Egyptian media reports Egyptian military plans to launch operation to cleanse Mount Halal in Sinai using artillery and air power; another report says Cairo decides to close Rafah border crossing ''indefinitely.''

Hardline Islamist groups intensify attacks in lawless Sinai as third police this week dies from such strikes.

European Union Foreign Ministers are set to discuss a formal request by Britain to put Hezbollah's military wing on the EU list of terror groups as opposition to the move appears to be weakening.

The American Jewish Committee (AJC) led congratulation for the new Israeli envoy to Washington Ron Dermer following his appointment by Israeli Premier Benjamin Netanyahu Tuesday.

British Foreign Minister William Hague issued a rousing call to action on the Mid East peace Wednesday, as he warned of US Secretary of State John Kerry’s recent attempts to resuscitate the stalled process that “this may be the last opportunity to achieve a two state solution”.

Egyptian's prosecutor's office orders arrest of Badie, charging Muslim Brotherhood with inciting violence.

As Israel boosts forces on Syrian border, UN Security Council urges ''Lebanese parties'' to recommit to home-country's policy of disassociation; Lebanese UN envoy pledges to keep borders open to Syrians fleeing violence.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced the appointment of his senior advisor, Ron Dermer, as Israel's Ambassador to the United States.

Violence continues to rise in lawless area after Morsi's ouster.

Defense minister Moshe Ya'alon denies Israeli ties to Latakia explosion, says Israel is sticking with established red lines.