RECAP: Update at 9:30 pm on the 59th day of conflict
– Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed that the dual threat of rockets and drones from the pro-Iranian Hezbollah necessitated continued military action in Lebanon. The Israeli army announced strikes on positions of the pro-Iranian Hezbollah movement in the Lebanese region of Bekaa.
– Emmanuel Macron promised to exchange with Iranian authorities to “treat the problem” of rising fuel prices “at its root” and attempt to secure the reopening of the Straight of Hormuz. Iran believed that its army should have authority over the Strait of Hormuz, following a proposed bill.
– Vladimir Putin assured the Iranian foreign minister that Russia would do “everything” to help restore peace in the Middle East during a meeting between the two in St. Petersburg.
8:22 PM – 2026 could be another year of combat for Israel
The Chief of Staff of the Israeli army, Eyal Zamir, stated that 2026 “could still be a year of combat” on all fronts, according to a military communique.
“Since October 7th, 2023, the army has been engaged in continuous campaigns on several fronts. We remain ready and alert to the possibility of intense fighting across all fronts. The year 2026 could still be a year of combat on each of them,” said Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir during a meeting with officers.
