OPINIONS

Mon 06 Apr 2026 3:46 pm - Jerusalem Time

The Autumn of Unipolarity: Towards Sovereign Engineering in a Multipolar World

Ramallah - “Alquds ” dot com

Ramallah - “Alquds ” dot com

Opinion Writer

History does not appear as a calm river, as some imagine, but rather as the product of difficult labor from silent earthquakes accumulating within empires until they reach the moment of truth. Today, we are not merely observing a military withdrawal or a fleeting diplomatic retreat; rather, we are witnessing a structural crack in a system that long believed it represented the end of history.

History has awakened to write a new chapter, influenced by the dust of Eastern conflicts and the collapse of dominant currency thrones. The blade of absolute deterrence has broken on the rock of a new reality, as the secrets of power have leaked from the hand of the monopolist who believed technology was exclusive to their genes, reaching the hands of rising and empowered forces.

International prestige is no longer measured solely by the size of traditional military budgets, but by the intelligence of innovation that has challenged the pride of aircraft carriers. This transformation heralds the birth of a new regional security formulated by self-determination, far from external tutelage or dependence on major powers that have begun to lose their control.

In financial corridors, the paper empire is experiencing its final autumn, as the dollar has begun to lose its luster as a whip for international sanctions. The fires of inflation and accumulated debts are pushing the world towards a search for real assets and new economic spaces led by the rising Eastern poles on the global stage.

Transitioning from a debt-based economy to a resilience-based economy represents the core of the next phase, where there is no sovereignty for those whose decisions tremble behind global stock market screens. True sovereignty lies in linking the earth's resources to the decision of an independent national mind, far from the fluctuations of markets controlled by traditional powers.

However, the greatest danger does not come only from outside, but from the internal weakness that gnaws at the central nerve of the United States' power. While Washington tries to extinguish the raging fires at the world's edges, the fires of internal polarization are unprecedentedly igniting within its social and political fabric.

The division within the United States has reached a stage of existential deadlock, where constitutional institutions have become unable to mend the deep societal rift. This erosion from within threatens the imperial structure, hinting at a bleak horizon marred by the specter of bitter internal clashes that weaken the ability for global leadership.

In this scenario, foresight is not complete with observation alone; it requires the courage for self-engineering to transform strategic exposure into a sovereign fortress. This demands decisive procedural paths that begin with departing from the square of permanent dependency towards functional parity in international relations with all parties.

Diversifying partners in light of the rising Eurasian dawn is a strategic necessity for Arabs to be partners in formulating new international rules. The region should not remain merely an arena for the clash of major powers, but an actor that asserts its interests in a world that no longer recognizes a single pole.

Financial liberation represents the second pillar in this engineering, through organic disengagement from declining currencies and the establishment of inter-exchange platforms. Relying on the true value of resources protects people's savings from the expected major crash in the old global financial system.

Localizing survival is the third side of the triangle of existence, as it must be realized that bread, weapons, and digital code are the basis of sovereignty. He who does not produce his weapons remains hostage to the decision of the external supplier, and he who does not own the seeds of his land remains dependent on the ports of others and their political will.

The current imperial retreat leaves a huge geopolitical vacuum that represents a final warning siren for regional powers. This vacuum must either be filled by a sovereign bloc that possesses the mastery of science and protects its data with national algorithms, or everyone will remain waiting for a new master to fill the vacuum according to their own interests.

The sun of tutelage has set, and opportunities for true independence have emerged. History, in its great upheavals, shows no mercy to the hesitant or those standing on the threshold of waiting. Doors open only to those who possess the insight to read the threads of dawn and prepare for a multipolar world that is not managed by dictates.

The next decade is the final testing ground for national will. Either participate in formulating the rules of the new era or remain merely an echo of others' conflicts. Sovereignty today is a condition for survival in an international jungle that respects only those who possess the keys to their food, medical, and digital security.

Sovereignty today is not a luxury, but a condition for survival in an international jungle that respects only those who possess the keys to their food, the secret of their medicine, and the code of their digital security.

ARAB AND WORLD

Mon 06 Apr 2026 3:46 pm - Jerusalem Time

Experts: Europe refuses to engage in a 'ground adventure' against Iran and fears energy and migration repercussions

Experts in international and political affairs believe that European capitals will not be drawn into any direct ground confrontation against Iran, despite the increasing pressure exerted by the administration of US President Donald Trump. This assessment comes at a sensitive time with the approaching deadline set by Trump for Tehran regarding the Strait of Hormuz, amidst fears of a military escalation that could go beyond airstrikes to a ground intervention.

Professor and researcher at the Sorbonne University, Mohamed Hneid, explained that there is a categorical European rejection of participating in what he described as 'the unilateral American adventure'. He pointed out that some countries have taken strict sovereign stances by refusing to allow their airspace to be used for the passage of military aircraft or to carry out landing operations, expressing their unwillingness to engage in a conflict in whose details they were not consulted.

Hneid considered that the deteriorating economic situation in the old continent, and the depletion of resources in the Russian-Ukrainian war, makes it impossible for Europe to open a new front. European countries believe that their interest lies in stopping current wars and addressing their internal problems, such as the rise of the far-right and fierce trade competition with China and the United States.

In the context of analyzing American policy, Hneid pointed out that Washington has historically involved its NATO allies in its ground wars to reduce human and material costs on itself. He cited what happened in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria, where allies bore the consequences of military interventions that were primarily aimed at strengthening American hegemony over resources and international decision-making.

Regarding economic threats, the researcher noted that Trump's attempts to entice Europe by controlling Iranian oil on 'Kharg' island will not succeed in changing the European position. Trade relations between the two sides are already strained due to the tariffs imposed by Trump, and any military escalation will inevitably lead to a cut in energy supplies and an exacerbation of the living crisis in Europe.

For his part, the former advisor to the Tunisian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Manar Mohamed Al-Skandrani, affirmed that Europe has learned lessons from its bitter past experiences with American administrations. He explained that Europeans feel that Washington abandons them as soon as its interests are achieved, and sometimes even blames them for failures, as is currently happening in the Ukrainian file.

Al-Skandrani noted the radical shift in American decision-making during the Trump era, where it moved from a cumulative institutional framework to an erratic individual decision. This shift makes it difficult for European countries, which rely on established institutions and strict international law, to follow a leadership whose next steps or ultimate goals cannot be predicted.

Al-Skandrani warned that any ground war on Iran would open the doors to regional chaos wide open, leading to unprecedented waves of migration towards European shores. He considered that geography imposes a different reality on Europe than the distant United States, as any disturbance in the Middle East immediately reflects on the security and stability of the old continent.

Regarding the Israeli role, the former advisor pointed out that Tel Aviv seeks to dismantle major regional powers such as Iran, Turkey, and Egypt to impose its full hegemony. He believes that the 'Greater Israel' project does not require direct geographical occupation as much as it requires transforming surrounding countries into weak and warring entities, which Europe realizes the danger of to its interests with the Arab world.

Al-Skandrani stressed that the battle with Iran is not only military, but an existential battle related to global energy security and the vital Strait of Hormuz. Any disruption in navigation in this strait would mean an economic catastrophe for Europe, which is already suffering from an unprecedented energy crisis, making participation in the war a completely irrational step.

He explained that the current European position is not due to military weakness, but rather a precise rational calculation of supreme strategic interests. Europe realizes that being drawn behind the American-Israeli vision at this time would mean economic and political suicide, especially in light of the existing tensions with Russia on its eastern borders.

Experts also pointed out that lobbies associated with major companies may try to pressure some European governments, but political elites have begun to realize the extent of the damage. Absolute support for American projects no longer benefits European peoples, but rather increases their isolation and exacerbates their internal and social crises.

The analysis concluded that the geographical and political gap between Washington and Brussels is widening regarding the Iranian file, as Europe sees diplomacy and de-escalation as the only way to maintain its security. In contrast, the American administration continues to pressure through the language of threats and sanctions, which puts the historical alliance between the two sides of the Atlantic to a real and unprecedented test.

Finally, the question remains about Europe's ability to withstand these pressures if the spark of confrontation actually ignites. However, current indicators confirm that the major capitals of the continent will not provide a 'blank check' for any ground military action that could end in a humanitarian and economic catastrophe for which only the European peoples will pay the price.

Europe realizes that this war is not its war, it has no stake in it, and entering a conflict of this magnitude does not serve its strategic interests.

ANALYSIS

Mon 06 Apr 2026 3:46 pm - Jerusalem Time

Between professional vision and 'stands' fanaticism.. How does the Arab street read the Iranian-Israeli confrontation?

The region is witnessing an unprecedented military escalation as the confrontation between Iran, on one hand, and Israel and the United States, on the other, enters its fifth week. Field sources reported intense raids on Sunday night and Monday dawn targeting strategic sites and residential neighborhoods in Tehran, Isfahan, and Qom, resulting in dozens of casualties, including children, amidst the ongoing war that began on February 28th.

Amidst this military dust, a sharp division emerges in the Arab street that transcends traditional political analysis, reaching a stage akin to a 'great sedition'. Each side believes its position is the absolute truth, transforming the existential conflict into something resembling football matches between 'Al-Ahly and Zamalek', where there is no room to hear the other opinion or accept pluralism in media discourse.

Major media institutions face a tremendous challenge in maintaining their professional balance in front of an audience that demands their viewpoint be fully adopted. While some attack the hosting of figures who align with the Iranian vision, others launch a counter-attack when voices critical of Tehran's policies appear, putting news platforms in direct confrontation with accusations of treason and loss of credibility.

The culture of 'cheering' has moved from the stands to the screens, where viewers now seek what satisfies their political whims, not what conveys objective truth. This behavior has turned the political analyst into a mere echo of public desires, as if news programs have become political versions of 'listeners' choice' programs, which threatens the essence of journalistic work based on uncovering facts.

On the ground, reports revealed the killing of 13 people in an attack targeting the Baharestan residential area, in addition to the killing of the commander of the Air Defense College in Isfahan. These bloody developments increase the intensity of polarization, as those affected by previous Iranian policies in Syria and Iraq find it difficult to sympathize with Tehran, while others believe that the Israeli danger is the sole threat that must be confronted.

Statistics issued by the Pentagon indicate that more than 11,000 targets inside Iranian territory have been struck since the start of operations. Despite this enormous military pressure, sources confirm that Tehran still retains the ability to repair its missile facilities and reactivate bunkers within hours, despite the daily missile launch rate dropping to less than 40 missiles.

The current crisis has revealed a fragility in collective awareness regarding the concept of 'news' and 'opinion'. Social media platforms have contributed to turning every page owner into a political analyst who rejects news simply because it does not align with their preferences, which opens the door wide to the spread of fake news and the loss of direction in evaluating current events away from emotions.

In comparison with previous crises such as the invasion of Iraq, it appears that the public was more mature in accepting other opinions despite the bitterness of defeat. Today, however, the intensity has reached the point of direct incitement against journalists and institutions that try to adhere to professional rules, which reflects a decline in public dialogue tools within Arab societies.

Intellectual elites play a negative role in this scene, as some of them are swept away by demagoguery to gain public favor or settle personal scores. Instead of rationalizing the debate, these individuals contribute to formulating accusations of treason and collaboration, which deepens the gap and makes it impossible to build a unified Arab vision towards the accelerating regional challenges.

Despite the scathing criticism, major news channels still dominate viewership, proving that the public, despite its anger, knows deep down where to find reliable news. The biased viewer looks for a 'mouthpiece' that represents them, but returns to professional platforms to know the reality of military and political developments on the ground.

Finding excuses for some tense positions seems logical given the historical wounds in the region; the Syrian whose country was destroyed or the Iraqi who suffered from interventions cannot be forced to see the scene with one eye. However, turning this suffering into a tool to suppress professional media work ultimately serves the enemies of the nation who benefit from the fragmentation of awareness.

Iran, for its part, has given its opponents objective justifications through its regional policies that have raised the concerns of neighboring countries. Had it adopted a different policy, it might have pulled the rug out from under those inciting against it, and would not find itself today in confrontation with a camp that sees 'American and Israeli evil' as a parallel or even less severe threat than its own.

Amidst the continued civilian casualties, as happened in the targeting of Sharif University's gas station and the disruption of services to entire neighborhoods in Tehran, the need for media that honestly conveys human suffering without engaging in axis conflicts increases. Truth is the first casualty in wars, and professionalism is the only remaining shield to protect it.

In conclusion, this war remains a difficult test not only for military capabilities but also for the ethical and professional system in the Arab world. It is either a slide towards destructive 'populism' that negates reason, or adherence to journalistic values that differentiate between conveying reality and promoting agendas, in a time when honesty has become a rare commodity amidst the noise of missiles and statements.

