Mediators say Iran has not requested pause on energy-site strikes, WSJ reports
Iran has not requested a 10-day pause on strikes on its energy plants and has yet to deliver a final response to a U.S. 15-point plan to end the war, the Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday, citing peace talk mediators.
U.S. President Donald Trump said earlier today he was pausing attacks on Iran's energy plants for 10 days at what he cast as the Iranian government's request, and said talks with Tehran were going "very well."
IAEA warns of risk of ‘major radiological accident’ posed by missile strikes
The International Atomic Energy Agency’s director general, Rafael Grossi, reiterated his “deep concern” about recent military strikes near Iran’s Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant.
Grossi warned that “damage to the facility could result in a major radiological accident affecting a large area in Iran and beyond,” the IAEA said.
He called for maximum restraint and stressed the importance of the seven pillars for ensuring nuclear safety.
Hezbollah claims unprecedented 91 attacks against Israel
Hezbollah claimed responsibility for a new series of attacks against Israeli troops on Lebanese territory and other Israeli positions near the border, bringing the total number of today's operations to an unprecedented 91.
The party announced in several statements that it had renewed its fire against Israeli troops invading Qantara (Marjayoun district), where it claims to have fired rockets and artillery shells at soldiers and vehicles.
Similar attacks occurred on Israeli troops in Khiam (Marjayoun), as well as its former prison, and Dibil and Qawzah (Bint Jbeil), where ground fighting has intensified in recent days.
Hezbollah claimed responsibility for other attacks on Israeli positions in Malikiyeh and Metula, as well as the deployment of attack drones against Israeli troops gathered in the Shtula, and an attack on an industrial zone in Rosh, in northern Israel.
It also stated that it had expanded its operations to the occupied Syrian Golan Heights, targeting Israeli military positions and infrastructure in Shomera, Maaliya, Odem and Katzrin.
Hezbollah fires over 100 rockets into Israel since midnight
Hezbollah fired over 100 rockets into Israel, according to the Israeli military, as reported by Haaretz and several Israeli media outlets.
Of the 83 attacks it claimed responsibility for on Thursday, the party said it fired 15 rocket salvos, including two “sophisticated missiles,” at areas and military bases in northern Israel, notably Haifa, Acre and Nahariya.
Hezbollah also reported carrying out several attacks against Israeli military positions near the border.
Israeli strike on Kfar Roummane kills 2
The Israeli strike on Kfar Roummane (Nabatieh) earlier today killed two people and injured eight others, according to the Health Ministry.
In its daily report, the ministry had previously reported Israeli attacks killed over 22 people and injured 110 others over the past 24 hours.
South Lebanon: Hezbollah claims new strikes on Israeli troops in Naqoura and Qantara
Hezbollah said it carried out a new series of attacks against Israeli troops and positions in Lebanese territory, bringing the total number of operations claimed to 75, after reaching a record 87 the previous day.
The group said it targeted Israeli troops, tanks, and other vehicles three times using attack drones and rocket fire in Naqoura (Sour district) and surrounding areas, where it had earlier reported “close-quarters fighting” since 8:00 p.m.
It also claimed to have hit four Merkava tanks, along with bulldozers, in and around the village of Qantara (Marjayoun). In the nearby village of Taybeh, now under Israeli control, Hezbollah said it targeted a “newly established helipad” with artillery shells.
In addition, the Iran-backed group reported firing missile salvos at the Israeli position known as Jal el-Dir, opposite the border village of Aitaroun (Bint Jbeil), as well as at Israeli towns including Malikiya, Nahariya, and Kiryat Shmona.
Hezbollah also claimed it targeted four Israeli military bases in the cities of Haifa and Acre using what it described as “advanced missiles.”
Hezbollah claims new strikes on Israeli troops in Naqoura and Qantara; bases in Haifa and Acre targeted
Hezbollah said it carried out a new series of attacks against Israeli troops and positions in Lebanese territory, bringing the total number of operations claimed to 75, after a record 87 the previous day.
The group said it targeted Israeli troops, tanks, and vehicles three times using attack drones and rocket fire in Naqoura (Sour district) and surrounding areas, where it had earlier reported “close-quarters fighting” since 8:00 p.m.
It also claimed to have struck four Merkava tanks and bulldozers in and around the village of Qantara (Marjayoun). In the nearby village of Taybeh, now under Israeli control, Hezbollah said it targeted a “newly established helipad” with artillery shells.
