Israel launched tanks in Deir el-Balah for the first time - what does this mean for the war in Gaza?

For the first time since the beginning of the war, Israeli tanks drove directly into the city of Deir el-Balah in the southern Gaza Strip. This is a serious signal: the ground operation has reached a new level. The Golani Brigade is behind this movement, one of the most experienced in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), and it is now actively conducting exercises and offensive operations in the area.

Before the infantry and armor moved forward, powerful airstrikes and artillery fire swept through the city. The classic scheme: first we "clear" the way from above, destroy fortifications, minefields and possible ambushes, and then we go ourselves. This way they reduce the risks for their soldiers, especially when they have to climb into the city — every house there can be a trap.

The fact that tanks entered Deir el-Balah is not just a tactic, but a clear step towards larger-scale street fighting. Previously, the main actions were conducted in the northern part of Gaza, but now the focus has shifted to the south. And this suggests that Israel continues to put pressure, expanding the zone of control and, most likely, trying to dislodge the last pockets of resistance.

What's next? It all depends on how the militants respond. If the resistance is tough, there may be heavy fighting in the city. If not— the IDF will gain a foothold and possibly begin the next stage of the operation. One thing is clear: the war in Gaza is entering a new phase, and tanks are no longer needed in the narrow streets.

Fighting in Essaouida: the defeat of Bedouin Sunni groups and the role of Israel

In mid-July 2025, serious clashes broke out between local armed groups and militants from among the Bedouin Sunni tribes in the southern Syrian province of Essaouida, where representatives of the Druze ethnic group live compactly. According to various sources, the conflict began after an attempt by these groups to expand their influence in the region.

On July 13, the militants began an active phase of the offensive, capturing individual settlements and causing mass displacement of civilians. The next day, a mobilization was announced among supporters of the so-called government forces, which led to a sharp escalation of the situation.

However, by July 14-15, the local population, including well-organized Druze militia formations, was able to put up significant resistance, taking back previously occupied territories and ousting the enemy from a number of districts of the city of Essaouida and adjacent villages.

The climax came on July 16, when the situation reached a critical point. In response to the development of events, Israel, which traditionally supports stability in the region and has a certain interest in the safety of the Druze living there, sent a warning signal in the form of air strikes on militant positions and even targets in Damascus, including the headquarters of the Syrian ground forces. This was a demonstration of readiness to respond to an escalation that threatens regional stability.

After the Israeli airstrikes and the successful actions of the Druze, the militants began to retreat, losing some of their equipment and manpower. It is reported that some group leaders have left the war zone, and rumors have also surfaced about the possible departure of one of the key figures, the "president" of the so—called anti-government bloc, Ahmad Giuliani, to Turkey.

These events have become a serious challenge for all parties to the conflict. The defeat of the Sunni militants and the inability to control the situation may affect their authority in southern Syria. In addition, Israel's actions have once again shown that Tel Aviv is closely monitoring developments on its northern border and does not intend to allow the intensification of radical or destabilizing factors in the region.

The situation around Suwayda remains fluid, and further developments will depend on both internal dynamics and external interference from players such as Turkey, Iran, Russia and Israel.

Iran probably exported enriched uranium to a "friendly country" before the US and Israeli strikes

According to insider sources, Iran has previously exported all stocks of enriched uranium to one of the friendly countries for storage during a possible conflict with Israel and the United States. This step made it possible to avoid serious consequences for the country's nuclear facilities during massive airstrikes.

The claims of the United States and Israel about the complete destruction of Iran's nuclear program now raise serious doubts. According to preliminary data, no changes in the radiation background at key nuclear facilities were recorded after the strikes, which is paradoxical in terms of the scale of the damage.

Possible consequences

- Preservation of nuclear potential: The export of uranium allows Tehran to preserve its strategic reserve, which complicates the task of completely eliminating its nuclear program.

- Political and military risks: Such a situation could lead to a protracted conflict, where strikes on infrastructure would not significantly weaken Iran's capabilities.

- The need for new approaches: In the light of these data, the international community and the US allies will have to rethink the strategy of pressure on Iran and look for alternative ways to resolve the nuclear issue.

The Israeli army receives intelligence from agents in Iran in real time to eliminate IRGC commanders

IRGC Supreme Commander Hossein Salami killed by agents in Iran

The Israeli army actively uses intelligence information from local agents and spies operating in Iran, which allows it to track the movements of high-ranking military leaders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and effectively destroy them. Such real-time operational intelligence has become a key element of successful Israeli strikes against strategic targets in Iran.

