Top stories: 1) Amid heightened tensions with Iran and its proxies; Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stresses continued preparations in order to be able to attack anywhere Jerusalem deems necessary. 2) U.S. Special Envoy Amos Hochstein visits Beirut – during he course of which he stresses his belief that “a diplomatic resolution is achievable.” 3) U.S. President Joe Biden voices pessimism over prospects for a ceasefire in Gaza, amid Iran’s belligerent intentions.

