Middle East Crisis Live Ticker +++ 23:17 Iran: 224 Dead Since Friday Attacks
Over 224 individuals perished due to assaults in Iran since last Friday.
In Iran, a brutal toll has been recorded since the start of Israeli attacks, according to Iranian reports. Nearly 224 lives have been claimed, with an alarming 90% being civilians.
22:10 Netanyahu: Breakthrough in Hostage NegotiationsIsrael's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is holding onto hopes for a breakthrough in negotiations with the extremist Palestinian organization, Hamas, in the Gaza Strip. His optimism stems from his belief that a breakthrough is imminent, stating, "I ordered negotiations to continue yesterday because I sense a breakthrough." Israel is aiming to accomplish both objectives: the destruction of Hamas and the release of hostages.
21:46 Israeli Arrests for Spying for IranTwo Israelis suspected of working for Iran have been apprehended by Israel's security agency, Shin Bet. They are accused of committing security offenses on behalf of Iranian intelligence services. Shin Bet has previously thwarted 22 similar cases, signaling repeated attempts by Iranian intelligence services to recruit Israeli citizens for missions that jeopardize Israel's security.
21:13 Deaths in Tehran Following Israeli AttackAt least five individuals have lost their lives in an Israeli attack on a residential building in central Tehran, as reported by Iranian state media. The attack targeted a densely populated area, increasing the potential for further casualties. An Associated Press journalist at the scene reported the incident, with the area shaking from at least two powerful explosions. Thick smoke blanketed the neighborhood, prompting panicked residents to flee.
20:41 Explosions in Israel - Army Gives All-ClearThe Israeli military has given the all-clear, enabling the public to leave their shelters after an air raid alert. Despite the clearance, explosions were heard once more in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Iranian forces have urged Israeli residents to evacuate "critical areas" for their safety on television. The army reported impacts in several regions, with search and rescue teams dispatched to various parts of Israel following the last wave of Iranian bombardment.
20:09 Erdogan Warns of Regional CatastrophePresident Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey has expressed concern to U.S. President Joe Biden about the potential for a devastating escalation of the conflict between Israel and Iran. Erdogan stressed the urgency of taking immediate action to prevent a catastrophe that could engulf the entire region. His statements were made during a phone call between the leaders.
19:46 Netanyahu: Iranian Intelligence Chief KilledIsrael's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu proclaimed the killing of Mohammad Kasemi, the head of Iran's Revolutionary Guard's intelligence, in Israeli airstrikes. "Just moments ago, we took out the chief of intelligence and his deputy in Tehran," Netanyahu revealed to U.S. network Fox News. Israeli planes repeated strikes on military and nuclear facilities in Tehran.
19:11 U.S. Rejects Plan to Assassinate KhameneiAccording to two senior U.S. officials speaking to Reuters, U.S. President Donald Trump rejected an Israeli proposal to assassinate Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. "Have the Iranians killed an American? No. Until they do, we're not even discussing attacking the political leadership," one of the insiders shared. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declined to comment on these false reports.
18:46 Netanyahu: Regime Change in Iran PossibleIsrael's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has floated the possibility of regime change in Iran as a potential outcome of Israeli airstrikes. In an interview with U.S. network Fox News, Netanyahu also discussed his prior consultation with U.S. President Donald Trump before the attacks.
18:20 Germany Aids Israel with Firefighting SuppliesGermany, under the leadership of Chancellor Olaf Scholz, is supporting Israel in its firefighting efforts by providing firefighting equipment. In response to a question regarding military aid, Scholz responded, "No." He further expressed understanding for Israel's actions, citing Iran's objective of destroying Israel and maintaining proxies such as the Houthis in Yemen and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
17:54 Israel Confirms Airstrike on Yemen's CapitalThe Israeli military has confirmed an overnight airstrike on the Yemeni capital of Sanaa. Israeli Air Force fighter jets executed the strike, according to Israeli military spokesperson Effie Defrin. The attack reportedly targeted Mohammed Al-Ghamari, the military chief of the Iran-backed Houthi militia.
17:34 Gold Traders Flee TehranGold traders in Tehran's bustling Grand Bazaar are relocating their valuable assets to safer locations due to fears of additional security threats and potential looting amid escalating tensions. The so-called "bazaaris" are emptying their shop windows and shrines, with many shops now closed. The Grand Bazaar of Tehran, dating back centuries, encompasses several square kilometers and is known for its unique structure: each section belongs to a specific group of traders.
16:57 Trump Ponders Deal with Iran and IsraelAmidst increasing tension in the Middle East, President Donald Trump has called for negotiations between Iran and Israel to forge an agreement. "Iran and Israel should make a deal, and they will make a deal," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. The prospect of a historic peace between the two adversaries could be imminent, according to Trump. In an interview with U.S. broadcaster ABC, Trump did not rule out American intervention in the conflict.
