoos of Reza Shah and an imperial crown had been cut away, with skin and flesh removed, the sources said. They added that Nobakht Pardasti also had the word "Iran" tattooed on his throat and that pressure marks consistent with strangulation or restraint were visible around his neck.

Against nationalist symbols

Nobakht Pardasti's case is not the first in which Iranian authorities have been accused of targeting tattoos carrying nationalist or royalist symbolism. One of the best-known cases was Majidreza Rahnavard, a protester executed in Mashhad on Dec. 12, 2022. Rahnavard had a Lion and Sun emblem tattooed on his left forearm. Images published after his arrest showed the tattooed arm badly injured and immobilised in a cast and bandages.

A person close to Rahnavard told Iran International that agents repeatedly struck the arm with batons and stun guns because of the tattoo, eventually breaking it. While the accounts cannot independently establish an official policy, the similarities between Nobakht Pardasti's case and earlier reports suggest security forces may have deliberately targeted tattoos depicting pre-revolutionary Iranian symbols as a form of punishment, humiliation and torture. (Read More)

US strikes $58.6 billion Patriot missile deal amid rising stockpile concerns

The US Department of Defense has signed one of the largest procurement contracts in its history with Lockheed Martin, agreeing to purchase Patriot interceptors in a deal worth $58.6 billion. The contract is expected to dramatically increase the United States' interceptor inventory, which has been depleted by the wars involving Iran and Ukraine, as well as preparations for a possible future conflict with China. The US has already delayed interceptor deliveries to Ukraine and postponed deliveries to Switzerland until 2032 in order to prioritize the protection of US forces in the Gulf and Gulf states that have purchased Patriot systems.

The multiyear contract governs an accelerated production schedule for the 2026-2032 period. Lockheed Martin currently manufactures about 600 interceptors annually, and the agreement is intended to raise production to 2,000 per year. Achieving that target will require Lockheed Martin, along with suppliers of rocket motors, guidance systems, and warheads, to expand their production lines. The company has already announced plans to invest up to $9 billion in its manufacturing facilities in Alabama and Arkansas by 2030 and hire more than 1,000 additional employees.

Although the Pentagon did not disclose specific quantities in its announcement, the contract includes more than 10,000 interceptors and is also expected to reduce their high unit cost slightly, to at least $4 million each. By comparison, the comparable David's Slinginterceptor produced by Israel's Rafael costs about $1 million per unit.

The pace of US defense production has declined significantly since the end of the Cold War, and the Pentagon has been pressing American defense companies to invest more heavily in expanding production capacity. The effort comes at the expense of share buyback programs designed to boost stock prices and generate stronger returns for investors, as well as executives whose compensation includes stock options. (Read More)

US launches airstrikes in Iran following Trump’s warning (BUSHEHR)

The US military launches airstrikes in Iran, with explosions heard in several provinces, following Trump's pledge to retaliate for attacks in Jordan.

The US military started carrying out airstrikes in Iran early Thursday morning, according to
a senior US official quoted by Channel 12 News. US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the strikes, saying in a statement, “US forces began launching strikes against Iran at 8 p.m. ET today. The strikes are a powerful response to yesterday's attempted Iranian attacks on U.S. forces based in the Middle East."

According to reports in Iranian media, explosions were heard in Nurabad, located in Fars Province, as well as in the port city of Sirik and in Ahvaz. Later, Iranian media reported that three explosions were heard on Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz, along with another explosion in Bushehr. The reported strikes came hours after US President Donald Trump stated that the US would strike Iran “very hard" after Iran attacked US bases in Jordan overnight. “We are going to hit them very hard. I can say that because there is very little they can do about it," he told reporters in the Oval Office.

"We're going to be hitting them very hard, because it’s our turn to hit them. They know it’s coming, they’re asking us not to do it. They tried shooting last night…we had five rockets shot going 8,500 mph, and all five rockets were knocked down to the ground - but they nevertheless took a shot, so it's our turn," Trump stated. Earlier, Trump told Fox News, "We are going to beat the *‎*‎*‎*ing *‎*‎*‎* out of them."

The President described the missile launches as a surprise attack, adding that US forces had just minutes to intercept the incoming missile barrage. Shortly before the start of the current wave of strikes, The Wall Street Journal reported that Trump is currently considering whether to relaunch major military operations against Tehran, with American forces drawing up plans for an intensive aerial assault lasting 10 to 14 days focused on crippling Iran's missile strength. (Read More)

‘Exactly what Iran intended’: Some Jordanians buckle under missile pressure, demand US withdrawal

The Islamic Republic is making headway in its ambition to “sow discord within Jordan and create governmental chaos in order to expand Iranian influence” in the country, Prof. Ronen Yitzhak told The Jerusalem Post on Thursday, following the publication of an open letter signed by hundreds of Jordanian political and legal figures demanding the withdrawal of US forces. The letter, a rare public challenge to the Jordanian government, was signed by both Palestinian and original Jordanian tribes, which is what makes it particularly “disturbing,” Yitzhak said.

“This is exactly what Iran intended when it launched missiles at Jordan, as well as at other Gulf states. Its goal was to put pressure on the Jordanian population to demand the removal of the American presence,” he said. “But it is more than that. There is an Iranian intention to deepen the gap between the Jordanian government, which supports the United States, and the Jordanian people, which opposes American policy, as part of the Iranian ambition to sow discord within Jordan and cause governmental chaos in order to increase Iranian influence in Jordan - this has been Iran's ambition for over 20 years.”