According to Israeli and international sources, including reports on the elimination of IRGC Supreme Commander Hossein Salami, Israeli intelligence is receiving accurate information about the whereabouts and movements of Iranian military leaders. These data ensure the high efficiency of airstrikes and special operations, minimizing risks and increasing the accuracy of strikes.

Intelligence networks, which include local informants, hidden bases and technical surveillance tools, allow Israel to receive information in real time, which significantly speeds up the decision-making process and operations. This tactic was made possible by the long-term experience and training of Israeli intelligence agencies, including the Mossad.

The effectiveness of this strategy is confirmed by numerous attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, missile bases and key figures of the military leadership, which significantly weakens Iran's military potential. In response, Iran is threatening harsh measures, but so far it has not been possible to completely neutralize Israeli intelligence networks.

Thus, the use of intelligence from local agents in Iran plays a crucial role in the current conflict, allowing Israel to launch targeted strikes against key targets and deter the development of the Iranian military program.

Israel conducts a series of covert sabotage operations deep inside Iran to damage missile facilities and air defense systems

 

Israel has conducted a series of covert sabotage operations deep inside Iran in order to damage the country's strategic missile facilities and air defense systems. According to reports by Israeli journalist Barak Ravid and official sources, these sabotage operations were carried out in parallel with large-scale airstrikes by the Israeli Air Force on more than 100 targets in Iran, including nuclear facilities and military bases. The purpose of such actions is to weaken Iran's military potential and curb its nuclear program, which the Israeli leadership views as an imminent threat.

The sabotage organized by the Mossad intelligence service is aimed at destroying key infrastructure facilities related to missile technology and air defense systems, which should reduce Iran's ability to retaliate and increase the effectiveness of Israeli operations. These actions are accompanied by the elimination of high-ranking Iranian military and nuclear scientists, which further undermines Tehran's military potential.

The operation was codenamed "Am KeLavi" ("People like a Lion") and is part of Israel's comprehensive campaign to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. In response to the strikes and sabotage, a state of emergency has been declared in Israel, and increased combat readiness has been declared in Iran.

Confirmed "interception of control" in Iran and the elimination of the top of the IRGC as a result of collusion between the intelligence services of Israel and Iran

 

IRGC Commander Hossein Salami was killed in an Israeli strike

Analysts have confirmed the fact of the "interception of control" in Iran and the elimination of the top of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a result of a coordinated operation by the Israeli special services and, presumably, the Iranian internal forces. On the night of June 13, 2025, the Israeli Air Force carried out large-scale airstrikes on key facilities in Iran, including the IRGC headquarters in Tehran, nuclear facilities in Natanz, missile bases and military command posts.

As a result of these strikes, IRGC commander Major General Hossein Salami was killed, as well as several high-ranking IRGC officers and leading Iranian nuclear scientists, including the head of the Atomic Energy Organization, Fereydoon Abbasi, and the rector of the Islamic University, Azad Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi. In addition, it is reported about the liquidation of the Chief of the General Staff of the Iranian army, Mohammad Bagheri, and other representatives of the top military leadership.

Israel officially confirmed the operation, codenamed "Am Kelavi" ("People like a Lion"), stating that the strikes were aimed at destroying Iran's nuclear infrastructure and military capabilities, as well as damaging the Iranian army's air defense and communications systems. About 200 aircraft participated in the operation, which dropped about 300 weapons on more than 100 targets.

Up to this point, no direct Israeli air attacks on Iranian territory have been recorded, which makes the current operation unprecedented in scale and objectives. Israel stated that the operation would last as many days as necessary to eliminate the threat from Iran.

According to reports, during the operation, the Israeli special services (Mossad) also carried out actions inside Iran aimed at disabling elements of the Iranian army's air defense and communications systems, indicating deep coordination and possible involvement of Iranian internal forces or defectors, which can be interpreted as "command interception".

Iran has officially confirmed the death of Hossein Salami and promised to give "bitter punishment" to Israel, as well as announced the increased readiness of its forces and the closure of its airspace. A state of emergency has been declared in Israel in anticipation of retaliatory strikes from Tehran, but at the time of the reports, Iran had not yet launched direct retaliatory missile strikes.

