Middle East Conflict Escalates as Trump Warns of Imminent US Strikes on Iran's Pickaxe Mountain

Amid escalating regional tensions, Israeli strikes across Lebanon have left three people dead and 23 wounded. Meanwhile, Ghalibaf stated that Iran is 'ready' to take part in a new regional security framework, even as France steps up preparations with Jordan to assist the Lebanese army.

Donald Trump claimed that Democrats want the US to lose the war with Iran and warned that the US may hit Iran's Pickaxe Mountain 'very soon', adding that Iran is a failing nation lashing out amid economic pressure. Qatar has rejected Iran's claim of only targeting military sites.

In other developments, the US embassy in Beirut welcomed the release of detainees, and a US aircraft carrier arrived in Thailand after 286 days at sea. JD Vance stated he is 'sceptical' about the US striking an Iranian wedding party and noted that Donald Trump is sending a warning to Iran with an AI video.

Reports also covered Israel's expansion beyond the 'yellow line' in south Lebanon, how the Houthis expanded their network into the Horn of Africa, and the UK trade minister expressing solidarity with the UAE amid the Iran war. Additionally, Bessent remarked that the Hormuz strait will be 'worthless' in the future.