A new flashpoint is forming in the Middle East. Israel has warned about Turkish military expansion in Syria, calling it a direct threat to its security. Officials say Ankara is building a bigger presence near Israel’s northern border, raising fears of a potential confrontation. Syria, already devastated by years of war, is now caught between two regional powers. Analysts say this could open a new battlefront. 


Israel threatens response if Turkey builds Syria bases

Israel warns of Turkish military expansion in Syria

Israel just announced a major shift in how it protects itself. Prime Minister Netanyahu says Israel’s security now "begins beyond its borders",  vowing to establish buffer zones inside Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza. The move signals a rewrite of Israel’s security doctrine, moving from reactive defense to proactive occupation of border areas. 


Netanyahu says Israel's security begins beyond its borders

A significant step toward de-escalation in the Middle East is underway. Following weeks of diplomatic efforts, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are set to begin a phased, gradual withdrawal from designated "pilot zones" in southern Lebanon. This move, part of a U.S.-brokered framework agreement, will see the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) take over security responsibilities in these cleared areas.


Israeli withdrawal plan to move ahead under US oversight 

As tensions between Washington and Tehran hit a fever pitch, a new report suggests Israel has shared intelligence with the U.S. regarding an alleged Iranian plot to assassinate President Donald Trump. While President Trump has publicly acknowledged the threat, some U.S. officials are questioning the timing and intent behind this intelligence. Is this a genuine security warning, or a strategic effort by Israel to sway U.S. military action against Iran?


Did Israel use kill- plot intel to convince Trump to attack Iran? 

The United States will oversee Israel's phased withdrawal from 'pilot zones' in southern Lebanon under a June 26 framework agreement. Fresh US-mediated talks between Israel and Lebanon are expected next week as efforts continue to stabilize the border and implement the deal.

US to guide Israeli withdrawl from Lebanon

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz on Thursday rejected US President Donald Trump's claim that Israel will withdraw its troops from Southern Lebanon, saying that it would remain in Lebanon as long as required. Katz said that Israel has the "privilege and right" to protect its citizens from Hezbollah, and the IDF forces will remain within Lebanon until the disarmament of Hezbollah."We did not ask anyone's permission to enter Lebanon, and we do not need permission to stay in Lebanon," said Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz. "As Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and I have clarified, we will continue to stay in the security zone in Lebanon and to act from it as needed, until Hezbollah is disarmed in all of Lebanon and the threat to the residents of the north is removed." &nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fbi-investigates-argentina-football-association-money-laundering-1783590578801">Argentina Football Association under FBI probe for suspected money laundering</a>The statement comes in response to Trump's response to a question at the sidelines of the NATO summit about Israel and Lebanon getting along. He said that Israel is planning to withdraw from Lebanon, as he understood following his discussion with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu."Yeah, I think they're going to. I think they want to". He further stated that Israel and Lebanon were "getting along" and signing "deals".The friction between Trump and Netanyahu about the ongoing Israeli operation in Lebanon has been public for some time now. Trump has previously said that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu listens to him. He told Axios that Israel "does as he says," despite indicating otherwise. Israel continued its attack in Lebanon even after reservations from US President Donald Trump. He openly discarded the peace plan outlined by the Gaza Board of Peace, and pushed that no reconstruction will take place in the enclave before it is entirely demilitarised.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz rejected Donald Trump's claim that Israel would withdraw from southern Lebanon, saying IDF troops will remain until Hezbollah is disarmed.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz on Thursday rejected US President Donald Trump's claim that Israel will withdraw its troops from Southern Lebanon, saying that it would remain in Lebanon as long as required. Katz said that Israel has the "privilege and right" to protect its citizens from Hezbollah, and the IDF forces will remain within Lebanon until the disarmament of Hezbollah. "We did not ask anyone's permission to enter Lebanon, and we do not need permission to stay in Lebanon," said Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz. "As Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and I have clarified, we will continue to stay in the security zone in Lebanon and to act from it as needed, until Hezbollah is disarmed in all of Lebanon and the threat to the residents of the north is removed." Also Read: Argentina Football Association under FBI probe for suspected money laundering The statement comes in response to Trump's response to a question at the sidelines of the NATO summit about Israel and Lebanon getting along. He said that Israel is planning to withdraw from Lebanon, as he understood following his discussion with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. "Yeah, I think they're going to. I think they want to". He further stated that Israel and Lebanon were "getting along" and signing "deals". The friction between Trump and Netanyahu about the ongoing Israeli operation in Lebanon has been public for some time now. Trump has previously said that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu listens to him. He told Axios that Israel "does as he says," despite indicating otherwise. Israel continued its attack in Lebanon even after reservations from US President Donald Trump. He openly discarded the peace plan outlined by the Gaza Board of Peace, and pushed that no reconstruction will take place in the enclave before it is entirely demilitarised.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz rejected Donald Trump's claim that Israel would withdraw from southern Lebanon, saying IDF troops will remain until Hezbollah is disarmed.