16:24 Germany Supports Firefighting Efforts in IsraelGermany, under the leadership of Chancellor Olaf Scholz, is supporting Israel's firefighting efforts by providing fire-fighting equipment. The support comes in response to Israel's request for assistance following a fire at a('./pages/2023/03/16/middle-east-crisis-live-ticker')-link">previously reported fuel facility.
15:53 Israel Confirms Airstrike on Yemen's CapitalThe Israeli military has acknowledged an overnight attack on the Yemeni capital of Sanaa. Israeli Air Force fighter jets were responsible for carrying out the bombing campaign, according to Israeli Defense Forces spokeswoman Effie Defrin. The strike likely targeted military chief Mohammed Al-Ghamari, leader of the Iran-backed Houthi militia.
15:23 Iran Launches New Wave of Rockets at IsraelIran has launched another wave of rockets at Israel, Iranian news agency Fars reports. The Iranian government has activated air defense systems, urging the public to seek shelter during Israeli attacks. Jerusalem and Tel Aviv have reportedly been targeted, with air raid sirens sounding off in both cities.
15:10 Germany Braces for Potential AttacksGerman Chancellor Friedrich Merz has warned of the possibility of Iran targeting Israeli or Jewish sites in Germany. The German government is preparing for such eventualities. Germany is urging Iran to halt the bombing of civilian targets in Israel as German and Israeli forces work towards a diplomatic resolution.
14:52 Iraqi Militia Threatens U.S. ForcesThe Iran-backed Iraqi militia, Kataib Hezbollah, has issued a threat to the U.S., warning of direct attacks on American bases in the region if the U.S. intervenes militarily. The militia's statement also underscored Iran's ability to humble Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The U.S. maintains a military presence in Iraq as part of an international coalition against ISIS.
14:30 Europe Views Iran's Nuclear Program as a ThreatBoth French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock have identified Iran's nuclear program as a threat to Europe. They expressed their commitment to diplomacy and have called for negotiations to prevent this threat.
14:08 Germany Seeks Peace Through Oman's MediationGerman Chancellor Friedrich Merz has had a conversation with Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman. The leaders discussed the importance of maintaining peace, with Germany expressing gratitude for Oman's mediation efforts to resolve Iran's nuclear issue. Both parties agreed on the urgency of preventing further escalation.
13:44 Reports of Renewed Attacks on TehranReports suggest that Israel has continued to attack Tehran, with bombing raids reported in eastern parts of the capital city. State television reports an explosion near the Mehrabad Airport and impacts near a luxury hotel in the north. The government advises citizens to seek shelter in mosques, schools, and subway stations during Israeli attacks. The subway will remain open around the clock starting from Sunday evening, according to the government spokesperson.
13:30 Iran Reports Death of Six More GeneralsThe Iran Revolutionary Guards have confirmed the death of six more Iranian generals. This stands as further evidence of the military casualties suffered in Israeli attacks, which now total at least 14; among them, the commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards, Hussein Salami, and the chief of general staff, Mohammed Bagheri. A funeral for these fallen heroes is expected to take place on Tuesday, according to the Tasnim news agency.
13:18 Cyprus to Mediate Between Israel and IranCyprus has been asked by Iran to mediate between Israel and Iran, Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides revealed. Christodoulides intends to speak with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later today. Christodoulides has also expressed dissatisfaction with the slow response from the EU regarding the escalating crisis in the Middle East. Cyprus has requested an urgent meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council to address this situation.
13:05 Israel: More Strikes off the TableIsraeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz has threatened Iran with harsh reprisals, stating, "The military will attack the targets and skin the Iranian snake in Tehran and elsewhere of nuclear capabilities and weapon systems. The Iranian dictator is turning Tehran into Beirut and the residents of Tehran into hostages for the survival of the regime."
Politics Military: Long List of Targets Israel Launches New Strikes - Iranians Urged to Leave Military SitesIn an official statement, the Israeli military revealed that they still have an extensive list of targets in Iran. They reported attacking around 80 targets related to the country's nuclear program in Tehran. These targets included two Iranian fuel facilities with "dual use," serving both the military and the nuclear program.
12:52 Expert: Iran's Dilemma is Not Our ProblemNico Lange, a security expert, observed that the Israeli strikes appear to have compromised Iran's air defense, with possible implications for the region's stability.
Politics Expert on Escalation with Israel: "Iran's Dilemma is Not Our Problem"12:38 Iran Claims to Have Arrested Two Mossad AgentsIranian state media reports claim that two suspected Israeli agents, working for Mossad, have been arrested in the Iranian province of Alborz. They were accused of carrying out reconnaissance activities, planting explosives, and collecting intelligence.