The letter claimed that US military presence “exposes Jordan to security, political, and economic risks that serve no national interest and increases the likelihood of our country being dragged into a regional conflict to which it is not a party.” Jordan currently hosts around 4,000 American troops, according to the US Congress. The country also receives substantial US military assistance, with annual aid tripling over the past 15 years.

...Though Amman’s relationship with the US has been undoubtedly beneficial, the regional escalation has also had a deep impact on Jordan’s economy. The Central Bank of Jordan reported that in the first half of 2026, tourism revenue went down from expatriate Jordanians by 12%, US nationals by 25%, and European nationals by 28%. According to the New York Times, the tourism industry alone makes up 18% of Jordan’s revenues. (Ed note: Everybody goes to Petra! This could be very important. Lets see what develops.) (Read More)

Syria maps, Trump and Vance's meeting: What really happened behind Washington's doors - analysis

The most important takeaway from Netanyahu’s Washington trip may not have been any single statement or announcement, but that Israel still needs to persuade the US of its position.

It had been quite some time since a senior Israeli diplomatic official held such a lengthy and detailed background briefing. Nearly every question was answered, often at considerable length, while insisting that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Washington was not another ceremonial meeting but a genuine strategic exchange between two leaders who know each other well. “It wasn’t about checking a box,” the official said. “It was an exchange of ideas.” According to the briefing, the discussion with President Donald Trump revolved around three possible paths regarding Iran: reaching a new agreement, maintaining the current economic blockade, or escalating military pressure. Each option, the official stressed, was examined objectively and “honestly.”

Yet beyond the substance of the briefing, there was another impression that was difficult to ignore: A sense of urgency, perhaps even unease. For months, Trump has publicly stated that he urged Netanyahu not to launch further strikes in Lebanon and that he would like to see Israel withdraw from parts of Syria. On several occasions, he has suggested that Washington and Jerusalem do not necessarily see eye-to-eye on every regional issue.

The senior official, as expected, blamed the media, arguing that journalists are often fed inaccurate, or even fabricated, information. But his own description of what Netanyahu chose to do inside the Oval Office suggested that Trump’s public remarks, and perhaps the assumptions held by those briefing him, were very much on the prime minister’s mind. The briefing left the clear impression that Netanyahu wanted to make sure Trump fully understood Israel’s position on Syria before those assumptions became entrenched.

According to the official, Netanyahu arrived at the Oval Office carrying maps. He showed Trump that Israel controls roughly 0.1% of Syrian territory, while Turkey controls about 5%, arguing that Israel’s limited presence is intended solely to prevent Iran, Hezbollah, Palestinian Islamic Jihad and other terrorist organizations from establishing themselves along its border.   (Ed note: Just like previous administrations, will the Trump Administration in wanting to make a deal so much, again throw Israel  under the bus?)   (Read More)

'Tense and Unease': Body Language Experts Analyze Awkward Photo of World Leaders

Body language expert analyzed the behavior of Vance, Trump, and Netanyahu at the White House. Vance appeared tense and uncomfortable, while Trump projected calm and closeness toward the Prime Minister. A body language expert claimed that U.S. Vice President JD Vance displayed signs of tension and discomfort during a joint photo opportunity with President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House.

In contrast, she assessed that Trump appeared relaxed and pleased to meet Netanyahu. According to the expert, his smile was "genuine", his body language was loose, and he even angled his foot toward Netanyahu, indicates a sense of closeness and comfort.

The expert also referenced photos from Trump's meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, claiming that the two projected mutual warmth. She noted that the fact that their elbows touched was a "positive sign" indicating good relations, even though Zelenskyy appeared cautious and reserved in some of the photographs  (Ed note: It was said at the beginning of the Trump Administration that VP Vance was "no friend of Israel" that he wanted to deal with Iran and avoid Israel.)    (Source)

Iran hiding centrifuges at Pickaxe Mountain, nuclear program 'not destroyed,' source tells 'Post'

The source also revealed information regarding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Tuesday meeting with US President Donald Trump, sharing that maps were shown supporting Israel's presence in Syria.

Iran is storing centrifuges at Pickaxe Mountain, a senior Israeli diplomatic source said Wednesday. Israel does not believe Iran’s nuclear program has been completely destroyed, the source told reporters who accompanied Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to his meeting with US President Donald Trump in Washington on Tuesday. “The goal is how to bring the nuclear program to an end,” the source said, adding that Israel had targeted nuclear scientists, enrichment facilities, centrifuges, and other infrastructure, successfully setting the program back, “but not forever.”

“There are centrifuges at Pickaxe Mountain even if enrichment is not currently taking place,” the source said, and Israel would not hesitate to act again against any attempt to rebuild Iran’s nuclear program or its ballistic-missile array. During his meeting with Trump, Netanyahu displayed maps that refute calls for Israeli withdrawal from Syrianterritory, the Israeli diplomatic source said.

The maps showed that Turkey controls about 5% of Syrian territory, while Israel controls only about 0.1%, the source said. Netanyahu had made the case that Israel’s presence is intended to counter threats from Iran, Hezbollah, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and other terrorist organizations, the source added. “Sometimes the president has certain assumptions, and if you don’t change them, they become fixed,” the source said, adding that this was one of the reasons Netanyahu chose to present the information visually.

