Key facts
- Hamas accused Israel of attempting to remove landmarks from Al-Aqsa Mosque.
- Israel claimed to have killed two Hamas finance officials in Gaza.
- Tensions escalated with US-Iran exchanges of fire and attacks on vessels.
- Bahrain and Egypt condemned Iran's actions.
- Russia urged restraint between the US and Iran.
Hamas has accused Israel of attempting to remove landmarks from the Al-Aqsa Mosque, warning of potential escalation and calling for intervention from Arab and Islamic nations. This accusation comes amid a broader increase in regional tensions.
In parallel, exchanges of fire between the United States and Iran have heightened concerns. An analyst suggested that neither side desires an unlimited war due to the significant costs, but Iran aims to demonstrate that attacks will have consequences. The downing of a US Apache helicopter was discussed, with Iran questioning US claims of responsibility.
Maritime incidents have also occurred, with a fire breaking out on a tanker off Oman, leaving two crew members missing. Additionally, a shipping vessel was attacked off the coast of Yemen, involving an exchange of gunfire, raising fears of a return to dynamic conflict.
Russia has expressed extreme concern over the recent US-Iran confrontations, urging both sides to exercise restraint. Bahrain reported intercepting Iranian aerial attacks, condemning them as targeting civilians and a violation of international law. Egypt also condemned Iran's attacks on Jordan, Bahrain, and Kuwait, reiterating solidarity and calling them a dangerous escalation.
Israeli forces have continued operations in southern Lebanon, conducting drone and air strikes that killed at least six people in Tayr Debba. Israel also ordered evacuations from two more Lebanese towns. Separately, Israel claimed to have killed two Hamas finance officials in Gaza, alleging they facilitated significant financial transfers.