Contrary to the calm prevailing over political issues in Lebanon, particularly the presidential file, the southern front is experiencing ongoing tension due to Israeli strikes, which are met with fierce retaliation from Hezbollah targeting military sites.
Regionally, amid rising tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, Benny Gantz, the leader of the National Unity Party in Israel, threatened the group with consequences. He stated that "Hezbollah must decide whether it is Lebanese or Iranian, or it will pay the price." He added that "Lebanon will bear the cost if the situation continues as it is on the northern border."
Meanwhile, efforts to cease fire and exchange prisoners in Gaza remain stagnant amid ongoing Israeli military operations in the region. Discussions suggest that an announcement marking the end of the current form of battles may occur within ten days, transitioning to the third phase of the war.
In parallel, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel is nearing the complete elimination of Hamas' military capabilities in the Gaza Strip.
On the other hand, after months of detention, Israel released the director of Al-Shifa Hospital, along with 54 prisoners from Gaza, due to overcrowding in its prisons. This move sparked angry reactions within Israeli circles, leading to accusations among ministers, military leaders, and the Shin Bet.
Additionally, the Israeli army announced thwarting an attempt to smuggle weapons destined for the West Bank from Jordan.
Furthermore, Iran's designated Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani warned Israel against making any new mistakes in Lebanon, asserting that "any new Israeli move in Lebanon will create new conditions on a regional level."
With discussions of a Turkish-Syrian dialogue in Iraq, tensions have not subsided in Turkey in the past few hours following riots that involved attacks on the properties of Syrian refugees in the country. In response, Syrians in northern Syria reacted, prompting Turkish authorities to urge their staff to leave the area immediately.
Internationally, the U.S. Supreme Court returned the case regarding former President Donald Trump's immunity to a lower court in Washington, reducing the likelihood of a trial before the elections. The Supreme Court held that former presidents have "absolute immunity" from prosecution for actions within their constitutional authority. Trump described the court's decision as a "big victory" for democracy.
Separately, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that "Hamas tried to backtrack on positions it agreed to regarding the exchange deal and attempted to gain more," noting that "we are working with the Egyptians and Qataris to bridge the gaps created by Hamas, and I believe it can be achieved."
Economically, Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman announced new discoveries of oil and natural gas in the Eastern Region and the Empty Quarter.
