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Israeli strikes targeted southern suburbs of Beirut, Lebanon as Israel's deadline for Iranian officials to leave the country expired. The Lebanese National News Agency reported strikes in Ghobeiry and Haret Hreik with no immediate casualties. Israeli forces issued forced displacement orders for suburbs linked to Hezbollah, warning of imminent strikes. Hezbollah engaged in armed confrontations with Israeli troops in southern Lebanon as Israeli ground forces pushed deeper into the country. Southern Lebanon and northern Israel were bombarded, resulting in casualties and displacement. Israeli forces also targeted a refugee camp in northern Lebanon, killing at least two people. The situation remains tense as the conflict escalates in the region. Want More Context? 🔎

Thousands of Chinese officials have gathered in Beijing for the National People’s Congress, where a 4.5 to 5 percent GDP growth target for 2026 was approved. Facing an economic slowdown, China aims to shift towards quality over quantity, focusing on household income growth and public services access. The country also plans to expand defense spending, transition to a consumption-driven economy, and address social and environmental issues like population decline and carbon emissions. The NPC and CPPCC meetings are known as the "Two Sessions", culminating in the release of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan outlining mid-term development targets for 2026 to 2030. Want More Context? 🔎

Turkiye's Defence Ministry announced that a ballistic missile fired from Iran towards Turkish airspace was destroyed by NATO air and missile defence systems over the eastern Mediterranean. Iran's Armed Forces denied firing any missile towards Turkiye, stating they respect Turkiye's sovereignty. President Erdogan emphasized the importance of increasing deterrent capabilities to ensure peace and security. NATO condemned Iran's actions and reiterated its support for Turkiye. Want More Context? 🔎

Israel's military seizes areas of southern Lebanon and carries out bombings amidst escalating conflict with Iran-backed armed group Hezbollah in Beirut. Want More Context? 🔎

Intense US-Israeli bombardment struck multiple locations in Iran, including Sanandaj and Tehran, sending flames and smoke into the night sky. The strikes targeted a media center in Sanandaj and various areas in the capital, causing widespread destruction. Want More Context? 🔎

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised the launch of sea-to-surface "strategic cruise missiles" from a new 5,000-tonne naval destroyer, describing it as a key capability for defending his country's maritime sovereignty. Kim also emphasized progress in arming the navy with nuclear weapons during his visit to the Nampo Shipyard. The missile tests come after Kim pledged to boost living standards and economic construction at a rare congress of the Workers' Party. North Korea has prioritized military strength and nuclear weapons development under Kim's leadership since 2011. Want More Context? 🔎

Canadian Prime Minister Carney stated that Canada may potentially participate in the escalating conflict in the Middle East, despite earlier criticizing the US-Israeli attacks on Iran as being against international law. Carney emphasized standing by allies and defending Canadians, while also expressing regret over the rupturing world order caused by the strikes. Canada was not informed in advance of the attacks and is working to assist Canadians seeking to leave the region amidst the ongoing war, with efforts including chartering flights out of the UAE. Want More Context? 🔎

After the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli strike, Iran faces a transition, prompting questions about who will calm the domestic arena. Former president Hassan Rouhani, known for his moderation and nuclear deal negotiation, emerges as a key figure to rebalance power. Rouhani's pragmatic approach and political background make him a significant player in Iran's post-revolution political landscape, focusing on balancing the Republic and Islamic ideals within the system. Want More Context? 🔎

The Assembly of Experts in Iran is currently responsible for selecting the next Supreme Leader, a position held by Ayatollah Ali Khamenei since 1989. Want More Context? 🔎

Senate Republicans, with one Democrat, rejected a war powers resolution aimed at stopping President Trump's conflict with Iran. This marks Congress' first vote on the escalating situation in the Middle East. Want More Context? 🔎