What we know

• The White House urged Iran to avoid retaliating, assuring the U.S. stands ready to support Israel’s defense.
• Israeli airstrikes near Baalbek in Lebanon killed at least 19, with evacuation orders issued, including areas near Roman ruins.
• UN reports show Gaza aid has dropped to a record low, with only 836 aid trucks entering in October, far below pre-war levels.

As tensions escalate in the Middle East, the White House issued a statement urging Iran to avoid retaliatory action in response to recent strikes. At the same time, the U.S. government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Israel’s defense, signaling readiness to step in should Iran escalate its involvement.

Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes near Baalbek, a historic city in Lebanon, have left at least 19 dead, according to Lebanese authorities. Israel issued evacuation orders for the entire city, including areas close to ancient Roman ruins, highlighting the scope of the military’s reach into this culturally significant region.

Adding to the mounting challenges in the region, humanitarian aid to Gaza has dropped drastically. UN data reveals that only 836 aid trucks have made it into Gaza throughout October, a steep decline compared to the pre-war average of 500 trucks per day. This shortage marks the lowest level of aid since the conflict intensified last year, exacerbating the crisis in the already struggling enclave.