Reported from the source

Quick summary: Israel has confirmed initiating “limited and targeted ground operations” in southern Lebanon, aiming at Hezbollah members and infrastructure, as part of broader defense measures. This development occurs amidst heightened regional tensions, including a drone strike that temporarily closed Dubai Airport and Saudi Arabia intercepting dozens of drones. Concurrently, US President Donald Trump is increasing pressure on NATO and other allies to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, warning of consequences for non-cooperation, while also criticizing US media for alleged false reporting on the Iran war.

Israel’s army has confirmed initiating “limited and targeted ground operations” in southern Lebanon in recent days. The stated objective is to target active Hezbollah members and the militia’s infrastructure in the area. These ground operations are described as “part of broader defense measures” aimed at protecting residents in adjacent northern Israel. The Times of Israel had previously reported that Israeli ground troops killed dozens of Iran-backed Hezbollah militants in southern Lebanon over the weekend, a report confirmed by Israel’s Defense Ministry. Concerns are growing in Lebanon about a potential larger Israeli ground offensive. According to the latest figures from the Lebanese Health Ministry, 850 people have been killed in Lebanon due to Israeli attacks. Dubai Airport, a major global hub, was temporarily closed following a drone strike that caused a fuel depot to catch fire. Authorities reported the fire is now under control, with no injuries. Flights were expected to resume by 10:00 AM local time. Concurrently, Saudi Arabian forces reported intercepting dozens of drones overnight, totaling 61, according to the Saudi Defense Ministry. The UAE Defense Ministry also stated its air defense systems are currently intercepting missiles and drones originating from Iran. US President Donald Trump is intensifying pressure on NATO to assist in securing the Strait of Hormuz, warning the alliance faces a “very bad” future if it fails to help open the crucial oil shipping lane. Trump argued that those who benefit from the strait should contribute to its security. Australia has declined to send warships for a Hormuz mission but has provided aircraft to the UAE for defense support. Japan has also reacted cautiously to Trump’s call for a coalition, with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stating her government has not heard from Washington and is independently considering measures to protect Japanese ships. Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi explicitly stated no plans to deploy warships under current security conditions. Trump also discussed the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Germany had previously ruled out its participation in such a mission. Trump also pressed China, noting that 90 percent of its oil passes through the strait, and indicated he might postpone his upcoming summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping. President Trump has reiterated his criticism of US media for alleged false reporting on the Iran war. He accused them of spreading AI-generated fake images, videos, and false claims “in close coordination” with Iran. Trump asserted that Iran is losing the war and that the “radical left press” is aware of this but continues to spread “false reports and LIES.” He expressed enthusiasm that the licenses of some “corrupt and highly unpatriotic ‘news’ organizations” are being reviewed by the media regulatory authority, following reports that the FCC had increased pressure on broadcasters and threatened license revocation over their Iran war coverage. Separately, Spain is temporarily withdrawing its military personnel from Iraq, and Iran has rejected the possibility of talks with the US regarding an end to the war.

Source: www.tagesschau.de