US will not take part in retaliatory action against Iran, White House says

US will not take part in retaliatory action against Iran, White House says

President Joe Biden warned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the U.S. would not participate in a counter-offensive against Iran if Israel decides to retaliate for a mass drone and missile attack on Israeli territory overnight. The threat of open warfare between the two countries has caused global powers and Arab nations to urge restraint to avoid further escalation. The U.S. will continue to help Israel defend itself but does not want war, according to the White House’s top national security spokesperson. Iran launched the attack in response to a suspected Israeli strike on its consulate in Syria, causing only modest damage in Israel as most missiles were shot down with the help of the U.S., Britain, and Jordan. Israel is not planning an immediate retaliation and is seeking to build a regional coalition to address the threat posed by Iran.

Widespread condemnation of attacks on Israel

Widespread condemnation of attacks on Israel

Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos condemned the Iranian strikes on Israel and called for restraint to avoid further escalation and destabilization. His words were echoed by political parties, with Disy and Dipa condemning the attacks and calling for diplomatic channels and dialogue to prevent disastrous results. Akel called for a National Council meeting to address the dangerous developments in the region.

Israel’s Netanyahu vows victory after Iran strikes, fears of wider conflict grow

Israel’s Netanyahu vows victory after Iran strikes, fears of wider conflict grow

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that his country would achieve victory after the military successfully shot down almost all of the more than 300 drones and missiles launched by Iran. The attacks by Tehran, in response to an Israeli air strike in Damascus that killed officers of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, raised the threat of a wider regional conflict. Netanyahu posted on social media that “together we shall win,” and the Israeli military reported that over 99% of the Iranian drones and missiles were intercepted. Israel is considering a significant response to the attack, which has escalated tensions in the region.

Sky News: Iran’s direct attack on Israel is unprecedented – Why Tehran chose to strike with drones

Sky News: Iran’s direct attack on Israel is unprecedented – Why Tehran chose to strike with drones

Iran launched an unprecedented direct attack on Israel using 200 drones and missiles. Most of the drones were intercepted, with only one 7-year-old girl injured by shrapnel. The use of cruise missiles changed the dynamics of the situation. The attack caused Israelis to feel vulnerable and the government will be forced to respond. The attack was similar to Russia’s attacks on Ukraine, experimenting with different types of missiles and drones. Iran has also tested US Navy defense systems through Houthi drone attacks.

Vassilis Kopsachilis on philenews: Iran’s response is convenient for everyone, but the blows between the two sides will continue

Vassilis Kopsachilis on philenews: Iran’s response is convenient for everyone, but the blows between the two sides will continue

Israel and Iran are on a collision course, with fears of a broader conflict in the Middle East. Tehran responded to an Israeli strike by hijacking a ship and attacking Israel with missiles and drones. The US wants to avoid escalation, but it may be challenging to restrain Israel from retaliating. The conflict between Israel and Iran is likely to continue, with potential for further violence and involvement from other countries like the US and China.

Govt plan already helped those hit by attacks (updated)

Govt plan already helped those hit by attacks (updated)

– Over 700 people have passed through Cyprus as their flights were disrupted.
– 101 Jordanians were provided with all necessary facilities until they departed for their destination.
– The foreign ministry is closely monitoring developments and taking necessary actions to avoid ignition and prolongation of the crisis.

Akel marks 83 years

Akel marks 83 years

Fact: The Akel party was founded on April 14, 1941 in Skarinou, Cyprus.

National Security Council meeting underway

National Security Council meeting underway

The National Security Council began a snap meeting on Sunday morning in response to Iran launching drone strikes at Israel.

Iran seizes cargo ship in Strait of Hormuz, Iranian media says

Iran seizes cargo ship in Strait of Hormuz, Iranian media says

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards seized an Israeli-linked cargo ship, the MSC Aries, in the Strait of Hormuz. The ship is leased by MSC from Gortal Shipping, an affiliate of Zodiac Maritime, partly owned by Israeli businessman Eyal Ofer. Tensions are rising in the region since Israel’s campaign in Gaza, with threats and warnings being issued by Iran, the United States, and Israel. Iran has also threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz if necessary. Yemen’s Houthi group has been disrupting global trade by attacking ships linked to Israel in the Red Sea. The United States and Britain have responded with strikes against Houthi targets. The Joint Maritime Information Center has advised caution for vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz.

Russian armoured assaults ramp up pressure on Ukraine’s east, army chief says

Russian armoured assaults ramp up pressure on Ukraine’s east, army chief says

The situation on the eastern front in Ukraine has worsened, with Russia intensifying its armoured assaults and battles for control of a village near Bakhmut. Vital U.S. military aid expected by Kyiv remains stuck in Congress. Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi stated that Russian forces were taking losses but also making tactical gains. Ukraine’s military is facing challenges and is calling for better training for soldiers. Ukraine’s parliament passed a bill to overhaul how civilians are drafted into the armed forces, with the draft age lowered to 25.