This battle seems to need a 'mouthpiece' rather than a media platform that tries to be bound by the rules of professional practice amidst a division resembling the fanaticism of football stadiums.

ARAB AND WORLD

Mon 06 Apr 2026 3:45 pm - Jerusalem Time

Jan Morris in a New Biography: Literary Genius and Human Contradictions Behind the Legend

A recent critical reading shed light on the new biography of the late British historian and writer Jan Morris, prepared by writer Sara Wheeler under the title 'Jan Morris: A Life'. This biography reveals the features of an exceptional personality who managed to engrave her name in the memory of world literature, yet remained burdened with deep human contradictions that affected her immediate surroundings.

Morris's career began in the mid-20th century when she was known as James Morris, where her star shone as an adventurous journalist for 'The Times'. Her name was historically associated with the global scoop she achieved when covering the first successful ascent of Mount Everest in 1953, an achievement that opened the doors to widespread fame for her.

Morris's ambitions did not stop at field journalism; she transitioned to become one of the most prolific writers, especially in the fields of history and travel literature. Her works exceeded fifty books, characterized by a unique narrative style and an exceptional ability to describe places and analyze the cultural identities of peoples and cities.

The 1970s marked the most prominent turning point in Morris's personal and professional life, as she made the decision to undergo gender transition, which she later documented in her famous book 'Conundrum'. This book was not just an autobiography; it became rich material for cultural and social debate in Britain and beyond, placing her in confrontation with diverse intellectual currents.

Despite the fame she gained as an advocate for what she called 'the religion of kindness', the new biography reveals a different side of Morris in her private dealings. According to family testimonies included in the book, her children suffered from her domineering behavior and emotional absence, which created a large gap between her public image as a gentle writer and her reality as a mother.

Her daughter, Suki, described the experience of motherhood with Morris in harsh words, indicating that individual ambition and self-focus always overshadowed family obligations. These testimonies redraw the features of the literary legend and confront the reader with questions about the human cost paid by creators in order to achieve their selves.

In contrast, the long and complex marriage between Morris and her wife Elizabeth stands out as one of the most astonishing and enduring aspects of her life. Their relationship continued despite all radical transformations, in a unique blend of emotional commitment and loyalty to old vows, as Elizabeth dedicated her life to preserving the family unit.

The exchanged letters cited in the biography indicate a deep love between the two parties, but this love did not prevent the emergence of sharp tensions resulting from Morris's desire to break free from traditional constraints. This relationship reflects the nature of the internal conflicts experienced by those around Morris in light of her continuous transformations.

The critical reading of the biography concludes that Morris was an exceptionally complex personality, who cannot be confined to molds of veneration or condemnation. She was the great writer who inspired millions, and at the same time, the human being who placed her personal success above all else, making her human image appear fragile in the face of the brilliance of her achievements.

The biography raises a fundamental question about the role of literature when it becomes a means of expressing shocking identity conflicts with human nature. Can creativity stemming from sharp psychological conflicts remain inspiring for future generations, or does it remain confined to the individual experience of its author and her own contradictions?

Considering the Western context in which Morris grew up, we find that she challenged a traditional patriarchal society that imposed strict restrictions on women's identity and status. Her literary achievements at that time represent a rare experience in breaking historical constraints, which contributed to opening new horizons for understanding the female experience in the West.

The development that women have achieved in Western societies today was not a coincidence, but rather the result of the accumulation of sacrifices by women like Morris and others. Nevertheless, the feminine dimension in her writings remains a محور of creativity, as she used her own experience to explore the human self in a depth that transcends traditional frameworks.

When comparing Morris's experience with Arabic literature, we find interesting intersections with female writers such as Nazik Al-Malaika, Fadwa Touqan, and May Ziadeh. These writers also faced societies that imposed restrictions on freedom of expression, and were forced to engage in bitter internal struggles between their personal ambitions and the social obligations imposed on them.

Ultimately, Jan Morris's experience remains a living example that genius does not protect its owner from error or contradiction. Whether in the Western or Arab context, true creativity is that which dares to reveal the fragility of the human soul and transform suffering into works that transcend the boundaries of time and place.

As Jan Morris's achievements expanded, the fragility of her human image and her emotional gap with her surroundings increased.

PALESTINE

Mon 06 Apr 2026 3:45 pm - Jerusalem Time

Visual Sovereignty: A New Israeli Strategy to Judaize the Public Landscape in the West Bank

The occupied West Bank is facing a new wave of settlement practices that go beyond military field control, reaching what experts describe as 'visual occupation'. These moves aim to impose a new cultural and identity reality through the intensive spread of Israeli religious and political symbols in public spaces and vital areas.

Field reports over the past two weeks have monitored an unprecedented spread of Israeli flags on main roads, in addition to the erection of religious symbols such as the 'menorah' and the Star of David on hilltops and in public squares. These steps come in the context of persistent attempts to normalize the settlement presence and make it an integral part of the daily landscape in the West Bank.

Informed sources reported that these practices fall under the 'visual sovereignty' strategy, which aims to prepare the psychological and political atmosphere for actual annexation and the permanent entrenchment of settlements. These moves coincide with the naming of Palestinian cities and villages with biblical names in an attempt to reinforce the alleged Israeli historical narrative about the region.

In a related context, the Wall and Settlement Resistance Commission revealed a sharp escalation in settler attacks, with approximately 443 attacks recorded since late February. Settlers have exploited the regional unrest to intensify their attacks on Palestinian communities, aiming to terrorize residents and push them towards forced displacement from their lands.

Hassan Breijieh, director of the Wall Resistance Commission office in the southern West Bank, confirmed that what is happening is the use of 'soft power' to impose Israeli sovereignty. He explained that these operations are not spontaneous, but rather an organized plan that enjoys full support from the right-wing government, which provides legal and security cover for the settlers.

Breijieh pointed out that the phenomenon has dangerously evolved to include the takeover of Palestinian public buildings and service facilities and the raising of Israeli flags over them by force of arms. He cited as an example what happened in the town of Huwara, south of Nablus, where educational institutions were stormed, the Palestinian flag was removed, and symbols of the occupation were placed in its stead.

Observers warned that these measures are being carried out under the direct protection of the occupation army and police, which limits the areas of movement and growth for Palestinians. Breijieh stressed that Palestinian steadfastness on the ground remains the only obstacle to completing this project, which aims to liquidate the issue geographically and visually.

For his part, Alaa Rimawi, an expert in Israeli affairs, analyzed this phenomenon, considering that it carries multi-directional political messages. The first message targets Palestinians to frustrate them and make them feel that the land has become part of the Zionist project, while the second aims to strengthen settlers' sense of belonging to the place.

The third message is directed at the international community, through which Israel seeks to impose a 'fait accompli' that will be difficult to change in any future negotiations. Rimawi believes that the ultimate goal is to reach what can be called a 'settlers' state' in the West Bank, by isolating Palestinian communities and encircling them with Israeli symbols.

The religious dimension plays a pivotal role in this strategy, as Palestinian geographical locations are linked to Jewish religious narratives to confer false legitimacy on settlements. This includes changing the names of historical cities, such as naming Nablus 'Shechem' and Hebron 'Hebron', in an attempt to rewrite the geographical history of the region.

This policy also extends to archaeological sites and shrines, such as 'Joseph's Tomb' in Nablus, which settlers claim is a sacred religious site for them. Despite archaeologists' confirmations that the site is only a few centuries old and belongs to a Muslim sheikh's tomb, the occupation insists on using it as a pretext for repeated incursions.

The occupation authorities also use names derived from Arabic and Canaanite roots to name new settlements, in a process of cultural deception aimed at stealing local heritage. An example of this is the 'Brokhin' settlement, which derived its name from the Palestinian town of Broqin, reflecting the depth of attempts to usurp spatial identity.

This 'visual occupation' represents an advanced stage of the settlement project that seeks to transform the West Bank into isolated enclaves devoid of their Arab identity. This policy complements the economic and field pressures exerted by the occupation to reduce the Palestinian presence in areas classified as 'C'.

In conclusion of the scenic reading, it appears that the battle in the West Bank is no longer limited to land ownership alone, but has extended to consciousness and visual memory. Adherence to Palestinian national symbols and the preservation of historical names of sites remain an essential part of popular resistance to confront Judaization schemes.

Through the spread of flags and symbols, settlers seek to entrench their presence on the ground as part of an organized plan led by the right-wing government.

ARAB AND WORLD

Mon 06 Apr 2026 3:45 pm - Jerusalem Time

Iran War: Proposal for 20-day ceasefire and injuries in Haifa due to rocket attack

The widespread military confrontation launched by the United States and Israel against Iran has entered its thirty-seventh day, amidst a remarkable escalation on the ground and political movements behind the scenes. Informed sources revealed a proposal that includes a two-phase plan aimed at temporarily halting combat operations for up to 20 days, in an attempt to contain the escalating conflict.

On the ground, Iranian media sources announced the execution of a rocket strike targeting sites deep within Israeli territory. Hebrew sources confirmed that the rockets caused material damage and human injuries, with 11 injured individuals transported to hospitals in the city of Haifa after a rocket directly hit a populated area.

These developments come at a sensitive time in the war, as international pressure to reach a formula to end hostilities is increasing, while mutual rocket barrages continue to shape the explosive field situation between the warring parties.

Media sources reported that 11 people were injured with varying degrees of severity after a rocket fell in the occupied city of Haifa.

PALESTINE

Mon 06 Apr 2026 3:45 pm - Jerusalem Time

On Palestinian Child's Day: Human rights organizations demand an end to the systematic targeting of children in occupation prisons

Three Palestinian human rights organizations have issued an urgent appeal to put an end to what they described as the 'systematic targeting' practiced by the Israeli occupation authorities against Palestinian childhood. The Prisoners' Affairs Commission, the Palestinian Prisoners' Society, and Al-Dameer Foundation, in a joint statement on the occasion of Palestinian Child's Day, demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all minors held in Israeli detention centers.

The human rights sources confirmed that child prisoners are subjected to grave violations and harsh detention conditions that lack the most basic human necessities, considering these practices a blatant violation of the International Convention on the Rights of the Child. The statement stressed that the continued detention of children constitutes a crime against humanity that requires urgent international action to hold the occupation leaders accountable for these transgressions.

Official statistics indicate that occupation forces have arrested more than 1,700 children in the West Bank governorates since the start of the genocide war on October 7, 2023. Approximately 350 children remain in detention to this day, facing difficult psychological and physical conditions inside cells that lack healthcare and educational provisions.

The human rights report described the moments of arrest as a deliberate 'first shock,' often beginning with violent raids on homes in the early hours of dawn amidst soldiers' shouts and intimidation of families. Children are led away with their hands bound and eyes blindfolded, leaving deep and long-lasting psychological effects on their development and future behavior.

In a serious development, the organizations revealed that the number of children held under 'administrative detention' has reached unprecedented levels in the history of the prisoner movement, with their number reaching 180 children by the end of 2025. These children are thrown behind bars without formal charges or fair trials, based on what is called a 'secret file' that denies the defense access to it.

The targeting is not limited to detention but extends to a comprehensive war of extermination in the Gaza Strip, where updated reports indicate the martyrdom of approximately 21,283 children since the aggression began. Children and women constitute more than 60% of the total war victims, reflecting the occupation's deliberate targeting of the most vulnerable groups in Palestinian society.

Regarding injuries, more than 44,000 children suffer from varying injuries, including 10,500 children who sustained permanent disabilities that will accompany them throughout their lives, in addition to 1,000 cases of limb amputations. The tragedy is exacerbated by the deaths of 157 children due to malnutrition and systematic starvation, and 25 children who died as a result of the harsh cold in displacement tents.

Concerning the educational reality, the aggression has resulted in the destruction of 90% of educational facilities in the Gaza Strip, depriving approximately 700,000 students of their right to education during the current academic year. This systematic ignorance is accompanied by the need for one million children in the Strip for intensive psychological and social support to cope with symptoms of depression and anxiety resulting from the horrors of war.

In the West Bank, the past two years have seen the martyrdom of 237 children by occupation bullets, coinciding with an escalation in demolition operations, forced displacement, and settlement expansion. These figures come at a time when children constitute about 43% of the total Palestinian society, meaning that the occupation directly targets the demographic future of the Palestinian people.

The human rights organizations concluded their statement by emphasizing that international silence regarding these crimes gives the occupation a green light to continue its violations. They called on the international community and UN institutions to exert real pressure to ensure the protection of Palestinian childhood and compel Israel to respect international laws that protect minors in conflict zones.

The detention of Palestinian children in occupation prisons is an unlawful violation that amounts to war crimes and crimes against humanity under international law.

