Iran war latest: Trump says invading Iran would be ‘waste of time’ – as Israel hits Beirut with strikes
Iran Conflict Update: Trump’s Assessment of Invasion and Israel’s Strikes on Beirut
As the conflict enters its second week, the US maintains that the war is “only just begun,” but former President Donald Trump dismisses a potential ground assault on Iran as a “waste of time.” Meanwhile, Israeli forces continue targeting both Tehran and Beirut, escalating tensions in the region. Stay tuned for the most recent developments.
Hezbollah’s Warning to Israeli Residents
Following intensified clashes between Israel and Hezbollah, the Lebanese militant group issued a dire alert. According to Iranian state media, Hezbollah warned northern settlements: “You are required to evacuate all areas within 5km of the border line.” The statement emphasized that the ongoing attacks would not go unchallenged, urging residents to “head south” as a precaution.
“The aggression of your army against Lebanese sovereignty and civilians, the destruction of civilian infrastructure, and the campaign of displacement it is carrying out will not go unanswered. Head south,”
the group added, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Israeli Strikes on Beirut’s Southern Suburbs
Israel’s military reported launching multiple attacks on Beirut’s southern neighborhoods late Thursday. The strikes targeted Hezbollah command centers and multi-story buildings, classified as “terror sites.” Additionally, a large-scale assault included the destruction of an “executive council’s command centre” and a drone storage facility linked to the group.
The IDF claimed precautions were taken to reduce civilian casualties, such as issuing advance warnings and utilizing precision munitions. These actions aim to minimize harm while striking key Hezbollah positions.
Drone Activity Over Saudi Airspace
Saudi defense officials noted that several drones and missiles were intercepted in the country’s skies. A single drone was detected northeast of Riyadh, while three others were neutralized east of the city. In another incident, a cruise missile and a drone were downed near the Al-Kharj region. Three ballistic missiles aimed at Prince Sultan Air Base were also successfully intercepted.
Despite these measures, a drone managed to slip through defenses on Sunday, flying low over the sea. It struck a hangar typically used for American U2 spy planes, causing damage.
RAF Akrotiri and the Defense Secretary’s Response
At RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, air raid sirens blared twice on Thursday afternoon, prompting personnel to take cover. The base’s warning system, described as less advanced than its Israeli counterparts, triggered alarms out of caution. The British defense secretary, visiting the site, was escorted into a windowless room just before joining a COBRA meeting.
According to reports, the Royal Navy only presented the option to deploy a destroyer to the secretary on Tuesday, despite prior considerations. This delayed response left the Cypriot government and its population vulnerable to potential attacks.
EU’s Role in the Middle East
European Union nations, though lacking direct influence in the Middle East, have been compelled by US pressure to take a firm position on the conflict. This has led to tensions, particularly with Spain clashing over strategic decisions. EU leaders have once again provided commentary from the sidelines, with some nations preparing defensive measures to safeguard their border regions.
Meanwhile, Trump expressed disappointment in Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, questioning whether the leader had fallen short of his international reputation. However, others argue that Starmer prioritized Britain’s interests by resisting Trump’s demands. This moment is being analyzed by Beth, Ruth, and Harriet in the latest episode of “Electoral Dysfunction,” highlighting its significance in shaping global perceptions.
