He argued that both communities were facing growing attacks.

"It's under attack from the rising tide of anti-Semitism and anti-evangelicalism. It's no accident that the two are coming under joint attack because we are one," he said.

According to the Prime Minister's Office, the evangelical leaders thanked Netanyahu for Israel's actions during the conflict with Iran .

"When you're faced with an attack, what do you do? Attack back," Netanyahu said, adding, "It's now time to fight, fight, fight."

Evangelical Christian groups have long been among Israel's strongest supporters in the United States , and Netanyahu has regularly met with their leaders during visits to Washington.

"Last week, Mayor Mamdani accused our prime minister of being a war criminal and accused our nation of committing genocide. Hours later, a Jewish man walked out of his synagogue... He was stabbed by a radical who yelled 'Allahu Akbar'," Danon said.

Police said two men, one Jewish and one Asian, were attacked in separate incidents and are expected to survive. Authorities have not established any connection between the attacks and Mamdani's remarks.

Addressing the Security Council's quarterly debate on the Middle East , Danon also accused Hamas of obstructing peace and criticised the UN for failing to hold the group accountable.

Palestine's UN envoy, Riyad Mansour, meanwhile, accused Netanyahu's government of exploiting the Gaza conflict for political gain and urged stronger international action to end the bloodshed.

Trump also renewed his criticism of the nuclear agreement negotiated under former President Barack Obama, describing it as "a road to a nuclear weapon."

He credited recent US military strikes, including B-2 bomber missions targeting what he described as Iranian nuclear infrastructure, with preventing Tehran from developing a nuclear weapon.

"If that didn't happen, they would have had a nuclear weapon and there would be no Israel," Trump said, referring to the strikes. The US president further claimed that his administration's actions had prevented a wider regional catastrophe.

"If I wasn't here, if I wasn't president, there would be no Israel and there probably would be no Middle East ," he said, adding that he believed Iran would have used a nuclear weapon if it had obtained one.

Several protesters voiced strong accusations against the foreign missions. One demonstrator claimed that those involved in the rescue efforts were not genuine humanitarian actors but part of a broader agenda tied to geopolitical interests.

The final session on Friday ended with applause from lawmakers as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz looked on before parliament formally closed ahead of national elections .

Coalition Whip Ofir Katz praised lawmakers for completing the full term and highlighted the work carried out during the past four years.

"We are completing a four-year term. We passed nine budgets, hundreds of laws. I thank you for the trust you placed in me, that together we managed to hold a four-year term. We did this together with the whole group, with all the members here, and this is only one part. God willing, for another four years of you continuing to lead the State of Israel," Katz told the Knesset.

The final sitting followed a week of marathon parliamentary sessions in which lawmakers approved several controversial bills as Netanyahu pushed through key elements of his legislative agenda.

The dissolution of the 25th Knesset officially launches Israel's election period, with voters set to elect members of the 26th Knesset on October 27.

Under Israeli law, the newly elected parliament is expected to convene about two weeks after the vote, when lawmakers will begin forming a new government .

The completion of the four-year term ends more than a decade of repeated early elections and short-lived governments, making the 25th Knesset the first Israeli parliament in nearly four decades to serve its full mandate.

The heated exchanges unfolded in the Knesset as lawmakers debated the coalition-backed bill, with opposition members shouting "Shame!" and "Leave!" as Netanyahu entered the chamber ahead of the final readings.

The proposed legislation temporarily freezes the enlistment of Haredi draft evaders for several months by suspending their arrest and prosecution.

The measure has drawn strong criticism from the Israel Defence Forces, defence officials and opposition parties, who have opposed the temporary protections.

As debate intensified, Netanyahu left the chamber before the final vote and did not take part in the ballot.

Despite several defections from within the governing coalition, the legislation was approved by a narrow 58-54 vote.

The confrontation highlighted growing political divisions over military conscription, an issue that has become one of Israel's most contentious domestic debates.

After the strike, people returned to inspect the damage, including a large crater at the impact site.

“Our neighbours had a blacksmith workshop, and it was hit. They [IDF] told us to evacuate the area. So, we evacuated our children before they hit the area. You can see the destruction,” eyewitness Wael Manasra said.

Palestinian media reported that four people were killed and others were injured after the strike hit a blacksmith workshop on Al-Sina'a Street in southwestern Gaza City.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said it had targeted a “weapons production site,” alleging that Hamas operatives were using the location to manufacture weapon components.

“In a blatant violation of the ceasefire agreement, Hamas operatives operated from a weapons production site to produce weapon components in an attempt to rehabilitate the organisation's military capabilities,” the IDF said in a statement.

The military added that “steps were taken to mitigate harm to civilians, including the use of precise munitions and aerial surveillance.”

The war in Gaza began on October 7, 2023, after Hamas-led attacks killed 1,139 people, mostly Israeli civilians, and more than 200 people were taken hostage.

According to Gaza's Health Ministry, Israel's military campaign has killed 73,223 Palestinians and injured 173,654 others since the conflict began.

In January, US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff announced the second phase of President Donald Trump's 20-point Gaza plan, aimed at moving from a ceasefire toward demilitarisation, technocratic governance and reconstruction.

The video, widely shared online, shows a uniformed officer approaching the vehicle before tossing an object inside. Moments later, two people are seen jumping out as a gas canister detonates.

The authenticity, date and location of the footage could not be independently verified.

Palestinian media reported that the incident took place during an Israeli raid on the Qalandia refugee camp, north of Jerusalem, on Sunday.

Israeli media reported that the officer seen in the video was detained. According to the newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth , Israeli police launched an investigation into the incident.

Police told the newspaper that the officer's actions "were not in line with approved procedures and instructions."

The raid also reportedly left casualties. Palestinian media said a 16-year-old boy died after being shot by Israeli forces during the operation, while two other children were reportedly wounded in the lower limbs.

Violence has continued across the occupied West Bank since October 7. According to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, more than 759 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces or settlers during that period. Official Israeli figures say more than 26 Israelis have been killed in attacks carried out by Palestinians in the West Bank over the same timeframe.