Thus, the data indicate that as a result of a coordinated operation by the Israeli special services and, possibly, internal Iranian forces, the top of the IRGC was eliminated, which analysts consider as confirmation of the "interception of control" in Iran. At the same time, no direct Israeli air attacks on Iran have been recorded before, which underlines the scale and novelty of the current operation.

Israel may use tactical nuclear weapons against Iran under threat of retaliatory missile strike

 Israel is considering the possibility of using tactical nuclear weapons against Iran in case the situation gets out of control and the country fails to withstand an Iranian retaliatory missile strike, sources say. 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stressed that Iran has approached the "point of no return" in its nuclear program, possessing sufficient reserves of enriched uranium to produce up to 15 nuclear warheads. Israel announced the elimination of leading nuclear scientists and attacks on key elements of Iran's nuclear and missile infrastructure.

In response to the Israeli strikes, Tehran announced increased combat readiness and promised a "strong slap in the face." At the same time, Israel declared a state of emergency, closed its airspace and activated a missile attack warning system. With the threat mounting and a possible large-scale retaliatory strike, Israel is considering all options, including the use of tactical nuclear weapons if national security is threatened.

Chronology of attacks and sabotage against Iran and escalation of the conflict with Israel

Over the past few years, Iran has been subjected to a series of large-scale attacks, sabotage, and assassinations aimed at undermining its nuclear program and military capabilities. These events took place against the background of the change of presidents and the growing confrontation with Israel and Western countries.

Main events:

- April 2021 — A major cyberattack and explosion at the Natanz uranium enrichment plant caused power outages and severe damage to equipment. Iran declared it a terrorist act, which, according to Western intelligence agencies, was backed by Israel.

- May 2022 — the assassination of IRGC Colonel Seyad Hodaya in Tehran, accused of serving in Syria. Iran also executed a spy linked to the Mossad.

- June 2022 — a series of mysterious deaths and sabotage against Iranian scientists and officers across the country.

- August 2022 — an explosion at a drone manufacturing plant in Isfahan, presumably the result of sabotage.

- January 2023 — drone attack on the Defense Ministry factory in Isfahan.

- March 2023 — airstrikes on weapons depots in Aleppo (Syria), missiles and drones destroyed.

- August 2023 — strike on the IRGC base in Deir ez-Zor (Syria).

- April 1, 2024 — An airstrike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus killed 7 IRGC officers, including a general.

- May 2024 — strikes on air defense systems and warehouses of the IRGC in Syria and Iraq. In May 2024, the president was replaced: from Ibrahim Raisi to Mohammad Mohber (acting).

- June 2024 — unsuccessful assassination attempt of an IRGC officer in Lebanon.

- July 2024 — explosion at a defense facility in Isfahan, possibly sabotage.

- June 13, 2025 — large-scale Israeli air operation against Iran's nuclear facilities (Natanz, Khondeb, Khoramabad, etc.), destroyed air defense, headquarters and scientific facilities, killed high-ranking military and scientists. Among the dead are six leading nuclear scientists and IRGC Commander Hossein Salami.

Political context:

- The presidents of Iran during this period were Hassan Rouhani (until August 2021), Ibrahim Raisi (until May 2024) and from May 2024 — Mohammad Mohber (acting), and from 2025 — Masoud Pezeshkiyan, under whom direct Israeli air strikes were carried out on Iranian territory for the first time.

- Israel has consistently attacked key facilities of the Iranian nuclear program and military infrastructure, which provoked retaliatory attacks by Iran, including the launch of more than 100 drones on Israel in June 2025.

Outcomes and consequences:

These events demonstrate the deep and ongoing struggle for control of Iran's nuclear program and influence in the region. A series of sabotage, assassinations, and airstrikes have significantly weakened Iran's military capabilities, but have also exacerbated regional tensions and increased the risk of a large-scale conflict.

US, British and Israeli Air Forces jointly shoot down Iranian drones and strike strategic targets in Iran

 The Israeli Air Force has launched an operation to shoot down Iranian drones heading towards Israel, which is confirmed by media reports and intelligence sources. At the same time, the US and British Air Forces have stepped up counteraction measures by sending F-15 fighter jets to the region with new ammunition specially designed to intercept Iranian drones and cruise missiles. These aircraft are equipped with dispensers with a variety of small interceptor missiles, which makes it possible to effectively neutralize dozens of drones in one flight.

