Israel seizes strategic castle in deepest Lebanon incursion in 26 years
Israeli forces have seized the strategic Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon, marking the deepest military incursion into the country in 26 years. The operation, ordered by Prime Minister Netanyahu, expands Israel's ground offensive against Hezbollah positions. The medieval Crusader-era castle holds significant symbolic and strategic value in the region. International observers are closely monitoring the escalation as tensions along the border continue to rise.
Former President Trump has sent back the Iran deal text with modifications that tighten the terms, according to US media reports. The changes are seen as a strategy to pressure Iran into accepting the current framework more quickly. Officials suggest the move could accelerate negotiations by raising the stakes for Tehran. Iran's response to the revised terms remains unclear as diplomatic channels remain active.
The United States and Iran are moving toward a new truce as diplomatic efforts to end the conflict take shape. A US-Iran memo outlining potential terms for ending the war is being closely watched. Meanwhile, the US military struck a commercial ship attempting to breach a naval blockade and reach Iran. China Daily reports both sides are slowly inching toward a ceasefire arrangement despite ongoing hostilities.
China is positioning abundant cheap energy as a strategic advantage in the artificial intelligence race against the United States, with analysts noting energy costs as a critical factor in AI infrastructure development. Meanwhile, Beijing has vowed to take countermeasures against any new EU trade restrictions targeting Chinese goods. At a recent UN meeting, China also proposed reforms on AI governance and global governance structures.