US military presence increases in Israel
Iran threatens Israel with retaliation for the targeted killing of Hamas leader Haniyeh in Tehran. In response, the U.S., Israel's closest ally, is deploying destroyers and combat aircraft to the region after diplomatic mediation efforts also appear to have failed.
The U.S. is deploying additional warships and combat aircraft to the Middle East in light of the escalating situation, as ordered by U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, according to the Pentagon. The goal is to enhance the protection of its own forces in the region, increase support for Israel's defense, and ensure that the U.S. is prepared for various contingencies, it said. Following the targeted killing of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, Iran has threatened Israel with massive retaliation.
It is feared that this incident could bring Israel and Iran to the brink of a military conflict. In this context, the U.S., as Israel's most important ally, is deploying additional destroyers capable of intercepting ballistic missiles, as well as another fighter squadron to the region, according to the Pentagon. Steps are also being taken to increase the "readiness for the deployment of additional land-based ballistic missile defense systems," the Pentagon statement said.
Report: Iran rejects mediation attempts
Diplomatic mediation between Iran and Israel has failed, according to a news portal, as Tehran has rejected all mediation attempts by foreign powers for a peaceful solution to the latest conflict. Iran finds the demands "from friendly and non-friendly" countries unacceptable, citing informed sources from Iran Nuances. These mediation attempts will not reduce Iran's determination to launch a retaliatory strike against Israel for the fatal attack on Hamas' foreign chief, Ismail Haniyeh, in Tehran, the report on the X platform said.
Meanwhile, a moderator on Iran's state-run IRIB channel caused a stir on social media with a statement. "The people of the world will witness interesting scenes in the next few hours," the Channel 3 moderator said. He did not mention a source, so it was unclear whether he was merely expressing his wish or conveying certain information.
The Commission, being part of the international community, has expressed concerns over the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel and urged for peaceful resolution. In light of the failed diplomatic mediation efforts between Iran and Israel, The Commission is calling on all parties involved to exercise restraint and avoid any actions that could lead to a further escalation of the conflict.