Although Syria was discussed, it served primarily as an introduction to the central topic of the meeting, Iran, the source said, and most of the conversation had focused on how to address it following the significant blow to its nuclear program. Trump is currently weighing three possible courses of action, the source said: pursuing a new agreement, maintaining and intensifying economic pressure and sanctions, or escalating military action. (Read More)

Trump, ahead of meet with Netanyahu: ‘I don’t need Bibi’ for intel on Pickaxe Mountain

US president, in irritated comments before hosting PM, criticizes Netanyahu for ostensibly speaking publicly about activity at the nuclear site; Katz: Israel wants to strike Iran but US holding us back.

US President Donald Trump said Tuesday he had no need for intelligence from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Iran’s Pickaxe Mountain nuclear facility, dismissing the site as “not a big problem,” and saying that the Israeli leader was only going to bring it up at their meeting later in the day, because “he wants me to stay involved.” His comments came as he was set to host Netanyahu for a meeting, their first since the outbreak of the war at the end of February, and amid reports that ties between the leaders had become strained as the conflict lingered without a clear resolution. Speaking to Fox News, Trump expressed his irritation with Netanyahu.

“I don’t need Bibi to tell me” things related to intelligence on the Pickaxe Mountain nuclear site. “Bibi’s telling me that because he wants me to stay involved. We know exactly what’s going on,” Trump insisted. The US president also vented frustration that Netanyahu ostensibly mentioned Iranian construction at the underground site publicly: “I heard Bibi announce that. I said, Why didn’t you just tell it to me? Why’d you have to announce it to the world? I know exactly what’s going on at Pickaxe,” he repeated.

“It’s not a big problem,” Trump continued. “We took out their nuclear sites, and we’ll have to take out Pickaxe if we don’t make a deal. [If] we don’t make a deal, we’ll take it out very easily.” While Trump claimed Netanyahu “announced” intelligence indicating Iranian activity at Pickaxe, however, the prime minister has not spoken about the nuclear site publicly. Some of the reports on purported Iranian activity at the site have, however, been attributed to unnamed Israeli officials. Trump also claimed he “could take out most of their bridges in less than an hour,” and all of Iran’s power plants within a day. He further claimed he saved Israel by stopping Iran’s nuclear program. “If I weren’t president today, Israel would not exist,” said Trump.

While the US and Israel hit multiple Iranian nuclear sites in the 12-day war last year and in the latest conflict, Pickaxe Mountain has not been hit by the US or Israel. Trump has threatened to bomb it a number of times. Iran has not allowed the UN’s nuclear watchdog access to the Pickaxe Mountain site. International Atomic Energy Agency head Rafael Grossi said Iran in 2021 declared its “intention to have nuclear activity” there. Pickaxe Mountain, whose peak rises to some 1,600 meters above sea level, is ‌located 220 kilometers (140 miles) south of Tehran and 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) from the Natanz nuclear complex. (Read More)

The Israeli Navy's new air force

The IDF this week held a ceremony at the Israeli Air Force's Palmachim Airbase marking the reopening of Squadron 193, "Defenders of the West," which will operate helicopters for maritime reconnaissance and naval support missions. The ceremony was attended by Israeli Air Force Commander Maj. Gen. Omer Tishler, Israeli Navy Commander Maj. Gen. Eyal Harel, as well as commanders, service members, and aircrew.

Squadron 193 will operate in cooperation with the Navy's Missile Boat Flotilla and support a wide range of naval missions, including protecting Israel's strategic assets, safeguarding freedom of navigation, assisting maneuvering forces, and providing naval fire support. The IDF said the squadron's reactivation will strengthen cooperation between the Air Force and Navy while expanding the military's operational capabilities in the maritime arena.

The squadron has been equipped with SH-60F Seahawk helicopters, designated in Israeli service as the Shelach. The maritime helicopters are designed to conduct intelligence-gathering, reconnaissance and surveillance, search-and-rescue, and naval support missions. They are equipped with advanced sensor systems, including maritime radar and day-and-night observation systems.

Squadron 193, "Defenders of the West," was established in 1987. Over the years it operated Dolphin helicopters and later Atalef helicopters. The squadron was deactivated at Ramat David Airbase in 2025 and has now resumed operations from Palmachim Airbase in a new configuration as a maritime support helicopter squadron. (Read More)

Israel will respond to Hezbollah striking of IDF bulldozer by drone, source tells 'Post'

In Haddatha in the Nabatiya area, troops destroyed an underground route that served as a Hezbollah command center, the IDF announced.

Israel will respond to the striking of an IDF bulldozer overnight between Tuesday and Wednesday by a Hezbollah drone, an Israeli source familiar with the matter told The Jerusalem Post on Wednesday afternoon. The source added that talks were being held as to the nature of the response. Earlier in the day, the IDF Northern Command confirmed the overnight strike, which took place in the area of the Ali Taher Ridge, the IDF said, calling it a “blatant violation” of the ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah.

The site is located at the edge of Israel's security zone, a highland with a 600-meter elevation in Nabatiya, north of the Litani River. About a month ago, the IDF said it killed armed Hezbollah operatives there in two separate incidents, after the fighters approached its position in the Ridge. In southern Lebanon, IDF troops located over the past few days weapons belonging to Hezbollah, including Kalashnikovs, RPGs, explosives, grenades, and others, the military announced on Wednesday.