"We are breaking the Iranian terror axis here, but we are also breaking the Iranian political axis. We managed to reach these understandings for a simple reason: because we hit Hezbollah hard. Hezbollah, which relied on assistance from Iran, did not receive that assistance because we hit Iran hard," he said.

The agreement, signed in Washington after five rounds of direct talks, outlines a phased process under which the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) will assume control of designated areas in southern Lebanon, replacing Hezbollah as Israeli troops withdraw in stages.

Netanyahu said Israel was not a party to the separate negotiations between the United States and Iran but stressed that Israeli security interests would remain a priority.

"From the start, we said we were not a party to the agreement between the United States and Iran, but that does not mean we do not have interests. We have interests, and we will make them clear. On the main issue, which is the nuclear issue, I intend to send a delegation to Washington to present Israel's interests. I insist on Israel's interests at our border. We will not leave the security zone," he said.

The deal places significant responsibility on the Lebanese government, which is expected to deploy additional troops to the south, dismantle Hezbollah's military infrastructure and prevent the group's return. The United States has pledged continued military assistance to the LAF.

“The agreement signed yesterday between the United States , Israel and Lebanon is a historic event and an important diplomatic and security achievement for the State of Israel,” Katz said.

He stated that Israel would maintain its military positions in southern Lebanon until Hezbollah is fully disarmed and security is guaranteed for communities in northern Israel.

“The key principle established by the agreement is that there will be no Israeli redeployment in southern Lebanon, no withdrawal whatsoever, for as long as the Hezbollah terrorist organisation has not been disarmed throughout Lebanon and the security of northern residents is guaranteed,” he said.

Katz also described the agreement as a setback for Iran , accusing Tehran of attempting to pressure both Israel and the United States into securing an Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon.

“Iran attempted to force Israel to withdraw from Lebanon through threats and pressure on the United States, and it failed. Lebanon's future will not be dictated by Iran and Hezbollah,” he said.

He warned that Israel would respond militarily if Iran sought to prevent the agreement from being implemented.

“Should Iran attempt to attack Israel in order to prevent the implementation of the agreement, we will respond with overwhelming force,” Katz added.

The agreement was signed in Washington on Friday and is intended to stabilise the Israel-Lebanon border following months of hostilities. Under the framework, Hezbollah is expected to be disarmed throughout Lebanon, while Israel says it will retain its security zone in southern Lebanon until those commitments are fulfilled and the safety of northern Israeli communities is assured.

Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem rejected the US-brokered agreement after it was announced, describing the 14-point proposal as “humiliating” and accusing the Lebanese government of “destroying” the country.

“Iran is trying to force us to withdraw by force from southern Lebanon, and basically Israel, Lebanon, and the United States are telling them, ‘It is none of your business .’ You have no role in Lebanon, neither you, nor Hezbollah, nor any terrorist organisation,” he said.

Netanyahu said the 14-point framework allows Israeli troops to remain in southern Lebanon for as long as Hezbollah remains armed and continues to pose a threat to Israel.

“We have been conducting negotiations in Washington between representatives of Israel, Lebanon, and the United States, a prolonged negotiation, and today it has borne fruit. The most important thing is, first of all, that Israel remains in the security zone in southern Lebanon. This is a great achievement,” he added.

Under the framework, the Lebanese Armed Forces are expected to “restore effective sovereignty over all Lebanese territory,” while non-state armed groups would be disarmed and their military infrastructure dismantled.

Netanyahu said the agreement would allow the Lebanese army to begin organising its deployment in selected areas.

“We are allowing the Lebanese army to begin organising to take up territory. We are establishing two pilot areas, both recommended by the IDF; one is completely outside the security zone and south of the Litani, and the other is north of the Litani,” he said.

The agreement was signed at the US State Department in Washington on Friday, following four days of talks mediated by the Trump administration. As part of the agreement, Washington pledged $100 million in humanitarian assistance, as well as more than $30 million in support for the Lebanese Armed Forces, Viory reports.

Police were deployed at several locations as officers tried to keep protesters and residents apart during a series of tense exchanges.

Local resident Johnny Velligora said the community had gathered to prevent a repeat of previous disturbances.

"These ultra-Orthodox protest s inside our neighbourhood are causing major disruption […] During the previous protest, demonstrators entered our homes, urinated inside them and left a huge mess," he claimed.

Velligora said residents supported the right to protest but opposed the way previous demonstrations had unfolded.

"If you want to protest, you have every right to do so. But at least do it in a legitimate and orderly way, instead of rioting, overturning trash bins, and getting into fights," he added.

Kfar Yona Mayor Albert Taieb said the municipality was coordinating with police to stop vehicles carrying demonstrators from entering the town.

"We expect to stop the thousands of [Haredi] vehicles arriving from across the country […] We will not allow that to happen under any circumstances," he noted.

"We are waiting. They are still gathering and have not yet arrived. I sincerely hope the police will keep their promise and prevent them from entering," Taieb continued.

For many ultra-Orthodox protesters, the demonstrations reflect growing opposition to compulsory military service and the arrests of men accused of avoiding the draft.

"I have several sons who, under current law, are classified as draft evaders, and every day we live in fear that they will come to arrest them. Their only 'offence' is that they live according to their faith," Yigal Wertheimer said.

Military service for ultra-Orthodox Jews has become one of Israel's most divisive domestic issues. Long-standing exemptions for many Haredi men have come under increasing pressure since Israel's Supreme Court ruled on June 25, 2024, that the state must begin drafting ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students, while the military continues to face personnel shortages during the Gaza war.

Speaking on Monday, Netanyahu said Israel acted without seeking approval from its allies and maintained that military action prevented Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

"I did not ask for permission; I simply informed him [Trump] of our plans. And I was pleased that he also joined toward the end, which was very important [...] We will not sit and watch while Iran comes and destroys our cities, destroys our citizens, and thousands—if not tens of thousands—die," said Netanyahu.

The Israeli leader said stopping Iran's nuclear programme remained the government's top security objective.

"As long as I am prime minister, Iran will not have nuclear weapons. And another thing: as long as I am prime minister, we will maintain the security zone south of Lebanon for as long as necessary to safeguard the security of Israel's north," he added.

