braking news Israel and US brace for Iranian attack as

As Israel and the United States brace for a potential Iranian attack on Israel, efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza are intensifying. Negotiations, which were nearly derailed by the assassinations of Hezbollah and Hamas leaders, are set to resume in Cairo or Doha this week. The United States, along with Egypt and Qatar, is preparing to present a final proposal to both Israel and Hamas, urging them to attend. Despite the looming threat of an Iranian reprisal, which could jeopardize the ceasefire talks, the US expects the negotiations to continue.

Iran, through its Supreme Leader and President, has vowed to retaliate for the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, which it attributes to Israel. However, there is a possibility that Iran may forgo attacking Israel if a ceasefire is reached. Meanwhile, the US and Israel are preparing for various scenarios, including increased military presence in the region and financial support to Israel for military equipment.

Hezbollah, backed by Iran, launched rockets towards Israel, and there have been concerns about a larger-scale response following the assassination of one of its commanders. In Gaza, an Israeli strike on a school sheltering displaced people resulted in significant Palestinian casualties, drawing international condemnation.

Hamas has named a new political leader, Yahya Sinwar, who is expected to attend the upcoming talks. The group has signaled its willingness to consider the Biden administration's July proposal for a ceasefire, rather than engage in further negotiations. Both sides are positioning themselves ahead of the talks, with the US and other mediators pushing for a deal to prevent a larger conflict.

Domestic Israeli politics also play a role, with Prime Minister Netanyahu facing criticism and his defense minister, Yoav Gallant, expressing frustration with the lack of progress in the negotiations. Gallant has emphasized the need for Israel to stand firm and take decisive action, despite the political infighting.