This same process took place at a few locations in the security belt area that troops are operating in. The IDF said that in an incident in the area of Ras el-Bayada, located about 10 kilometers north of Rosh Hanikra, troops shot towards a suspect “that approached the forces in a threatening manner,” after the suspect continued to get closer despite calls to stop. The announcement did not give further clarifications.

The IDF said that in an incident in the area of Ras el-Bayada, located about 10 kilometers north of Rosh Hanikra, troops shot towards a suspect “that approached the forces in a threatening manner,” after the suspect continued to get closer despite calls to stop. The announcement did not give further clarifications. (Read More)

US takes control of Gaza tunnel operations

Amid cash-flow problems and the lack of a comprehensive IDF work plan, the US will operate four new concrete plants along the Gaza border, aiming to fill deep tunnels and build a massive US base. 

The United States and Israel are moving forward with plans to establish four additional concrete plants in the Gaza border area to meet growing demand for sealing Hamas tunnels in the Strip and constructing a massive military base intended to serve the International Stabilization Force (ISF). The enormous quantities of concrete required for both projects have created the need for the additional plants. The current system is operating amid cash-flow difficulties. The concrete plants shut down every week because of budget problems, dramatically affecting the continuous effort to seal the tunnel routes. In fact, it has emerged that the Israel Defense Forces has no comprehensive, structured work plan for sealing all the tunnels discovered in the Gaza Strip, and operations are being conducted according to ad hoc budget allocations.

As part of the preparations to transfer responsibility for operating and financing the plants to the United States, workers at the existing concrete facilities have already been informed that, for payroll and management purposes, they will become employees of the US administration overseeing the project. Thousands of kilometers of tunnels built and used by Hamas remain in the Gaza Strip. Some are still used by the terrorist organization's military wing, and hostages were held in several of them. It should be noted that the Americans are not making the operation conditional on a transition to Phase 2 of the 20-point plan, since it is not considered reconstruction but rather the filling of tunnels located in territory under IDF control.

The tunnel-demolition method is based on pumping liquid concrete under high pressure directly into the underground route. For example, engineering forces pumped more than 30,000 cubic meters (about 1.06 million cubic feet) of concrete into the massive tunnel in Rafah where the body of Lt. Hadar Goldin was held. An additional tunnel in the northern Gaza Strip was sealed using 20,000 cubic meters (about 706,000 cubic feet) of sealing material pumped through a dedicated pipeline system several kilometers long. (Ed note: Build a massive US base over all those tunnels? By the way, Hamas still hasn't been disarmed, President Trump.) (Read More)

Israel, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Iraq attacked by drones despite lull in US-Iran fighting

Israel, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Iraq reported drone attacks in their territory Monday amid a lull in US air strikes against Iran, after nearly two weeks of fighting between both sides. The Israel Defense Forces said Monday morning that it shot down two drones over the Jordan border, near the Dead Sea, adding that the drones did not cross into Israeli territory. Their origin was under investigation, the army said. Saudi Arabia’s defense ministry, meanwhile, said it shot down drones aimed at petroleum targets, some in its eastern province and others in the capital Riyadh. It said the drones had been launched from Iraq by Iran-backed militias, and it reserved the right to respond.

Satellite imagery circling on social media appeared to show damage caused to Saudi Aramco’s Abqaiq oil processing facility in the country’s east. Separate footage showed a large plume of smoke rising, purportedly from the facility, following the attack. Iran-backed militias in Iraq have not claimed any attacks in the region since the resumption of hostilities between the US and Iran this month, after an April ceasefire broke down, but Saudi Arabia was repeatedly targeted by the groups at the height of the war with Iran that erupted in February.

Separately, Iran’s Houthi allies in Yemen said they had targeted transit sites carrying oil west to Saudi Arabia’s main Red Sea oil port of Yanbu, in retaliation for what it said were Saudi drone incursions into Yemeni airspace. Riyadh did not immediately comment on the Houthis’ claims, which came after several days of strikes traded between the two sides. The fighting rekindled when the latter announced a blockade of Saudi Arabia’s oil industry in the Red Sea, sending oil prices even higher. Saudi Arabia responded with airstrikes on what it said were Houthi military facilities in Yemen’s Hodeidah port, saying it would protect shipping. (Read More)

in Iraq following Iranian strikes on US bases

US Central Command (CENTCOM) together with the Saudi Arabian Armed Forces struck Iraq on Wednesday, targeting "Iran-aligned terrorists that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) directed to attack US forces and Saudi energy infrastructure," CENTCOM said in a post on X/Twitter. "US and Saudi fighter aircraft struck multiple terrorist logistics and weapons sites across eastern Iraq in a strong response to over 30 IRGC-directed aerial drone attacks in the last 72 hours."

CENTCOM's announcement came shortly after reports from Arabic media of "unexplained explosions at a Popular Mobilization Front (PMF) base," in Iraq. The PMF is composed of about 67 Iranian-backed armed militias. The Saudi Defense Ministry added that the strikes "reaffirm the Kingdom's legitimate right to defend itself," adding that it "does not seek escalation but will respond to any aggression it faces," in a post on X on Wednesday.

