The Israeli military has struck a building in Beirut’s southern suburbs. Lebanese authorities say that at least four people were killed and seven others were wounded in the attack.

Israel's strike on Beirut was its second attack on the Lebanese capital since a ceasefire with Hezbollah in November. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said all violations of sovereignty must be prevented.

But backing Israel is expensive and Mr Trump hates spending lavishly to defend America’s allies. On top of $18bn in military aid, America has burned through at least $5bn to fund its own military operations in the Middle East since October 7th. The president may eventually balk at the cost of supporting a hegemonic Israel.