"Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was granted special leave on Monday to postpone his scheduled testimony on Tuesday in his corruption trial, citing exceptional circumstances. The unexpected delay has fueled speculation about a potential strike on Iran or a breakthrough in hostage negotiations with Hamas.

Netanyahu has been defending himself against charges alleging he sought favorable media coverage from a critical press. His testimony so far has cast doubt on the credibility of these accusations, as critics have long contended.

On Monday, after a private consultation with lawyers from both sides, the judge announced the postponement of Netanyahu’s testimony. This development has left observers speculating about the nature of the 'special circumstances' behind the decision."

"The Times of Israel reports that Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz informed Knesset members that a hostage deal with Hamas is closer than ever. Hamas continues to hold approximately 100 Israeli hostages, with at least half believed to be alive.

This shift in Hamas’s position follows U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s stark warning of 'ALL HELL TO PAY' if hostages are not released by January 20, combined with Hezbollah’s defeat in Lebanon and the collapse of the Assad regime in Syria.

Meanwhile, speculation is mounting that Israel, potentially with U.S. support, may be preparing to strike Iran’s nuclear sites. This comes after Israel reportedly neutralized Iran’s air defenses in response to ballistic missile attacks and dismantled Syria’s defenses last week."