Trump 'Cautiously Optimistic' for Iran Deal, Delivers Ultimatum; Israel Targets Hezbollah in Strikes

Israel is on high alert as officials prepare for the possibility that fighting with Iran could resume within days. In Washington, President Donald Trump is reviewing new military options, while signaling that Iran may still be open to a deal.

The world we live in — with its freedoms, innovations, and culture — has been profoundly shaped by Jewish contributions. If gratitude were more evenly distributed, May 14 — the anniversary of the founding of the modern State of Israel — might well be celebrated globally as Jewish Appreciation Day.

Long before modern cities and borders, an ancient priestly family called the Hasmoneans restored religious freedom and strengthened Jewish identity. They turned Jericho into a place of power, luxury, and politics.

While the war with Iran is on pause, Democrats in Congress are pushing back against the conflict, as President Trump cited progress and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth defended U.S. troops on Capitol Hill.

As concerns over antisemitism continue to grow, a unique gathering in the United States is bringing together influential voices from Jewish, Christian, and Arab communities in a historic alliance that many believe is critically needed.

New signs of instability have emerged inside Iran with a major shift in global oil politics, adding to the pressure. It comes as Israel steps up strikes in Lebanon to rid itself of the threat from Hezbollah.

This past week in Jerusalem, a ceremony to remember Israel's fallen soldiers was marked by sirens, and all activity stopped for a national moment of reflection. In the last year alone, 170 soldiers were killed in attacks, affecting lives across the country. CBN News had the chance to speak with the widow of an Israel Defense Forces soldier. She was left to raise her three children alone after her husband was killed by a Hezbollah rocket.

With the talks between the U.S. and Iran still at a stalemate, Russia has now entered the diplomatic picture, while in Israel, military leaders slammed the behavior of soldiers connected to the destruction of a crucifix in Lebanon.