Hours earlier, Iran launched multiple ballistic missiles towards US military bases across the Middle East, CENTCOM confirmed in a post on X. IRGC forces launched multiple ballistic missiles from Iran in an attempted surprise attack on US forces based in the Middle East," the post explained. The IRGC "fired ballistic missiles at US air bases and US military Central Command center in Jordan," Iran's Revolutionary Guards told Iranian state media. A US official told The Jerusalem Post that Iran had launched at least four ballistic missiles towards a US military base in Jordan, adding that "This was a major attack." (Read More)

'Where to kill Melania?' IRGC-linked Tasnim shares video urging supporters to kill US's first lady

A video with plans and suggestions on how to kill US First Lady Melania Trump was shared on Tuesday by Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-linked Tasnim News Agency. The video, seen by The Jerusalem Post, called on "freedom fighters" to target the shops the first lady frequents. It claimed to share "information from several anonymous security networks," showing schemes of how Melania's security operates and the places that she usually goes in New York.

It also claims that the first lady's weakness is "her love for fashion," saying that she frequents top New York fashion stores that could be attacked by "freedom fighters." The video also claimed that Melania's security operates separately from US President Donald Trump's security, with different teams, codenames, and even plans in some cases.

The video is a propaganda message published by an Iranian news agency affiliated with IRGC terrorists. It contains explicit instructions, alleging to portray how to kill the wife of a world leader. The Post is not confirming the contents of the video, nor does it condone the contents of the graphic video and discourages undertaking any actions described therein. It has also been deleted from several social media sites for violating the terms and conditions of usage. (Read More)

Live where nature meets the history of Jerusalem

At nearly 780 meters above sea level, on one of Jerusalem’s most picturesque ridgelines, a new residential destination is emerging – Melach Haaretz, offering rare 360-degree vistas across the Jerusalem Hills, the Judean Desert, and, on clear days, as far as the Dead Sea. Situated in a prime location along Hebron Road, this evolving urban zone is redefining modern living in the capital. It brings together expansive green landscapes, deep historical context, and a scale of development that is increasingly rare in Jerusalem.

Few locations in Jerusalem carry such a direct connection between past and present. Bordering the development, Aqueduct Park traces its origins back over 2,000 years, to the Hasmonean-era lower aqueduct that once carried water more than 23 kilometers from Solomon’s Pools to the Temple Mount. Today, this ancient infrastructure forms part of an open green corridor that defines the character of the area. This interplay of archaeology and urban planning gives the Aqueduct District its distinct identity – not simply a new neighborhood, but an extension of Jerusalem’s historical landscape into contemporary life. For decades, neighborhoods such as Baka and the German Colony have anchored Jerusalem’s international market. Today, the focus is shifting.

Arnona and its surrounding areas offer what those established neighborhoods increasingly cannot: space, openness, and unobstructed views, combined with strong connectivity to the city’s core. With the continued expansion of the light rail and ongoing infrastructure investment, the area is rapidly positioning itself as one of Jerusalem’s most compelling residential hubs. For international buyers, it represents a window into a neighborhood still in its growth phase -where pricing and long-term potential remain aligned.

At the center of this transformation stands Melach Haaretz, a large-scale development redefining luxury living in Jerusalem. Set across approximately 9 acres of landscaped open space, the project introduces a coherent residential ecosystem anchored by three architecturally distinct towers. The emphasis is not only on design, but on the quality and structure of daily life. What makes Melach Haaretz truly exceptional is that it offers something rarely found in Jerusalem – the opportunity to live within a complete, thoughtfully designed environment where expansive green spaces, exceptional amenities, community life and seamless connection to the city all come together. (Ed note: Are you up for this? Go ahead, you deserve it.) (Read More)

Netanyahu, Trump meeting in DC ‘positive, productive’

U.S. President Donald Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday before the two leaders are due to attend the funeral of former South Carolina Republican senator Lindsey Graham. The meeting, which lasted about an hour, comes amid questions about the direction of the war in Iran, with Trump continuing to pursue negotiations with the Islamic Republic after suggesting last week that he was prepared to carry out a “higher level” of strikes. In a statement after the meeting, Netanyahu said it was “was one of the best conversations I’ve had with the president of the United States.” “I have just finished an excellent meeting with President Trump,” Netanyahu said. “When I say excellent, it’s not just lip service. It was a conversation of full partnership, of mutual support, with an understanding of the shared goal to ensure that Iran will not have nuclear weapons, and also other goals.”

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt described the meeting between Trump and Netanyahu as “positive and productive.” A senior source who accompanied Netanyahu to the White House said that Iran was the focus of discussion. “The prime minister and president held an excellent and comprehensive discussion on the key issues of the day, first and foremost Iran,” the source said. “The leaders reaffirmed their ironclad commitment to ensuring that Iran never has nuclear weapons.” The meeting did not include questions from the press, which have been a common feature of the past seven meetings between the two leaders in Trump’s second term.

Photos released by the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office show U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Steve Witkoff, one of the lead negotiators with the Iranians, in the Oval Office with Trump and Netanyahu, as well as Israeli Ambassador to the United States Yechiel Leiter and Caroline Glick, Netanyahu’s international affairs adviser.   (Source)

"One of the Best Meetings Ever": Prime Minister Netanyahu Praises Bilateral Executive Session With Trump

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu characterized his eighth White House meeting with President Donald Trump as one of the best talks held between the two leaders, emphasizing full strategic alignment on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised his latest bilateral meeting with President Donald Trump at the White House on Tuesday evening, describing the session as "one of the best conversations" held with the American leader. The encounter marked their eighth meeting in two years, focusing primarily on strategic coordination regarding the Iranian nuclear program.