Israel rejects Trump's Lebanon withdrawal claim, says troops will stay until Hezbollah is disarmed

Israel carried out a fresh wave of airstrikes across Gaza as the conflict entered another phase of escalation. The strikes targeted multiple locations, while local authorities reported casualties and damage. The latest developments come amid ongoing military operations and growing international calls for de-escalation.

Israel-Gaza war: Israel carries out airstrikes across Gaza

Iranian state media reports that 8 IRGC members were killed in US strikes on Bandar Abbas and Bushehr. The attacks mark a major escalation in the Gulf, targeting key military and port facilities in southern Iran. Tehran confirmed the casualties hours after the strikes. No official US statement yet. The region is on high alert as tensions between Washington and Tehran spike to their highest level in months.


Breaking: Iran State Media claims IRGC members killed in Bandar Abbas, Bushehr strikes 

The fragile U.S.-Iran ceasefire is facing its biggest test yet. After attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, the United States launched strikes on more than 80 targets linked to Iran's military infrastructure. President Donald Trump amplified support for the operation on social media, while Tehran warned of consequences and accused Washington of violating the post-war understanding. With shipping risks now rated severe, oil markets, global trade routes and regional security are once again under intense pressure as fears of a broader escalation grow.


US-Iran war: US targets Iran amid Khamenei's funeral, Trump vows to strike Iran

Israeli PM Netanyahu has urged the United States not to approve the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Türkiye, arguing the move could alter the regional military balance. His appeal comes as reports suggest the Trump administration is considering restoring Turkiye's access to the F-35 program ahead of the NATO Summit.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu urges US to block F-35 sale to Turkiye

A new study warns that organised crime is deepening Israel’s cost-of-living crisis. Researchers estimate crime costs the country 23 billion shekels annually, adding about 8,000 shekels to every household’s yearly expenses. Extortion alone makes up 5% of construction costs, pushing prices higher across the economy. With criminal networks tightening their grip, experts say the impact is now being felt in housing, business, and daily life, compounding pressure on families already struggling with rising costs.


Israel's organised crime nexus compounds cost-of-living crisis

A massive crowd gathered at the funeral of Iran’s Supreme Leader, with mourners waving red flags symbolising vengeance and resistance. The emotional scenes reflected deep national sentiment amid heightened political tensions. Security was significantly tightened as officials managed large-scale participation in the ceremony. The event has drawn global attention given its symbolic and political significance.


Khamenei funeral: After Khamenei's funeral, will the Middle East return to war?

Israel faces organised crime crisis: Crime costs economy 23 billion Shekels a year

Israel's cabinet has voted to reject a Supreme Court ruling on the country's broadcast regulator, marking the first time Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government has openly defied the nation's top court. The move has intensified the long-running battle over judicial powers, with opposition leaders warning of a potential constitutional crisis.

Israel cabinet threatens to defy Supreme Court ruling on broadcast regulator

Israel has launched fresh airstrikes in Lebanon, further escalating tensions along the Israel–Lebanon border. The strikes reportedly targeted areas linked to militant activity, amid ongoing cross-border clashes. Lebanese authorities have condemned the attacks, warning of worsening regional instability. The situation remains highly volatile as international calls for restraint continue.

Israel launches fresh strikes in Lebanon

1,000 days of conflict: As the world marks a grim milestone in the Israel-Gaza war, the path to peace remains stalled in a fragile, broken reality.  Despite a ceasefire agreement that took effect in October 2025, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached a breaking point. With Israel now exercising control over approximately 70% of the Gaza Strip, the civilian population is being compressed into increasingly narrow, insecure enclaves. As reconstruction remains at a standstill and aid access faces severe restrictions, the promise of a "post-war recovery" under the U.S.-led Board of Peace remains largely unfulfilled.  


Israel Expands Control Across Gaza & West Bank, Gaza Struggles to Recover From War

One thousand days after the October 7, 2023 attack, families of victims gathered to remember their loved ones and renew calls for an independent inquiry into the events surrounding the tragedy. The attack, which claimed 1,195 lives, remains one of the most consequential moments in the region's recent history.


Families of victims mark 1000 days, demand independent inquiry 

Israel is setting its sights on the next frontier of warfare -- space. Defense Minister Israel Katz has announced plans to develop offensive laser capabilities in space, saying the country aims to become a global leader in advanced space-based military technology. The announcement comes as Israel continues to prepare for the possibility of renewed conflict with Iran.