PALESTINE

Mon 06 Apr 2026 3:45 pm - Jerusalem Time

Injuries and Burning of Homes and Vehicles in a Wide Settler Attack South of Nablus

Ten Palestinian citizens were injured early Monday morning as a result of a series of attacks carried out by groups of settlers on towns located south of Nablus city in the northern occupied West Bank. The attacks focused on the village of Al-Lubban Al-Sharqiya and a neighboring Bedouin community, where settlers used physical violence and set fire to citizens' properties under indirect protection from field conditions.

Yacoub Owais, head of the Al-Lubban Al-Sharqiya village council, stated that settlers targeted a Bedouin community north of the village, resulting in injuries, two of which were transferred to the hospital for treatment. Owais explained that the attackers set fire to about ten vehicles and two homes, with one home completely consumed by the flames, amid attempts to steal sheep from the area.

In a related context, another group of settlers stormed the town of Qusra, where they set fire to a Palestinian vehicle before dozens of young men from the town confronted them. Field confrontations erupted, forcing the settlers to withdraw from the area, amidst an escalation in the pace of these attacks targeting Palestinian villages and communities adjacent to settlements since October 2023.

In parallel with the settler attacks, Israeli occupation forces tightened their military measures in the Hebron Governorate, closing all entrances to the town of Beit Ummar with earth mounds. The forces fired tear gas and sound bombs heavily inside the town's neighborhoods, declaring it a closed military zone, which completely hindered the movement of citizens.

In the Tulkarm Governorate, occupation forces carried out a raid in the town of Deir al-Ghusun to the north, resulting in the arrest of young Ahmed Qa'dan, known as 'Al-Jazairi,' after searching his home and tampering with its contents. Local sources reported that the military force stormed the town at dawn and took the detainee to an unknown destination, as part of a campaign targeting activists and young men in the area.

The arrest campaign also extended to the Ramallah and Al-Bireh Governorate, where occupation forces raided the Al-Masyoun neighborhood and arrested 23-year-old Mo'men Afana. In the town of Kober, north of Ramallah, 30-year-old Mohammed Faraj Zibar was arrested after his home was stormed and thoroughly searched, while forces detained four children in the Jabal Al-Taweel area of Al-Bireh for several hours before releasing them.

These developments come amid a continuous escalation in the cities and villages of the West Bank, with statistics indicating that more than 1140 Palestinians have been killed and about 11750 others injured since October 7, 2023. These figures coincide with widespread arrest campaigns that have affected nearly 22,000 citizens, amidst warnings from international organizations regarding the worsening humanitarian and security situation.

Observers believe that the systematic settler attacks aim to displace Bedouin and rural communities and expand settler control over Palestinian lands. These attacks vary between killing, injury, and systematic demolition of homes, placing the international community before its responsibilities to stop the ongoing violations against unarmed civilians in the occupied territories.

Settlers attacked a Bedouin community and assaulted citizens, also setting fire to vehicles and homes and attempting to steal livestock.

ARAB AND WORLD

Mon 06 Apr 2026 12:44 pm - Jerusalem Time

Assassination of the Head of Iran's Revolutionary Guard Intelligence in a US-Israeli Raid

The Iranian Revolutionary Guard officially confirmed the killing of Major General Majid Khademi, who served as the head of the Guard's intelligence organization, as a result of airstrikes carried out by US and Israeli forces early this Monday. The military statement issued by Tehran described the attack as a terrorist and criminal act targeting one of the country's most prominent security minds, emphasizing that Khademi represented a fundamental pillar in Iran's defense system.

The late Major General had assumed the duties of heading the intelligence apparatus on June 19, 2025, succeeding Major General Mohammad Kazemi, who was also killed in previous Israeli airstrikes. This operation comes amidst an unprecedented military escalation in the region, with recent strikes targeting vital centers belonging to the Iranian military command.

Khademi was considered one of the rare intelligence figures who combined long field experience with high academic achievement, having spent nearly half a century in service to the military establishment. He rose through sensitive positions that enabled him to oversee the most complex security files, making him a constant target for intelligence agencies hostile to Tehran throughout the past decades.

According to official sources, Major General Khademi's resume includes his leadership of the 'Information Protection' organization affiliated with the Revolutionary Guard, in addition to leadership roles in the Iranian Ministry of Defense. He also enhanced his standing as a strategic expert by obtaining two doctorates in national security and defense sciences, which qualified him to lead structural transformations in the intelligence apparatus during the last year.

The Revolutionary Guard's statement indicated that Khademi's security legacy will remain a 'strong barrier' in the face of external threats surrounding the Islamic Republic. The military leadership considered his absence a great loss, but at the same time affirmed that security institutions are capable of overcoming this blow and continuing their missions in protecting the system and the homeland.

These field developments come in the context of the open confrontation that began since late February, which resulted in thousands of deaths and injuries among Iranians. These confrontations have affected the highest echelons of power in Iran, including the assassination of the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and a number of senior political and military leaders in the country.

Reports from Tehran indicate that Khademi's killing may lead to new changes in Iranian security tactics, especially since the man was responsible for sensitive files related to countering foreign espionage. International circles are awaiting the nature of the potential Iranian response to this operation, which targeted the head of the intelligence pyramid during one of the most critical periods in modern Iranian history.

The roles and achievements recorded by Khademi will remain immortal and a strategic reference for the Iranian intelligence community.

ARAB AND WORLD

Mon 06 Apr 2026 12:44 pm - Jerusalem Time

Diplomatic Movement to End the War: A Two-Phase Pakistani Proposal on Tehran's Table

Responsible sources revealed intensive diplomatic efforts led by Pakistan to reach a formula that ends the current military confrontation, as Tehran received a two-phase proposal for a ceasefire. A senior Iranian official confirmed that his country is carefully studying the offer, while emphasizing the Islamic Republic's rejection of reopening the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for only a temporary truce, given Tehran's lack of conviction in Washington's seriousness for a permanent cessation of hostilities.

The Pakistani proposal, which represents the only channel of communication between the two parties, relies on a gradual approach that begins with an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire as a first step to build trust. This step is supposed to be followed by the signing of an initial memorandum of understanding that establishes a final and comprehensive agreement to be completed within a period ranging from 15 to 20 days, ensuring an end to the state of tension in international waterways.

Leaked information indicates that the initiative includes essential provisions related to the Iranian nuclear file, where the option of Tehran abandoning its program in exchange for a full lifting of economic sanctions imposed on it is proposed. The proposal also includes the release of all frozen Iranian assets abroad, points that are still subject to extensive deliberations within decision-making circles in Iran and no final agreement has been reached on them yet.

On the diplomatic front, sources reported that the Iranian capital witnessed extensive activity in recent hours, as Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held a series of contacts with his counterparts in the region and the world. These moves aim to explain the Iranian position and clarify the conditions Tehran sets for accepting any political settlement that guarantees its sovereign rights and ends the ongoing state of hostility.

The sources clarified that the official Iranian position is based on the premise that the other party initiated the military escalation, and therefore Tehran rejects any formula that appears to be a surrender or a retreat from national constants. The Iranian leadership affirms that any American attempt to achieve political gains that it failed to extract on the battlefield will be met with outright rejection, considering that time pressures will not affect the quality of the decision made.

Tehran stipulates in its vision for a final solution that the cessation of war must be comprehensive for all fronts related to the conflict, to ensure that confrontations do not resume in other areas in the future. Iran also demands the inclusion of a clear clause regarding the payment of financial and in-kind compensation for the enormous losses inflicted on its infrastructure and facilities as a result of the military operations launched by hostile forces during the past period.

Despite the momentum surrounding the Pakistani proposal, Tehran has not yet issued any official statement confirming receipt of the draft or setting a date for a final response. Extreme caution prevails in Iranian political circles, where observers believe that the devil is in the details, especially regarding the mechanisms for verifying the lifting of sanctions and guarantees that Washington will not withdraw from any future agreement.

If the proposal is accepted, the Strait of Hormuz is expected to witness an immediate resumption of international navigation, which will alleviate the global energy crisis caused by the war. Regional and international powers are awaiting the results of this mediation, which could constitute a historic turning point in the course of Iranian-American relations, or lead to further escalation if the parties fail to bridge their views on outstanding issues.

Iran will not succumb to pressure to set deadlines or make decisions under duress, and what Washington failed to achieve on the ground it will not gain through politics.

OPINIONS

Mon 06 Apr 2026 12:44 pm - Jerusalem Time

Wild Ambiguity!

Dr. Ibrahim Melhem

Editor-in-Chief

Less talk. Until 8 PM tomorrow, Washington time, 2 AM Wednesday, Palestine time, Trump extended the deadline he set for Iran, which was scheduled to end this evening, before showering it with "hell" if it did not respond to his conditions included in the fifteen-point "surrender document," which Tehran had previously rejected, and responded yesterday by rejecting the ultimatum. The world stands on tiptoe today, holding its breath, awaiting what the eccentric man will do, his face fluctuating in the sky of the crisis that has entered its second month, with no sign of de-escalation on the horizon, while ambiguity shrouds the option of a "ground invasion" with which the "real estate mogul" threatens Kharg Island to control it and obtain immense wealth, as he said. In a post resembling him, the "inflated ego" tweeted yesterday with abusive words, threatening Tehran with difficult days ahead, according to a timeline that begins with bombing energy facilities and destroying bridges, before returning the country and its people to the Stone Age. While opinion polls indicate his popularity is eroding, his temperature rises, his anger increases, his uproar accelerates, and his nervousness intensifies, so he dismisses the Attorney General for her role in exposing Epstein's files, and overthrows Chief of Staff "Randy George" in favor of strengthening the position of the "Fox News anchor" he brought in to compete with the generals in managing the most complex conflicts on the ground. The overthrow of the professional general conceals a conflict with the ignorance, recklessness, and madness that governs and controls decision-making in the White House, and with those who lead the great power with "incantations" and "political sorcery" and rush into the battle of "Armageddon." Hundreds of planes and warships and tens of thousands of soldiers have completed their positioning in the region, signaling a wide ground campaign, similar to the one Iraq was subjected to in 2003, with the aim of creating "soft zones" in the vast Persian plateau. The pre-Islamic poet Zuhair bin Abi Salma said: "And war is nothing but what you have known and tasted, and it is not about the rumored حديث." And an ancient military commander who experienced wars and lived through their horrors said: "All pre-prepared military plans fall with the firing of the first bullet."

ARAB AND WORLD

Mon 06 Apr 2026 12:44 pm - Jerusalem Time

Widespread Criticism of Trump Following 'Obscene' Threats to Iran and Use of Religious Rhetoric

The intensity of criticism directed at US President Donald Trump has escalated within political circles in Washington, following posts he published on social media platforms that included language described as obscene towards Iran. The threats were not limited to verbal aspects but also included explicit warnings of targeting vital Iranian facilities and infrastructure, including bridges and power generation stations, should Tehran continue to reject American demands.

Informed sources reported that this harsh tone provoked the indignation of both Trump's allies and adversaries, with observers considering it a departure from the customary diplomatic protocol of the presidency. Democratic Party representatives believe that this approach reflects a state of deep frustration within the current administration due to the faltering efforts to extract substantial concessions from the Iranian side regarding its controversial nuclear program.

For his part, the Senate Minority Leader launched a scathing attack on the President, describing his recent statements as evidence of a loss of control over foreign political discourse. In the same context, Senator Chris Murphy warned that such threats open the door to a comprehensive military confrontation that could lead to a large number of casualties, emphasizing the need to return to sound diplomatic paths.

Opposing voices within the Republican Party were not absent from the scene, as a number of party leaders expressed their concern about the impact of this language on the global perception of the United States. Media sources indicated that a segment of American voters has become disgruntled with the use of profanity in official speeches, asserting that the presidency requires a decorum that reflects the prestige of the state and its international standing.

Furthermore, the use of religious symbolism in military contexts sparked a new wave of controversy, especially after describing the rescue of an American pilot in Iran as an 'Easter miracle.' This description, echoed by Trump and senior officials in his administration, was considered by critics an attempt to imbue military operations with a sacred character, raising serious concerns about the intertwining of religious doctrine with strategic military decision-making.

Human rights and religious organizations condemned this trend, warning of the danger of exploiting religious sentiments to justify armed conflicts or incite violence against other countries. These organizations affirmed in separate statements that the involvement of religion in political conflicts represents a dangerous precedent that could lead to deviations in the doctrine of the US military and the orientations of field commanders in conflict zones.