Following the meeting, Prime Minister Netanyahu issued a video statement summarizing the session as a complete success. "I just had an excellent meeting with President Trump, and when I say excellent, I do not mean it superficially," Netanyahu stated. "It was a conversation with full partnership, mutual support, and an understanding of the shared goal: to ensure that Iran will not have a nuclear weapon, as well as other goals."

The meeting was held in an expanded format featuring top officials from both administrations, rather than a private one on one session. Attending alongside President Trump were Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. The Israeli delegation included National Security Advisor Shmuel Ben Ezra, Ambassador Yechiel Leiter, Chief of Staff Ido Norden, Military Secretary Guy Markizano, Policy Advisor Caroline Glick, and Diplomatic Advisor Ophir Falk.  (Ed note: Please notice Caroline Glick at the extreme left of the picture. She very well could be Prime Minister material in the future. Perhaps that's why PM Netanyahu brought her in as Policy Advisor.)     (Read More)

Iranian protesters’ executions stir grief and harden resolve across Iran

The execution of two more protesters early Tuesday triggered widespread grief, anger and defiance across Iran, with many saying the hangings had strengthened, rather than broken, their resolve to oppose the Islamic Republic. People in Isfahan and cities across Iran described staying awake through the night in the hope that the executions would be halted, mourning the two men after dawn and praising those who gathered despite a heavy security presence around the execution site. Amirhossein Safari and Abolfazl Sepahi were among 12 young men sentenced to death in what became known as the Alikhani Square case, stemming from clashes during nationwide protests in Isfahan on January 8.
       

Iranian authorities accuse the defendants of killing four security personnel, as well as arson and vandalism. Rights groups and United Nations experts have questioned the fairness of the proceedings, citing allegations of coerced confessions, closed court hearings and the defendants' young ages. Iran's judiciary news agency Mizan said Safari and Sepahi were executed early Tuesday, bringing the number of people put to death in the case to four after Golmohammad Mohammadi and Erfan Esfandiari were executed on July 19. Eight other defendants remain under sentence of death. 

"They chased people through the alleyways of Isfahan last night," one witness said. "People were running through the streets, and the officers followed them. They did not even spare a thought for those mothers." Witnesses said security forces maintained a heavy presence around Alikhani Square throughout Monday night after reports that an iron scaffold had been erected there. Social media accounts described confrontations between officers and people who had gathered in the hope of preventing the executions. Iranians in London also gathered outside the Iranian embassy Monday night to protest the executions, extending demonstrations over the hangings beyond Iran's borders.

'We stayed awake until morning'

Many of the messages focused on the hours before dawn, describing a night spent waiting for news from Isfahan. "We wished until sunrise that morning would never come to Isfahan," one person wrote. Another summed up the night in historical terms: "Write in history that people in Iran fought with their bare hands until 5 a.m. to save two of their fellow citizens." Messages from Bandar Abbas, Pardis, Khomein and other cities suggested many people viewed the gatherings in Isfahan as a sign that opposition to the executions had spread well beyond the city. "The people of Isfahan showed that when the next call comes, millions across the country will return to the streets," one resident of Bandar Abbas said. "We fight for freedom even with empty hands."

Another resident of Bandar Abbas added: "Thank you to the people of Isfahan for gathering and showing that we are still standing together and still remember everyone who has been executed." One student said news of the executions overshadowed an examination. "I did not even know what I was writing during my exam," the student said. "All I could think about were the young men who were executed in Isfahan last night." (Read More)

Prime Minister Office Rejects Claims: Israeli Officials Deny Conditions Were Attached to Washington Meeting

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Donald Trump are scheduled to hold a high level meeting in Washington at 18:00 following weeks of diplomatic coordination. Efforts by the Prime Minister's Office to secure the meeting began earlier this month, though initial willingness from the White House remained limited until diplomatic channels conveyed specific expectations regarding tangible progress across regional fronts. Article Body: Diplomatic sources revealed that American officials passed a firm message to Jerusalem indicating that Netanyahu needed to present substantial political developments ahead of the visit. According to sources familiar with the discussions, the message conveyed to Netanyahu warned, "If you think you are coming empty handed, you are not coming." 

Following consultations with Ambassador Yechiel Leiter and senior advisors close to Trump, Netanyahu elected to present progress concerning operations in Gaza. The Prime Minister subsequently convened an urgent cabinet meeting to authorize the entry of an international stabilization force into the Gaza Strip, despite Hamas terrorists not yet fulfilling previous commitments to disarm. An Israeli official familiar with the cabinet deliberations commented on the decision, stating, "Netanyahu pushed forward the decision to introduce an international force into Gaza without looking back." The official characterized the policy change as a gesture to Trump that represents a retreat from previously established guidelines stipulating the total disarmament of Hamas terrorists as a prerequisite for post war arrangements.

The Prime Minister's Office issued an official response denying that any conditions were tied to the White House visit. A spokesperson stated, "Nobody placed any condition whatsoever on the Prime Minister's visit to the White House. The decision to introduce a multinational force was made by a cabinet decision eight months ago as part of the hostage release deal. This multinational force will not replace the IDF in any way." The upcoming closed door meeting between Trump and Netanyahu is set to focus primarily on strategy regarding Iran, alongside operational developments in Gaza. According to reports provided to Reuters, international observers view the cabinet decision as a key step toward aligning American and Israeli diplomatic frameworks before broader discussions take place. (Source)

Vance to attend Netanyahu-Trump meeting, amid tensions

US Vice President JD Vance, who has recently voiced criticism of Israel that bordered on the conspiratorial, will be at the meeting between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump today, the Prime Minister’s Office tells The Times of Israel.