Netanyahu also argued that Israel's operations had weakened Iran's military capabilities.

"The greatest achievement is that if we had not acted when we did, and if we had not struck them forcefully, Iran would already have had nuclear bombs intended for our destruction. We pushed that threat away," he argued.

On defence policy , Netanyahu announced plans to increase Israel's defence spending by 350 billion shekels over the next decade, saying the investment would strengthen domestic weapons production while preserving international partnerships.

"I want the State of Israel to be independent. Because I want an independent domestic defence industry, as self-sufficient as possible," he said.

"We will also expand our alliances. We will preserve our existing alliances and broaden them, but first and foremost, we must be self-reliant," Netanyahu stated.

The remarks come as diplomatic efforts continue alongside military tensions. High-level talks between the United States and Iran were held in Burgenstock, Switzerland, on June 21, with Pakistan and Qatar acting as mediators to discuss implementation of the memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran.

Lebanon and Israel also began a new round of direct talks in Washington on Tuesday, despite Iran's efforts to include Lebanon in its agreement with the United States.

Among the speakers was former Israeli Air Force fighter pilot and technology entrepreneur Jacob "Kobi" Richter, who delivered a scathing criticism of the prime minister's leadership.

Richter accused Netanyahu of leading Israel through "a thousand days of fighting, fraught with cost and dead, with absolute failure at their end."

"Your decisive contribution to the country you were elected to lead amounts to the incitement in Zion Square and the Ra'anana intersection," Richter said. "The October 7 massacre. Abandoning the hostages and returning their bodies instead of their living bodies. The abandonment and liquidation of the north of the country."

He also accused the government of neglecting Arab communities and weakening public institutions. "Abandoning the Arab society , a fifth of your citizens, to murderous crime. The destruction of the public sector and the appointment of your ass-kissers instead of professionals," Richter continued.

He further criticised the recent US-Iran agreement, claiming it had undermined Israel's position internationally.

"The US-Iran agreement that threw you and us with you under the wheels of the bus. Turning Israel into a leper in the eyes of the enlightened nations," he said.

Similar anti-government demonstrations were reported in other Israeli cities, including Jerusalem. The protests come as Israel moves closer to a national election, with the next Knesset vote currently required to be held no later than October 27.

"Why did you not come to see the evidence yourself? Were you afraid the facts would not match the conclusion?" Danon said. "You caved. You caved to the pressure. You caved to the Secretary General's obsession with targeting Israel."

His remarks were interrupted by Vanessa Frazier, the UN Secretary-General's Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict, who objected to what she described as a personal attack.

"This should not be personal. I have a point of order," Frazier said. Danon responded by telling her to remain silent. "No, you will be quiet because I'm speaking now," he said, before demanding that she leave the session. Frazier refused.

"I will not walk out. We have verified evidence," she replied, accusing Danon of making "personal attacks." "You work for the UN, and you will respect the rules of the UN. We are a member state, and you work for the UN, and you will be quiet now...If you don't want to listen, go out," he retorted.

The confrontation followed the publication of a UN report on conflict-related sexual violence that added Israeli armed and security forces to a UN monitoring list over allegations involving Palestinian detainees.

Others criticised the reliability of the agreement and the US position, suggesting shifting policies could undermine trust. The memorandum of understanding, signed by Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, reportedly includes a 60-day ceasefire framework, steps to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and further negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme and regional security, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has resisted calls for withdrawal from Lebanon.

"I have been censored even on social media. The owners of social media platforms have put in place an algorithm so that if my face appears or if my voice appears, it is not distributed and does not reach a larger audience," he said.

The Colombian leader linked the alleged censorship to his outspoken criticism of Israel's military campaign in Gaza, arguing that those opposing what he described as genocide were increasingly being silenced.

“Simply because I opposed a friend of theirs, the genocidal maniac who killed 20,000 babies in Gaza,” Petro said, referring to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Petro warned that the issue extended beyond Colombia, claiming that growing control over digital platforms by private technology companies posed a broader threat to democracy .

“When the private owners of artificial intelligence , and therefore of social media platforms, come together to censor someone who has opposed a genocide, we may be heading toward fascism once again, but this time on a global scale,” he stated.

The president also drew parallels between violence in Colombia and the conflict in Gaza, while criticising what he described as rising racism around the world .

Speakers at the event linked the situation to broader geopolitical tensions, while highlighting India’s historical ties with Iran. The gathering comes amid ongoing regional conflict and heightened tensions involving Iran and its allies.

“The aggressive Zionist regime, by repeatedly violating the ceasefire and with the green light and support of the criminal United States and the silence of international bodies, has increased its wickedness against the oppressed people of Lebanon day by day, committing war crimes by using prohibited weapons, including phosphorus bombs,” Zolfaghari said.

He claimed that Iran had previously warned Israel against expanding its military campaign in Lebanon, particularly in Beirut’s southern suburbs.

“Despite previous warnings from the Islamic Republic of Iran, the child-killing Zionist regime, having crossed all red lines and increased its attacks in southern Lebanon, has targeted Beirut’s Dahiyeh. We had warned that if the crimes in Beirut’s Dahiyeh expand, we would attack targets within the occupied territories.”

Zolfaghari called on Israel to halt its military operations in southern Lebanon and Beirut’s Dahiyeh district.

“The Zionist army must stop its attacks on southern Lebanon and Dahiyeh.”

He also warned of further action if Israel expands its operations or responds to Iran’s recent attacks.

“Should it expand its attacks on that region or respond to Iran's action, it will face even more crushing and regrettable blows, and devastating attacks will be launched against the regime and its supporters.”

The statement comes amid escalating tensions following Israeli airstrikes in Beirut’s southern suburbs and Iranian missile launches toward Israeli territory. Both sides have exchanged threats as concerns grow over a wider regional conflict involving Israel, Iran and Hezbollah.

“We have prepared for this. The IDF is strongly prepared in defence and strongly prepared in offence. Air defence systems are deployed all across the country,” Defrin said.

He added that Israel’s military leadership was assessing the situation and preparing further actions.