In addition, the group reported firing missile salvos at the Israeli position known as Jal el-Dir, opposite the border village of Aitaroun (Bint Jbeil), as well as at Israeli towns including Malikia, Naharia, and Kiriat Shmona.
Hezbollah also claimed it targeted four Israeli military bases in the cities of Haifa and Acre using what it described as “advanced missiles.”
Trump says he will pause attacks on Iran's energy plants, talks going 'very well'
U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was pausing attacks on Iran's energy plants for 10 days at the Iranian government's request and said talks with Tehran were going "very well".
"As per Iranian Government request... I am pausing the period of Energy Plant destruction by 10 Days to Monday, April 6, 2026, at 8 P.M., Eastern Time," Trump said in a post on Truth Social.
"Talks are ongoing and, despite erroneous statements to the contrary by the Fake News Media, and others, they are going very well," he said.
Rubio holds call with Iraqi Kurdish leader, thanks him over oil exports
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a phone call Thursday with Masrour Barzani, Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government, according to the State Department.
During the conversation, Rubio expressed his “gratitude” to the autonomous government for enabling Iraqi oil — including oil from the Kurdistan region — to reach global markets, the State Department said in a statement.
Israeli army says it needs 'additional forces' on Lebanon front
The Israeli army said Thursday evening that it needs “additional forces” on the Lebanese front and more broadly to carry out its expanding range of missions.
Army spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Defrin stated during a televised briefing that the military’s responsibilities have grown across multiple theaters, including Gaza, Syria, and the West Bank.
“The scope of the army’s missions has expanded, particularly in Judea and Samaria,” he said. “On the Lebanon front, the forward defensive zone we are establishing requires additional forces.”
He added that more troops are also needed in Gaza and for operations in Syria, stressing the need to prepare for future missions.
“For that, we need more combat soldiers,” he said, responding to a question about reported concerns from the chief of staff regarding troop capacity.
IAEA chief warns over strikes near Iranian nuclear site
Beirut time, Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), expressed deep concern over recent military strikes reportedly carried out near the Bushehr nuclear power plant on Tuesday evening.
Hezbollah claims 18 new operations, reports 'close-quarters fighting' in Khiam and Naqoura
Beirut time, Hezbollah said it carried out nearly 20 operations against Israeli positions and troops across southern Lebanon, where Israeli forces are expanding their offensive.
The group said it targeted Israeli soldiers in Naqoura (Sour district), Khiam, and Qantara (Marjayoun). It reported “close-quarters fighting with light and medium weapons” in Naqoura and Khiam, where clashes have been ongoing for nearly 20 days, as well as artillery fire against Israeli positions. “The fighting is still ongoing,” Hezbollah said, claiming it inflicted “confirmed casualties” on Israeli troops.
Hezbollah also said it launched four rocket and mortar barrages against Israeli forces in Qantara, where Israeli armored vehicles have been advancing since Wednesday, and claimed to have targeted “four Merkava tanks” using attack drones.
In addition, it reported rocket fire toward the Israeli towns of Manara and Malikiya, and another salvo around 7:30 p.m. targeting the Israeli Roueissat al-Alam base in the Kfar Shuba hills (Hasbaya).
Israeli army says it needs “additional forces” on Lebanon front
Beirut time, the Israeli army said it requires “additional forces” on the Lebanese front, as fighting intensifies in southern Lebanon.
Latest developments in southern Lebanon, according to our correspondent:
Israeli airstrikes hit a cafe near a Lebanese army position in al-Aamirieh, south of Sour. In the same area, multiple strikes targeted Naqoura and Bayada, as well as the Iskandaroun area between the two villages.
In the Bint Jbeil district, the towns of Qawzah, Beit Lif, Rshaf, and Tiri were also struck, while artillery fire hit Hanine (Nabatieh). Additional strikes targeted the surroundings of Meifdoun (Nabatieh), and artillery shelling hit the hills of Ali Taher, near Nabatieh.
These attacks are part of an intensification of Israeli operations in southern Lebanon, targeting both populated areas and zones near military positions.
Israeli army reports another soldier killed in southern Lebanon
The Israeli army announced the death of another soldier in southern Lebanon, amid ongoing clashes with Hezbollah forces and the expanding ground offensive.
Salam warns UN of 'risk of annexation' in south Lebanon
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam contacted U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to denounce continued Israeli attacks and the “risk of annexation” of areas south of the Litani River.
