Israeli response

Rafah crossing can’t reopen unless Israel leaves Gaza, Egypt says

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Rafah crossing can’t reopen unless Israel leaves Gaza, Egypt says

The Rafah border crossing cannot operate unless Israel returns control to the Palestinians, according to Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry. Israel took over the crossing last month during its offensive against Hamas in Rafah, which serves as the only connection to the outside world for Gaza’s residents. Shoukry emphasized the importance of the 1979 Egyptian-Israeli peace treaty for regional security and stability. Egypt suggested European monitors at the border if Palestinian authorities resume control. Israel is attempting to destroy tunnels between Gaza and Egypt used by Hamas, but Egypt denies their existence. Shoukry urged Hamas and Israel to accept a ceasefire proposal from U.S. President Joe Biden. Israel has accepted the framework deal for ending the Gaza war but believes it requires more work.

Violence against civilians in Gaza ‘no longer justifiable,’ Italy says

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Violence against civilians in Gaza ‘no longer justifiable,’ Italy says

Italy strongly criticized Israeli attacks on Palestinian civilians in Gaza, stating that the situation is increasingly difficult and no longer justifiable. Defence Minister Guido Crosetto expressed despair over the situation and emphasized the need to distinguish between Hamas and the Palestinian people. Italy has previously supported Israel’s right to defend itself from Hamas but has urged for a ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages.

UK’s Cameron: clear Israel has decided to respond to Iran attack

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UK’s Cameron: clear Israel has decided to respond to Iran attack

British foreign minister David Cameron stated that Israel had decided to respond to the Iranian drone and ballistic missile attack, expressing hope that the response would minimize escalation. Cameron also emphasized the importance of coordinated sanctions against Iran, advocating for a clear message from the G7.

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

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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.

President convenes emergency meeting over Israel-Iran tensions

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President convenes emergency meeting over Israel-Iran tensions

President Christodoulides convened an emergency meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) to discuss the potential implications of a new flare-up in the Middle East region, particularly between Iran and Israel. The meeting focused on preventive measures, including security at airports and ports, in case of increased flows of Syrian refugees and potential threats to Cyprus. The Government clarified that the meeting was not out of concern but to evaluate data and exchange opinions on the situation. There is no differentiation in security measures, and the Government’s main goal is to prevent escalation in the region. President Christodoulides’ invitation to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to visit Lebanon is still under discussion.

Israeli defence minister says a direct Iranian attack would require appropriate response

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Israeli defence minister says a direct Iranian attack would require appropriate response

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant stated that Israel would respond directly to any attack by Iran. The United States has expressed its commitment to Israel’s security against threats from Iran and its proxies. The U.S. also expects an attack by Iran against Israel, but one that would not lead to war. Army General Michael “Erik” Kurilla is visiting Israel to discuss current security threats. The White House has warned Iran not to escalate further in the region following an air strike against an Iranian military commander in Damascus.