Even with possibility of new elections looming, appointment of top diplomat made permanent; PM gave up portfolio in response to court petition

Lebanon's foreign ministry says US mediator has conveyed Israeli message that atmosphere is 'positive'

Energy Minister Steinitz confirms reports Jerusalem will participate in negotiations with Beirut over territory, natural gas drilling disputes

Iranian Guards chiefs dismiss US 'psychological war,' say aircraft carrier deployed to region not a threat, but a target; 'If they make a move, we will hit them in the head'

'Things are heating up,' Yuval Steinitz warns as US aircraft carrier sails toward Persian Gulf; Iranian Guards chief dismisses US 'psychological war'

Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz orders halt in supplies from country's only natural gas rig due to 'emergency situation' as rocket bombardments from Gaza continue