He highlighted the destruction of bridges isolating the region, the plight of over one million displaced Lebanese, and filed an immediate complaint with the U.N. Security Council over violations of international law.
UNIFIL headquarters in Naqoura hit by 'shells and rocket fragments'
The UNIFIL spokesperson, Candice Ardell, told the National News Agency that the UNIFIL headquarters in Naqoura, southern Lebanon, had recently been struck by “gunfire, shell fragments, and rockets.”
Ground clashes between Hezbollah and Israeli forces, which threaten to advance into Lebanese territory up to the Litani River, have been ongoing in the western sector of the border area for several days.
“Given these dangerous circumstances, UNIFIL has proposed relocating personnel accompanying contracted workers to safer areas until the situation stabilizes,” Ardell added, emphasizing that the UN mission continues “to honor its commitments to protect civilians exposed to imminent physical harm.”
Israel says it killed Hezbollah commander 'responsible for anti-tank missiles' in southern Lebanon
The Israeli army announced it had killed Hassan Mohammad Bashir, described as a “senior commander of Hezbollah’s anti-tank missile system,” in a raid on the village of al-Hujair in southern Lebanon.
Army spokesperson Avichay Adraee said Bachir had carried out “hundreds of attacks” against Israeli forces and oversaw the development of Hezbollah’s anti-tank missile capabilities north of the Litani River.
Hezbollah has claimed daily anti-tank missile strikes against Israeli armored units deployed in Lebanese territory, reporting that its fighters have destroyed around twenty tanks since the start of Israel’s ground offensive following the resumption of war on March 2.
Killing of Iranian Revolutionary Guard Navy chief makes region 'safer,' says US military leader
The U.S. military said Thursday that the killing of Iranian Revolutionary Guard Navy commander Alireza Tangsiri has made the region “safer,” after Israel announced it had assassinated him in airstrikes.
Admiral Brad Cooper, head of US Central Command, added in a statement that all Iranians serving in the Revolutionary Guard Navy should “leave their posts and return home to avoid any further risk of unnecessary injury or death.”
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz described Tangsiri as the “official responsible for mining operations and blocking the Strait of Hormuz.”
Germany pledges humanitarian aid for Lebanon in call with Aoun
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun received a phone call Thursday from his German counterpart, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, during which Berlin promised to provide emergency humanitarian aid for displaced people forced to leave their homes due to military operations, according to a statement from thr state-run National News Agency.
“We stand with the Lebanese people and support President Aoun’s negotiation initiative to end the escalation,” the German president said, emphasizing Germany’s willingness to assist in this framework.
Iraq condemns any 'aggression or targeting' of Gulf countries and Jordan from its territory
The Iraqi government on Thursday condemned any “aggression or targeting” of Gulf countries and Jordan, following requests from those nations to stop attacks by pro-Iranian militias launched from Iraqi soil.
In a statement, the Iraqi Foreign Affairs Ministry expressed the government’s “categorical condemnation of any aggression or targeting of the Gulf countries and the Kingdom of Jordan,” adding that it is ready to “work jointly to address these attacks responsibly and swiftly.”
Trump says taking control of Iran’s oil 'is an option'
U.S. President Donald Trump warned on social media: “They better get serious soon, before it is too late, because once that happens, there is NO TURNING BACK, and it won't be pretty!”
Later, at a Cabinet meeting, Trump said Iran had allowed 10 oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz as a “present” to show it was serious about talks. Iran says it has blocked the vital shipping lane to all but “non-hostile” vessels.
In response to a reporter’s question, Trump added that the United States might take control of Iran’s oil, comparing it to the deal Washington made with Venezuela after toppling Nicolás Maduro. “It's an option,” he said.
Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi denied on Wednesday that any negotiations had begun with the Trump administration, though he acknowledged messages were being exchanged through “friendly countries.” Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said that “brotherly countries” such as Turkey and Egypt were also supporting the mediation process.
At least 3 explosions reported in northern Tehran
At least three explosions were heard Thursday evening in northern Tehran, according to an AFP journalist, who could not specify the exact targets.
The strikes occurred at night and in the rain, and were preceded by loud overflights of fighter jets above the Iranian capital. Several regions of Iran had already been hit by air attacks throughout the day.
Iraq condemns aggression from its territory
Iraq has condemned any “aggression and targeting” of Gulf countries and Jordan from its soil, asserting that its territory should not be used for attacks against its neighbors.