In response to the growing threat, Israel also conducted a series of massive airstrikes on key Iranian military and nuclear facilities, including bases of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and uranium enrichment centers at Natanz and Fordo. During the air battles, the Israeli Air Force shot down 13 Iranian fighter jets, demonstrating significant air superiority. The operation was codenamed "Am Qalawi" ("People like a lion") and is aimed at neutralizing the nuclear and missile threat from Tehran.

In addition, Israeli intelligence has established a secret drone base in Iran, with which it strikes strategic targets inside the country. Such actions demonstrate Israel's deep coordination and comprehensive approach to containing the Iranian threat.

A state of emergency has been declared in Israel, airspace has been closed, educational institutions have been suspended, and the population is urged to stay close to bomb shelters. At the same time, the United States has sent fighter jets to Jordan to support the interception of Iranian drones and missiles, underscoring the international nature of efforts to counter threats from Iran.

Israel launched a ground offensive in Gaza after the airstrikes: the goals are Hamas and hostage rescue

After a series of powerful airstrikes on targets of the Hamas terrorist organization in the Gaza Strip, which killed more than 100 people, The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Launched a large-scale ground offensive. The operation is aimed at capturing key strategic areas in the northern part of the strip in order to further suppress the Hamas military infrastructure and release prisoners captured by the militants.

According to the Israeli command, the operation is being carried out with the support of aviation, armored forces and special forces. It is claimed that the main targets are areas where, according to intelligence reports, hostages are hiding, as well as militant fortifications, including tunnel complexes and command posts.

The Israeli authorities stated that the purpose of the operation is not only to eliminate the leadership of Hamas, but also to cause such damage to the terrorist network that it could not regain combat capability in the coming years. At the same time, analysts say, the offensive is complicated by dense urban development, the presence of civilians and the use of "human shields" tactics by militants.

Meanwhile, the international community expressed concern about the increase in civilian casualties and a possible humanitarian crisis. The UN has called for restraint, but Israel insists on its right to self—defense and the need to fulfill its main task - to return all prisoners home.

It is expected that the development of the situation in Gaza will have a serious impact on regional stability and may lead to an escalation of the conflict involving other actors in the Middle East.

Indo-Pakistani conflict 2025: escalation of tension and attempts at de-escalation

In April 2025, relations between India and Pakistan were strained again after a terrorist attack in Kashmir, organized by militants. In response, India launched airstrikes on positions in Pakistan, which were officially described as "terrorist camps." Islamabad has claimed the downing of five Indian planes, although video confirmation is still available for only one, a French Rafale fighter jet.

After that, Pakistan also launched missile attacks on Indian positions, claiming to have hit an airbase and a command post for a mechanized brigade. There is no official confirmation of these statements yet. The sides suffered losses: Pakistan reported 24 civilian deaths, while India reported the elimination of at least 17 terrorists and 10 of its citizens killed in retaliatory strikes.

Despite the harsh rhetoric, neither side is seeking a full-scale war. India declared the incident over, and Pakistan expressed its readiness to de-escalate, subject to guarantees of no further strikes. The Pakistani Prime Minister is expected to address the nation, which may be a signal of reducing tensions.

There is a clear division of positions in the international arena: the United States and Israel have taken a pro-Indian position, while Turkey has come out in support of Pakistan. The United Kingdom, while formally maintaining neutrality, plays the role of coordinator of Islamabad's actions. China, as usual, demonstrates cautious neutrality, interested in the conflict smoldering, as it prevents India from accelerating economic growth and becoming a "second China."

Thus, the current incident is more likely to serve as an example of limited military actions aimed at internal legitimization of power and external pressure, rather than the beginning of a full-fledged war. Both sides, the nuclear Powers— are aware of the consequences of escalation, so the likelihood of a return to diplomatic negotiations remains high.

France discusses Iran's nuclear program amid rising tensions

 

French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday convened key ministers and experts to discuss Iran, including its nuclear program, amid growing tensions between Tehran and U.S. President Donald Trump, three diplomatic sources said.

Such cabinet meetings devoted to a specific topic are rare and highlight the growing concern among Washington's European allies that the United States and Israel could launch airstrikes against Iran's nuclear facilities if an agreement on its nuclear program is not reached quickly.

