Israeli airstrikes in Syria killed Iranian General Saeed Abyar, a member of the Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force, escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. The strikes targeted areas near Aleppo, resulting in multiple casualties, including members of Hezbollah. This comes amid ongoing violence in the West Bank and Lebanon, with Hezbollah launching rockets into northern Israel. The UN has called for an end to the violence, and international pressure mounts for a cease-fire. Meanwhile, Israel confirmed the deaths of four hostages in Gaza, adding to the urgency for a cease-fire deal.
Israel's recent claim of "tactical control" over the Philadelphi Corridor, a border strip between Gaza and Egypt, risks escalating tensions with Egypt. Despite previous warnings from Egypt that such actions could harm bilateral relations, the Egyptian government has remained relatively quiet. Both nations have historically coordinated on security matters, and experts believe this cooperation will continue despite the current strain. The corridor is crucial for Israel to prevent Hamas from smuggling weapons, while Egypt fears an influx of Gazan refugees and the destabilizing influence of Hamas.
An Israeli airstrike on a tent camp for displaced Palestinians in Rafah, Gaza, killed at least 45 people and wounded 249, according to Gazan officials. The Israeli military stated the strike targeted a Hamas compound and is under review. The attack has drawn international scrutiny, with the International Court of Justice ordering Israel to halt its offensive in Rafah. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens as aid deliveries from Egypt resume under a new agreement.