Defrin accused Iran of escalating tensions through direct missile attacks.

“The Iranian terror regime made a grave mistake when it chose terrorism once again. The regime is attempting to create a new equation by conducting direct fire into our territory in response to IDF strikes in the Dahiyeh. We will not allow this.”

The spokesperson said Israeli strikes in Beirut’s southern suburbs had been carried out in response to attacks from Hezbollah.

“We struck in the Dahiyeh following Hezbollah's relentless firing toward northern communities. The IDF will continue to operate throughout Lebanon and will deepen the blow to the Hezbollah terrorist organisation. We will not allow continued firing toward the citizens of the State of Israel.”

The statement came amid escalating hostilities involving Israel, Iran and Hezbollah, following Israeli strikes in Beirut’s southern suburbs and subsequent missile launches attributed to Iran.

One missile carried a message that read: “In the name of God, a God whose power is greater than any ship, plane, or army. The God of Christ and the God of Moses, the God of all free people of the world . To all the people of the world. We are fighting a criminal gang, the corrupt people of Epstein Island. We will not compromise on the security of our people. To rid the world of corruption and usury. Right on the path of Jesus and Moses.”

The footage also showed a drawing depicting Israeli soldiers carrying Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu inside a concrete cube.

Additional scenes showed multiple missiles being launched into the night sky. The IRGC did not provide details on the specific targets in the footage.

The video was released amid ongoing hostilities between Iran and Israel, with both sides reporting military operations and missile attacks in recent days. Iranian officials have described the launches as part of their response to Israeli actions, while Israel has continued to activate its air defence systems against incoming projectiles.

Footage from the scene showed extensive damage inside apartments within a residential building. Military intelligence personnel were also seen at the site while heavy machinery cleared debris from the affected area.

Lebanese media reported that the strike targeted the Al-Mreijeh area in Beirut’s southern suburbs, resulting in two deaths and 11 injuries.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said the attack was ordered in response to rocket fire from Lebanon.

Netanyahu’s office stated that he had ordered an airstrike on “a Hezbollah headquarters in the southern suburbs in response to Hezbollah firing on Israeli territory.”

Earlier, the Israeli military announced that it had intercepted two rockets launched from Lebanon toward northern Israel. The incident marked the first rocket attack attributed to Hezbollah since the latest ceasefire agreement took effect last week.

According to figures released by Lebanon’s Ministry of Health, 3,613 people have been killed and 11,072 wounded by Israeli military fire since March 2.

“There are two components here. One component is development and investment, and the second component is security, deterrence, and prevention,” he said. “We are very determined to carry this out.”

Netanyahu said the initiative was designed to ensure long-term stability and prosperity for northern communities while promoting coexistence among the region’s diverse populations.

“As we say to Jews, Druze, Circassians, and Muslims - we all live together in the same package, and I am committed to that,” he said.

The prime minister described the programme as a major milestone and expressed confidence that northern Israel would undergo a transformation similar to what he said had been achieved in the south.

The remarks come days after the Israeli government approved a 13 billion shekel ($4.5 billion) plan proposed by Netanyahu and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to strengthen towns near the Lebanese border.

The package includes the construction of 1,800 new public bomb shelters, subsidies for safe rooms in homes located within nine kilometres of the border, and a five-year development programme aimed at attracting 100,000 new residents.

Combined with previously approved funding, the total investment in the initiative is expected to reach 20 billion shekels ($6.9 billion).

Netanyahu called the announcement “a day of celebration” and thanked local leaders and government officials involved in advancing the project.

“There could be no situation where Hezbollah attacks our cities and citizens, and its terror headquarters in Beirut’s Dahieh remain off-limits,” Netanyahu said.

“In southern Lebanon, we are eliminating Hezbollah strongholds. Hezbollah is on the run. We are determined to restore security to the residents of the north, exactly as we did for the residents of the south,” he added.

The comments came after Netanyahu confirmed on Friday that Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) troops had crossed the Litani River, marking a deeper advance into Lebanon.

The military operations are taking place despite a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon and ongoing US-mediated negotiations.

“The Beaufort is a dramatic step. It is a dramatic shift in the policy we are leading,” he said. “We have returned united, determined and stronger than ever.”

The remarks came after the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched extensive strikes on what it described as Hezbollah infrastructure in the Beaufort Ridge and Wadi al-Saluki areas. The military said one Israeli soldier was killed during the operation.

Netanyahu said he had instructed the military to expand its operations in Lebanon and confirmed that Israeli troops had crossed the Litani River.

“They seized commanding areas, they conquered the Beaufort Ridge, and now my directive is to deepen and expand our hold in places that were under Hezbollah's occupation,” he said.

The prime minister added that Israeli forces were operating simultaneously in Gaza, Syria and Lebanon, and claimed Israel had established a security zone beyond its borders.

“We will restore security to the residents of the north, just as we did for the residents of the south,” Netanyahu said. “It will take time, but we will complete the mission.”

Israel previously controlled Beaufort Castle from 1982 until its withdrawal from southern Lebanon in 2000 following the First Lebanon War.

The latest escalation follows Netanyahu’s announcement last week that he had ordered intensified strikes against Hezbollah and an expansion of ground operations aimed at securing what he described as strategic areas.

The fighting comes despite a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon first announced by U.S. President Donald Trump on April 15 and later extended several times following talks hosted by Washington.

He said Israel’s campaign against Iran was not yet complete and revealed he remains in frequent contact with U.S. President Donald Trump .

“We still need to complete the mission. I speak with President Trump about this every day - almost every day, every two days. We still have work to finish,” he said.

Netanyahu also highlighted the growing threat posed by drones, citing Iran’s Shahed drones and more advanced systems under development.

“I have no doubt that here too we will become the first country in the world to truly deliver a solution,” he said, referring to drone defence capabilities.

Turning to the war in Gaza, Netanyahu claimed Israeli forces had expanded their control over the territory.

He said the Israel Defense Forces now control about 60 percent of Gaza, up from 50 percent, and that he had instructed the military to increase that figure to 70 percent.