Trump presses Iran for deal on Hormuz Strait and nuclear program
Trump’s comments come as he continues to push Iran to agree to a deal that would clear the maritime chokepoint and end its nuclear program.
On Tuesday, the U.S. president surprised some observers by referring to an “expensive, energy-related concession” from Iran, though he did not specify the details at the time.
“They gave us a present and the present arrived today, and it was a very big present, worth a tremendous amount of money,” Trump told reporters, highlighting the significance of the oil shipment.
Trump says Iran allowed 10 oil tankers through Strait of Hormuz as 'goodwill gesture'
U.S. President Donald Trump said Thursday that Iran allowed 10 oil tankers to transit the Hormuz Strait as an apparent goodwill gesture during ongoing negotiations.
Speaking at a Cabinet meeting at the White House, Trump described the move as what he previously called a “present” from Iran.
“They said, to show you the fact that we're real and solid and we're there, we're going to let you have eight boats of oil, eight big boats of oil,” Trump said. “I guess they were right, and they were real, and I think they were Pakistani-flagged… It ended up being 10 boats.”
The White House did not immediately provide further details on the vessels.
Hezbollah claims deadly strike in northern Israel, says it targeted Israeli troops advancing toward Debl in southern Lebanon
Hezbollah announced in a statement that at 3:15 p.m. it fired a salvo of rockets targeting Israeli vehicles and soldiers near the pond in the village of Debl (Bint Jbeil district), at the entrance to the Wadi sl-Ouyoun valley, one of the areas where Israeli troops are advancing in southern Lebanon.
The Shiite militia also claimed multiple rocket salvos against towns in northern Israel, including Netua and Nahariya (twice). One of the strikes on Nahariya reportedly killed one person and injured three others, including one seriously, according to rescue services cited by Haaretz.
Houthi leader threatens 'military response' if war escalates
The leader of Yemen’s Houthi rebels, allied with Iran, threatened Thursday a “military response” if the course of the war requires it, although the movement has not yet directly joined the regional hostilities.
“At the slightest development in the conflict that calls for a military response, we will intervene without delay… as we have done in previous phases,” said Abdel Malek al-Houthi in a speech broadcast by al-Massirah, the movement’s affiliated TV channel.
The rebel leader did not specify what kind of military action the group might take. “Our position is clear and explicit against America and Israel, and we have no hostile intentions toward any Muslim country,” he added.
Since the start of the Gaza war in October 2023, the Houthis have repeatedly disrupted maritime traffic in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, at the entrance to the Red Sea, launching missiles at ships they consider linked to Israel, as well as toward Israel itself.
A Houthi entry into the war could further disrupt global maritime traffic, already strained by the near-total paralysis of the Hormuz Strait, a crucial route for oil and gas exports from Gulf countries, where Iran has threatened ships it considers hostile.
Hezbollah-Israel war's latest updates
Israeli warplanes have struck a building in the village of Doueir (Nabatieh district), causing extensive destruction to it and to nearby homes, according to our correspondent in the South.
The sound of the missile explosions was heard as far as the city of Saida. Israeli warplanes have also targeted the villages of Qantara, Khiam (Marjayoun district), Qaaqaaiyet al-Jisr (Nabatieh), and Byout al-Saiyad (Sour district).
Israeli phosphorus shelling has targeted Naqoura (Sour district). Meanwhile, the inner neighborhoods of the village of Bayada (Sour) and the outskirts of al-Mari (Hasbaya) have been subjected to Israeli artillery shelling.
Hezbollah announced that following its warning to several Israeli northern villages, it fired rockets barrages at Netua at 2 pm and the city of Nahariya, for the second time, at 2 and 4:05 pm respectively. Citing medics, Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported that a Hezbollah strike on Nahariya killed one person and wounded three others, including one in serious condition.
Hezbollah also said that it fired a rocket barrage at 3:15 pm at Israeli vehicles and soldiers, who were located in the vicinity of the pond of the village of Debl (Bint Jbeil) at the entrance to Wadi al-Ayoun.
Israeli army says 162nd division joins ground operations in southern Lebanon
The Israeli army announced on X that forces from its 162nd Division have joined the “expansion of targeted ground operations in southern Lebanon.”
According to the statement, in recent days the 162nd Division has conducted targeted ground operations on new objectives in southern Lebanon, alongside the 91st and 36th Divisions.
