US President Joe Biden urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to minimize civilian harm as Israel mulls its response to Iran's recent missile strike. This call comes amid mounting pressure from Washington not to strike Iran's oil or nuclear facilities prior to the US presidential elections. The two leaders agreed to stay in close contact over the next few days, and Vice President Kamala Harris also joined the call. Meanwhile, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has pledged that their attack on Iran will be "deadly, precise, and surprising." The leaders also discussed Israel's offensive against Iranian ally Hezbollah in Lebanon.
US, Israel Balance Concerns amid Iran Tensions
Amid escalating tensions with Iran, US President Joe Biden has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to minimize civilian harm in any potential Israeli response to Iran's recent missile strike.
Background:
Tensions between Iran and Israel have been simmering for years, primarily over Iran's nuclear program. Iran has been accused of developing nuclear weapons, while Israel views this as an existential threat. In recent months, Israel has carried out airstrikes against Iranian targets in Syria and Iraq, alleging that they were used to support Iran-backed Shiite militias.
Recent Developments:
On February 12, 2023, Iran launched a missile attack on Erbil, Iraq, which it claimed was targeting Israeli intelligence bases. Israel has not officially claimed responsibility for these bases, but it is widely believed to have a presence in the region. The attack raised concerns that the conflict could escalate further.
US Pressure:
The US has been urging Israel to refrain from striking Iran's oil or nuclear facilities before the upcoming US presidential elections in November 2023. The Biden administration fears that such an attack could destabilize the region and complicate its efforts to revive the Iran nuclear deal.
Israeli Response:
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has pledged that any Israeli attack on Iran would be "deadly, precise, and surprising." He has not provided specifics on when or how such an attack might occur.
Diplomatic Engagement:
President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu have had several phone calls to discuss the situation. They agreed to stay in close contact and work together to de-escalate tensions. Vice President Kamala Harris also joined one of the calls.
FAQs:
1. Why is the US urging Israel not to strike Iran?
The US fears that such an attack could destabilize the region, complicate negotiations over the Iran nuclear deal, and potentially lead to a broader conflict.
2. What are Israel's concerns about Iran?
Israel views Iran's nuclear program as an existential threat. It also worries about Iranian support for Hezbollah and other Shiite militias in the region.
3. What are Iran's intentions with its missile attack on Iraq?
Iran claims the attack was targeting Israeli intelligence bases in Erbil. However, Israel has not claimed responsibility for these bases, and Iran may have other motivations for the strike.
4. What is Israel's likely response to the Iranian attack?
Israel has not officially announced its response, but it has pledged to take action. Defense Minister Gallant has promised a "deadly, precise, and surprising" attack.
5. What is the potential for escalation in the conflict?
The situation remains tense, and further escalation is possible. However, both the US and Israel are working to de-escalate tensions and prevent the conflict from spiraling out of control.
The Melanesian Spearhead Group Security Strategic Working Group, comprising representatives from all MSG member states, has successfully completed their sixth workshop meeting in Honiara last week. They have discussed the outcomes of their consultations with NGOs and CSOs in each member country, and agreed on the next steps to finalize the MSG Peace and Security Strategy. This is seen as a significant step for the sub-region in facing common threats, and the finalized report will be tabled at the upcoming Police Commissioner's and Police Minister's Meeting in Indonesia next year.
A video claiming to show Indian and Chinese armed forces chanting ‘Jai Shri Ram’ amid the recent disengagement at the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh has been circulating on social media. However, the truth is that the video is not recent and has been on the internet since January 2024. It was originally shared as footage of Indian Army personnel chanting the slogan after the consecration of the idol of Hindu deity Ram at Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir. A keyword search led to several news reports from January 2024, clarifying that the video is not recent and its authenticity has not been verified.
A group of foreign tourists in Vang Vieng, Laos fell ill after a night out on November 12th, possibly from drinking tainted alcohol. As of now, five deaths have been confirmed, including a British lawyer identified as Simone White and a young Australian woman. The Australian Prime Minister has expressed his condolences for the tragic loss of Bianca Jones and hopes for the recovery of her friend, Holly Bowles. Western government officials are supporting the families of the victims and urging caution for travelers in the popular backpacking destination.
Laishram Herojit, a low-level government worker, has appealed for the safe return of his family who went missing after an encounter between suspected Kuki insurgents and security forces in Manipur. Two women, including Herojit's wife, and an eight-year-old child are among the six people who went missing. Herojit has called for the release of his innocent family and has appealed to any group that may be holding them hostage to return them unharmed. He recalls getting a call from his wife during the violence, which later got disconnected, and a Bengali friend later informed him that they were taken away in a boat.
The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his former Defence Minister, and two Hamas officials for war crimes and crimes against humanity. Despite rejection from Mr. Netanyahu's office, the court's decision highlights international concern over the 13-month war in Gaza and the 2023 attack on Israel. While the warrants may limit the suspects' movements, the practical implications are limited as Israel and the US are not members of the court.
Guyana's President Dr. Irfaan Ali, in a ceremony at the State House, conferred upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi the country's highest civilian honour, the 'Order of Excellence'. Modi, who is on a three-nation tour, expressed his gratitude and dedicated the honour to India's 1.4 billion people. This recognition is a testament to India's strong commitment towards deepening friendship with Guyana and demonstrates the country's unbiased approach towards international relations.
As the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Guyana in 56 years, PM Modi's arrival marks a momentous occasion for the community. The Indian diaspora, which makes up over 40% of Guyana's population, eagerly awaits the world leader and shanti-doot who strives to unite the world and propel India into its golden age. PM Modi's visit marks a significant moment for the Indian community, deeply rooted in their traditions and eagerly showcasing their vibrant culture to welcome the Prime Minister. During this visit, PM Modi will also co-chair the second India-CARICOM Summit with the Prime Minister of Grenada, highlighting the importance of regional collaboration.
In a move to slow Russian advances in Ukraine, US President Joe Biden has approved the provision of anti-personnel mines to the Ukrainian military. This comes as reports state that North Korean troops have joined Russian marines and airborne units in battles throughout the country. The addition of anti-personnel mines marks a new level of assistance from the US in the ongoing conflict, with the mines being more deadly and longer-lasting than the previously provided anti-tank mines. Meanwhile, Ukraine's air defence units are actively working to repel a Russian air attack on the capital city of Kyiv.
Dmitry Medvedev, an ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has issued a warning about the start of World War Three due to a recent US decision allowing Ukraine to launch missiles into Russian territory. In response, Putin has signed a new decree giving Russia more flexibility in responding with nuclear weapons. Medvedev has accused the US of deliberately creating an escalation for former President Donald Trump's administration and claims Russia now has the right to launch a retaliatory strike against Ukraine and NATO facilities, which would mark the start of WWIII.
In yet another round of violence, Israel has launched an air strike on central Beirut, resulting in the deaths of at least five people and injuring 24 others. This attack comes as the militant group Hezbollah considers a proposed ceasefire backed by the United States in Lebanon. As tensions continue to escalate in the region, a large fire has also broken out in Tel Aviv following the raid sirens that sounded.