Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has renewed calls for harsh retaliation against Lebanon, demanding the destruction of buildings in Beirut’s Dahiyeh district after any rocket fire from Lebanese territory. His remarks come amid rising regional tensions and ongoing indirect diplomatic efforts involving the United States and Iran.
Smotrich said that every rocket or drone attack from Lebanon should be met with the destruction of ten buildings in the Hezbollah stronghold. He urged immediate action, linking his statement to broader regional negotiations involving Iran and US-backed mediation efforts. The comments intensified concerns over potential escalation on Israel’s northern front.
Meanwhile, Israeli military officials reported rocket fire from Lebanon and said sirens were activated in northern communities. The army claimed the rockets targeted forces operating in southern Lebanon but said no casualties were reported. Israeli media also reported a drone crossing from Lebanon that triggered further alerts.
In parallel diplomatic developments, Qatar sent a delegation to Tehran to support ongoing US-Iran negotiations. Iranian and Qatari officials reportedly discussed the status of talks, though no details were disclosed. Several Gulf states, including Qatar and Kuwait, have expressed support for a negotiated settlement to reduce regional tensions.
Separately, Iranian banking services were disrupted after a cyberattack targeted infrastructure used by major banks, though officials said customer data remained safe. Iranian leaders also continued to emphasize national resilience, while regional diplomacy efforts involving the United States, Pakistan, and other mediators continue to advance amid uncertainty over a final agreement.