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Israel ‘Bans’ Arab Foreign Ministers Planned Visit to West Bank, Faces Backlash

June 1, 2025, 5:00 pm

Israel has rejected a scheduled visit by Arab foreign ministers to the West Bank, which is under occupation. The gathering, hosted by Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, was meant to meet Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah.

Israel denied them permission, mentioning security reasons. The Arab ministers and Palestinian leaders have issued stiff criticism for the action.

Arab Ministers Condemn Israel’s Decision

The Jordanian foreign ministry said the ministers roundly condemned Israel’s “ban” on visiting Ramallah. Israel occupies the borders and airspace of the West Bank, so the ministers needed Israeli permission to go in.

Israel thwarted the visit late on Friday, calling it a “provocative” bid to advance Palestinian statehood. An Israeli spokesman stated, “Israel will not cooperate with actions intended to undermine its security.”

Palestinian Leaders Denounce Israeli Move

The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) deputy chairman, Hussein Al Sheikh, labeled Israel’s decision a “dangerous escalation.” He termed it “arrogant, provocative, and unprecedented behavior.” Al Sheikh stated that Palestinians and their Arab allies are now planning their response to the ban.

This Israeli move is just before an important global conference on Palestinian statehood. France and Saudi Arabia will jointly host the conference in New York from June 17 to 20. The UN and most European nations support a two-state solution, with an independent Palestinian state and Israel. French President Emmanuel Macron recently referred to Palestinian recognition as a “moral duty” and “political necessity.”

Recent Israeli Moves and Escalating Violence

There has been heightened tension in the area. Israeli troops recently shot close to a diplomatic mission convoy – which had diplomats from the EU, UK, Russia, and China – in the Jenin refugee camp, leading to international outcry. The soldiers allegedly fired warning shots after the caravan strayed from a planned route, according to Israel.

At the same time, Israel keeps expanding settlements in occupied territories. The authorities are planning 22 new ones and legalizing unauthorized settlements. Palestinians and human rights organizations resolutely protest against these actions. The International Court of Justice pronounced Israel’s occupation unlawful and required evacuating all settlements.

Human Cost of Conflict

Since October 7, 2023, Israel’s military strikes in Gaza and the West Bank have resulted in heavy losses. No less than 972 Palestinians were killed in the West Bank, and over 7,000 were wounded. Over 1,100 Israelis were killed in attacks by Hamas, and over 200 were kidnapped.

The Gaza Strip lost worse. Palestinian officials report more than 54,000 killed and over 124,000 wounded. The government press office most recently put the death toll at more than 61,700, citing large numbers of missing people assumed dead under the debris.

This blockade on the Arab ministers’ visit marks the extent of how vulnerable and tense the region is. It emphasizes the need for fresh dialogue and peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict at an early stage. The world looks on as events progress.

Hamdan Ballal: Oscar-Winning Director Arrested After Settler Clash

March 25, 2025, 5:30 pm

Palestinian filmmaker Hamdan Ballal, co-director of the Oscar-winning documentary No Other Land, was arrested on Monday after a confrontation between Palestinian villagers and Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank. The incident happened in Susiya village, near Hebron, during an Iftar gathering.

Clash Between Settlers and Palestinian Villagers

Jihad Nawajaa, head of the Susiya local council, said Israeli settlers attacked the Iftar gathering, leading to a standoff. “Dozens of settlers attacked the gathering at Iftar, according to Jihad Nawajaa. The young men came out to prevent them, and there were about eight injuries on our side.

During the altercation, settlers reportedly tried to steal sheep from Palestinian farmers, escalating tensions. Israeli police and soldiers intervened, arresting three Palestinian men, including Hamdan Ballal. Jihad Nawajaa said Hamdan Ballal was injured, but the severity remains unclear.

Israeli Authorities’ Response and Arrests

The Israeli military claimed police and soldiers acted after Palestinians threw rocks at Israeli settler vehicles. “Three Palestinians suspected of throwing rocks were arrested,” the military said, without addressing settler aggression allegations.

The military denied reports that at least one of the arrested Palestinians was taken from an ambulance, refuting claims circulating locally.

Hamdan Ballal’s arrest has gained international attention due to his role in No Other Land, a documentary on the Israeli displacement of Palestinian communities. The film, co-directed by Palestinian and Israeli filmmakers, recently won an Academy Award, amplifying its message globally.

Growing Tensions in the West Bank

Violence has surged in the West Bank, with frequent clashes between settlers and Palestinian residents. Rights groups have accused Israeli settlers of attacking Palestinian communities, often without intervention from authorities.

