Israeli intelligence leader resigns following criticism over October 7 Hamas attacks; Israeli special forces dismantle Hezbollah missile facility in Syria.
Israeli intelligence commander Brigadier General Yossi Sariel has resigned after receiving criticism for not preventing the deadly October 7 Hamas attacks that killed 1,200 people and resulted in 250 hostages. His departure follows acknowledgements of responsibility from other top officials, including Shin Bet chief Ronan Bar and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Meanwhile, Israeli special forces have dismantled a Hezbollah missile production facility near Masyaf, Syria, in an operation that killed 18 and injured several dozen. This precision raid, noted as one of the most sophisticated in years, included airstrikes to neutralize Syrian defenses and aimed to prevent Iran from supplying precision missiles to Hezbollah.
Over in Russia, six British diplomats have been expelled on accusations of spying and endangering national security, fueling the already tense relations between Moscow and London. This action coincides with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's meeting with US President
Joe Biden to discuss easing restrictions on Ukraine's ability to target Russia.
Adding to the global tensions, North Korea has released rare photos of Kim Jong Un inspecting a uranium enrichment facility, showcasing the commitment to expanding their nuclear capabilities. This move has drawn strong condemnation from South Korea and highlights North Korea's irreversible nuclear ambitions amid ongoing support from Russia and China.
Back in the Middle East, the Israeli military has confirmed recent strikes targeting terrorists in southern Syria, following reports of deadly airstrikes in western Syria which killed 16 and injured dozens. These actions align with ongoing Israeli efforts to dismantle weapons manufacturing sites, particularly near the Syria-Lebanon border.
Finally, in Argentina, a strike by Aerolineas Argentinas pilots and crew has grounded over 30,000 passengers and canceled 319 flights, amid skyrocketing inflation. President Javier Milei is considering declaring the aviation sector an "essential service" to mitigate the impact of such strikes, as the country grapples with annual inflation rates soaring to 236%.