After dropping their demand for a ceasefire before the current round of negotiations, the terrorist organization Hamas is reversing its position and now insists on a full ceasefire as a condition for a prisoner exchange deal.

Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar is actively involved in the ceasefire negotiations. For this purpose, a special mechanism has been established to ensure continuous communication with him.

While negotiations for a deal with Hamas continue, Qatar's Prime Minister is considering a visit to Iran—an action that could benefit Hamas and Sinwar.

Arab state mediators have stated that Hamas leader Yehya Sinwar is not interested in continuing the talks and views them as a "bluff," intending to use them as a way to buy time for Israel to continue its military operations.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog met this morning with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is visiting Israel. Herzog thanked Blinken for his support of Israel and told him: "I must say that we feel you are part of our nation, as you come again and again, showing such friendship and support for Israel, and we are indeed grateful for that."

U.S. officials express cautious optimism but acknowledge challenges ahead.

While avoiding the country for fear of an Iranian attack, Secretary of State Anthony Blinken approved an arms deal for Israel including F-15 planes and tank shells.

The Secretary of State had originally planned a visit to countries in the region but postponed it due to uncertainty as to the timing of the Iran attack.

The White House called on Hamas Monday evening to send negotiators to the summit scheduled for Thursday. The summit, initiated by the US and other mediators, aims to advance talks on a cease-fire and hostage deal, with the goal of ending the conflict in Gaza and easing regional tensions, especially in light of threats from Iran and Hezbollah.

Israel races to upgrade its air defenses as Iran's threat looms larger than ever. With the Iron Dome no longer sufficient, a new multi-layered shield developed in co-ordination with the U.S. faces its ultimate test.

In the U.S., reports indicate that the White House's efforts to prevent escalation and persuade Iran to respond moderately to the assassination of Haniyeh might succeed. Tehran has understood that the assassination was carried out with a pre-planted explosive device, and this information could influence the nature of their response.

Tensions rise as Iran takes unprecedented measures, shrouding its motives in mystery. With airspace closures for military drills and sudden government shutdowns, the world watches warily, waiting for its promised retaliation.

The Washington Post reports this evening that U.S. officials estimate that the anticipated retaliatory attack against Israel by its adversaries could occur in the "immediate timeframe."

Uncertainty looms as U.S. officials struggle to pinpoint Iran's next move.

In a high-stakes G7 conference call, Secretary of State Antony Blinken revealed intelligence suggesting Iran and Hezbollah could launch retaliatory strikes against Israel as early as Monday, potentially igniting a broader regional conflict. 

The substantial US naval presence serves as both a deterrent and a readiness measure, signaling Washington's commitment to regional stability while preparing for potential further escalation.

In this powder keg moment, Pezeshkian's brand new administration faces a baptism by fire:  A direct attack could prompt a devastating Israeli response, while proxy warfare might not satisfy domestic calls for revenge. Pursuing nuclear weapons would likely lead to increased international sanctions and potential military intervention.

Venezuela's incumbent leader Nicolás Maduro has declared victory in a contentious presidential election, sparking immediate skepticism both within the country and internationally. Footage (included below) shows police forcefully arresting opposition voters.

Yesterday's horrific rocket attack on Majdal Shams leaves Israel poised for retaliation– Hezbollah braces for impact as international community urges restraint.