Looking back, especially in light of the extensive military actions recentlyu undertaken by the United States and Israel against Iran and its nuclear infrastructure, it is difficult not to wonder how close this reality came to becoming irreversible. A combination of factors, foremost among them - changes in leadership in the United States, appears to have prevented the crossing of the point of no return.

Three diplomatic sources from the region say China is involved behind the scenes in the contacts between Iran and the US, and is trying, among other things, to pressure the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to soften their position. Trump is willing to grant a brief extension of just a few days, sources in Washington say, but recent developments indicate even those few days could drag on.

A source familiar with the Trump administration’s moves told Israel Hayom that the next stages have already been set. After the ceasefire ends, an overwhelming military strike is expected to go ahead, with even greater force than the one the US has inflicted on Iran so far.

In Operation Rising Lion, Israeli Air Force extreme photographer Sergeant First Class O accompanied fighter pilots in the cockpit and ground crews on the tarmac. His lens hovered closest to the action, and these are the images he loved most. Also: Israeli Air Force Commander Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar delivers a message to Israel Hayom readers.

Let us emphasize that despite all the wars, the terrorist attacks perpetrated since 1948, and the cries of hatred; despite the odious and anti-Semitic propaganda of our enemies and detractors, the attempts at delegitimization, the disinformation, and the cynical criticism of the media, we can be proud of having succeeded in this remarkable adventure.