The Patriot air defense system uses radar and hit to kill interceptor missiles to destroy incoming threats. While highly effective, each interceptor costs millions of dollars, raising concerns about supply as demand grows in the Middle East.

The killing of senior Iranian official Ali Larijani has created a major leadership vacuum within the regime. His decades of influence leave uncertainty over succession and could heighten internal divisions.

President Donald Trump said the United States will leave Iran in the near future but offered few details on next steps. He criticized the North Atlantic Treaty Organization for not assisting in securing the Strait of Hormuz and downplayed fears of a prolonged conflict.

Leonardo DiCaprio sparked online buzz at the Academy Awards with a refreshed appearance that drew widespread praise. Fans speculated about facial hair, weight loss, and film preparation as possible reasons for his glow-up.

Religious leaders are opposing the placement of women in armored combat roles as the military considers a ground operation in Lebanon. Rabbi Eli Sadan argues the move violates Jewish law and existing joint service regulations.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a video with United States Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee to dispel rumors of his death. The meeting included jokes about the speculation before shifting to comments on actions against Iranian regime leaders.

Footage from Tehran reveals residents living under the strain of air strikes and an intense security crackdown. While state media promotes the government’s narrative, independent journalists risk severe punishment to report alternative accounts.

As Israel intensifies operations against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, much of Tyre has emptied under evacuation orders. Yet some residents remain, citing hardship, attachment to their homes and defiance despite growing displacement and casualties.

Rocket fire from Lebanon and missile launches from Iran triggered alerts across Israel as tensions escalated. The military reported interceptions and no injuries while warning of potential further attacks by Hezbollah.

Ron Dermer said progress is being made in negotiations with Lebanon and that a peace agreement is possible if security conditions are met. He also highlighted close coordination with the United States on Iran and predicted a stronger security focus in Israel’s next government.

Ministers say energy supplies remain secure but warn that conflict in the Middle East is pushing up prices. The Government has pledged to provide further support to consumers if needed.

Sir Keir Starmer urged that focus must remain on Ukraine despite unrest involving Iran. He said Russia must not benefit from higher oil prices or eased sanctions, as Volodymyr Zelensky thanked the United Kingdom for its continued support.