Japan defense minister rejects China criticism, vows to strengthen Indo-Pacific ties - Kyodo

Taiwan condemns China over expulsion of NYT reporter after presidential interview. The journalist was forced to leave China following an interview with Lai Ching-te.

Taiwan condemned China after a New York Times reporter was expelled from China following an interview with TaiwaneseLai Ching-te.

Israel requests US approval to expand IDF operations in Beirut, The Jerusalem Post reports. Sources say Israel expects favorable US response amid stalled US-Iran and Israel-Lebanon talks.

Israeli officials are requesting Washington's approval to expand IDF operations in the Lebanese capital Beirut, The Jerusalem Post reports. According to sources, Israel hopes the US response will be favorable given the lack of progress in both US-Iran and Israel-Lebanon negotiations.

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa spoke with Donald Trump today, discussing Syria's increasing regional economic role and bilateral ties, per Syrian presidential office.

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa spoke by phone with Donald Trump on Wednesday, according to a Syrian presidential statement. The two discussed Syria's growing economic role in the region and increased bilateral cooperation.

Germany urges ceasefire return, warns Israeli advance into southern Lebanon is grave concern.

The German Foreign Minister urged all sides to halt fighting and return to the agreed ceasefire, warning that the Israeli military's continued advance into southern Lebanon is a matter of grave concern.