“We are squeezing them from every direction. We will deal with the remnants,” he said, referring to Hamas.

Netanyahu also outlined a broader vision for Israel’s role in regional energy networks, predicting that future oil and gas routes would increasingly connect the Gulf to the Mediterranean through Israel.

“We can further strengthen Israel’s power and truly turn ourselves into a global player,” he said.

On domestic policy , the prime minister said he had instructed officials to establish new communities as part of efforts to expand settlement and development projects across what he described as the Land of Israel.

Many worshippers described the return to Al-Aqsa as emotional after restrictions prevented access during key religious celebrations earlier this year.

“We cannot live without Al-Aqsa Mosque. We must pray there every day,” worshipper Abu Mutaz Al-Salima said.

He recalled the difficulties faced during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, when worshippers were prevented from entering the site.

Israel closed the mosque after the outbreak of the joint U.S.-Israeli military operation against Iran on February 28. The shutdown lasted 40 days and coincided with Eid al-Fitr in March, marking the first time since 1967 that the site was entirely closed to the public during the holiday.

Another worshipper, Nidal Najm, said the atmosphere this year contrasted sharply with previous restrictions.

“Unlike last year, when Al-Aqsa Mosque was closed and it was not possible to reach it or pray there, thank God now there are large crowds and a very strong turnout,” he said.

Last year’s Eid al-Adha celebrations were also affected by heavy security measures, including checkpoints and identity checks that restricted access for many Palestinians.

Eid al-Adha is one of the holiest occasions in Islam and coincides with the conclusion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca.

Despite the allegations, members stressed that their experience was only a fraction of what Palestinians endure, calling for greater global awareness and action. The group reaffirmed its mission to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza and push for the creation of a civilian maritime corridor to ensure access to food and medical supplies.

“Israel’s military action against the GSF fleet and the volunteers within it is a clear violation of international law,” she said during a press conference.

The Indonesian Foreign Ministry later confirmed that all nine Indonesian citizens detained during the operation had been released.

“The protection of Indonesian citizens is our top priority,” Wewengkang said, adding that Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi had been in contact with Turkey, Jordan and other countries whose citizens participated in the mission.

The Global Sumud Flotilla was attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza amid severe shortages caused by the ongoing blockade.

Videos showing activists kneeling with their hands tied behind their backs sparked international criticism, with several countries summoning Israeli ambassadors in protest .

Israel said its naval forces intercepted the flotilla in international waters earlier this week, detaining 428 participants from dozens of countries. Israeli authorities defended the blockade as lawful and denied wrongdoing.

Officials later confirmed that all remaining foreign activists had been released and transferred to deportation flights to Turkey.

“Our eyes are open regarding Iran as well. I will speak today as I do every few days with our friend, President Trump,” Netanyahu said.

“I’ll surely hear impressions about his trip to China and perhaps about other things as well. There are certainly many possibilities. We are prepared for any scenario,” he added.

According to the Israeli prime minister’s spokesperson, Netanyahu and Trump discussed continued joint action regarding Iran during the phone call.

The conversation followed comments by Trump on Truth Social, warning Iran that the “clock is ticking.”

“Get moving, FAST, or there won’t be anything left of them,” Trump wrote on Sunday.

The Israeli leader said the Israel Defence Forces had expanded control in Gaza, claiming Israel now controls “not 50% there, but 60%” of the territory.

Netanyahu also referred to military operations in Lebanon, saying Israeli forces continue “seizing” and “clearing territory” there.

He further announced efforts to strengthen Israel’s response to drones and unmanned aerial vehicles, saying he had instructed a specialised team to develop new defence solutions.

“I told them something that surprised them a bit. You have no budget limit. Whatever it costs, it will cost. You also have no limitations, as far as I know, of creativity and imagination, because you are the best in the world ,” Netanyahu said.

On April 15, Trump announced a ten-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. The ceasefire was later extended on April 23 for an additional three weeks, followed by another 45-day extension announced on May 15 after a second round of US-mediated talks between Lebanese and Israeli officials.

The Eurovision Song Contest, widely promoted as a celebration of music and European unity, has repeatedly been disrupted by political tensions, diplomatic disputes and boycotts throughout its nearly 70-year history.

While Eurovision officially bans overt political messaging, historical records from the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) show that geopolitical conflicts have frequently spilt into the competition, leading countries to withdraw, boycott or protest participation by rival states.

One of the earliest major controversies occurred in 1969 when Austria declined to participate in the Eurovision contest hosted in Madrid under the dictatorship of Spanish leader Francisco Franco, a move widely viewed by historians and Eurovision researchers as politically motivated.

Regional tensions between Greece and Turkey later became a recurring source of Eurovision disputes. Greece boycotted the 1975 contest following Turkey’s military intervention in Cyprus the previous year. In response, Turkey withdrew from Eurovision in 1976 after Greece returned to the competition with a song referencing the Cyprus conflict.

In 1979, Turkey again withdrew after Israel hosted the contest in Jerusalem following its Eurovision victory the previous year. Morocco later participated only once in Eurovision, in 1980, during a year when Israel did not compete. The North African country never returned to the competition afterwards.

The Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict also affected Eurovision participation. Armenia withdrew from the 2012 contest hosted in Baku, citing security concerns amid ongoing tensions between the two countries over Nagorno-Karabakh.

Political scrutiny surrounding Israel’s Eurovision participation has intensified in recent years because of the war in Gaza. Broadcasters and political groups in countries including Spain, Ireland, Iceland, Slovenia and the Netherlands have faced growing domestic pressure to oppose or reconsider participation alongside Israel.

However, as of May 2026, no participating broadcaster has officially withdrawn from the contest. Several broadcasters and public figures have instead called on the EBU to review Israel’s eligibility, drawing comparisons with Russia’s suspension from Eurovision following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

The EBU has repeatedly defended its position by arguing that Eurovision is a competition between broadcasters rather than governments and that the organisation remains politically neutral.

Russia remains suspended indefinitely from Eurovision after the EBU expelled Russian broadcasters in 2022. Belarus was also excluded after its state broadcaster, BTRC, was suspended by the EBU in 2021 over concerns involving media freedom and contest rule violations.