In light of these developments, American lawmakers called for an official investigation into reports indicating the infiltration of extremist religious interpretations within some military circles to justify the option of war. These parliamentary moves come in an attempt to put an end to what opponents describe as 'the politicization of religion' and its use as a tool to pass political and military agendas that could drag the region into an uncalculated conflict.

These statements mean a readiness for further escalation and additional casualties in the region.

ARAB AND WORLD

Mon 06 Apr 2026 12:43 pm - Jerusalem Time

Pakistani Mediation to End the Conflict: A Two-Phase Plan to Open the Strait of Hormuz and Ceasefire

Informed sources revealed that both Tehran and Washington have received a diplomatic plan aimed at ending mutual hostilities, with expectations of it coming into effect within the next few hours. This initiative primarily aims to secure the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to international navigation and prevent the region from sliding into a comprehensive and destructive confrontation.

The sources clarified that Pakistan played a pivotal role in drafting this political framework, having delivered the draft to both parties during the past night hours. The Pakistani vision relies on a gradual strategy, starting with an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire as a confidence-building step, followed by detailed negotiations to reach a final agreement.

The incoming reports emphasized the necessity of reaching a final agreement on all terms of the plan today to ensure that diplomatic efforts do not collapse. The initial understandings are to be formulated into a formal memorandum of understanding, with Islamabad overseeing the completion of its legal and political procedures as the sole channel of communication.

In a related context, international press reports indicated that the United States and Iran, with the participation of regional mediators, are discussing a parallel proposal that includes a 45-day humanitarian and military truce. This timeframe aims to provide a suitable environment for negotiating a permanent end to the war, away from the pressures of field military operations.

The first phase of this proposal includes a complete freeze on all offensive activities, with the possibility of extending the truce if the parties show seriousness in reaching radical solutions. The second phase focuses on drafting a peace treaty or security agreement that ensures no return to military escalation in the near future.

These rapid diplomatic moves come under significant time pressure, especially after recent statements by US President Donald Trump, which carried a clear tone of threat. Trump had set a deadline ending Tuesday evening, demanding the full opening of the Strait of Hormuz or facing strikes targeting vital infrastructure.

Observers believe that Pakistani mediation represents the last chance to avoid direct confrontation, especially since it enjoys relative acceptance from the conflicting parties due to its ability to accurately convey messages. Global capitals are awaiting the results of these deliberations, given the extreme strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz in global energy supplies and the stability of the international economy.

Despite cautious optimism, challenges remain regarding the technical details of the ceasefire and the international monitoring mechanisms that may be imposed later. The gamble now is on the extent of the leadership's response in Tehran and Washington to the draft agreement, and their ability to make mutual concessions that end the current state of tension.

All elements must be agreed upon today, and the initial understanding will be drafted as a memorandum of understanding to be finalized through Pakistan.

OPINIONS

Mon 06 Apr 2026 8:17 am - Jerusalem Time

Public Rejection of Iran War Escalates in the United States as it Enters its Sixth Week Amid Fears of Conflict Expansion

Said Erikat

Opinion Writer

Washington – Said Arikat – 4/6/2026

As US military operations against Iran continue since their launch on February 28, 2026, under the name "Operation Overwhelming Fury," recent opinion polls reveal an unprecedented widening of American opposition to this war, as it enters its sixth week, an indicator reflecting a growing gap between the US administration's policies and domestic public opinion.

According to poll data published in early April, this war is among the US military operations that have generated the most public rejection since their inception in modern history. A CNN poll conducted on April 1 showed that about 66% of Americans oppose, to varying degrees, the decision to resort to military action against Iran. A joint poll by Reuters and Ipsos also showed that two-thirds of Americans prefer a swift end to military intervention, even if the stated objectives are not fully achieved.

These results reflect a general trend towards caution regarding involvement in a prolonged conflict, especially with rising concerns about the possibility of sending ground troops, an option that President Donald Trump's administration has not ruled out yet. Data indicates that more than 75% of Americans oppose the deployment of ground troops in Iran, a clear indication of the historical sensitivity associated with extended wars in the Middle East.

In the same context, a Pew Research Center poll showed that 40% of Americans believe the war makes the United States less safe, compared to only 22% who believe it enhances the country's security, reflecting a decline in confidence in the effectiveness of current military operations.

Reasons for Escalating Opposition

Observers link this public rejection to several intertwined factors, primarily direct economic repercussions. Global oil prices have seen a sharp rise since the outbreak of the conflict, which has been reflected in fuel prices within the United States, exceeding $4 per gallon in late March, increasing living pressures on citizens.

The ambiguity surrounding the US strategy also contributes to public anxiety, as estimates indicate that about 67% of voters believe the administration lacks a clear plan to manage or end the conflict. This concern is exacerbated by warnings of broader regional repercussions, especially amid tensions related to the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global energy supplies.

Field Developments and Political Escalation

On the ground, recent days have witnessed a remarkable escalation in political and military rhetoric, with President Trump giving Iran a deadline ending on Tuesday, April 7, to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, threatening "severe" consequences, including targeting vital infrastructure such as power plants and bridges.

In contrast, estimates of human casualties within Iran vary, but human rights reports, including those published by the "Hrana" agency (concerned with human rights), indicate thousands of deaths since the start of operations.

Regarding military operations, US forces announced on April 5 their success in rescuing a crew member of an F-15E aircraft, who had been lost inside Iranian territory since Friday, in an operation described as complex and sensitive.

Despite President Trump's announcement of the operation's success, its behind-the-scenes details revealed a heavy price paid by the United States, represented by the bombing and destruction of two of its most advanced aircraft. While US commando teams successfully reached and secured the pilot, the force faced a fatal obstacle after the front wheels of two military transport aircraft sank into the sand of the desert runway, according to the American account revealed by the New York Times.

After desperate attempts to free the two aircraft, forces were forced to request alternative planes. Before withdrawing at sunrise, American fighters bombed and completely destroyed the stranded aircraft.

The decision was governed by an extremely sensitive "strategic necessity." The Wall Street Journal explained that the destroyed aircraft were MC-130J models, highly advanced aircraft, each costing more than $100 million.

This exorbitant material cost to save a single individual opened the door to a more serious strategic question in military decision-making circles: If Iran's sands cost America hundreds of millions of dollars and nearly thwarted a limited rescue operation, what price will Washington pay if it decides to launch a large-scale ground attack?

This development comes amid continued airstrikes and growing fears of the conflict escalating into a broader regional confrontation, which could involve multiple parties in the Middle East, exacerbating anxiety within and outside the United States.

The widespread public rejection of the war with Iran reflects a structural shift in the American public mood towards the use of military force, especially after bitter experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan. Americans are now more inclined to measure the cost of wars not only by strategic criteria but also by their direct economic and social repercussions. The absence of a clear and achievable goal also reinforces doubts about the utility of this conflict. This shift may impose increasing constraints on decision-makers in Washington and limit their ability to continue open-ended military operations without genuine and sustained public support.

The economic dimension also plays a central role in shaping public opposition to the war, as rising fuel and basic commodity prices directly link foreign policy to the living conditions of the American citizen. With increasing reliance on global energy, any disruption in the Strait of Hormuz becomes a direct threat to the American economy. This interconnectedness enhances public sensitivity to external crises and makes it difficult for the administration to justify continued military operations without providing a clear vision for reducing economic damage or ensuring market stability in the short and medium term.

The recent escalation in American rhetoric, especially the threat to target Iranian infrastructure, reflects a transition from limited military pressure to a strategy that may carry risks of conflict expansion. Such steps could push regional parties to engage directly or indirectly, opening the door to a multi-front war. In the absence of a clear international consensus, Washington may find itself facing increasing diplomatic isolation. This scenario raises serious questions about the US administration's ability to achieve its goals without sliding into a long and costly political and military conflict.

PALESTINE

Mon 06 Apr 2026 8:17 am - Jerusalem Time

Washington and Tel Aviv's Goals in the War on Iran: A Struggle for Influence and the Future of the Regional Order

International calls from opinion leaders and humanitarian organizations are escalating to stop the war waged by the United States and Israel on Iran and Lebanon, amidst widespread destruction threatening the stability of the entire region. As the war enters its sixth week, the true motives appear to go beyond the declared slogans, with Washington's desire to curb the growing Chinese influence, which relies primarily on Iranian oil supplies, becoming prominent.

Observers believe that US President Donald Trump recognizes the strategic importance of Tehran as the owner of the second-largest oil reserves in OPEC and the main supplier to major Asian powers such as Japan and South Korea. Therefore, targeting Iran essentially represents an American attempt to restore unipolarity and absolute control over global energy markets and their supply routes.

On the ground, Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz has paralyzed the movement of more than 20% of global oil exports, posing a real dilemma for the US administration. Despite Trump's calls for NATO countries to undertake the task of forcibly opening the strait, hesitation prevails in military circles for fear of sliding into an all-out confrontation with uncertain outcomes.

Through this war, the United States seeks to achieve five strategic objectives, foremost among them overthrowing the political regime in Tehran and dismantling its military capabilities. Washington also aims to undermine Iran's allies in Palestine, Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen, to ensure the protection of Israeli and American interests in the vital West Asian region.

The nuclear file stands out as one of the primary drivers of the conflict, with Washington demanding a complete halt to the uranium enrichment program and control over Iran's estimated 450 kilograms of enriched uranium. The US administration also seeks to dismantle the long-range ballistic missile system, which has become a direct threat to American bases and their allies in the region.

In the context of economic restructuring, the American plan aims to integrate a 'demilitarized' Iran into the international economic system to control its rare mineral resources. This coincides with efforts to establish the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), connecting India to the Gulf states and Europe via Israel, to serve as a strategic alternative to routes controlled by Tehran.

For his part, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces increasing internal pressure, having attacked the Supreme Court for allowing anti-war demonstrations in Tel Aviv. Netanyahu considered these movements to weaken the home front at a sensitive time, comparing the freedom to demonstrate with the restrictions imposed on religious rituals during Passover.

Field sources reported that Israeli police used force to disperse protest gatherings, resulting in the arrest of 17 people and a demonstrator suffering a heart attack requiring urgent medical intervention. These protests reflect a decline in public confidence in the war's trajectory, after opinion polls showed a significant drop in support compared to the beginning of military operations.

Amidst the current military stalemate, reports indicate that Trump may face extremely dangerous options, including greenlighting the use of tactical weapons or weapons of mass destruction. These extreme options aim to force the Iranian leadership to submit to American conditions, despite warnings of their catastrophic ethical and political repercussions for the US administration.

Political readings suggest that Iran has so far managed to absorb the initial shock of the war, relying on cyber and military capabilities that surprised Western intelligence circles. Experts believe that Tehran may have set a 'strategic trap' for its enemies, exploiting their ignorance of the extent of defensive capabilities it has developed during years of siege.

On the regional level, mediation efforts led by countries such as Turkey, Pakistan, and Egypt failed to bridge the gap between Washington and Tehran, as negotiations reached a dead end. The Iranian side insists on rejecting American conditions, affirming its readiness for a long-term confrontation that may witness new military surprises on the ground.

Analysts believe that the failure to achieve a quick resolution could lead to a resounding political defeat for Trump and his Republican party in the upcoming midterm elections in November. Netanyahu faces the same fate, as the continuation of the war without tangible results threatens the collapse of his ruling coalition and the fall of his government in the elections scheduled for October.

The current conflict represents a historical turning point that could lead to the birth of a new world order, ending the era of unipolarity led by the United States. If Iran withstands, it may emerge from this confrontation with a greater ability to impose its conditions, including imposing sovereign fees on navigation in the Strait of Hormuz to compensate for its losses.

In conclusion, the region faces open scenarios, where major economic interests intertwine with geopolitical ambitions, in a war described by observers as a 'bone-crushing battle' that will define the contours of influence in the Middle East for decades to come, amidst global anticipation of what the coming days will bring in terms of field and diplomatic developments.

The raging confrontation is not merely a struggle to protect interests, but a strategic attack aimed at building a new regional order under broader American hegemony.

ARAB AND WORLD

Mon 06 Apr 2026 8:17 am - Jerusalem Time

Mystery surrounds Trump's disappearance from public view as White House denies hospitalization

A state of widespread controversy has prevailed across social media platforms and international media outlets regarding the health status of US President Donald Trump, following unconfirmed reports suggesting his presence at the 'Walter Reed' National Military Medical Center. These suspicions arise amid an unusual absence of the President from the public scene since the middle of last week, which has opened the door to multiple interpretations about the reasons for this sudden disappearance.

The intensity of speculation was further fueled by the exceptional measures taken by the White House on Saturday evening, where the US administration informed accredited reporters and photographers of a decision to ban coverage or photography of the President's departure from his residence. This measure coincided with Trump remaining in Washington and not heading to spend his usual weekend, which observers considered an indicator of an emergency that prevented the President from appearing directly before the cameras.

