The United States Secretary of State, Antony Blinken is set to embark on visit to Israel on Saturday, August 17, to push for efforts to conclude the agreement for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, as well as the release of hostages from Gaza.
The United States has to be prepared for 'significant' attacks on Israel, which possibly can take place this week, said White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby on Monday (local time) amid the ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in a joint statement said they are deeply concerned by the heightened tensions in the region, united in our commitment to de-escalation and regional stability.
The move comes as the US anticipates potential retaliation from Iran over the recent killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Tehran and its proxies have vowed revenge for the killing of Haiyeh and a top Hezbollah commander, Fouad
US President Joe Biden hosted Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Thursday (local time) amid the ongoing ceasefire talks and escalating Israel-Hamas war.
As Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu began speaking to a joint meeting of Congress on Wednesday, more than 5,000 protesters massed on the streets near Capitol Hill, waving Palestinian flags and chanting for United States to stop arming Israel.
Behind the scenes, tensions have escalated as the Emirates blocked a proposed resolution to allocate USD 100 million monthly to the PA, citing concerns about corruption and ineffective leadership.
The UN General Assembly on Friday voted overwhelmingly for a resolution asking the Security Council to make Palestine, which has UN observer status, a full member.
In his latest televised address, the Houthis' military spokesman, Yahya Saree, claimed responsibility for targeting the "British oil ship Andromeda Star" in the Red Sea with naval missiles. The vessel sustained minor damage, according to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), but is continuing