Headlines for August 18, 2026
• Tensions are escalating in the Middle East as Iran threatens a new offensive following the expiration of its Memorandum of Understanding with the U.S., while the U.N. warns of an "alarming" surge in violence due to increased Israeli attacks on Lebanon. • Diplomatic efforts continue as Jared Kushner and Benjamin Netanyahu discuss a U.S.-backed 15-point plan for Gaza, though internal Israeli friction persists with Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir demanding a "kill quota." • Regional instability is further highlighted by Houthi claims of another attack on a Saudi ship in the Red Sea and an environmental crisis in Oman caused by oil spills from a grounded Russian tanker.
democracynow.org