In contrast, Steven Cheung, the White House communications coordinator, quickly denied all rumors related to the President's deteriorating health or his hospitalization for treatment. Cheung affirmed in press statements that Trump continues his official duties intensely inside the Oval Office, emphasizing that his agenda is busy with files that serve the American people during the current Easter holiday.

For his part, John Bolton, the former National Security Advisor, offered a different reading of the situation, suggesting that Trump's absence might be due to psychological pressures and a state of political 'panic'. Bolton explained in statements to American media that recent military developments, represented by the downing of two aircraft and the loss of an American pilot in Iran, have put the administration in a critical predicament requiring difficult decisions.

The US President has not appeared publicly since the speech he addressed to the nation last Wednesday evening, which prompted his political opponents to question his mental state and his ability to manage current crises. Despite this visual absence, his activity on social media platforms has not completely ceased, as he directed sharply worded warning messages to the Iranian leadership via his private platform.

Trump indicated in a post on his 'Truth Social' platform on Saturday morning that 'time is running out' for Tehran, in a clear reference to the ongoing military escalation in the region. However, analysts believe that relying solely on text messages without field appearances reinforces the hypothesis of a health or security impediment preventing the President from direct communication with the public and the press.

Political circles in Washington are awaiting any anticipated official appearance to break the state of ambiguity surrounding the White House, especially with increasing public pressure to know the truth. Reports from informed sources continue to suggest that the coming hours may witness a more detailed clarification about the President's activities to end the wave of rumors that has swept American and international circles.

No president has ever worked harder than President Trump for the American people, and he is working tirelessly in the Oval Office.

ANALYSIS

Mon 06 Apr 2026 8:17 am - Jerusalem Time

Five Motivations That Favor Escalation in the Military Confrontation with Iran

As the war on Iran enters its sixth week, the strategic question arises about the trajectory of this confrontation and its future in light of the complex field data. Tehran has managed to absorb the initial military shock, thwarting the bets on a quick resolution promoted by US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Current indicators confirm that the Iranian regime has not fallen nor has it submitted to the new American conditions, and the bet on street movements or the activity of separatist organizations has not achieved the desired results. This resilience has put the American administration in front of difficult choices, especially with the Iranian military power remaining active and capable of maneuvering.

Today, the war faces three main paths: either a unilateral American declaration of the end of operations, reaching an agreement through difficult negotiations, or continuing to escalate and expand the scope of the conflict. Although a political solution remains the most likely path in the long run, current data does not support this direction soon.

There are factors that might push Trump to consider ending the war, including internal pressures and severe economic consequences, especially the threats facing energy supplies through the Strait of Hormuz. However, these pressures do not seem sufficient to force the White House to retreat, especially given its commitment to Israel's security.

The negotiation path, however, seems stalled due to the absence of common ground and mutual distrust between Washington and Tehran so far. Despite mediation efforts by regional countries such as Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan, mutual messages have hit a dead end due to reciprocal conditions.

The first factor driving escalation is the failure to achieve the stated strategic objectives of the war, primarily undermining Iran's nuclear and missile program. From a military perspective, stopping operations now means admitting failure to change Tehran's regional behavior or overthrow its political system.

The second factor relates to the 'narrative of victory,' where both Trump and Netanyahu need to present a tangible achievement to their domestic fronts before any electoral challenges. Stopping at the current situation does not give either of them a chance to claim a decisive victory, which makes them lean towards the option of continuing to extract greater concessions.

The multiplicity of fronts constitutes the third factor complicating the scene, with Lebanese Hezbollah and other forces in the region effectively entering the confrontation. This interconnectedness between fronts makes any bilateral agreement between Washington and Tehran difficult to achieve without addressing intertwined and highly sensitive regional issues.

In contrast, Iran's internal and leadership situation shows unexpected cohesion after the initial strikes, which gave it the ability to regain the initiative. The Iranian leadership believes that continued attrition may strengthen its negotiating cards, especially regarding global economic pressure by disrupting maritime navigation.

The fifth and final factor is the Israeli position, which fears any sudden 'flip' in President Trump's decisions. Netanyahu is striving with all his might to ensure the continuation of military momentum and narrow diplomatic options, fearing an agreement that does not fully meet Israeli security aspirations.

The divergence of interests between Washington and Tel Aviv regarding the conditions for ending the war opens the door for further field escalation to impose new realities. Israel is pushing to exploit the historic opportunity to strike Iranian capabilities in an irreparable way, which requires more time than the deadline Trump might grant.

Regionally, neighboring countries are watching the outcomes of this conflict with extreme caution, fearing a slide into a comprehensive regional war that spares no one. The international isolation that Washington suffers in this war further complicates the situation, but it has not prevented it from continuing military pressure so far.

Considering these combined factors, the chances of de-escalation seem very slim in the foreseeable future, and the likely scenario is an increase in the intensity of mutual strikes. The absence of direct and effective communication channels makes military miscalculation a potential spark for expanding the scope of the confrontation to include other international parties.

In conclusion, the war on Iran is likely to continue and escalate regardless of verbal threats or announced deadlines. The current scene indicates that the two aggressor parties are stuck in a strategy that does not guarantee them a quick victory, while Tehran is betting on the factor of time and the attrition of its adversaries.

Iran realizes that it cannot defeat the United States militarily, but Washington and Tel Aviv are also incapable of achieving a decisive and complete victory.

PALESTINE

Mon 06 Apr 2026 8:16 am - Jerusalem Time

Political Earthquake in Washington: Absolute Support for Israel Becomes an Electoral Burden Within the Democratic Party

The repercussions of the ongoing war on the Gaza Strip have begun to impose a new political reality within the United States, where absolute support for Tel Aviv is no longer a consensus as it once was. With the clear emergence of genocidal features, the movement has shifted from American streets and student demonstrations to the corridors of decision-making in Washington, creating a deep division within the Democratic Party.

International press reports indicate that the language of Democratic Party leaders in Congress has shifted towards a stricter stance on Israeli policies, particularly regarding settlement expansion and military operations. This change reflects increasing internal pressures demanding an end to political dependency that could drag the United States into broader regional confrontations, especially with Iran.

Notable positions have emerged from influential Democratic figures, including Gavin Newsom, who did not hesitate to describe Israel as an 'apartheid state,' directing sharp criticism at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. These statements reflect unprecedented boldness in calling things by their names within the American political elite, which had avoided such descriptions for decades.

For his part, Senator Chris Murphy held the Israeli side responsible for attempting to embroil Washington in direct military conflicts in the region, warning of the cost of this entanglement. Observers believe that this discourse represents a growing trend that rejects prioritizing Israeli interests over American national security and the strategic interests of the United States.

The shift was not limited to the progressive wing alone but extended to include prominent Jewish figures who were considered pillars of traditional support, such as Rahm Emanuel and J.B. Pritzker. These individuals announced their distancing from 'AIPAC,' considering that this lobbying group no longer represents the orientations they wish to be associated with under current policies.

In a related context, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez continues to lead a strong opposition front within Congress, accusing Israel of committing massacres and systematic genocide in Gaza. These accusations resonate widely among the younger generation in the Democratic Party, who now view the Palestinian issue from a human rights and social justice perspective.

Recent opinion polls reinforce this trend, with an NBC News poll revealing shocking figures for the traditional establishment, as 67% of Democrats expressed sympathy for Palestinians. In contrast, the percentage of those who view Israel positively dropped to only 13%, a sharp decline of about 34% compared to last year.

Political analysts believe that this radical change in popular bases will directly affect the electoral map for 2028, where candidates will find themselves forced to balance the legacy of traditional support with the demands of a new generation that rejects funding wars. Blind support has become a 'political trap' threatening the professional future of many aspiring to high office.

At the level of public interaction, questions are increasing about the price the United States pays for this alliance, with sources indicating that the public debate has begun to shift towards financial and moral accountability. Activists believe that continuing this approach could isolate the United States internationally, and they liken the world's view of it to a negative historical view of previous regimes.

In conclusion, it appears that the American political scene is heading towards redefining its relationship with the Middle East, where Israel is no longer the 'sacred cow' that cannot be touched. The increasing pro-Palestinian demonstrations and the adoption of their slogans within progressive circles confirm that the change is not just a passing wave, but a structural transformation in the identity of the modern Democratic Party.

Support for Israel is now out of the ordinary within the modern Democratic Party, and the political discourse is changing in an unprecedented way.

PALESTINE

Mon 06 Apr 2026 8:16 am - Jerusalem Time

8 Martyrs in Raids on Beirut and Metn, Hezbollah Targets Military Barge with Cruise Missile

The intensity of field tensions in Lebanon escalated with the death of eight martyrs and the injury of dozens in a new wave of Israeli airstrikes targeting populated areas. Medical sources reported that the shelling focused on the Jnah area in Beirut's southern suburbs, as well as the Ain Saadeh hills in the Metn district, leading to widespread property destruction and panic among civilians.

Regarding the details of the deadly toll, official sources confirmed that the Jnah area raid alone resulted in the martyrdom of five people, including a girl under fifteen years old and two Sudanese nationals. The raid also caused injuries to 52 others, including eight children, who were transferred to nearby hospitals for necessary treatment.

In the Metn district, warplanes targeted the Ain Saadeh hills area, resulting in the martyrdom of three citizens, including two women. Field reports indicated that the shelling also caused three injuries among women, while rescue teams continue to remove rubble and search for potential survivors in the targeted sites.

According to data from the Lebanese Ministry of Health, the total number of victims of the ongoing Israeli aggression since early March has risen alarmingly. Official statistics recorded up to Sunday evening the martyrdom of 1461 people and the injury of 4430 others, amid continuous violent shelling targeting Lebanese villages and towns daily.

On the ground, Israeli warplanes launched a series of intensive raids, totaling eight, on various neighborhoods in Beirut's southern suburbs since the morning hours. The targets included the neighborhoods of Ruwais, Bir Hassan, Musharrafieh, and Hay Madi, reflecting an expansion of Israeli military operations deeper into Lebanese territory.

In response, Hezbollah announced an escalation of its military operations, confirming 23 qualitative attacks against Israeli targets since dawn on Sunday. The most prominent of these operations was targeting a military barge in the Mediterranean Sea using a naval 'cruise' missile, after a precise monitoring and tracking operation that lasted for several hours.

Hezbollah clarified in its statement that the targeted barge was stationed 68 nautical miles off the Lebanese coast and was preparing to carry out attacks. While the party confirmed achieving a direct and accurate hit, Hebrew media sources claimed that the shelled vessel belonged to the British Navy, which contradicts the Lebanese narrative.

Regarding ground and border confrontations, Hezbollah intensified its shelling of northern settlements, targeting the settlements of Nahariya and Metulla with successive rocket salvos. It also announced targeting ten gatherings of occupation soldiers and vehicles, including sites in the Malkia settlement and the Ajal plateau, in addition to fierce clashes in the towns of Ainata and Khiam in southern Lebanon.

The operations also included targeting nine military sites and strategic infrastructure, including the Meron air surveillance base, the Zar'it barracks, and a logistical base belonging to the occupation army. Rocket barrages hit the settlements of Yesud HaMa'aleh, Ma'alot-Tarshiha, Katzrin, and the occupied city of Safed, activating sirens dozens of times.

For its part, Hebrew sources acknowledged material damage after a drone launched from Lebanon fell on a house in the 'Shomrat' settlement in northern occupied Palestine. This coincided with sirens sounding in a wide area of the Upper and Western Galilee, amid a state of security and military alert among occupation forces to confront the increasing attacks.

We targeted an Israeli military barge 68 nautical miles off the Lebanese coast with a naval cruise missile after precise monitoring.

PALESTINE

Mon 06 Apr 2026 8:16 am - Jerusalem Time

Gaza aggression death toll exceeds 72,000 martyrs amid continued siege under the rubble

Medical sources in the Gaza Strip revealed today, Saturday, a new and painful update to the toll of victims of the ongoing aggression, as the number of documented martyrs rose to 72,291, while the number of injured reached 172,068 since October 7, 2023. These figures come amid the continuation of military operations targeting civilians and infrastructure in various areas of the Strip.

According to official data issued by hospitals, medical facilities received two martyrs and 25 new injuries during the past twenty-four hours. Statistics also indicated that the period following October 11 alone witnessed the martyrdom of 715 and the injury of 1,968 others, while teams were able to recover 756 bodies from various areas that had been bombed earlier.