Political scientists and media researchers have long argued that Eurovision reflects broader European tensions despite its entertainment focus. Studies published in journals including Popular Communication and Nationalities Papers have documented how voting patterns, alliances and withdrawals often mirror diplomatic relationships and regional conflicts.

Despite repeated controversies, Eurovision remains one of the world’s largest live entertainment events, attracting more than 160 million viewers annually, according to EBU figures.

Supporters argue that Eurovision provides a rare cultural platform where countries with strained political relationships can still interact peacefully through music and public voting.

Critics, however, say the competition increasingly struggles to separate entertainment from geopolitics in an era marked by wars, nationalism and social polarisation.

What Eurovision’s long history of withdrawals and political disputes ultimately reveals is that the contest has never existed entirely outside politics. Instead, it has often reflected Europe’s shifting diplomatic tensions, cultural divisions and international rivalries.

Whether you are a geography geek or a US president, maps are a good place to start.

From the Middle East, Central Asia, South Asia, and the Caucasus, Iran borders seven countries on land and six more across water.

It is also one of the world ’s oldest continuous civilisations, with a history that spans more than 4,000 years.

Today, with nearly 90 million people and a landmass exceeding 1.6 million square kilometres, Iran stands as one of the Middle East’s largest and most consequential states.

Iran’s terrain is defined by mountains and arid expanses, with little continuous flat land. The Zagros and Alborz mountain ranges dominate much of the landscape, while the Iranian Plateau forms its core.

To the east, vast deserts such as the Dasht-e Kavir and Dasht-e Lut stretch across large swathes of the country. These physical features are not just geographic, but they also shape settlement patterns, climate conditions and the development of infrastructure.

Historically, Iran was the centre of powerful empires that influenced language, trade, science and culture far beyond its borders. That legacy still runs through modern Iran, visible in its identity and regional reach. Despite invasions by Greeks, Ottomans, Russians and the British, the country has maintained a strong sense of sovereignty and identity.

Iran is far more complex, both from the inside and the outside. Farsi remains the dominant language, but the country is home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups, including Azeris, Kurds, Baloch and Arabs, all of whom contribute to its cultural and political fabric.

As an energy giant, Iran sits on some of the world’s largest oil and gas reserves , holding roughly 10% of global oil and 15% of natural gas resources.

That alone makes it a major player in global energy markets. Despite heavy international sanctions, Iran continues to export large volumes of oil, primarily to China, demonstrating its resilience and continued relevance in global supply chains.

Its economy, valued at over $400 billion, blends state control with private enterprise, anchored by energy, manufacturing and a growing technology sector.

Modern Iran, however, cannot be understood without the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

It overthrew a Western-backed monarchy and replaced it with a theocratic system that still defines the country today.

And since the Revolution, Iran has pursued an independent and often confrontational foreign policy , positioning itself as a regional power and a counterweight to Western influence.

Its network of regional alliances, often referred to as the “Axis of Resistance”, extends its influence beyond its borders, reaching into Iraq, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen. Many of these connections relate to Iran's position as the dominant power of the Shia sect of Islam. In other cases, allies were drawn to Tehran by a mutual hatred of Israel.

The country is also enduring one of its worst environmental crises in decades, after more than five consecutive years of drought have pushed it toward what experts describe as “water bankruptcy.” Reservoirs are drying up, major cities are nearing “day zero” water shortages, and as many as 28 million people now face unreliable access to water. 

Even geography beyond its borders carries political weight.

The body of water to its south has been known in Iran and elsewhere for over 2,500 years as the “Persian Gulf.” Still, some Arab states refer to it as the “Arabian Gulf,” creating an ongoing geopolitical dispute.

For Iran, the name is not just symbolic; it is tied to history, identity and sovereignty.

At the edge of Iran’s southern coastline lies its most powerful strategic asset: the Strait of Hormuz.

This narrow waterway connects the Persian Gulf to the open ocean and carries more than 20% of the world’s oil supply.

It is one of the most critical chokepoints in global trade. Iran controls the northern side as well as a series of islands, and that gives it enormous leverage.

Over the decades, Tehran has repeatedly threatened to disrupt traffic through the strait during times of conflict.

And in 2026, those threats became reality, sending shocks through global energy markets.

At the same time, geopolitical tensions have sharply intensified. Following Israeli strikes on Iranian military and nuclear sites in February 2026, the United States joined the conflict with direct attacks, triggering a broader regional confrontation that continued for days.

The situation has since escalated into a wider crisis affecting global energy routes. Iran has launched retaliatory missile and drone attacks, while disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit chokepoint, have sent shocks through global markets.

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“Although we have kept in touch through phone calls and various other means, since the United States and Israel launched their illegal war against Iran, a war that has been ongoing, our stance remains adhering to the principle of peaceful coexistence,” Wang said.

Araghchi reportedly thanked China for its support during the conflict and said cooperation between the two countries would deepen.

“Iran appreciates China's firm stance and especially the condemnation of the United States and Israel... China is a close friend of Iran, and in the current circumstances, our cooperation will be even stronger. Iran will only accept a just and comprehensive agreement,” he said.

Araghchi arrived in Beijing on Tuesday for diplomatic consultations expected to focus on bilateral relations as well as regional and international developments.

The meeting came amid continued tensions in the Strait of Hormuz following the conflict between the US and Iran.

For supporters, the imagery reflected a long-standing political goal. For critics, it underscored what they see as a troubling shift towards extremism within Israeli politics.

The noose is not an incidental design choice. It has become a central emblem of Ben-Gvir’s far-right Otzma Yehudit party, which has campaigned for the introduction of the death penalty specifically for those convicted of Palestinian terrorism. 

In recent months, the symbol has appeared on pins worn by politicians and supporters during parliamentary debates, signalling alignment with the policy .

That legislative push culminated earlier this year when Israel’s Knesset approved a measure making death by hanging a default sentence for certain terrorism-related offences. The move marked a significant departure from longstanding legal norms: Israel effectively abolished the death penalty for ordinary crimes in 1954 and has not carried out executions since 1962.