Israel eyes 'space lasers' as next military frontier

Afghan authorities say a deadly strike has killed ISIS fighters during a counterterrorism operation. Officials claim the operation targeted militants linked to the Islamic State's regional affiliate.

Pak Strikes Afghanistan: Afghanistan claims ISIS fighters killed in deadly strike

West Asia is once again sliding into extreme volatility as tensions between Israel and Iran reach a critical point.

Israel’s Defence Minister has warned that military action against Iran could be imminent, even “tomorrow,” as Tehran issues its own threats and signals readiness for escalation. At the same time, diplomatic efforts continue, with reports suggesting U.S. President Donald Trump is pushing for renewed talks with Tehran.

In a major intelligence twist, a leaked report claims Trump vetoed a covert Mossad operation targeting Iran: adding another layer of complexity to an already fragile geopolitical situation. We break down the escalating crisis and what it means for global stability.

Israel: War could start tomorrow | Iran warns of furious retaliation 

Conflicting statements from Washington and Tehran have added fresh uncertainty to efforts aimed at easing tensions between the United States and Iran. U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that Iran had requested a meeting in Doha, raising hopes of renewed diplomatic engagement. However, Iranian officials quickly denied that any talks were scheduled, rejecting reports of planned negotiations.


US-Iran talks: US says both sides will stand down as ceasefire remains under strain 

Breaking: Trump says talks are on, Iran says no meeting planned

A new diplomatic push may be underway as reports suggest Iran and the United States have agreed to halt strikes and resume technical discussions. Talks expected later this week could focus on the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route. While Iran has warned vessels against bypassing designated transit paths and previously cancelled technical talks following attacks, both sides now appear to be exploring a path toward de-escalation. The coming days could prove crucial for regional stability and global energy markets.


US-Iran peace talks: US envoy warns Iran, 'Trump's patience isn't going to last forever' 

A historic U.S.-brokered Israel-Lebanon agreement aims to curb Hezbollah and Iran's influence -- but the deal has already sparked fierce backlash. Is this the start of lasting peace, or could it push Lebanon toward another civil war?

Israel-Lebanon Deal: Why did Israel & Lebanon suddenly make peace?

Israeli strikes reportedly hit southern Lebanon, leaving at least two people injured, according to initial reports.
The latest attack comes amid continued cross-border tensions between Israel and armed groups in the region.


Israel Strikes Lebanon: Israeli strikes injure Two in south Lebanon 

Just days after Israel and Lebanon agreed to a US-backed peace framework, Israel says it destroyed a large Hezbollah weapons tunnel in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah has condemned the strike and warned that it could respond, raising questions over whether the ceasefire will hold.


Israel blows up Hezbollah tunnel, ceasefire comes under strain

Israel's Cabinet has unanimously approved a proposal to recognize the mass killings of Armenians during World War I as a genocide. The move, which still requires parliamentary approval, comes amid worsening ties with Turkey, which has long opposed international recognition of the events.

Why Israel is recognizing the Armenian genocide now

Facing a narrowing path to victory in the upcoming October general elections, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made a dramatic pivot, calling for a "broad national government." In a televised address, the Prime Minister moved to distance his potential future coalition from the far-right and ultra-Orthodox factions that have anchored his current administration, signaling an end to ideological "boycotts."


Netanyahu appeals for unity coalition as public support falls 

A direct military war between Israel and Turkey is highly unlikely, despite a severe deterioration in relations and increasingly heated rhetoric from Ankara. Rather than conventional warfare, the escalating rift is manifesting through diplomatic severances, strategic posturing, and proxy friction.


Ankara Hardens Stance on Israel; Is Israel-Turkiye War Next?