The sources warned that the announced figures do not reflect the true extent of the tragedy, due to the presence of hundreds of victims trapped under the rubble of destroyed buildings or whose bodies are lying in rough roads. They confirmed that civil defense and ambulance crews face a complete inability to reach these areas due to the field restrictions imposed by the occupation and the continuation of direct targeting, which makes the final enumeration of victims an almost impossible task at present.

A number of victims are still under the rubble and in the streets, as ambulance and civil defense crews are unable to reach them.

ARAB AND WORLD

Mon 06 Apr 2026 8:16 am - Jerusalem Time

Trump sets 'Tuesday' deadline for Iran: Imminent agreement or total destruction of facilities

A state of ambiguity and anticipation overshadowed the international political scene following a brief post by former US President Donald Trump on his 'Truth Social' platform, in which he set a decisive time at 8:00 PM Tuesday, Eastern Time. This announcement came at the peak of the ongoing military escalation between Washington and Tehran, opening the door to widespread speculation about the nature of the next step, whether it would be an announcement of a sudden diplomatic agreement or the beginning of a comprehensive destructive phase.

These developments come in the context of the open military confrontation that began on February 28, with Israeli and American forces launching military operations against Iranian targets. In response, Tehran continues its retaliations by launching barrages of missiles and drones towards the occupied territories, in addition to targeting what it describes as American interests in the Arab region, which has led to casualties and severe material damage.

According to media sources, the time set by Trump corresponds to midnight Wednesday GMT, and comes after a series of contradictory statements he made to American media. While he hinted in his interview with 'Axios' at the possibility of reaching an imminent agreement with the Iranian leadership by Tuesday, he later confirmed to 'Fox News' that there was a good chance of achieving a diplomatic breakthrough in the coming hours.

However, the tone of diplomatic optimism quickly turned into severe threats, with Trump vowing to 'blow up everything' in Iran and take full control of its oil resources if negotiations failed. In statements to the 'Wall Street Journal', he stressed that Tehran would face dire consequences, including the loss of all power stations and vital facilities in the country if it did not back down from its current positions.

Trump directly linked his threats to the necessity of reopening the Strait of Hormuz to international navigation by the specified deadline on Tuesday evening, describing it as the 'hour of truth'. He wrote in a harsh tone, warning Iranian officials of the consequences of continuing to close the strait, asserting that the alternative would be living in an unimaginable military 'hell', as he put it in his recent posts.

In another widely debated post, Trump described Tuesday as 'the day of power stations and bridges', indicating that the anticipated strikes would be in a single package and would be unprecedented in the history of contemporary conflicts. This escalatory language reflects the extent of pressure exerted by the American side to impose new conditions on the ground before the expiration of the deadline set by the former president.

For its part, Tehran was not slow to respond to these threats, with Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warning that the entire region is at risk of burning due to what he described as Trump's reckless moves. Ghalibaf considered that these policies reflect complete subservience to the orders of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, warning of the repercussions of any uncalculated military adventure.

In a related context, the Iranian Central Military Command issued a statement describing Trump's ultimatum as an 'incapable, tense, and unbalanced' act, affirming the readiness of the armed forces to deal with any emergency. The statement indicated that such threats would not deter Tehran from continuing its defensive strategy in the region, describing the former US president's statements as an expression of political confusion.

Major General Ali Abdollah Ali Abadi, commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, also stated that 'the gates of hell' would open on American forces if any military folly was committed against Iranian facilities. Ali Abadi affirmed that the Iranian response would be swift and comprehensive, and would not be limited to one front, further complicating the field and political scene hours before the anticipated deadline.

World capitals are awaiting the outcome of the coming hours, amid fears of the region sliding into a comprehensive regional war that transcends the limits of the current confrontation. While some hope that Trump's threats are merely a tool of pressure to achieve negotiating gains, field movements and mutual military statements indicate that all possibilities remain on the table for escalation.

Open the damn strait, you crazy bastards, or you will live in hell.

PALESTINE

Mon 06 Apr 2026 8:16 am - Jerusalem Time

Easter Burdened with Wounds: A Siege on Jerusalem and Regional War Drums Loom Over Christian Celebrations

Christians around the world, on Sunday, observed Easter and Palm Sunday according to both Western and Eastern calendars, in an atmosphere overshadowed by fears of expanding regional conflicts. Pope Leo XIV of the Vatican called on leaders of the international community to adopt the option of peace, criticizing the international indifference towards thousands of victims who fall daily due to raging wars.

In St. Peter's Square in the Vatican, the Pope presided over the Easter Mass for the first time since his ascension to the Holy See in May of last year. In his message, he affirmed that true peace cannot be imposed through instruments of war or the logic of force, but is achieved only through sincere dialogue and human encounter that transcends the desire to control others.

His Holiness warned of the danger of becoming accustomed to scenes of violence and surrendering to the results of hatred generated by armed conflicts. He pointed out that the world has become oblivious to the dire economic and social consequences afflicting peoples, calling for a global awakening of conscience to end the divisions that fuel the fire of conflicts in several regions of the world.

In the Palestinian territories, the city of Bethlehem witnessed varied celebrations, where churches following the Western calendar observed Easter, while Eastern churches celebrated Palm Sunday. The main Mass was held in St. Catherine's Church for Latins, adjacent to the Church of the Nativity, with the presence of priests and worshippers who offered prayers for the end of the ordeal.

In the occupied city of Jerusalem, the usual joyful manifestations were absent due to the strict military measures imposed by the Israeli occupation authorities. Occupation forces prevented thousands of Palestinian Christians from reaching the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, after setting up checkpoints and iron barricades in the alleys of the Old City and on the roads leading to the holiest Christian sites.

Local sources reported that Israeli police subjected the few worshippers who were allowed to pass to precise and provocative inspections. These restrictions come at a time when the occupation authorities continue to close the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre for the thirty-seventh consecutive day, leading to a complete paralysis of religious life in the city.

The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, was forced to hold Easter Mass behind closed doors inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre with a very limited number of clergy present. Eyewitnesses described the atmosphere inside the Old City as a military barracks, where occupation forces prevented worshippers who gathered outside from entering, awaiting an opportunity to pray.

On the northern front, Christians in southern Lebanon are living in tragic conditions under the weight of siege and mutual shelling between the Israeli army and Hezbollah. Christian-majority villages, such as the border town of Debel, face almost complete isolation as a result of ongoing military operations that have turned the holiday into an occasion for steadfastness and survival.

Field sources reported from residents of the border villages that the sounds of explosions did not subside throughout the holiday hours, forcing residents to stay in their homes and rely on scarce humanitarian aid. Despite these circumstances, residents affirmed their determination to remain on their land and perform their religious rituals with the simple means available under shelling.

These field developments come amid an escalation of military confrontation that began in late February, casting a dark shadow over all aspects of life in the region. This tension was clearly reflected in the movement of pilgrims and religious tourism, which completely stopped in the holy cities due to security risks.

It is worth noting that the coincidence of the Western and Eastern holidays in April 2026 was supposed to be an occasion to unite prayers, but the political and military reality imposed a different agenda. The calls for peace that emanated from the Vatican, Bethlehem, and Jerusalem remain pending, awaiting international action to end the cycle of violence plaguing the region.

Peace is not imposed by force, but by dialogue, and not by the will to control others, but by encountering them.

ISRAELI AFFAIRS

Mon 06 Apr 2026 8:16 am - Jerusalem Time

Clash of Wings in the Israeli Opposition: Eizenkot and Bennett Lead the 'Change Bloc' Race

The pace of political movements within the Israeli arena is accelerating as the 26th Knesset elections, scheduled for next October, draw near. The features of the conflict within the opposition appear more complex and exciting, as various forces seek to organize their ranks and determine the identity of those who will qualify for the final stages of the electoral race.

Analytical sources reported that the Israeli opposition is experiencing a difficult labor, where victories intertwine with defeats and severe disappointments. With about half a year remaining until the elections, the outlines of the forces that have succeeded in advancing, and those that have fallen behind, threatening to completely exit the political map, have begun to become clear.

The opposition 'Change Bloc' is currently divided into two main wings: the right and the center-left, each with its own calculations and balances. Three strong names stand out in the right wing, competing for leadership: Naftali Bennett, Avigdor Lieberman, and Gideon Sa'ar, amidst failed attempts to unite some of these poles.

The current stage witnessed Avigdor Lieberman displacing his rival Gideon Sa'ar from the path to the top, especially after the latter's popularity declined in opinion polls. This decline pushed Sa'ar and his 'New Hope' party to split and return to the Likud party, in a move described as an attempt at political survival after barely passing the electoral threshold.

In contrast, Naftali Bennett managed to strengthen his position in opinion polls, surpassing Lieberman in the 'semifinal' of the opposition right-wing camp. Data shows that a coalition combining Bennett and Lieberman could double the number of seats, despite Lieberman's insistence that he is the best candidate for the next premiership.

Observers believe that Lieberman's association with the opposition does not stem from an ideological difference with the ruling right, but rather is the result of a sharp personal tension with Benjamin Netanyahu. Lieberman still adopts extremist right-wing policies, and in some matters, he even surpasses the current coalition in extremism, especially in his support for the judicial overhaul project.

As for the center-left wing, the scene is no less heated, with former partners Benny Gantz and Gadi Eizenkot confronting each other. The competition focuses on the votes of the State Camp, the party that Gantz founded and led for a long time before the balance of power within it began to shift surprisingly.

Opinion polls had given Gantz about 38 seats following the October 7 attack, but this momentum gradually began to fade over time. With his position declining, Eizenkot demanded to take over the party's leadership, which Gantz refused, ultimately leading to Eizenkot's resignation and the start of an independent political path.

During the harsh war months, Gantz's approval rating recorded a significant decline from which he has not been able to recover until now, according to informed sources. In contrast, Gadi Eizenkot's stock rose sharply in opinion polls, enabling him to surpass traditional opposition leaders such as Yair Lapid and Yair Golan.

Eizenkot currently appears as the de facto leader of the center-left current, ready to enter the final competition against Naftali Bennett for the leadership of the Change Bloc. This sudden rise of Eizenkot in the polls has disrupted traditional calculations and placed him in a strong rival position against Bennett's ambitions to return to the premiership.

Analyzes confirm that Eizenkot has an additional advantage, which is the widespread popular movement supporting him in recent opinion polls. However, Bennett still maintains an advanced position, making the competition between them largely dependent on the mistakes either of them might make in the coming months.

The scene requires all candidates in the Change Bloc to persevere until the end and acknowledge the legitimacy of whoever takes first place to ensure the bloc's unity. However, Yair Lapid is still singing a different tune, warning against trusting his rivals and demanding to be the sole option for leading the opposition.

Despite Lapid's continuous attempts to establish his legitimacy, the gaps between him and Eizenkot in terms of suitability for the premiership have begun to narrow significantly. This fierce competition reflects the state of division and the search for a strong alternative that can confront Netanyahu's continued dominance of the Israeli political scene.

Ultimately, the next six months will remain crucial in determining the shape of the final alliances that will contest the Knesset elections. Opposition leaders will have to balance their personal ambitions with the strategic goal of bringing about real change in the hierarchy of Israeli power.

The Israeli opposition is witnessing many surprises and political intrigues that could even risk displacing traditional forces from the political map.

ISRAELI AFFAIRS

Mon 06 Apr 2026 8:16 am - Jerusalem Time

Netanyahu attacks Israeli Supreme Court over anti-war protests against Iran

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu launched a sharp attack on the Israeli Supreme Court, following its decision to allow protest demonstrations rejecting the continuation of the war against Iran. Netanyahu described this measure as 'unbelievable', considering that the judiciary is providing cover for political movements at a sensitive time for the Hebrew state.

Netanyahu's statements came via the 'X' platform the day after protests in Tel Aviv, where Israeli police intervened to forcibly disperse gatherings and arrested at least 17 participants. Press sources reported that clashes erupted in Habima Square, leading to a state of chaos that required urgent intervention by medical teams.

The Israeli Prime Minister used this incident to draw a comparison between freedom of demonstration and freedom of worship, noting that authorities impose restrictions on Jewish prayers at the Western Wall during the Passover holiday. Netanyahu stressed that while freedom of demonstration is guaranteed, it should not overshadow religious rights, which are no less important in the Israeli perspective.

Netanyahu emphasized in his speech that security powers in emergency situations must remain exclusively in the hands of the military establishment, specifically the army's Home Front Command. He clarified that this body is the only one authorized to assess the situation and determine the necessary security arrangements to protect the public, away from judicial interventions that may hinder security operations.

On the ground, medical sources revealed that one of the demonstrators suffered a severe heart attack during the dispersal of the protest in Tel Aviv, where Magen David Adom teams performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation on him at the scene. The injured person was transferred to the hospital for treatment, where his condition was later described as stable despite the seriousness of the incident, which coincided with the stampede of protesters.