The 162nd Division, which fought for two years in the Gaza Strip, will operate “against key targets in southern Lebanon to expand the security zone,” the statement added.
The army also noted that, prior to the ground entry of its forces, artillery and air strikes were carried out against numerous “terrorist infrastructures” in the region.
The speaker of the Iranian Parliament, Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf, praised Hezbollah’s operations against Israel, reaffirming that the Shiite movement is “more alive than ever.” “87 operations in a single night!” Ghalibaf wrote on X, referring to the record number of attacks claimed by the group the previous day.
“Before the outbreak of the war, I stated in an interview that Hezbollah was more alive than ever; today, the speed of its operations and the continuous, high-quality strikes, which have inflicted heavy losses on the enemy’s forces and equipment, confirm the truth of the martyr leader’s promises,” he added.
“Hezbollah is the pride of Islam, and know that a stock of surprises awaits you. So stay alert,” he concluded.
Lebanon conflict toll: 1,116 dead and 3,229 injured since March 2
The Lebanese Health Ministry reported in its weekly update that Israeli strikes in Lebanon have caused 1,116 deaths and 3,229 injuries since March 2.
One critically wounded from Hezbollah fire in Northern Israel, Israeli strikes continue in South Lebanon
One person was critically wounded and two others were lightly wounded from Hezbollah fire in the northern Israeli city of Nahariya, Haaretz reported citing medics. The Israeli newspaper reported that several vehicles were damaged at several sites across the city.
Israeli warplanes have carried out airstrikes on the villages of Deir Siryan (Marjayoun district), Qalawieh (Bint Jbeil) and Zawtar al-Sharqiyeh (Nabatieh), as well as the outskirts of Naqoura (Sour), according to our correspondent in the South. Israeli artillery shelling has targeted the town of Khiam (Marjeyoun).
White phosphorus shelling reported on Qantara and Deir Siryane amid ongoing Hezbollah–Israeli clashes
Israeli artillery fire — including munitions reported to be white phosphorus — targeted areas where the Israeli army is attempting to advance, particularly around Qantara and Deir Siryane in the Marjayoun district.
Clashes — involving machine-gun fire and rocket exchanges — have also been reported in these areas, while Hezbollah said it struck two Merkava tanks using guided missiles.
White phosphorus shelling also reportedly hit nearby towns including Yohmor al-Shaqif, Zawtar, Froun, Ghandourieh and Burj Qalawieh.
Separately, the towns of Homeiri (Sour district) and Haris (Bint Jbeil district) were also struck by Israeli artillery fire.
Israeli army reiterates call to evacuate areas south of Zahrani
The Israeli army’s Arabic-language spokesperson, Avichay Adraee, has reissued an evacuation warning to residents in southern Lebanon located south of the Zahrani River, telling them to immediately evacuate their homes and head north of the river.
He said that “Hezbollah’s activities are forcing the Israeli army to act with force in the area,” adding that it “does not target civilians.” “Strikes are continuing and the army is operating with high intensity in the area,” he said, calling on residents to leave “without delay” to ensure their safety.
Israel says it has killed 700 Hezbollah members since start of offensive
The Israeli army said it has killed around 700 members of Hezbollah since the start of its offensive on Lebanon on March 2.
“We have carried out determined operations … to ensure the safety of our civilians. At this stage, I can give you a figure of around 700 terrorists who have been eliminated,” Lieutenant Colonel Nadav Shoshani said during a briefing for the international press. He added that the offensive in southern Lebanon aims to protect “communities in northern Israel,” “push the threat far enough from the border,” and “dismantle Hezbollah’s capabilities on all fronts.”
While the exact scale of Hezbollah’s losses over the past three weeks remains difficult to verify independently, they are believed to number in the hundreds. Unofficial estimates range between 350 and 500 killed, based in part on tallies compiled by military observers from condolence notices shared by relatives of fighters.
According to Lebanon’s Health Ministry, the overall death toll from Israeli strikes stood at 1,094 as of Wednesday evening, including more than 120 children.
New Hezbollah fire toward northern Israel; Israeli strikes on the South
Hezbollah said it launched rocket salvos toward northern Israeli localities, targeting Shtoula at 1:25 p.m. and Malkiya at 1:40 p.m.
Meanwhile, Israeli air power carried out a strike on Shaqra (Bint Jbeil district), while Israeli artillery targeted Mayfadoun, Nabatieh Fawqa and Yohmor al-Shaqif (Nabatieh district), as well as Yater, Kafra and Sarbine (Bint Jbeil district).
