Despite the crippling US sanctions on its economy, Tehran is continuing its efforts to surround Israel with missiles and hostile forces, with a new focus on Iraq.

In the wake of a strengthening shekel on Wednesday, Bank of Israel Governor Amir Yaron cites a surprising easing of inflation pressures and looser policies of major global central banks to rule out a near-term interest rate increase. Shekel has gained 2% versus the dollar in July and nearly 7% in 2019.

"America has sacrificed a lot to help Germany remain part of the West," US envoy to Berlin Richard Grenell says after German FM Heiko Mass declines US request to join mission to secure Strait of Hormuz." Germany is the biggest economic power in Europe. This success brings global responsibilities," he says.

The Left has made sure all of its small parties pass the electoral threshold. The Right has to close its ranks right away if it wants to avoid losing critical votes and remain in power.

“I think whoever wins the election is going to be on great terms with the American president," says co-leader of the Blue and White party ahead of September 17 general election.