At a time when the Indian Government extended its unconditional support to Israel, as it continues to massacre innocent civilians in Gaza, Indian retired justice Srinivasan Muralidhar is making headlines globally as Chair of the United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel, for its latest report on war crimes. The report submitted shocking yet widely known findings that Israel is deliberately targeting children and causing “unprecedented death, injury and trauma” in its ongoing genocide against Palestinians. The report concluded that 20,179 children were killed since the war started on October 7, 2023 and roughly 30 per cent of all fatalities. It targets children to weaken demographic vitality and the capacity of the Palestinian people to exercise their right to self-determination. The Israeli Foreign Ministry called the report “a propaganda piece as outrageous as its previous ones,” while the Israeli ambassador to the UN called it a “blood libel disguised as a UN document."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-democrats-godless-communists-greatest-communist-speech-1782550081489">Trump calls Democrats 'godless communists', claims he would be 'the greatest communist in history'</a><h2>Who is Srinivasan Muralidhar?</h2>Srinivasan Muralidhar is widely regarded as one of the uncompromising jurists of India. He is currently the chair of the three-member UN human rights commission investigating war crimes. He started his legal career as an advocate in Chennai, then practised in the Delhi High Court and Supreme Court. He topped the Supreme Court Advocate-on-Record exam in 1990 and was also appointed as a member of the Law Commission of India. He was then appointed as a judge of the Delhi Court.&nbsp;In his career as a Justice, he has taken some unprecedented decisions, like decriminalising homosexuality, convicting senior politician Sajjan Kumar for the Anti-Sikh Riots, and conducting a midnight hearing during the 2020 Delhi Riots to allow safe passage for the riot victims, and the next afternoon rebuked the Delhi Police for its failure to take action against ruling party leaders. He was then transferred within an hour to the Punjab and Haryana High Court, and later retired as Chief Justice of the Orissa High Court. He brought that same judicious rigour to the UN Commission. The report produced by S Muralidhar and his team does not engage in euphemisms and calls the atrocities a “genocide”. It described the situation by quoting Israeli soldiers who said it was "‘like a game’- sitting remotely and killing children."&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Israeli forces have killed over 20,000 children &amp; injured 44,000 more since 7 Oct. 2023, Srinivasan Muralidhar, chair of the <a href="https://x.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory &amp; Israel, told reporters today. <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/HRC62?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HRC62</a> More on their new report ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/gK2KhtlgFb">https://t.co/gK2KhtlgFb</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZQGUQkJKxD">pic.twitter.com/ZQGUQkJKxD</a>&mdash; UN Human Rights Council Investigative Bodies (@uninvhrc) <a href="https://x.com/uninvhrc/status/2069467663227609595?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">&quot;A breast feeding baby was shot by a quad copter through the head&quot; Yesterday the UN commission of inquiry published a report detailing how Israel deliberately targets &amp; kills Palestinian children. The IHRA definition would find this commissioner “guilty of antisemitism”. <a href="https://t.co/IjulrokmhE">pic.twitter.com/IjulrokmhE</a>&mdash; Ranjeet Brar (@Rango1917) <a href="https://x.com/Rango1917/status/2070423872344567990?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Former Chief Justice S. Muralidhar chairs the UN Commission whose latest report concluded that Israel committed genocide in Gaza. Here's his legal career and landmark judgments.

At a time when the Indian Government extended its unconditional support to Israel, as it continues to massacre innocent civilians in Gaza, Indian retired justice Srinivasan Muralidhar is making headlines globally as Chair of the United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel, for its latest report on war crimes. The report submitted shocking yet widely known findings that Israel is deliberately targeting children and causing “unprecedented death, injury and trauma” in its ongoing genocide against Palestinians. The report concluded that 20,179 children were killed since the war started on October 7, 2023 and roughly 30 per cent of all fatalities. It targets children to weaken demographic vitality and the capacity of the Palestinian people to exercise their right to self-determination. The Israeli Foreign Ministry called the report “a propaganda piece as outrageous as its previous ones,” while the Israeli ambassador to the UN called it a “blood libel disguised as a UN document." Also Read: Trump calls Democrats 'godless communists', claims he would be 'the greatest communist in history' Who is Srinivasan Muralidhar? Srinivasan Muralidhar is widely regarded as one of the uncompromising jurists of India. He is currently the chair of the three-member UN human rights commission investigating war crimes. He started his legal career as an advocate in Chennai, then practised in the Delhi High Court and Supreme Court. He topped the Supreme Court Advocate-on-Record exam in 1990 and was also appointed as a member of the Law Commission of India. He was then appointed as a judge of the Delhi Court. In his career as a Justice, he has taken some unprecedented decisions, like decriminalising homosexuality, convicting senior politician Sajjan Kumar for the Anti-Sikh Riots, and conducting a midnight hearing during the 2020 Delhi Riots to allow safe passage for the riot victims, and the next afternoon rebuked the Delhi Police for its failure to take action against ruling party leaders. He was then transferred within an hour to the Punjab and Haryana High Court, and later retired as Chief Justice of the Orissa High Court. He brought that same judicious rigour to the UN Commission. The report produced by S Muralidhar and his team does not engage in euphemisms and calls the atrocities a “genocide”. It described the situation by quoting Israeli soldiers who said it was "‘like a game’- sitting remotely and killing children."

Former Chief Justice S. Muralidhar chairs the UN Commission whose latest report concluded that Israel committed genocide in Gaza. Here's his legal career and landmark judgments..

Who is Justice S Muralidhar? Indian jurist behind the UN report concluding Israel committed genocide in Gaza

israel

Israel, News on Israel, stories on Israel, articles on Israel, Israel stories at Wion, Israel news, Israel latest news