Israeli Prime Minister NETANYAHU said Israel will remain stationed in the security zone for as long as necessary to protect the country.

Ministry of National Defense spokesman Chen Xi said China adheres to a self-defensive nuclear strategy and a firm no‑first‑use policy, keeps its nuclear forces at the minimum level required for national security, does not participate in any nuclear arms race, and plays a role in maintaining global strategic stability. He said China’s nuclear policy remains highly stable, continuous and predictable and urged parties to stop baseless speculation and hype.

Iran's foreign minister said a new round of talks with the United States may begin on the 19th in Switzerland; the exact location has not been confirmed.