Tensions Escalate Between the US and Israel Regarding Syria, Kite Terror Returns - and Caroline Langford Has Passed Away
After US envoy to Syria Tom Burke claimed that Israel "is still occupying the Golan," Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a sharp response, asserting that Burke’s remarks do not reflect the position of President Donald Trump. Meanwhile, Ra'am party chairman Mansour Abbas called for Israeli and American recognition of a Palestinian state during the party's conference.
Relations between Washington and Jerusalem remain strained following the recent Israeli strike at the airport in Dahaniya. A sharp statement by US envoy to Syria Tom Burke was met with a firm response from Defense Minister Israel Katz, who accused the diplomat of misrepresenting the position of US President Donald Trump. Amidst this tension, it was learned that Mossad chief Roman Gofman recently held a series of phone calls with the Syrian Foreign Minister. Simultaneously, two drones from Gaza were discovered in the Nahal Oz area, renewing concerns among residents of the Gaza envelope. Additionally, actress Caroline Langford and guitarist Mati Gurion have passed away, and a robot has broken Usain Bolt's 2009 world record. These were the main events of Saturday.
US Ambassador to Turkey: "Israel is Occupying the Golan"
US Ambassador to Turkey and American envoy to Syria Tom Burke stated in an interview published Friday that Israel "is still occupying the Golan, contrary to UN resolutions and the international order, which determined that the Golan belongs to Syria." This claim was made despite the fact that the first Trump administration officially recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights.
Burke also suggested that the Israeli strike at the Abu al-Duhur base in northern Syria might have been motivated by an Israeli attempt to "lure the Turks"—a move he claimed "might be well received before the elections"—and noted potential internal Israeli coordination issues.
Defense Minister's Response: "Contradicts Trump's Position"
On Saturday, Defense Minister Israel Katz published an official statement, emphasizing: "The response is full of inaccuracies and positions that directly contradict the position of US President Trump himself regarding the Golan Heights." Katz rejected the ambassador's claims regarding "occupation."
Mossad Chief's Conversations with Syrian Foreign Minister
According to a report in the Saudi newspaper Al-Majalla, Mossad chief Roman Gofman and Syrian Foreign Minister Assad al-Shabiani held several phone calls last week mediated by the United States. The contacts were facilitated by Tom Burke, who relayed information from Israel regarding suspicious movements at the airport to prevent escalation, following the conclusions of a previous round of negotiations in January.
Mansour Abbas: "We Want Recognition of Palestine"
At the 28th General Conference of the Ra'am party, chairman Mansour Abbas stated: "We, the Arab citizens in Israel, constitute a bridge for achieving peace. The State of Palestine exists and is recognized by most countries of the world, except for the United States and Israel. We want them to recognize it and work for peace, reconciliation, and the end of the occupation and conflict."
Return of "Kite Terror"
Two kites with long strings were discovered in the Nahal Oz area. This incident joins a series of similar cases recorded in recent months in the Gaza envelope. According to security sources, the kites were attached to strings between 2 and 4 kilometers long. No explosives were found, and security officials are investigating the circumstances.
"Toughest Sanctions in History" Against Iran
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is expected to present new measures on Monday, described as "the toughest sanctions in history." Washington intends for the move to impact not only Iran but also entities and countries that continue to trade with it, including China, which is a major purchaser of Iranian oil.
Germany's Missile Program
Germany plans to build a long-range missile system to deter Russia, reports Politico. The cost of the project is estimated at nearly 12 billion euros, and the UK may become a partner in parts of the initiative.
In Memory of Caroline Langford and Mati Gurion
Actress Caroline Langford (68) has passed away; she was known for her roles in films such as "Smile, You've Been Had" and "King for a Day." Guitarist Mati Gurion, son of musician Israel Gurion, also passed away following a long battle with a serious illness.
Robot Breaks Usain Bolt's Record
A humanoid robot named "Lightning," developed by the Chinese manufacturer Honor, completed a 100-meter dash in 9.32 seconds, surpassing Usain Bolt's world record of 9.58 seconds, which has stood since 2009.
