Russia has confirmed that Ukraine used British-supplied Storm Shadow missiles in cross-border strikes, marking the first time these missiles have been fired into Russian territory. The Russian Defense Ministry reported that two missiles were shot down, while local defense forces in the Kursk region claimed 12 were launched, targeting a command center at the Maryino Estate. The missiles, capable of hitting targets up to 250 kilometers away, were initially restricted to use within Ukraine when delivered by the U.K. in May 2023.
Iran's recent cross-border missile strikes into Iraq, Syria, and Pakistan have raised concerns of regional escalation and sparked questions about the timing of the attacks amid Israel's war on Gaza. The strikes are seen as a response to perceived threats and a bid to bolster Iran's credibility, but analysts caution against conflating events along the Pakistan border with those in Gaza. Speculation suggests the strikes may have been prearranged and coordinated between Iran and Pakistan, but Pakistan's international position and relationship with India make this unlikely. The attack on a nuclear power is seen as a message to the US and its allies, while also serving internal political purposes for Iran.
Belgorod, a Russian city near the Ukrainian border, has been rattled by unprecedented cross-border strikes, with residents living in a state of shock and anxiety following deadly attacks. The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine has made the conflict all but inescapable for the city's 350,000 residents, leading to evacuations, extended school holidays, and widespread fear. While some express appreciation for the regional administration's response, many residents are seeking refuge elsewhere, expressing fatigue and a desire for the war to end.
Turkey warns of potential escalation in air strikes on Kurdish targets in Syria and Iraq following a recent attack in Ankara. The Turkish government claims that the attackers entered Turkey from Syria and received training there. Turkey considers all Kurdish facilities in Syria and Iraq as legitimate military targets and has conducted air strikes and raids in response to the attack. The YPG militia, seen as an affiliate of the PKK, has strained ties between Turkey and its Western allies, including the US and France. Iraq has expressed opposition to Turkey's military presence and denounced the recent air strikes.
Two rockets were fired from southern Lebanon towards Israel, prompting cross-border strikes by the Israeli military. The Israeli army reported no incidents within Israeli territory but confirmed an explosion beyond the border fence. Lebanon's state news agency reported that more than 15 projectiles landed on the outskirts of two Lebanese villages in response to the Israeli strike. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu plans to convene the Security Cabinet to address the escalating tensions. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the rocket fire, and Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Lebanese group, did not comment on the reports.
