Core Viewpoint - Israel has completed the development of the "Iron Beam" laser air defense system, which is designed to counter aerial threats such as rockets and drones at a low cost, with delivery expected by the end of this year [1] Development and Testing - The "Iron Beam" system underwent several weeks of testing in southern Israel, confirming its effectiveness in intercepting various targets including rockets, mortars, and drones, marking the completion of its development phase [1] - The system is a ground-based high-power laser air defense system equipped with an advanced targeting system, capable of intercepting targets at long distances with high precision [1] Cost Efficiency - The use of laser technology allows the "Iron Beam" system to eliminate threats at a "negligible" cost, enhancing its operational efficiency [1] Collaboration and Integration - The air defense system was developed jointly by the Israeli Ministry of Defense's Defense Research and Development Directorate and the state-owned military industry Rafael Advanced Defense Systems [1] - The first units of the "Iron Beam" system are expected to be integrated into the Israeli military's air defense network by the end of this year [1] Multi-Layered Defense System - The "Iron Beam" is anticipated to be incorporated into Israel's multi-layered defense system, which also includes the "Iron Dome," "David's Sling," and "Arrow" missile defense systems, addressing short-range, medium-range, and long-range missile threats respectively [1]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the unexpected reactions of Gaza residents to the recent missile strikes on Israeli cities, highlighting a complex emotional response to the ongoing conflict and the hope for peace amidst destruction [1]. Group 1: Reactions from Gaza Residents - Residents in Gaza are sharing images of Israeli cities hit by Iranian missiles, expressing a mix of surprise and a sense of joy at the destruction, which they associate with their own suffering from occupation [1]. - A 27-year-old resident, Mohammed Jamal, noted that the response from Iran was unexpected, as many believed it would be a mild yet dramatic reaction [1]. - Another resident, a mother of four named Talil, expressed hope that the current events would prompt the Israeli government to end the war in Gaza, viewing the situation as part of a broader conflict [1].

Core Points - The U.S. President Trump announced the development plan for a space-based missile defense system named "Gold Dome," which is expected to be fully operational within three years [1][2] - The total cost of the "Gold Dome" system is estimated at approximately $175 billion, with an initial funding of $25 billion to be allocated in the upcoming fiscal year budget [2] - Trump aims to complete the project before the end of his term and noted that Canada has expressed interest in the system for its own protection [3] Historical Context - The concept of a space-based missile defense system dates back to the Cold War and was initially proposed during Reagan's presidency as the "Strategic Defense Initiative," commonly referred to as "Star Wars" [4] - The "Gold Dome" system is intended to consist of thousands of small satellites for missile detection and interception, a significant evolution from previous defense initiatives [4] - An executive order signed by Trump in January mandated the Department of Defense to submit a reference architecture and implementation plan for the defense system within 60 days [4] Challenges and Criticism - The "Gold Dome" system has faced skepticism from media and experts regarding its technical feasibility and funding arrangements, with concerns that the proposed timeline may complicate its implementation [5] - The project has been criticized for potentially escalating the arms race in space, as it is viewed as a response to perceived threats that have not materialized against the U.S. homeland [5]