After attending the memorial service for late US senator Lindsey Graham, Netanyahu will hold meetings with senior US officials, according to the PMO.
Netanyahu spoke at a memorial dinner in Graham’s honor last night. (Source)

"He does not decide for me": President Trump Rejects Netanyahu Opposition to Potential F35 Sales to Turkey

President Donald Trump addressed reporters aboard Air Force One regarding ongoing negotiations with Tehran, potential fighter jet sales to Turkey, and policy coordination with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. President Donald Trump delivered a wide ranging press briefing to reporters aboard Air Force One as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu traveled to Washington for bilateral talks. The American president outlined the state of negotiations with Tehran, potential defense sales to regional partners, and coordination with Israeli leadership following two weeks of military operations.

Discussing the ongoing diplomatic contacts with Iranian leadership, President Trump explained the factors driving Tehran to the negotiation table. "The only reason Iran wants to talk is because they are not in a good position. We have time, there is a good chance that something will happen in the talks, if not then we will go back to what we did before," Trump stated. The president detailed the recent military campaign, noting that intense operations over a fortnight severely impacted Iranian capabilities and forced a shift in Tehran's diplomatic approach. According to Trump, "Iran took a lot during the last 14 days, they asked us very nicely 'please stop, let's meet, if there is no deal, we will return to fighting like before.'"

Addressing strategic alignment with Israeli political leadership, President Trump described current coordination between Washington and Jerusalem. "There are a few disagreements with Netanyahu, but the situation is good, our positions and Israel's positions are fairly close regarding Iran," Trump remarked during the inflight briefing. When asked by reporters about potential Israeli opposition to a prospective F35 fighter jet transaction between the United States and Turkey, President Trump firmly rejected external interference in American foreign policy. "He does not decide for me, no one will tell me whether to sell or not sell airplanes," Trump declared.

Commenting on diplomatic ties with Turkish leadership, President Trump addressed regional tensions involving Ankara. "He is not a big fan of Israel, but he is a good friend of mine," Trump told reporters, referring to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. President Trump also dismissed media reports alleging critical shortages of air defense interceptors within military stockpiles. "We have a lot of ammunition, different types. Biden gave a lot to Ukraine, and we are rebuilding it. We also have a lot of medium equipment, more than we could ever use," Trump stated. According to statements provided by White House officials to Reuters, the administration remains focused on evaluating Iranian compliance during the current diplomatic window while maintaining force readiness across the region. (Source)

Iran says no current talks with US, while regional official hails mediation progress

Iran said on Monday it was not currently holding negotiations with the United States, while a regional official said there was “significant” progress in ongoing mediation efforts amid a halt in recent fighting between the two sides. “At present, we are not engaged in any negotiations with the United States,” the Iranian Foreign Ministry’s spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said, denying reports that Iran had requested talks. “Mediators may convey messages to us from the American side regarding ongoing developments in the region. But at present, we have no negotiations with the American side,” Baghaei added.

US President Donald Trump ordered a halt to daily strikes on Iran over the weekend, with UN ambassador Mike Waltz saying Washington remained “locked and loaded” for more attacks and that “more assets have gone into the region,” but that Trump was “giving talks some space — he’s giving it a little bit of room.”The two regional officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity to the Associated Press to discuss the sensitive regional talks, said mediators led by Qatar and Pakistan were working to bridge the gap between Washington and Tehran to return to an interim ceasefire deal that had been largely undermined by the recent exchanges of fire.

One of the regional officials who spoke to AP Monday described the progress made in mediation efforts as “significant.” He said mediators were working with Iran and Oman on a mechanism for managing vessels’ transit through the Strait of Hormuz, which was the trigger for the latest round of strikes and counterstrikes between Iran and the US. Baghaei also said on Monday that the US is not involved in the talks with Oman over the administration of the Hormuz. “These talks have no connection with the United States. They are a bilateral matter between Iran and Oman, and they are continuing,” Baghaei said, adding that the waterway “remains closed.” (Ed note: Who's lying? We do know that if the Iranians lips are moving, they are lying.)     (Read More)

New scaffold in Isfahan fuels fears of imminent protester executions

An iron scaffold erected Monday in the central Iranian city of Isfahan has raised fears that authorities are preparing to publicly execute more protesters arrested during January's nationwide unrest, sources told Iran International. The scaffold was installed in Alikhani Square, where protests erupted on January 8. Twelve young men convicted in what became known as the Alikhani Square case were sentenced to death. Two of them—Golmohammad Mohammadi and Erfan Esfandiari—were executed on July 19. Witness accounts circulating on social media described Alikhani Square as being under heavy security on Monday night.

A source close to the family of Amirhossein Safari, another defendant in the case, told Iran International that relatives had been summoned to Isfahan Central Prison for what they believed could be a final visit. The concerns were echoed by prominent Iranian activist Mehdi Mahmoudian, who wrote on X that several families of the ten remaining death-row prisoners in the Alikhani Square case had also been instructed to report to the prison for final visits. Mahmoudian identified cousins Alireza Sepahi and Abolfazl Sepahi among those facing what he described as an imminent risk of execution. He also noted that two other defendants in the case had already been executed.

