Iran Names New Defense Minister, West Bank Tensions Rise

Iran has appointed Mehrdad Akhlaghi Ketabchi as its new defense minister, a move that brings a figure with extensive experience in the country's ballistic missile program into a key role amid heightened regional tensions. Ketabchi has warned of significant retaliation against the U.S. if miscalculations occur. Meanwhile, the European Union has strongly condemned acts of settler violence in the West Bank targeting Palestinian civilians and European diplomats, a stance met by Prime Minister Netanyahu's call for caution and evidence amid claims of smear campaigns. Economists are also issuing warnings, advising that continued West Bank settlement expansion and violence against Palestinians could expose Israel to severe international sanctions and economic isolation. The episode also covers a political dispute over offensive language in public discourse, planned protests by Zim shipping company employees, activist efforts to resettle Gaza, allegations of IRGC human trafficking, and the recognition of Anglo Olim through the Bonei Zion Prize.

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Sources:
- JPost.com - Homepage: https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-912048
- JPost.com - Homepage: https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-912028
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