US-Israel Prepare Amid Iranian Threats: As Iran escalates its threats, leaving a dent in negotiations, the US and Israel brace themselves for a probable outbreak of conflict. Targeted attacks are being prepared focusing on national infrastructures and energy reserves, with heightened readiness prevailing in air defense systems due to the fear of Iranian retaliation. Tensions rose further as Iran sealed the Strait of Hormuz, potentially derailing ongoing talks. Israel’s Stance in Regional Power Struggle: Despite its significantly improved security situation, Israel contemplates its strategical approach amidst failed attempts to fully dismantle its main adversaries: Iran, Hezbollah, and Hamas. Turkey’s bolstering regional position, the reluctance of Arab nations, especially Saudi Arabia, to align with Israel despite the shared threat of Iran, and the complexity of the Palestinian issue shed light on the challenges Israel faces. National Memorial Day in Israel: National Memorial Day 2026 in Israel is to be observed on April 20-21, with country-wide sirens to mark the remembrance. Public entertainment businesses will cease operations from the evening of April 20 till the end of Memorial Day, while schools and non-entertainment businesses will function throughout the day. Trump’s Message to Israel Amid Maritimes Issues: In the wake of talks about restarting maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, US President Trump has clarified that Israel will halt its bombing operations in Lebanon. Trump reassured that any potential impact from US operations in Iran would not affect Lebanon and emphasized the US’s commitment to address the Hezbollah issue in the region. Hezbollah Opposes Negotiations: Sheikh Naim Qassem, the Hezbollah leader, expressed relentless opposition to negotiations with Israel, insisting on a return to the conditions pre-war 2023. His demands for full Israeli withdrawal, rehousing southern residents, prisoner release, and internationally funded rehabilitation has escalated concerns about the likelihood of a resumption of conflict. Israel’s OECD Membership: After 40 years of relentless efforts, Israel has finally achieved membership to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), becoming the 32nd member of the reputed organization. The milestone is seen as a precursor to increased investment and job creation potential in the country. Israel Criticizes France Over Iranian Compliance: Israeli UN ambassador Danny Danon has publicly rebuked France amidst reports of French ships sailing through the detained Strait of Hormuz. Danon accused Tehran of “economic terrorism” and warned countries extending monetary aid to Iran would eventually pay a higher price. Argentina and Israel Strengthen Bilateral Ties: Argentine President Javier Milei’s third visit to Israel has fortified ties between the two nations, marking the enhancement of their bilateral structure. Milei is expected to receive Israel’s highest civilian honor, the “Presidential Decoration,” for his unyielding support for the country. Harris Accuses Netanyahu and Trump: Former US Vice President Kamala Harris alleged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu compelled ex-President Donald Trump into military action in Iran to divert attention from the Epstein case. The remarks were made during a Democratic Party conference, where Harris also accused Trump of compromising the trust of US allies due to his…