Israel escalates Lebanon and Gaza operations as Iran closes Hormuz Strait

Israel has intensified its military operations in southern Lebanon and Gaza, even as the US pushes for diplomatic solutions. Five IDF soldiers were killed in south Lebanon and laid to rest, while Israeli strikes in Lebanon have killed dozens, according to local officials. Defense Minister Israel Katz stated the army will not withdraw from occupied territory in southern Lebanon, and Netanyahu vowed to maintain an IDF presence there, complicating US-Iran truce talks.

In a separate escalation, Iran announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, citing Israeli attacks in Lebanon as a violation of a peace memorandum of understanding. The move threatens global oil shipping routes and adds a new dimension to regional tensions. The IDF also reported capturing a Hezbollah drone factory and launch site hidden inside a mountain in southern Lebanon.