Separately, Ali Younes Chour, a member of the “Islamic Mission Scouts” — the rescue association affiliated with the Amal Movement — was killed in Israeli strikes that targeted Tayr Debba the previous day.
South Lebanon: No Israeli forces in strategic Wadi Slouqi valley, but main road blocked with earth barrier
After reports circulated of an Israeli incursion into the strategic Wadi Slouqi valley and the closure of the main road, rescue workers who went to the area and were contacted by our correspondent in the South said there was no Israeli presence on site. They reported that a low earth barrier is blocking the main road through the valley, which is expected to be reopened.
Elsewhere, explosions were heard in the Khiam area, where the Israeli army reportedly detonated several houses.
New Hezbollah rocket and drone attacks on northern Israel
Hezbollah announced a series of new attacks on northern Israel over the past few hours.
The group said it fired rockets at the Jabal Adir position and the village of Avivim. It also claimed drone attacks targeting Israeli soldiers positioned opposite Alma al-Shaab, a logistics base of the Israeli army in Kerem Ben Zimra, and the Liman base near the Sea of Galilee, which it said was struck for the second time in the day.
Trump urges Iran to 'get serious before it’s too late'
Donald Trump has urged Iran to “get serious before it’s too late,” in a post on his Truth Social platform.
“The Iranian negotiators are very different and ‘strange,’” he said, adding that if no agreement is reached “there is no turning back and it will not be pretty.”
“They are begging us to make a deal, which they should do since they have been militarily obliterated with zero chance of a comeback, and yet they publicly claim they are only looking our proposal. WRONG!!!,” he added.
In a separate post, Trump also said the United States “needs nothing from NATO,” accusing member states of doing “absolutely nothing” to help in the war against Iran.
“The nations of NATO have done absolutely nothing to help with the crazy, now decimated nation that is Iran,” he wrote. “The USA needs nothing from NATO but ‘never forget’ this very important point in time,” he added.
Hezbollah claims rocket and drone attacks on northern Israel
Hezbollah has claimed multiple attacks in recent hours targeting northern Israel, including rocket fire on the village of Manara and on Nahariya, as well as the position of Rosh Hanikra on the coastal border area.
The group also said it launched suicide drones targeting Iron Dome platforms at the Biriya base, west of the Sea of Galilee, and at the Tefen base east of Acre.
Hezbollah claims attacks on Nahariya and Haifa area
Hezbollah said it carried out a drone attack on the Lyman barracks, north of Nahariya, as well as a strike using “special rockets” on the Kiryot area, north of Haifa.
According to Haaretz, two people were lightly injured in Hezbollah fire near the border.
Sour: 5 villages ordered to evacuate after alleged Israeli calls to Civil Defence
The Israeli army contacted the Civil Defense in Sour and ordered it to evacuate residents still present in several surrounding villages, including Deir Qanoun al-Nahr, Tayr Filsey, Maaroub, Burj al-Shemali, and Kfar Dounin, according to a source within the rescue organization cited by our correspondent in the South.
The Lebanese Army was informed of the new Israeli warning and relayed instructions to municipalities to contact remaining residents in these five villages.
Residents of Sour and its surroundings have been ordered to evacuate repeatedly over the past two weeks. The Israeli army had initially warned the entire area south of the Zahrani River, north of Sour, before issuing further warnings targeting the city itself and nearby villages.
Iran warns against ground offensive as Washington reportedly weighs 'final strike' options
The commander of Iran’s ground forces said that a ground war would be “more dangerous and more costly for the enemy,” as the Pentagon is reportedly developing, according to Axios, military options for a “final strike” against Iran, which could include the use of ground forces and a large-scale bombing campaign.
According to two U.S. officials and two informed sources cited by the outlet, four main options are being considered by President Donald Trump: an invasion or blockade of Kharg Island; an operation against Larak Island, which helps Iran consolidate control over the Strait of Hormuz; the seizure of the strategic Abu Musa Island and two nearby islets, controlled by Tehran but claimed by the United Arab Emirates; as well as blocking or seizing tankers exporting Iranian oil in the eastern part of the Strait of Hormuz.