Human rights groups and several Western governments have criticised the law as discriminatory, warning that it would disproportionately affect Palestinians, particularly those in the occupied West Bank. A joint statement by foreign ministers from several countries cautioned that the legislation risks undermining democratic principles.

Against that backdrop, the birthday cake’s message has been widely interpreted as a celebration of political success. The phrase “Sometimes dreams come true” was seen by critics as a direct reference to the passage of the law — a goal Ben-Gvir has championed for years.

Further controversy stemmed from the presence of senior officials at the event, including political allies and police figures. Opponents argue that their attendance blurred the line between state institutions and partisan ideology, reinforcing concerns about the growing influence of hardline politics within the government .

Ben-Gvir’s supporters, however, frame the policy as a necessary deterrent against terrorism, reflecting public demand for tougher security measures.

President William Ruto has announced a Ksh10 million (approx. US$77,400) funding offer for Kenyan content creators producing films and art around affordable housing and health. Speaking at the 14th Kalasha International Film and TV Market Festival and Awards at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, Ruto said the government was ready to support creatives whose work tells stories linked to national priorities. “I am making an offer. Those who want to pursue film and art in this space of affordable housing, I am asking my friends from the Kenya Film Commission to include those categories. I am going to make an offer of Ksh10 million each in affordable housing and in health,” he said. Ruto also directed that 30 percent of all government advertising be channelled through creative platforms, saying the move would support young talent in digital creation, film and music. “I can confirm that the government has the resources to support and partner with creatives who tell our stories,” he said , at an event that drew more than 3,000 delegates, 100 exhibitors and representatives from over 30 countries.

Finance Bill targets crypto and digital platforms

Kenya’s Finance Bill 2026 has proposed major changes to the taxation of the digital economy, with new rules targeting virtual assets, online platforms and electronic transactions. The Bill seeks to bring cryptocurrencies, digital tokens and virtual asset service providers more firmly under the Kenya Revenue Authority’s reporting framework. Exchanges and trading platforms will be required to file annual information returns detailing users, transactions and controlling interests. The proposals also introduce tougher penalties for non-compliance, including fines of up to Ksh100,000 (approx. US$774) per false statement or imprisonment of up to three years, while failure to file returns may attract penalties of up to Ksh1 million (around US$7,740). “The Tax Procedures Act is amended by inserting new sections after section 6B, requiring a virtual asset service provider to file an information return if it facilitates exchange transactions, provides a trading platform on behalf of a customer, or acts as a counterparty or intermediary in such transactions,” the proposals read .

Ruto to address Tanzanian parliament in historic visit

President William Ruto is expected to address Tanzania’s parliament in Dodoma on May 5, 2026, in what officials have described as a historic moment for Kenya-Tanzania relations. Tanzania’s Deputy Speaker Daniel Sillo said the address, scheduled for 11am, would be attended by top national leaders and would focus on strengthening cooperation between the two neighbours. “We wish to inform you that on Tuesday, 5th May 2026, Hon Pr William Ruto, the President of Kenya, will address the Parliament here in Dodoma,” Sillo said . “This very important and historical event, which will also be attended by our top leaders, is aimed at strengthening cooperation and brotherhood between Tanzania and Kenya.” It will be the first time a Kenyan president addresses the Tanzanian parliament.

Israel deploys mobile climate lab in Kenya

Israel has deployed a mobile climate laboratory in Kenya to help close Africa’s climate data gap and strengthen evidence-based policymaking. The facility, stationed in Machakos County after two months of operation in the country, is hosted at the International Livestock Research Institute’s Kapiti site and is designed to measure climate-related conditions across different ecosystems. Israel’s Ambassador to Kenya, Gideon Behar, said the lab would support better preparation for climate change. “We must remember that there is a huge gap in climate data and climate knowledge in Africa, and the work of this laboratory helps us close this gap,” he said. “It enables us to be better prepared for climate change and to make better policy decisions based on real and accurate science.” Behar described it as “the first-ever climate mobile lab not only in Africa but possibly in the world,” adding that its scientific work would support the global fight against climate change.  

Kenya pushes local mineral processing

Kenya is moving to retain more value from its mineral resources by shifting from raw mineral exports to local processing, refining and manufacturing. Speaking at the 2026 Mining Investment Conference in Nairobi, President Ruto said the country’s strategy is to build integrated industrial value chains around minerals such as gold, titanium, rare earths, gemstones, iron ore, copper, manganese and chromite. “We will process our minerals here on the continent, we will refine them here, we will manufacture them here,” Ruto said . He pointed to the iron ore pelletisation plant in Taita Taveta, now in its final stages of construction, as a key step in Kenya’s industrialisation agenda. The push reflects a wider African effort to stop exporting raw materials while importing finished products made from the same resources.

Lebanon’s Ministry of Health said Israeli attacks on Habbouch and Al-Zarariyeh killed eight people , including a child and two women, and wounded 21 others.

The Israeli army had earlier issued evacuation warnings to residents of several towns and villages in southern Lebanon, including Habbouch. It later said it had carried out strikes on Hezbollah targets in the south, claiming to have killed fighters and destroyed about 50 Hezbollah-linked infrastructure sites.

The Lebanese Health Ministry said the death toll from Israeli military operations since March 2 had reached 2,618 by May 1, with 8,094 people injured.

The strikes come despite a U.S.-announced ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon that took effect on April 17 and was later extended by three weeks. Both Israel and Hezbollah have continued to accuse each other of violating the truce.

Israel has also maintained what it calls a “yellow line” in southern Lebanon, a buffer zone where residents have been warned not to return. The Israeli military says its presence is aimed at countering Hezbollah activity, while Lebanese residents and officials have accused Israel of preventing displaced civilians from going back to their homes.

“We demand the release of the Spanish citizen who has been unlawfully detained by Netanyahu’s government ,” Sánchez said.

His comments followed the interception of vessels from the Global Sumud Flotilla, a civilian-led aid mission seeking to break Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza . Israeli authorities detained activists from the flotilla, including Spanish-Swedish activist Saif Abukeshek and Brazilian activist Thiago Ávila, according to AP.