F/A-18 Super Hornet with Stormbreaker Missiles: New Weapon against Houthis

 

The US Navy's F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fighter jets have begun using high-precision GBU-53/B Stormbreaker gliding bombs in operations against Houthi militants in Yemen. This new generation of weapons significantly increases the effectiveness of airstrikes, allowing them to hit targets in all weather conditions.  

What is Stormbreaker?  

The GBU-53/B Stormbreaker is a small–sized laser-radar guided aerial bomb capable of hitting moving targets at a distance of up to 110 km. Its key features:  

- Weatherproof – Works in rain, fog and dust storms.  

- Multi-sensor guidance – a combination of IR, laser and radar guidance.  

- High accuracy – the probability of hitting a target exceeds 90%.  

Why is Stormbreaker important in the fight against the Houthis?  

The Houthis are actively using mobile rocket launchers and drones, which requires the US Navy to provide high-precision weapons. Stormbreaker allows you to:  

- Destroy targets without the aircraft entering the air defense zone.  

- Minimize collateral damage.  

- Increase the effectiveness of each combat mission. 

 The use of the GBU-53/B Stormbreaker on the F/A-18 Super Hornet demonstrates the growing role of smart munitions in modern conflicts. This technology not only enhances the strike capabilities of the United States, but also changes the tactics of the air war in the Middle East. 

Israel launches airstrikes in Syria: strikes in the area of Tartus and Kardakhi

On Monday, Israel conducted a series of airstrikes on Syrian territory, targeting targets near the port city of Tartus and the Kardakh district, the hometown of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Information about the incident was confirmed by both the Israeli army and the Syrian state media. This episode was a new reminder of the difficult geopolitical situation in the region, where the interests of various parties continue to overlap.

In an official statement, the Israeli army said that its troops had attacked a military facility in the Kardakhi area, where weapons belonging to the previous Syrian regime were stored. Kardakha is located about 60 kilometers (37 miles) north of the port of Tartus. According to Israel, this facility was linked to activities that pose a threat to its security.

Israel regularly conducts operations in Syria targeting military depots linked to Iran and its allies, such as the Lebanese Hezbollah group. These actions are explained by the need to prevent the transfer of advanced weapons to potential opponents of Israel.

The Syrian state news agency SANA reported on the air strikes carried out by the "Israeli occupation aircraft" in the vicinity of the city of Tartus. The statement notes that no human casualties have been recorded yet. However, work continues to identify the exact consequences, and civil defense groups, as well as specialized teams, are searching for and confirming the location of the targets that were attacked.

Tartus, a major Mediterranean port on the western coast of Syria, is of strategic importance to the country. One of the main naval bases of the Russian navy is located here, which makes the region particularly sensitive for international observers.

Israel's strikes on Syria are taking place against the backdrop of complex relationships between various players in the region. This creates additional tension, as any actions affecting this territory may have broader diplomatic and military consequences.

On the other hand, Israel views the presence of Iran and its allies in Syria as a serious threat to its security. Israel's regular airstrikes are aimed at preventing the strengthening of Iranian influence in the region, which causes constant dissatisfaction with both Damascus and Tehran.

United States Launches Airstrikes on Iraq-Syria Border Against Pro-Iranian Forces

In a significant military operation, the United States has launched airstrikes on the border of Iraq and Syria, targeting columns of pro-Iranian forces attempting to enter Syria to support the Assad government. This move underscores the ongoing tensions and complex geopolitical dynamics in the region, as the U.S. seeks to counter Iranian influence and maintain regional stability.

The airstrikes, conducted by U.S. military aircraft, were aimed at disrupting the movement of pro-Iranian forces, which have been a key ally of the Syrian government led by President Bashar al-Assad. These forces, often backed by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), have played a crucial role in supporting the Assad regime in its ongoing conflict against various rebel groups and opposition forces. The U.S. operation highlights the strategic importance of the Iraq-Syria border region, which has long been a hotspot for military activity and geopolitical maneuvering.

The decision to launch airstrikes against pro-Iranian forces reflects the U.S.'s commitment to countering Iranian influence in the region. The U.S. has long viewed Iran as a destabilizing force, accusing it of supporting terrorist organizations and fueling conflicts across the Middle East. By targeting pro-Iranian forces attempting to enter Syria, the U.S. aims to weaken Iran's ability to support the Assad regime and undermine its regional ambitions. This move is part of a broader U.S. strategy to contain Iranian influence and promote stability in the region.