Latest developments in southern Lebanon: At least 3 killed in strike on Bint Jbeil
A missile found in Srifa. (Credit: Photo shared with Mountasser Abdallah/ OLJ)
The Israeli air force carried out a strike on the town of Zibqine (Sour district), while artillery fire targeted the strategic valleys of Wadi Slouki and Wadi al-Hujeir, as well as Khiam (Marjayoun), which was hit by several shells, according to our correspondent in southern Lebanon.
Other strikes also targeted Siddiqine and Shaqra (Bint Jbeil district), as well as the city of Bint Jbeil itself, where a residential building was hit, leaving at least three people dead.
Additional strikes were reported in Qleileh, Jbal al-Botom, Majdal Zoun (Sour district), and Kfar Roummane (Nabatieh district).
In Srifa, an unexploded rocket was found near the village mosque after overnight strikes.
Hezbollah says it targeted Israeli Northern Command headquarters
Hezbollah said it targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers and vehicles in Qouzah in the Bint Jbeil district with a salvo of rockets earlier in the day.
The group also claimed multiple attacks on Israeli positions and towns, including Misgav Am, the al-Abbad site opposite Houla (Marjayoun district), as well as an artillery position in Shamir in northern Israel.
The Northern Command headquarters of the Israeli army (Dado base), north of Safed, was also reportedly targeted with rockets, while Metula was struck by suicide drones. Drones also targeted Iron Dome platforms at the Biriya base, west of the Sea of Galilee, and Kiryat Shmona was hit by a rocket barrage.
Israel says over 500 Hezbollah targets destroyed in southern Lebanon operations
The Israeli army's Arabic-language spokesperson, Avichay Adraee, provided an update on operations in southern Lebanon conducted by its 91st Division and the Golani Brigade, claiming a total of more than 500 “Hezbollah targets” destroyed.
“The forces of the 91st Division are continuing intensive ground operations to expand the forward security zone in southern Lebanon,” the army said on X. It said it had destroyed more than 350 targets belonging to Hezbollah and “eliminated more than 330 fighters,” including dozens from the elite al-Radwan unit.
The army also said it had seized equipment including rocket launchers, machine guns, and Kalashnikov rifles. In a separate statement, the Golani Brigade said it had destroyed around 200 Hezbollah infrastructure sites in its area of operations. The posts were accompanied by videos showing buildings being demolished in unidentified villages and soldiers searching houses.
A Revolutionary Guards naval commander killed in an Israeli strike
A commander in the naval branch of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps was killed in an Israeli strike, according to an Israeli source cited by Haaretz. The commander was reportedly among those responsible for plans to close the Strait of Hormuz, the newspaper said.
Separately, another source told the TV channel al-Hadath that the official was killed in a bombing on the port city of Bandar Abbas.
Israeli Golani Brigade soldier killed in southern Lebanon overnight
The Israeli army announced that a soldier from its Golani Brigade, serving in a reconnaissance unit, was killed in southern Lebanon overnight. According to the army, he was killed in an “exchange of fire” around 2 a.m., amid particularly intense fighting with Hezbollah in the villages of Qantara and Deir Siryan, in the Marjayoun district.
The soldier, identified as Ori Greenberg, aged 21, is the third Israeli serviceman killed in Lebanon since the beginning of March.
Separately, according to Haaretz, shrapnel from Israeli fire slightly injured an Israeli officer in southern Lebanon, while 14 others were evacuated “due to hypothermia” and are suffering from “minor cold-related injuries.”
Strikes on Iran: Israel reportedly drops plan to target Araghchi and Ghalibaf after Pakistani intervention
Israel reportedly removed Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf from its target list in Iran following an intervention by Pakistan with Washington, a Pakistani official told Reuters.
“The Israelis had their coordinates and wanted to eliminate them. We told the United States that if they were also killed, there would be no one left to talk to. The United States therefore asked the Israelis to step back,” the official said.
UAE: 2 killed and 3 injured in Abu Dhabi after missile interception
Two people were killed and three others injured in Abu Dhabi after the interception of a missile launched by Iran, according to authorities.
Earlier in the day, the United Arab Emirates had stated that its “air defense systems are responding to missile and drone threats from Iran,” the Ministry of Defense said on X.
Iranian missile fire on Israel: 6 lightly injured
Six people were lightly injured this morning in an Arab town in central Israel following the launch of one or more Iranian missiles, according to an updated toll from Israeli emergency services. Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel’s equivalent of the Red Cross, reported “six people injured by the blast” in Kafr Qassem, adding that the victims, who sustained minor injuries, were evacuated to hospitals in central Israel. MDA also said it treated “several people suffering from anxiety” at the scene.