According to field estimates, about 300 Israelis participated in the Tel Aviv demonstration, while about 150 others in the northern city of Haifa expressed their rejection of current military policies. These numbers reflect a division in Israeli society, although opinion polls initially indicated widespread support for military operations against Tehran.

Data issued by the Institute for National Security Studies at Tel Aviv University indicates that the approval rate for the war reached 80% in its early days, but this rate began to decline significantly as the conflict entered its second month. This decline comes amid the continued exchange of rocket barrages and drones between Israel and Iran since the outbreak of direct confrontation last February.

Unbelievable, while Jews are prevented from praying at the Western Wall during the holiday, the Supreme Court allowed a left-wing demonstration in Tel Aviv.

OPINIONS

Mon 06 Apr 2026 8:08 am - Jerusalem Time

Rescue and Reckoning: America’s Strategic Blind Spot


By: Said Arikat


April 6, 2026


News Analysis


Washington, D.C- In a dramatic episode that captures both the sophistication and contradictions of contemporary warfare, U.S. special operations forces—working in close coordination with the Central Intelligence Agency—executed a high-risk mission to rescue an American airman downed deep inside Iranian territory. The operation has been widely celebrated in Washington as a remarkable feat of precision, coordination, and courage. Yet beyond the operational triumph lies a more unsettling reality: the mission reveals not only the reach of American military power, but also its strategic limitations and ethical ambiguities in an era defined by protracted and increasingly opaque conflicts.


The incident began with the downing of a U.S. F-15E fighter jet over rugged mountainous terrain during an active combat sortie over Iran. While one crew member was quickly recovered, the weapon systems officer was left stranded—injured, isolated, and surrounded by hostile forces, including Iranian units and local armed groups conducting an intensive search. What followed was not merely a rescue effort but a race against time with profound geopolitical stakes. The prospect of an American serviceman falling into Iranian custody raised the specter of intelligence compromise, propaganda exploitation, and rapid escalation between two adversaries already locked in a volatile confrontation.


To cast this mission as unprecedented, however, would be historically misleading. The United States has conducted similarly daring—and arguably more perilous—rescues under even more constrained conditions. On June 8, 1995, U.S. forces extracted F-16 pilot Scott O’Grady from hostile territory in Bosnia, six days after his aircraft was shot down. Surviving with minimal supplies while evading Bosnian Serb forces, O’Grady’s rescue required a complex Marine Corps operation conducted under constant threat of enemy air defenses. That episode, like the current one, demonstrated not only technical capability but also institutional resolve, reminding us that such feats are part of a longer tradition rather than a wholly new threshold of military prowess.


Central to the recent mission’s success was the seamless integration of military and intelligence capabilities. The Central Intelligence Agency’s role extended far beyond surveillance; it orchestrated a sophisticated deception campaign within Iran, spreading false narratives that the downed airman had already been extracted. This tactic diverted search efforts and created a narrow operational window. While effective, such reliance on disinformation underscores a broader transformation in warfare, where controlling perception can be as decisive as controlling territory. It also raises enduring ethical questions about the normalization of deception as a primary instrument of statecraft.


Technological superiority played a decisive role as well. Advanced surveillance systems, real-time data analysis, and precision sensing enabled U.S. forces to locate the stranded airman in what one official described as a “needle in a haystack” scenario. Yet this capability highlights a striking paradox: the same military apparatus that can pinpoint an individual in near-impossible terrain continues to struggle with articulating a coherent strategy to end the broader conflict in which such incidents occur. Tactical brilliance coexists with strategic drift.


The final phase of the operation—authorized directly by President Donald Trump—involved the most perilous maneuver. Rescue helicopters penetrated Iranian airspace at low altitude to evade detection, coming under ground fire that injured several personnel. Despite these risks, the team successfully secured the airman and executed a rapid extraction. As a discrete military action, the mission achieved its objective with impressive efficiency. But its significance cannot be assessed in isolation from the wider strategic environment.


Indeed, the rescue provided a symbolic boost to a U.S. administration navigating the pressures of an ongoing and undefined conflict. Recovering a single serviceman carries immense moral and political weight, reinforcing the military’s commitment to leaving no one behind. However, such victories risk sustaining a narrative of dominance that obscures deeper structural challenges. They can create the illusion of progress in a conflict where the underlying dynamics remain unresolved.


The operation also reflects a broader transformation in warfare itself. The battlefield now extends into the informational domain, where narratives, misinformation, and psychological operations shape outcomes alongside kinetic force. The deception campaign exemplifies this shift, illustrating how success increasingly depends on the manipulation of perception. Yet this evolution carries risks: as adversaries adapt, the informational domain may become an arena of escalating competition, amplifying uncertainty and increasing the likelihood of miscalculation.


Equally significant is the precedent set by the mission’s geographic scope. The downing of an American aircraft and the subsequent rescue operation inside Iran mark a notable escalation in direct engagement. Although the incident ended without catastrophic losses, it underscores the fragility of the current equilibrium. Each such intrusion risks triggering retaliatory actions that could spiral beyond control in an already volatile region.


Yet if the operation reflects the precision of American military power, President Donald Trump’s rhetoric reveals a starkly different dimension—one marked not by discipline, but by excess. In a post on Truth Social, the president warned that if Iran did not reopen the Strait of Hormuz by a fixed deadline, the United States would “totally destroy” the country. The language was crude, maximalist, and strikingly indifferent to the norms of responsible statecraft.


That indifference is made more troubling by a basic strategic fact: Iran is not a nuclear-armed state. This is not a case of mutual nuclear deterrence between equals, but a sweeping threat directed at a non-nuclear country. The imbalance sharpens the sense that the rhetoric is less about deterrence than about coercion untethered from proportionality, projecting dominance at the expense of credibility.


Such language carries real strategic risk. By framing policy in the form of ultimatums, the president narrows the space for de-escalation while increasing the likelihood of reciprocal escalation. It encourages defiance rather than compromise, particularly in a region where sovereignty and dignity are deeply intertwined with political decision-making. In this sense, the rhetoric is not merely undisciplined—it is counterproductive.


Moreover, tone matters in international politics. When the leader of the United States adopts language that appears impulsive or openly punitive, it risks eroding allied confidence while hardening adversarial resolve. It introduces a dangerous form of ambiguity—one that obscures intent rather than clarifies it, increasing the risk of miscalculation.


This dissonance between operational discipline and rhetorical volatility encapsulates a central paradox of American power. On the battlefield, the United States demonstrates unparalleled capability to act decisively. In the political arena, however, that precision is often undermined by messaging that amplifies risk rather than containing it.


In the final analysis, the rescue stands as both a testament to American military prowess and a cautionary tale about its limits. It is a story of audacity and competence, but also of ambiguity and unresolved tension. The enduring question is not whether the United States can execute such missions, but whether it can align its tactical excellence with a coherent and credible strategy—one grounded less in threats of destruction than in the difficult work of preventing it.

PALESTINE

Sun 05 Apr 2026 11:46 pm - Jerusalem Time

Israeli 1970 Law: A Settlement Arm to Swallow East Jerusalem Neighborhoods and Displace Their Residents

Palestinian neighborhoods in occupied East Jerusalem face a growing existential threat due to an arsenal of old laws and documents used by settler groups to seize properties. The Judicial and Administrative Arrangements Law of 1970, known as 'Yemeni Jewish Property,' stands out as a key tool in this systematic process aimed at undermining the Palestinian presence in the Holy City.

The roots of this crisis date back to the late 19th century, when Jewish donors established what is known as the 'Benvenisti' endowment to purchase lands in the Silwan area to house Jews who came from Yemen. A residential nucleus known as the 'Yemeni Village' was formed at that time, but the British authorities evacuated its residents in 1938 due to security tensions, and the land has remained registered under the endowment's name ever since.

Following the occupation of East Jerusalem in 1967, Palestinian families began to settle in neighborhoods such as Batn al-Hawa and Sheikh Jarrah, relying on official ownership contracts and purchase certificates from local owners or with permits from the Jordanian administration. The residents were unaware that these properties were located within the boundaries of lands historically registered under Jewish endowments, which made them vulnerable to complex legal persecutions later on.

The issuance of the 1970 law created a stark double standard in the occupation's judicial system, as it allowed Jews to claim properties they lost before 1948 in East Jerusalem. In contrast, the same law deprives Palestinians of any similar right to reclaim their properties and homes from which they were displaced in the western part of the city, thus entrenching a policy of racial discrimination.

The 'Ateret Cohanim' settler association is the actual driver of these lawsuits, especially after it obtained guardianship rights over the 'Benvenisti' endowment in 2001. Since then, the association has exploited historical documents to file hundreds of eviction cases against Palestinian families, claiming that their presence is illegal and that the rights belong to the settlers.

The period between late 2025 and early 2026 witnessed a dangerous turning point, as the Israeli Supreme Court rejected appeals filed by Palestinian families against their eviction decisions. This judicial rejection gave the green light to settlers to carry out widespread forced seizures, supported by police forces that secure the evictions.

In addition to the judicial path, settler associations follow convoluted methods to strengthen their control, including using shell companies and intermediaries to register properties indirectly. These entities also exert financial and psychological pressure on families by offering tempting offers to leave or burdening them with court expenses and repeated legal letters.

These systematic measures have transformed the law from a regulatory framework into a political and demographic tool aimed primarily at expanding settlements in the heart of Arab neighborhoods. Instead of providing protection to residents who have lived in their homes for decades, the judicial system has become a platform to justify forced displacement and change the historical character of Jerusalem.

Ultimately, the 1970 law represents the cornerstone of the strategy to change the demographic reality of East Jerusalem by exploiting old endowment properties. Entire neighborhoods are currently being reshaped in favor of settlers, in clear violation of all international conventions that prohibit the occupying power from changing the features of the occupied land or displacing its residents.

The law has transformed from a tool for reclaiming alleged historical ownership into a political platform aimed at changing Jerusalem's demographic identity.

ISRAELI AFFAIRS

Sun 05 Apr 2026 11:46 pm - Jerusalem Time

Hebrew Report: Iranian Control of the Strait of Hormuz Shifts International Balance of Power

Hebrew press sources reported that Iran has managed to unprecedentedly strengthen its grip on oil exports in the Arabian Gulf region, a first in decades. Reports clarified that Tehran exploited its advanced military capabilities to impose a new reality, enabling it to achieve massive economic gains since the outbreak of the recent confrontation.

Maariv newspaper stated that these financial gains allowed Tehran to accelerate the rebuilding of its strategic industries that were previously damaged. These operations include the rapid development of missile systems and nuclear programs, which has given it the political audacity to claim sovereignty over the international Strait of Hormuz.

Data indicates that Iran doubled its oil revenues during the first month of the war compared to any previous periods in recent years. This increase reflects the nature of the economic campaign managed by Tehran, which appears to transcend traditional military solutions that international powers might resort to.

Sources confirmed that the US administration has begun to realize the difficulty of confronting this Iranian strategy or imposing control over the situation on the ground. Tehran had prepared for such scenarios for many years, developing precise plans to paralyze oil exports from the Gulf, which supplies 15% of global consumption.

Iranian capabilities extend to missiles and drones with a range of up to 2000 kilometers, giving it the ability to disrupt navigation in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman. Observers believe that hitting just one ship would be enough to completely halt navigation due to insurance companies ceasing coverage for transiting vessels.

The report cited the example of the Houthis in Yemen, who managed to disrupt international navigation despite possessing significantly fewer military capabilities than Iran. The newspaper considered that control over international energy corridors is a strategic weapon that currently surpasses the impact of possessing nuclear weapons.

Historically, the report compared the current situation to the Turkish closure of the Dardanelles Strait during World War I, which prevented supplies from reaching Russia. This British failure at the time to control the waterways led to the resignation of prominent military and political leaders due to heavy human losses.

Internationally, the International Energy Agency announced that the world is facing an oil supply disruption not seen since the 1973 embargo. This comes as exports from major countries such as Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait, and the UAE through the Gulf have ceased due to the current blockade.

Estimates indicate that approximately 800 ships are currently trapped in the Arabian Gulf, with the United States lacking sufficient military capability to lift this blockade. The global rise in oil prices has effectively lifted sanctions on Iran, allowing it to sell its production more freely.

China accounts for about 90% of Iranian oil exports, while supplies from other Gulf countries to global markets have ceased. Tehran has begun to impose new trade conditions, including reducing discounts granted to China and imposing protection fees on other countries signing bilateral agreements.