12:23 Israeli Foreign Minister: Attacks on Iran Will ContinueIn a conversation with his German counterpart, Annalena Baerbock, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar assured that the operation in Iran would continue. The Israeli Foreign Ministry quoted the conversation, stating that there were still essential targets to neutralize. The Iranian security forces had been deliberately targeting civilians, but Israel was focusing on military targets and combating the Iranian nuclear program, according to Israeli officials. Saar thanked Baerbock for her support of Israel's right to defend itself.
11:57 Israel Reports Damage to Oil FacilitiesThe facility of the Israeli Oil and Petrochemical Company, Bazan, in northern Haifa reported damage to pipelines and transfer lines in an Iranian rocket attack. The effect on operations and the duration of necessary repairs remain to be determined.
11:44 Iran Claims to have Arrested Two Mossad AgentsAccording to Tasnim news agency, Iran has claimed to have arrested two Israeli agents suspected of belonging to Mossad. They were apprehended in the province of Alborz while they were preparing explosives and electronic devices. On Saturday, Iranian media outlets reported the arrest of five individuals for alleged collaboration with Israel.
11:23 Israeli Foreign Minister: Attacks on Iran will continueIn a phone conversation with his German counterpart, Annalena Baerbock, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that the operation in Iran would continue. Israel has numerous important targets left to strike, according to the Israeli Foreign Ministry. Statements revealed that it was evident that Iran was deliberately targeting civilians in Israel, but the Israeli forces were focused solely on military targets and combating the Iranian nuclear program. The Israeli Foreign Minister expressed gratitude to Germany for its support of Israel's right to defend itself.
11:12 Motor Oil Prices "Likely to Continue Rising"Gasoline and diesel prices are expected to continue rising in the coming days due to the conflict in the Middle East. As of 8:20 AM on Sunday, fuel prices stood at 1.749 euros per liter for Super E10 gasoline and 1.639 euros per liter for diesel, according to ADAC data. Experts predict that prices will continue to increase.
10:57 Israel Urges People in Iran to Evacuate Military SitesThe Israeli military has warned any individuals in Iran, who are near military weapon production facilities or related sites, to leave these areas immediately and avoid returning for the foreseeable future, according to a military spokesman, Avichay Adraee.
10:41 Israeli Foreign Minister Meets with German CounterpartOn Sunday morning, Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen held a meeting with Germany's outgoing Foreign Minister, Annalena Baerbock. Cohen thanked Baerbock for her country's support in the face of Iran's nuclear program and emphasized the importance of ending it peacefully. Baerbock stressed that hostilities should not escalate to neighboring countries.
10:24 Germany: Dialogue is Key amid Escalating ConflictGerman Foreign Minister, Annalena Baerbock, has confirmed that her country is not currently involved in the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran but highlighted Germany's willingness to facilitate dialogue between the two nations. In the event of increased hostilities, Germany may take a more active role in resolving the dispute diplomatically.
9:58 Mixture of Fear and Legal Concerns Steer German ResponseDomestic and international law experts have advised the German government to prioritize diplomatic efforts amid the crisis. They emphasize the importance of upholding international law, while preventing Iranian threats to Germany and Israel.
9:36 Egypt Calls for De-escalation and DialogueEgyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry released a statement advising a peaceful resolution to the conflict between Israel and Iran, while urging the parties to refrain from escalating further.
9:08 EU Criticized for Slow Response to CrisisCritics have criticized the European Union for a slow reaction to the escalating crisis between Israel and Iran. The EU has been urged to take an active stance, considering the risk posed to regional stability.
8:30 Russia Calls for RestraintRussian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has urged both parties to show restraint and to avoid any military actions that could escalate the conflict.
7:54 Levy Warns Israel About the Risks of Direct Intervention in IranTop Israeli security expert, Amos Yadlin, has expressed concerns about the potential risks associated with direct Israeli intervention in Iran, highlighting the possibility of direct clashes with Iranian forces and the potential for widespread regional instability.
7:26 Iranian Officials Call for International InterventionIranian officials have called for international intervention to de-escalate the conflict and prevent further escalation. This comes amid criticism of Israel's military action and the number of casualties in recent attacks.
7:00 Netanyahu Defends Israeli StrikesThe Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has defended the strikes against Iranian nuclear and military facilities, stating that Iran has been a persistent threat to Israeli security and regional stability.
6:30 Soros Urges Diplomatic Efforts to Resolve CrisisGeorge Soros, a prominent American philanthropist and politician, has urged the international community to work together to de-escalate the crisis through diplomatic means and prevent further military action.
References: ntv.de, mdi/mli/lme/rog/dpa/AFP/rts
In the midst of ongoing conflicts and political tensions, world leaders are expressing their concerns over the potential for a larger-scale war-and-conflicts in the Middle East. Particularly alarming is the rise in general-news, including the reported casualties since Friday's attacks in Iran, leading to a staggering loss of over 224 innocent lives, mostly civilians. Additionally, the tense situation has sparked talk of regime change in Iran and traded threats of further attacks amid the escalating crisis.