After a lull of nearly 14 hours, Israel was targeted twice on Thursday morning by missile fire originating from Iran, the Israeli army said.
South Lebanon: fighting continues along the Taybeh–Deir Siryan–Qantara axis
Sporadic exchanges of fire are being heard along the Taybeh–Deir Siryan–Qantara axis, while explosions are intermittently reported, according to our correspondent in southern Lebanon.
At the same time, localities facing this axis are under intense Israeli artillery bombardment, targeting several villages in the Nabatieh district, notable Arnoun, Yohmor, and Zawtar Sharqieh and al-Gharbieh.
Israeli soldier seriously wounded by mortar fire in southern Lebanon
The Israeli army announced that one of its soldiers operating in southern Lebanon, where troops are advancing on several villages, was “seriously wounded as a result of a mortar shell,” according to a brief statement. The injured soldier was evacuated and hospitalized, the army said.
The day before, the army had already announced that one of its reservists had been seriously wounded in a rocket attack in southern Lebanon, where fighting continues to rage with Hezbollah.
Wednesday marked by intense violence in southern Lebanon: 87 Hezbollah operations and Israeli strikes on 50 villages
Hezbollah claimed a record number of operations on Wednesday, on both Israeli advances as well as strikes on bases and localities in northern Israel, with 87 separate operations reported.
Meanwhile, Israel carried out strikes on nearly 50 localities in southern Lebanon up until midnight, causing significant destruction. Drones also targeted two areas, while 27 others were subjected to intense artillery shelling.
Overnight from Wednesday to Thursday, Israeli fighter jets bombed the outskirts of Nabatieh and the “al-Maslakh” neighborhood of the city, as well as homes in Srifa, leaving several people injured. Strikes also hit Deir Aames and orchards in Qasmieh (Sour), Kounin — where three people were killed — Haddatha, Touline — where seven people were injured — and Burj Qalaway (in the Bint Jbeil district), as well as Qabrikha (Marjayoun) and the heights of Rihan (Jezzine).
Hezbollah says it targeted the Defense Ministry in Tel Aviv
In addition to attacks carried out against Israeli soldiers on Lebanese territory, Hezbollah claimed strikes on Tel Aviv, including the headquarters of Israel’s Ministry of Defense, as well as a military intelligence base north of the city, reportedly targeted with precision missiles, according to the group’s statements.
'Tank destruction battle': Intense overnight clashes between Hezbollah and the Israeli army in Qantara and Deir Siryan
Overnight from Wednesday to Thursday, violent ground clashes between Hezbollah and the Israeli army occurred in Qantara and Deir Siryan, in the Marjayoun district. The group said it had destroyed at least 12 Merkava tanks and inflicted several casualties among Israeli troops.
At 1:30 a.m., Hezbollah announced in a statement that it had ambushed an Israeli force in Qantara. An armored unit was reportedly lured into a controlled kill zone and then targeted with guided missiles, resulting in the destruction of “several tanks and military vehicles” and the “failure of the advance.” Thirty minutes later, Hezbollah said that during the clashes along the Taybeh–Qantara axis, ten Merkava tanks and two D9 bulldozers were destroyed in the ambush. In another operation, Hezbollah also said that an Israeli army helicopter attempting to evacuate the wounded from the clashes was targeted with an air-defense missile and forced to retreat.
At the same time, in the nearby locality of Deir Siryan, Hezbollah said it targeted two additional tanks of the same type. As an Israeli force attempted to advance toward the town at 2:20 a.m., Hezbollah fighters engaged it using light and medium weapons, claiming to have inflicted “confirmed losses.”
Hezbollah also said it had targeted several Merkava tanks since the night, including some in the morning: five in Deir Siryan, eight in Qantara, and one in Dibil. The group further reported that at dawn it fired a salvo of rockets at a gathering of Israeli soldiers and vehicles in Qouzah (Bint Jbeil).
Welcome to our live coverage of the war in the Middle East. Today, we'll focus on the escalation on the Lebanese front, where fighting continues to rage between Hezbollah and the Israeli army in the South, as Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel is in the process of expanding its “buffer zone.”
We will also report on developments across the rest of the Middle East, following statements by Donald Trump, who promised to “unleash hell” if Iran makes “the wrong calculation,” according to the White House.
➡️ To catch up on Monday's news, you can find our live coverage from yesterday here.
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