Jerusalem, Israel. Israel has halted strikes on Iran at the request of US President Donald Trump, a senior Israeli official told Channel 12 on Monday. The official also warned that Israel would strike Beirut’s southern suburbs if Hezbollah attacks on Israeli towns continue.
Israeli warning on Lebanon
The senior Israeli official said Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon would continue at full strength in the coming days. The official added that if Hezbollah attacks on Israeli towns persist, Israel will target the southern suburbs of Beirut.
Renewed exchanges between Israel and Iran
The announcement followed exchanges of missile fire between Israel and Iran in what was described as the worst escalation since a ceasefire took effect about two months ago. In the early hours of Monday, Israel struck Iranian air defences that were being restored after earlier fighting, with dozens of warplanes participating in the operation, according to Israel’s military.
Iran says operations have concluded
Iran had fired missiles at Israel for the first time in two months. Iran’s military later said it had concluded its operations, while warning that its response would be more severe if hostilities continue.
Trump comments on ceasefire and blockade
Trump said both sides want an immediate ceasefire, but warned that the US blockade of Iranian ports would remain in place until a final deal is reached.
Missile fire from Yemen
Yemen’s Houthi rebels also fired missiles at Israel, triggering sirens in the Tel Aviv area.