Hamdan Ballal’s arrest raises concerns over the treatment of Palestinian activists and artists. As international organizations and human rights groups monitor the situation, calls for his release and greater accountability continue.

With tensions already high, the Susiya village incident highlights the volatile reality in the occupied territories and the struggles faced by Palestinian communities resisting displacement.

Israel Delays Release of Palestinian Prisoners

January 30, 2025, 7:57 pm

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered a delay in the release of 110 Palestinian prisoners, which was part of the latest exchange under the Gaza ceasefire agreement. His office stated that the decision was made to ensure the safe return of Israeli hostages in future phases.

Reason for the Delay

Netanyahu, along with Defence Minister Israel Katz, announced the delay on Thursday, emphasizing that the move was a precautionary measure.

“Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, along with Defence Minister Israel Katz, has instructed the delay of the release of the terrorists scheduled for today until the safe departure of our hostages in the upcoming phases is assured,” read the official statement from Netanyahu’s office.

Hamas Responds

A Hamas source told AFP that the group was in touch with mediators to “compel” Israel to release the prisoners as agreed. The ceasefire deal initially included a hostage-prisoner exchange, where Israel was to release 110 Palestinian detainees in exchange for three Israeli hostages.

Rising Tensions Over Ceasefire Agreement

The delay has sparked concerns over the fragile truce between Israel and Hamas, with both sides engaging in intense negotiations through mediators, including Qatar, Egypt, and the United States.

What’s Next?

It remains unclear how long the prisoner release will be postponed and whether Hamas will take retaliatory actions. The situation continues to develop as both parties navigate the complexities of the ceasefire terms.

Israel-Palestine Conflict One Year Later

November 12, 2024, 2:14 am

An emergency meeting of the Arab League was held in Cairo a few days ago to talk about Israel’s decision to stop UNRWA from doing its job in the seized Palestinian areas. The meeting is being led by Yemen and is made up of permanent members because Jordan asked for it. MENA, Egypt’s state news service, said that many Arab countries are in favor of it. The main goal of the meeting is to come up with a coordinated Arab reaction to the “dangerous and illegal laws” that were passed by the Knesset, which is Israel’s government, that stop UNRWA from working in the occupied areas, such as East Jerusalem.
Hamas terrorists attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people and holding 251 others hostage. In response, the Israeli military began a terrible attack on Gaza that has killed over 41,500 people, hurt 96,000, and forced about 1.9 million to leave their homes. Since then, there has been a lot more violence in the West Bank, Lebanon, and other places in the area. The Israel-Palestine conflict, characterized by profound geographical, political, and ideological disparities, saw a resurgence of severity beginning on October 7, 2023, due to a sequence of escalations that rekindled bloodshed throughout the area. The conflict, entrenched in ancient disagreements around land, identity, and sovereignty, garnered renewed worldwide attention when violence erupted amidst increased geopolitical difficulties.
The one-year of the war provides a chance to contemplate the escalation of hostilities, the regional and international responses, and the changing dynamics of war in the Middle East. An analysis of significant events over the last year facilitates a clearer comprehension of the present situation and potential future trajectories, while also assessing the efficacy of peace initiatives and humanitarian responses in light of escalating demands for resolution from the international community.

Oct- Dec 2023

On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a surprise assault on Israel from the Gaza Strip, resulting in a notable escalation and extensive warfare. Israel executed a robust military response, included airstrikes on Gaza, leading to civilian fatalities and infrastructural damage.
October 2023: In reaction to the escalation, hundreds of civilians in the impacted regions evacuated, both in Israel and Gaza. The UN and many humanitarian groups requested access to supplies and discussions for a ceasefire, while adjacent nations voiced apprehension over possible spillover consequences.

November 2023: In spite of appeals for tranquillity, airstrikes and rocket assaults persisted, resulting in a substantial rise in casualties. Protests and demonstrations supporting both factions have arisen globally, underscoring the international split about the topic.

January – March

In January 2024, hostilities persisted as Israel declared enhanced military operations targeting the dismantlement of Hamas’ activities. The international community intensified appeals for mediation, with the UN, United States, and European Union pressing both parties to de-escalate tensions.
In February 2024, the Arab League convened an emergency conference in Cairo, advocating for regional action and the establishment of a truce. Nonetheless, minimal advancement occurred owing to enduring disputes among member nations.
In March 2024, a truce arrangement facilitated by Egypt briefly diminished hostilities; nonetheless, both parties alleged breaches by one another. This signified a tenuous respite, yet latent tensions persisted unresolved.

