Iran war latest: Trump says invading would be ‘waste of time’ – and he has ‘people’ in mind for new leader
Iran Conflict Developments: Trump’s Stance and Israeli Strikes
With the war entering its first week, the United States has declared it “only just begun,” yet former President Donald Trump insists a ground invasion would be a “waste of time.” At the same time, Israel has intensified its attacks, targeting both Tehran and Beirut. Stay updated with the latest news.
Hezbollah Issues Evacuation Alert
Following sustained clashes between Israel and Hezbollah, the armed group has issued a warning to northern settlements. According to Iranian state media, Hezbollah urged residents to vacate areas within 5 kilometers of the Lebanese border, stating that the military’s actions against the country’s sovereignty would not remain unchallenged.
“Warning to the residents of the northern settlements: You are required to evacuate all settlements located 5km of the border line.”
The statement continued: “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.”
Israel’s Strikes on Beirut
During its operation in Lebanon, Israeli forces reported launching 26 coordinated air raids on Beirut’s Dahieh district. These strikes targeted Hezbollah command centers and multi-story buildings, which were labeled as “terror sites” by the military. The air force, operating under IDF intelligence guidance, also hit an “executive council’s command centre” and a facility holding Hezbollah’s drones.
Officials claimed precautions were taken to reduce civilian casualties, including advance warnings and precision munitions. Despite these measures, the conflict has escalated, with new footage capturing the aftermath of Israeli attacks on Beirut’s urban areas.
Saudi Airspace and Drone Incidents
Saudi Arabia reported several aerial threats, including the interception of drones and a cruise missile. Defenses neutralized three drones east of Riyadh, while another was downed northeast of the capital. A cruise missile and a drone were also stopped east of Al-Kharj. Three ballistic missiles aimed at Prince Sultan Air Base were intercepted and destroyed.
RAF Akrotiri Alerts and Defense Response
At RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, two air raid sirens activated on Thursday afternoon. Personnel swiftly moved to shelter as soldiers donned body armor. The base’s early warning system, described as basic, triggered alarms out of caution rather than precision.
During the alert, the UK’s defense secretary was escorted to a windowless room moments before joining a COBRA meeting. The incident highlighted the urgency of the situation, with the decision to deploy a Royal Navy destroyer reportedly made late in the process.
EU’s Position Amid US Pressure
While EU nations hold limited sway in the Middle East, they have been compelled by U.S. demands to express opinions on the conflict. Tensions emerged between Spain and Washington, particularly over the region’s involvement. EU leaders continue to assess strategies to safeguard their borders and neighboring areas.
Trump’s Criticism of Starmer
Donald Trump expressed disappointment in Sir Keir Starmer, questioning whether the prime minister met expectations on the global stage. Some argue Starmer prioritized British interests by opposing Trump’s policies, while others debate if he fell short of his international reputation. This moment is now under scrutiny, as Beth, Ruth, and Harriet analyze Starmer’s response in their latest episode of Electoral Dysfunction.
