Gaza death toll passes 53,800 as Israel kills 60 more Palestinians – Middle East Monitor

Since the US deployed the 30,000-pound MOAB ("Mother of All Bombs") in Afghanistan in 2017, it has been evident that Washington possesses superior capabilities for potentially destroying Iran's Fordow facility, a capability that Israel lacks. This highlights a significant disparity in military options between the two nations regarding strategic targets. More Context

The Israel Defense Forces conducted multiple airstrikes in Iran early Saturday, primarily targeting Tehran, including areas near Mehrabad International Airport and the residential district housing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s residence and the presidential compound, as reported by Iranian state outlets. Explosions were noted in these locations amidst the ongoing conflict. More Context

On PBS NewsHour, Leiter emphasized that Iran's nuclear program represents an “existential threat,” referencing a critical International Atomic Energy Agency report and indicating that Tehran is rapidly advancing toward weaponization. He maintained that regime change is up to Iranians, while Israel aims to dismantle enrichment facilities at Natanz and Fordow to compel Iran into negotiations. More Context

A senior US defense official stated that Israel effectively utilized Hellfires and laser-guided munitions in targeted strikes against senior Revolutionary Guard officers and nuclear scientists in Iran, employing over 100 aircraft. These munitions were part of a US $7.4 billion arms package approved by Congress, allowing for their transfer without new notification. More Context

The Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, criticized the US for undermining dialogue by allowing Israel to conduct operations against Iran, stating that such actions render negotiations pointless. He emphasized that claiming to negotiate while enabling military aggression contradicts the principles of diplomacy. More Context

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot affirmed France's commitment to recognizing the state of Palestine, emphasizing the need for a viable Palestinian state and strong security guarantees for both Israelis and Palestinians. He called for international mobilization toward peace, highlighting the urgency of a ceasefire and humanitarian aid amidst escalating tensions and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. More Context