Netanyahu dispels death rumours, appears in video from Coffee Shop

Isreal Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed rumours circulating online claiming that he was killed in a recent Iran attack, appearing in a video to reassure the public that he is alive.

In the video posted on his X page, the Israeli prime minister was seen sitting in a coffee shop while addressing the speculation about his alleged death.

Reports had earlier surfaced on social media suggesting that Netanyahu was killed during an attack on Israel by Iranian forces amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

Reacting to the claims, Netanyahu jokingly dismissed the rumours.

“They say I’m what? Watch,” he said in the video.

“I’m dying for coffee, you know what I mean? But for my people and how they behave, fantastic.”

The Israeli leader also used the opportunity to thank citizens for their support and urged them to continue observing safety instructions issued by the military.

“Your support is amazing, it empowers me, the government, the IDF,” he said, referring to the Israel Defense Forces.

“We’re doing things I can’t share now, but very strong operations in Iran and Lebanon today too.”

Netanyahu further advised Israelis travelling abroad to remain cautious and stay close to protected areas while the conflict continues.

“To those going abroad: go, but stay near a protected area,” he said.

He also urged the public to strictly follow directives from the Israel Home Front Command, which is responsible for civil defence and public safety during emergencies.

“To everyone: keep following Home Front Command orders at all times. Even heads of state, always near a protected room,” he added.

The video appears aimed at quelling speculation and reassuring Israelis as tensions continue to rise in the Middle East.

Pope Leo XIV renews ceasefire call, dialogue in Middle East

The head of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV, on Sunday renewed his appeal for peace in the Middle East, urging warring parties to end hostilities and return to dialogue.

Speaking during his weekly Angelus prayer at the St. Peter’s Square, the pontiff lamented the growing human toll of the conflict, saying innocent civilians had borne the brunt of the violence.

“Dear brothers and sisters, for two weeks the peoples of the Middle East have suffered the atrocious violence of war,” he said.

According to him, thousands of innocent people have been killed while many others have been displaced from their homes.

“I renew my closeness to all those who have lost loved ones in the attacks that have hit schools, hospitals and residential areas,” the Pope added.

The pontiff also expressed deep concern about the situation in Lebanon, which he described as particularly troubling amid the escalating tensions in the region.

Addressing those involved in the conflict, he urged them to halt the fighting and reopen channels for dialogue.

“On behalf of the Christians of the Middle East and of all women and men of goodwill, I address those responsible for this conflict,” he said.

“Cease fire! Let paths of dialogue be reopened! Violence can never lead to the justice, stability and peace that people await.”

Iran Strikes US Forces in Saudi Arabia, Damaging Aircraft 

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has launched a missile attack on US forces stationed at the Prince Sultan Air Base in Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia, escalating tensions across the Gulf region. The strike marks a significant escalation in the Middle East conflict, following recent US and Israeli operations against Iranian military infrastructure.

The IRGC stated that the missiles targeted the base, which reportedly supports advanced US fighter jets, including F‑35 Lightning II and F‑16 Fighting Falcons, as well as fuel tankers used in military operations. Iranian state media said the attack was a retaliatory measure for prior US strikes, part of Tehran’s ongoing military response in the region.

While Saudi authorities have not confirmed any direct damage to the base, their air defence systems intercepted six ballistic missiles heading toward Al-Kharj. The kingdom, a close US ally, hosts a large number of American personnel and military facilities, and has previously intercepted Iranian missiles and drones targeting the base.

According to reports, the missile attack damaged several US Air Force refueling aircraft parked at the Prince Sultan base, although no casualties have been confirmed. The Wall Street Journal cited US officials stating that five USAF aircraft were hit but are undergoing repairs. US President Donald Trump later clarified that most of the affected planes sustained only minor damage and have already returned to service.

READ ALSO:

• More Pressure on Oil Markets as Iran Threatens UAE Ports After US Strikes Kharg Island
• Calls Intensify for Tinubu Govt to Scrap NYSC Amid Rising Insecurity
• Five Sunnah Acts Muslims Should Observe on Eid al-Fitr

The strike is part of a broader pattern of Iranian missile and drone attacks across Gulf states, including the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar, targeting sites hosting US or allied forces. Regional air defences have intercepted multiple aerial threats, underscoring the heightened security risks in the Gulf.

Saudi Arabia has condemned attacks by Iran, describing them as “reprehensible” violations of regional sovereignty, while emphasizing the kingdom’s right to defend strategic infrastructure. Despite repeated provocations, Riyadh has avoided large-scale direct military engagement with Tehran, focusing on air defence and cooperation with US allies.

The Prince Sultan missile attack follows a major US strike on Iran’s Kharg Island, a vital oil export hub. The broader Middle East conflict has already disrupted global energy markets and international shipping routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, contributing to higher oil prices and increased geopolitical risk.

Analysts warn that continued military escalation could further destabilize the Gulf, impacting global trade, energy security, and regional stability. Both the US and Saudi Arabia continue to monitor the situation closely, preparing to respond to any further Iranian provocations.

Iran Strikes US Forces in Saudi Arabia, Damaging Aircraft