The flotilla began its Barcelona departure window in mid-April, with organisers describing it as one of the largest civilian-led maritime missions to Gaza. AP reported that more than 70 boats and over 1,000 activists were involved in the mission, with departures delayed by bad weather .

Israel’s foreign ministry said about 175 activists were detained after Israeli forces intercepted 22 vessels. Flotilla organisers accused Israel of carrying out an unlawful seizure in international waters, while several governments criticised the operation. Turkey described the interception as “piracy,” and Italy demanded the release of its nationals.

At the Málaga rally, Sánchez also rejected calls for Spain to raise defence spending to five percent of GDP, a target backed by the United States and discussed within NATO.

“It would mean an extra €3,000 per citizen in Spain, €80 billion more per year,” Sánchez said. “That would mean raising taxes or cutting the welfare state.”

He added that his government would “always stand on the side of the welfare state.”

Sánchez has previously opposed NATO’s proposed five percent defence spending target, calling it unreasonable and incompatible with Spain’s welfare priorities. Spain later secured an agreement with NATO allowing it to avoid the five percent target while raising defence spending to 2.1 percent of GDP.

“We worked shoulder to shoulder alongside the IDF, [...] exerting influence based on relative advantages and a true partnership in striking targets in the heart of Tehran, thwarting senior officials [and] achieving air superiority,” he said.

Barnea said the agency’s activities this year in Lebanon and Iran “broke boundaries” and extended its operational reach.

“We obtained strategic and tactical intelligence at the core of the enemy's secrets. We demonstrated new and groundbreaking operational capabilities in the target countries,” he asserted.

He added that the operations have “strengthened” Israel’s position and emphasised continued readiness and intelligence efforts.

“We are committed to operational intelligence audacity and we are committed to the principle of action. We will not rest on our laurels when facing a threat. We will act with full force,” he said.

"I am happy to announce to you that tonight, together with my friend Yair Lapid, I am doing the most Zionist and most patriotic act we have ever done for our country," Bennett said.

Bennett stated that if he returns to office, he will establish a state commission to investigate the Hamas-led October 7, 2023, attack, a step he said the current government has not taken.

“On the first day of a new government led by me, we will establish a state commission of inquiry into the October massacre to bring truth to the families and answers to all the people of Israel." He also said his administration would introduce a limit of eight years for a prime minister’s tenure.

Lapid, who currently leads the opposition, said Bennett would head the new party and described him as capable of leading the country.

He added that a unified opposition could defeat the current government, referencing Peter Magyar's landslide win against Viktor Orban in the recent elections in Hungary.

"After 16 years in power, Orban lost. It happened because people believed change was possible. They united behind a single candidate, fought for their country, and won. That's why Bennett and I are here."

Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, has faced criticism over his handling of regional conflicts and allegations that he has avoided accountability for failures during his time in office.

Bennett and Lapid previously formed a coalition that removed Netanyahu from power in 2021, ending his 12-year rule. The coalition lasted 18 months before Netanyahu returned to office in November 2022.

Somalia’s ambassador to Ethiopia and the African Union, Abdullah Warfa, delivered the announcement. He warned that any violation of Somalia’s territorial sovereignty would not be tolerated.

He further stated that external interference could result in countermeasures, including restricting access to the Bab al-Mandab Strait.

The ban comes after Israel implemented an agreement to exchange ambassadors with Somaliland.

Netanyahu also warned that Israel would continue operations against threats from Lebanon. “We maintain full freedom of action against any threat. Even emerging threats,” he said, adding that Israel was determined to restore security for residents in the north.

His remarks come as a fragile U.S.-Iran ceasefire remains under strain, following weeks of fighting and disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz. Talks held in Islamabad earlier this month failed to produce a breakthrough.

In Lebanon, cross-border fire between Israel and Hezbollah has continued despite calls for de-escalation. Lebanese officials have accused Israel of violating sovereignty through air strikes and incursions, while Israel says its operations are aimed at pushing Hezbollah away from the border.

What they said

UNDP administrator Alexander De Croo said, “Even if the war would stop tomorrow, those effects, you already have them, and they will be pushing back more than 30 million people into poverty.” He warned, “Food insecurity will be at its peak level in a few months – and there is not much that you can do about it,” and added, “Things that take decades to build up, it takes eight weeks of war to destroy them.” On humanitarian impacts, he said, “We will have to say to certain people, really sorry, but we can’t help you… People who would be surviving on help will not have this, and will be pushed into even greater vulnerability.”

“I am pleased to say that Argentina and Israel are not merely partners, they are friendly nations. I feel deeply grateful to be able to light one of the 12 torches that represent the tribes of the people of Israel,” Milei said.

This visit is Milei’s third official trip to Israel since he assumed office. His participation in the ceremony marked the first time a foreign head of state had taken part in the country’s official Independence Day event.

Milei has maintained a close relationship with Israel. He has described himself as “spiritually Jewish” and has expressed a desire to convert to Judaism , despite his Catholic upbringing.

“We remain in Lebanon,” he said. “This is a security belt that stretches from the sea, continues to Mount Dov and the approaches to Mount Hermon, all the way to the Syrian border.”

Netanyahu said the zone differs from Israel’s more limited presence before the military campaign known as Operation Lion's Roar.

The Israeli leader also said he had rejected two ceasefire conditions proposed by Hezbollah: a full Israeli withdrawal to the international border and a “quiet for quiet” arrangement.

Defrin said the military needs parliament to pass legislation dealing with compulsory service and to revise reserve duty rules, arguing that the current legal framework no longer matches the scale of Israel’s present security demands. He said the existing reserve service law was designed for an earlier period and now needs to be reworked to better support reservists and active-duty soldiers.

According to Defrin, the manpower gap has practical consequences on the battlefield, including thinner staffing in combat units. He said the shortage effectively means fewer troops available at the battalion level, at a time when the army says its missions are continuing to expand.

The comments come amid a broader debate in Israel over military conscription and the growing strain on reserve forces. Recent reporting has shown senior military officials warning of mounting pressure on troop numbers as the army tries to sustain operations across multiple theatres.