Escalation in the Middle East: Lethal Strikes and International Diplomacy

Tensions between Israel, Iran, and Gaza continue to escalate with Israel planning a 'lethal' response to an Iranian missile attack. Israeli operations in Gaza have resulted in significant casualties. A Hezbollah attack in northern Israel has further complicated the situation, as international leaders engage in diplomatic discussions.

Amidst escalating tensions, Israel's Defense Minister has announced that the country is preparing a 'lethal' and 'unexpected' retaliation against Iran for its recent missile attack. This comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Joe Biden held their first call in several weeks to discuss the situation.

In Gaza, an extensive Israeli military operation in the northern region has resulted in multiple casualties and the potential shutdown of hospitals, highlighting the severe human toll as the conflict with Hamas continues.

Further complicating the region's instability, a rocket fired from Lebanon by Hezbollah killed two in northern Israel, adding to the region's cycle of violence and prompting stepped-up military responses from Israel.

(With inputs from agencies.)