The visible deployment of security forces around the scaffold has further fuelled fears that additional executions could be carried out publicly. Iranian authorities accuse the defendants of involvement in the killing of four security personnel, as well as arson and vandalism during the January protests. Officials say four members of the Basij militia and Special Unit forces were killed during clashes in the area.

Earlier on Monday, UN experts led by Mai Sato, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Iran, urged the authorities to halt the executions of the ten remaining defendants. "Sentencing 12 people to death in one hearing, in a closed courtroom and without clarity as to each defendant's individual responsibility violates established fair trial standards," the experts said. They said the defendants, aged from their late teens to their early twenties, were reportedly subjected to arbitrary detention, enforced disappearance and, in some cases, ill-treatment. According to the experts, the convictions relied heavily on confessions broadcast on state television, while Revolutionary Court hearings were held behind closed doors and the judgments were never made public. (Ed note: President Trump just said, "I have plenty of time." Hey, Trump, those people don't!  And the Iranian people continue to die under the hand of the Islamic Republic.)  (Read More)

Trump’s inner circle stands to gain from Saudi nuclear energy deal – report

President’s sons and supporters linked to firms that could build and power reactors for Riyadh under deal, NYT says; White House slams ‘attempts to fabricate conflicts of interest.’

The White House’s push to let American nuclear energy companies do business with Saudi Arabia could turn a profit for members of US President Donald Trump’s inner circle, The New York Times reported Sunday. Washington said last week that it reached a civilian nuclear pact with Riyadh, but the agreement’s status is unclear after Trump said the deal hinged on Saudi Arabia normalizing relations with Israel. Saudi Arabia has said it would not normalize relations with Israel without a tangible path toward Palestinian statehood, which Israel rejects. Should a deal be reached, the construction of new reactors in Saudi Arabia and the supply of nuclear fuel to power them could result in a payday for firms affiliated with Trump and top cabinet members and donors, the report said.

Trump’s sons Eric and Donald Jr. in November acquired partial ownership of a nuclear fuel firm called Quantum Leap Energy, and the president’s eponymous Media & Technology Group said in December that it would merge with the nuclear start-up TAE Technologies. The deal is expected to include the US-based firm Westinghouse, which developed a large-scale nuclear reactor that has been used in China, according to three sources with knowledge of the matter who were cited by the Times.

Westinghouse is, in turn, a frequent business partner of real estate firm Newmark, which is partially owned by the sons of Trump’s Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, the Times said. Another potential beneficiary of a US-Saudi nuclear deal is top Trump donor Peter Thiel, a major investor in nuclear fuel firm General Matter. A White House spokeswoman denied to the Times that the White House had any ulterior motives in pushing for a nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia.

“The media’s continued attempts to fabricate conflicts of interest are irresponsible and reinforce the public’s distrust in what they read,” said the spokeswoman. Current and former Israeli officials have expressed concern over the US-Saudi deal, saying it could spark a nuclear arms race in the region and gives up leverage over Saudi Arabia to normalize ties with Israel. (Ed note: It looks like President Trump, family, and friends already have their hands in the cake. Will the Saudi's swallow their pride, bite the bullet, and agree to normalizing relations with Israel, and not include their favorite sticking point, a path toward Palestinian statehood. What say you?)   (Source)

State Department sees ‘convergence’ of Iranian terror proxies, far-left groups

Despite a recent conference hosted by the U.S. State Department aimed at broadening the international focus on political terrorism, the department insists that combating Islamist terrorism, particularly threats linked to Iran, remains a core U.S. national security priority. The State Department convened representatives from about 70 countries, including Israel, on July 16 for its Ministerial on the Resurgence of Political Terrorism to bring attention to “a blind spot in the international community’s counterterrorism focus,” arguing that the international community has devoted insufficient attention and resources to the growing threat posed by transnational far-left violence.

“We do see a convergence of different types of terrorism, an overlap with increasing connections, for example, with Iranian terror proxies and these far-left terror groups,” State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott told i24NEWS. “We’re seeing increasing links, perhaps increasing motivations, when it comes to terror plots.” The administration’s shift in focus “doesn’t mean that the threat” of Iran-backed Islamist terrorism “goes away, but it means we have counterterrorism tools that have been able to, in many instances, successfully thwart attack,” Pigott said, citing sanctions and international cooperation targeting Tehran.

Iran backs a network of terrorist organizations across the Middle East, including Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad in the Gaza Strip, Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen and an array of Shiite militias in Iraq. “That remains a high priority. It’s within the national security strategy, for example, specifically talking about that brand of terrorism,” Pigott said. “But we do have tools here we can build upon. We need to see what we’ve done in the past, see what’s worked, fix what hasn’t worked, and make sure that we’re working together to keep us all safe.”

Washington is attempting to neutralize Hezbollah, Iran’s proxy in southern Lebanon, through a trilateral framework it brokered with Israel and the Lebanese government. The partnership led to a White House visit last week by Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and the launch of the so-called pilot zone program, which aims to see the Lebanese Armed Forces establish control over areas Hezbollah has long held, with Israel Defense Forces troops subsequently withdrawing from those positions. “No one’s downplaying the challenges ahead of us,” Pigott said, responding to a question about the likelihood of success. “The United States, from the beginning of this process, has been focused on creating the space for good faith conversations, good faith discussions to take place.” (Read More)