Middle East crisis live: Trump insists Iran wants a deal despite initial rejection; China sees ‘glimmer of hope’ for talks

Key Points:

• The Israeli military reported missile attacks launched from Iran targeting central Israel, Jerusalem, and the occupied West Bank, with air defenses actively intercepting the threats and no casualties reported so far.
• Hezbollah claimed responsibility for rocket attacks from Lebanon targeting Israeli military sites, with six rockets intercepted; Israel responded with ground fighting and airstrikes in southern Lebanon to create a buffer zone.
• Diplomatic efforts show mixed signals: China sees a "glimmer of hope" for peace with indications both the US and Iran might negotiate, while Iran denies ongoing talks and insists on fighting until its conditions are met.
• The US and Israel have carried out extensive strikes on Iranian targets, with the US military claiming significant damage to Iran’s missile, drone, and naval capabilities, while the White House warns of escalating military action if Iran does not accept defeat.
• Regional tensions remain high, with Kuwait arresting suspects linked to a Hezbollah assassination plot, Russia reportedly supplying aid to Iran, and the UN urging an end to the conflict to prevent further regional destabilization.