On the ground, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard fully controls export operations from Kharg Island, where it enforces a strict passage system. Transiting vessels are required to obtain special passwords and security escort from Revolutionary Guard boats to ensure their passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

Reports documented the loading of five giant oil tankers in one day with a total cargo of 7.7 million barrels, generating huge daily revenues. Sources predicted that annual revenues would exceed one trillion dollars, giving Tehran immense financial capacity to fund its military operations and heavy industries.

In a notable shift, US President Donald Trump backed down from his previous threats to attack Iranian oil fields, expressing willingness to cooperate on the Strait. Analysts believe that this approach could change the balance of power in the region and place neighboring countries in a critical geopolitical situation in the face of escalating Iranian influence.

The report concluded that the Strait of Hormuz has transformed from an open international passage into a zone of influence where Tehran exercises de facto policies. The biggest challenge for Western military planners remains finding a practical solution that ensures energy flow without sliding into an all-out confrontation with uncertain outcomes.

Control over energy exports from the Arabian Gulf is a stronger winning card than nuclear weapons in the current conflict.

PALESTINE

Sun 05 Apr 2026 11:45 pm - Jerusalem Time

Jerusalem Governorate: 7 attempts to smuggle 'sacrifices' into Al-Aqsa detected in the most dangerous escalation in decades

The Jerusalem Governorate confirmed in an official statement issued on Sunday evening that occupied Jerusalem witnessed a dangerous and unprecedented escalation during the ongoing Jewish Passover holiday. Official sources clarified that seven attempts by settler groups to bring live 'Passover sacrifices' into the courtyards of the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque were documented, noting that this number is the highest recorded since the occupation of the city in 1967.

According to the report issued by the Governorate, groups of settlers managed to reach the outskirts of the Old City with sacrifices in two separate attempts, as part of a frantic endeavor to impose new Judaization rituals within the Al-Aqsa Sanctuary. Palestinian authorities warned that these movements represent the peak of employing religious rituals as a colonial tool aimed at entrenching the narrative of the 'alleged Temple' and changing the status quo in the Mosque.

The Governorate indicated that extremist organizations adopting the ideology of 'building the Temple' have begun using advanced technological techniques, including artificial intelligence, to manage intensive propaganda campaigns aimed at mobilizing extremists. These campaigns aim to incite settlers to forcibly impose the sacrifice ritual inside Al-Aqsa, exploiting the full protection provided by the occupation forces for these provocative movements that target the feelings of Muslims.

In a related context, the occupation authorities continue to impose a strict siege on the holy sites in the occupied city, with the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre remaining closed for the 37th consecutive day. The occupation authorities claim to impose a 'state of emergency' to prevent Palestinian worshipers from reaching their holy sites, which has led to the emptiness of the Al-Aqsa Mosque courtyards of worshipers for the fifth consecutive Friday, a scene reflecting the extent of the practiced constriction.

In the face of this bitter reality, popular and Jerusalemite calls have escalated for the necessity of mobilization and steadfastness towards the military checkpoints surrounding the Old City to break the imposed security cordon. Jerusalemite activists stressed the importance of popular pressure to reopen Islamic and Christian holy sites and reject the systematic closure policy aimed at emptying the city of its original inhabitants and facilitating settler incursions.

The Jerusalem Governorate called on the international community and human rights organizations to take urgent and effective action to stop the imposition of new Judaization realities in the holy city. It affirmed in its statement that ensuring the protection of the Islamic and Arab identity of the holy sites is an international responsibility, warning that silence on these violations gives the occupation a green light to continue its policies that violate international laws and conventions.

Finally, the Governorate concluded its warning by emphasizing that the continued closure of Al-Aqsa, coinciding with allowing settlers to desecrate it with sacrifices and pagan rituals, is a blatant aggression that pushes the region towards a comprehensive explosion. It stressed that this religious and political 'thuggery' requires decisive intervention to end the Israeli encroachment on holy sites and prevent the conflict from turning into a religious war whose repercussions cannot be controlled.

Slaughtering sacrifices inside Al-Aqsa represents a moral prelude to the material establishment of the alleged Temple over the entire area of the blessed Mosque.

ISRAELI AFFAIRS

Sun 05 Apr 2026 11:45 pm - Jerusalem Time

Israeli Assessments Reveal Potential Understandings with Syria to Reshape Security Reality in Lebanon

Security and political assessments within Israel have revealed a radical shift in the regional vision towards the Lebanese file, as current readings indicate that the continued inability of the Lebanese state to curb Hezbollah's influence opens the door to unprecedented understandings with Syria. These trends come amid a sharp decline in American and Western trust in official institutions in Beirut, pushing for the search for alternatives capable of imposing a new security reality on the ground.

Hebrew press reports stated that the absence of an effective Lebanese partner, both politically and militarily, has strengthened the conviction among decision-making circles in Tel Aviv of the necessity to find alternative regional paths. Sources explained that American disappointment with Lebanon has reached deep levels, with a growing belief that the Lebanese government has failed to meet the minimum of its security and political obligations towards the international community.

Israeli readings indicate that the Lebanese army is now seen as a force incapable of confrontation, and some assessments go further by accusing it of avoiding direct conflict with Hezbollah. These sources confirm serious concerns about the infiltration of pro-Hezbollah elements into the ranks of the military establishment, making reliance on it in any future security arrangements impractical.

In light of this reality, a conclusion is crystallizing within Israeli circles that ending the threat on the northern front requires a radical treatment of Hezbollah's military structure. Assessments emphasize the need to work towards the complete disarmament of southern Lebanon and to ensure the absence of any armed presence of Hezbollah in border areas that pose a direct threat to Israeli settlements in the Galilee.

In this context, a sensitive vision emerges, suggesting that the only forces capable of effectively confronting Hezbollah are Israel and Syria in its new phase. This approach does not mean building a traditional alliance, but rather a strategic convergence of interests that views the current Syrian leadership as a natural adversary to Hezbollah's influence, making it a potential partner in managing the complex Lebanese file.

The proposed scenario for discussion includes a division of security roles, where the Israeli army takes operational control in southern Lebanon to prevent any border threats, while Syrian forces conduct operations in northern and inner Lebanon against Hezbollah strongholds. This proposal is seen as an alternative option resulting from the failure of all previous diplomatic and political paths that attempted to contain the situation.

Informed sources reported that these understandings may include sensitive border and sovereignty issues, including the Mount Hermon file, within the framework of a broader settlement aimed at reshaping the security environment in the region. Despite the boldness of this proposal, sources confirm that it does not aim to overthrow the Lebanese regime as much as it focuses on definitively neutralizing Hezbollah's military arsenal.

Available information confirms the existence of multi-level dialogue channels between Israel and Syria, taking place away from the spotlight and potentially with American mediation in some aspects. Although these contacts have not yet reached the level of announced official negotiations, they reflect a serious search for practical solutions that go beyond traditional formulas that have proven to be failures over the past years.

Observers believe that this Israeli approach represents an attempt to impose a new reality in the absence of a decisive Western role that provides direct military support to the Lebanese army to confront Hezbollah. According to the Israeli vision, the emergence of serious international action might change these calculations, but current indicators do not suggest an international will for direct intervention in the internal Lebanese conflict.

As for the American position, assessments indicate a state of hesitation, as Washington prefers to avoid this complex path but at the same time no longer relies on Beirut's capabilities. It is believed that American frustration with unfulfilled Lebanese promises may push the United States to implicitly accept these regional understandings if they prove effective in undermining Hezbollah's influence.

Israeli sources emphasize that the ultimate goal is not to control Lebanese territories, but to ensure that they are not used as a platform for launching missile attacks or infiltration operations. Tel Aviv considers that any arrangement that does not guarantee Hezbollah's permanent removal from the borders is a temporary arrangement that will not lead to long-term stability in the northern region.

Ultimately, this scenario remains subject to field developments and the extent to which regional parties respond to these rapid changes. With the escalation continuing, all options remain open to the Israeli decision-maker, who appears ready to break traditional rules in order to achieve his strategic security goals regarding the Lebanese front.

From an Israeli perspective, the only two parties capable of confronting Hezbollah are Israel and the new Syria led by Ahmed al-Sharaa.

PALESTINE

Sun 05 Apr 2026 11:45 pm - Jerusalem Time

Evangelical Beliefs and the Trump Administration: How 'End Times' Prophecies Shape Washington's Policy?

Recent journalistic analyses have revealed the escalating influence of the Evangelical Christian movement in shaping the direction of American policy, where religion is no longer merely a cultural backdrop but a primary driver of military and political decisions. An investigative report indicated that President Donald Trump's administration is witnessing an unprecedented overlap between religious beliefs related to 'end times' and foreign strategies, especially concerning the conflict with Iran and absolute support for the Israeli occupation.

The name of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stands out as one of the most prominent figures embodying this trend, as he belongs to the 'Reformed Evangelical Church Partnership' denomination. Hegseth adopts a discourse that integrates militarism and doctrine, portraying armed operations as part of a 'spiritual war' aimed at protecting what he describes as the Christian nation and conquering its enemies, which was clearly evident in his public prayers within the Pentagon where he called for 'overwhelming violence' against adversaries.

Analytical readings suggest that Hegseth does not recognize the authority of international law or human rights conventions in times of war, considering biblical law as the sole and binding reference. This approach poses legal and ethical challenges for the American military establishment, as extremist religious interpretations are prioritized over constitutional and international obligations governing armed conflicts.

In a related context, President Trump appeared in a speech addressed to the nation justifying military escalation against Iran, using claims about Iran's nuclear program that intelligence sources described as inaccurate. This discourse seems aimed at solidifying the war narrative among the evangelical electoral base, which views confronting Iran as a religious necessity before it is a political or security one.

Organizations such as 'Christians United for Israel' (CUFI), founded by Pastor John Hagee, play a pivotal role in mobilizing support for right-wing policies. Hagee, who has widespread influence over millions of evangelicals, promotes the idea that supporting the Israeli occupation is a biblical duty that paves the way for the Second Coming of Christ, which explains the continuous pressure to launch preemptive wars in the region.

Unlike traditional Christian Zionism, which focuses on 'the Rapture' and tribulations, Hegseth's movement belongs to a more aggressive vision that seeks to establish 'God's kingdom' on Earth through military force. This imperial vision sees American expansion as a divine tool, making diplomacy a secondary option compared to the language of bullets and overwhelming military operations that know no mercy.

Internally, the 'Heritage Foundation' stands out as an intellectual arm of this movement through 'Project 2025,' which seeks to reshape American society according to a 'natural family' perspective. This agenda includes strict restrictions on abortion rights, fighting minority rights, and promoting white Christian identity as a fundamental pillar of the state, thereby deepening societal division within the United States.

Regarding immigration, white evangelicals appear as the fiercest supporters of deportation and border repression policies, stemming from a perception that racial diversity threatens the 'Christian nation.' These individuals believe that restoring America necessarily means returning to an old social structure that marginalizes civil rights gained by minorities over the past decades.

On the other hand, cracks have begun to appear within the 'MAGA' base due to overwhelming Israeli influence, with figures like Candace Owens leading a movement that questions the utility of foreign wars for Israel. This internal conflict reflects a divergence between right-wing Catholics and evangelicals regarding foreign policy priorities and the extent to which national American interests should be sacrificed for religious prophecies.

On the opposing front, progressive and pro-Palestinian groups are trying to exploit these contradictions within the Republican Party, planning to spend millions of dollars in swing districts. These moves aim to highlight the financial and human costs of wars pushed by the religious right and to attract voters who reject unjustified military intervention.

Sources indicate that Senator Bernie Sanders and other progressive figures support candidates who openly oppose war with Iran, making the upcoming elections a real test of the impact of foreign policy issues on American voters. The conflict here is between a leftist vision advocating for peace and international justice, and a right-wing religious vision pushing for open military confrontations.

The infrastructure of the Christian Right is not just a fleeting phenomenon; it is a complex network comprising law schools, media institutions, and social media platforms that work in harmony to spread its ideology. This system aims to prepare a new generation of judges, lawyers, and politicians who believe in integrating the Bible into the civil and military laws of the state.

Observers believe that traditional media failed to appreciate the seriousness of this movement, treating Trump's relationship with evangelicals as a temporary alliance of convenience rather than a deep ideological integration. This failure to understand led to a lack of public oversight over policies that could lead to international disasters due to mystical motives not based on tangible political reality.

In conclusion, the overlap between the 'sacred' and the political in Washington continues to portend a period of global instability, where strategic decisions become tools to fulfill religious prophecies. As these figures continue to dominate the scene, the question remains about the ability of American democratic institutions to curb this trend and prevent the country from sliding into religious wars under a political guise.

Hegseth believes he is fighting a spiritual and actual war to conquer the enemies of a Christian nation, and he sees biblical law as the only binding reference for him.