April – June 2024

In April 2024, the humanitarian crisis intensified as both Gaza and impacted Israeli regions experienced shortages of medical supplies, water, and energy. Civilian displacement to unparalleled levels, with international assistance agencies encountering difficulties in accessing impacted areas.
In May 2024, the UN General Assembly convened a special session, culminating in a resolution that condemned the targeting of civilians and called for enhanced compliance with humanitarian rules. Although several nations endorsed this resolution, considerable opposition emerged, highlighting the geopolitical rift about the crisis.
In June 2024, worldwide protests intensified, demanding more robust measures to address human rights breaches. This time seen heightened agitation for foreign involvement, however attempts were impeded by political intricacies inside the UN Security Council.

July – September

In July 2024, skirmishes transpired near Israel’s northern border with Lebanon, including Hezbollah, an organization allied with Hamas, in many engagements with Israeli soldiers. These occurrences heightened apprehensions of an extensive regional confrontation encompassing Lebanon, Syria, and Iran.
In August 2024, heightened diplomatic engagement occurred, led by the United States and European Union in efforts to reinstate peace negotiations. Global public opinion remained polarized, with substantial support for peace in both the Middle East and the Western world.
September 2024: The fighting reemerged in Gaza’s metropolitan areas, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Ongoing hostilities prompted renewed debates on UN sanctions and heightened worldwide media scrutiny, exerting pressure on both parties for a more enduring truce.

Changing Alliances

Over the past year, the conflict between Israel and Palestine has caused big changes in foreign relationships and ties in the Middle East and beyond. Israel’s relationships with its neighbors have changed over time, with Saudi Arabia and Iran playing key parts. As part of a larger plan to counter Iranian influence, Saudi Arabia has tried to improve relations with Israel. However, the recent conflict has made these efforts more difficult, as Saudi leaders have spoken out in support of Palestinian rights. This shows how difficult it is to balance regional diplomacy with domestic pressures.
Egypt has been a peace broker in the conflict for a long time, but it has been tense as it deals with the large number of refugees and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Cairo’s situation is getting more difficult as it tries to deal with both Hamas and Israel. This shows how complicated Cairo’s role is in Middle Eastern politics.
On an international level, the conflict has made world leaders respond. The United States has always been a strong friend of Israel, but there have been calls from both inside and outside the country to rethink its support, especially as calls for Palestinians’ emergency aid have grown. In response, diplomats have had to find a balance between giving military help and supporting peace efforts.
On the other hand, Russia and China have taken advantage of the chance to improve ties with Middle Eastern countries, showing that they are not controlled by the United States. Russia has built relationships with Iran and Syria in order to act as a mediator. China, on the other hand, has grown its economic ties by focusing on trade and investment in a region that is becoming more wary of Western domination.

Thoughts on a Year of Violence

Thousands of people have died, neighbourhoods have been destroyed, and the humanitarian situation keeps getting worse because of the fighting between Israel and Palestine over the past year. The damage done to people, especially children, shows how urgently the international community needs to work together to stop this. This war not only affects the area around it, but it also has effects on global security that go far beyond that. This shows how interconnected international relations are. As we think back on this rough year, we need to recommit ourselves to peace and diplomacy. We need to encourage conversation and understanding to make the future safer and more peaceful for everyone. No matter how hard it is to get to a settlement, peace measures must continue for the sake of the region’s and the world’s health.

Dr. Alisha Verma is an Assistant Professor Law at Symbiosis Law School, Pune.

“I Am Sure India Is Also Calling For Ceasefire”: Palestinian Envoy Adnan Alhaija

October 1, 2024, 5:17 am

Adnan Abu Alhaija, the Palestinian Ambassador to India, expressed doubts about the possibility of achieving a ceasefire with Israel under the current government, emphasizing that Israelis and their leadership have consistently rejected such efforts. When asked about the prospects for a ceasefire, he remarked, “All the people, even the United States, have defended Israel. The international arena calls Israel for a ceasefire, but Israelis and this extreme government (Netanyahu) are refusing the ceasefire.”

Regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Alhaija stated that he believes India is advocating for a ceasefire. “I am sure India is also calling for ceasefire… Even in the United Nations, I don’t know what exactly PM Modi has said, but I am sure he was talking about ceasefire in the area and stopping any kind of escalation.”

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Notably, PM Modi discussed recent developments in West Asia with Netanyahu and reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting efforts for the early restoration of peace and stability. In a post on X, PM Modi stated, “Spoke to Prime Minister @netanyahu about recent developments in West Asia. Terrorism has no place in our world. It is crucial to prevent regional escalation and ensure the safe release of all hostages. India is committed to supporting efforts for an early restoration of peace and stability.”

The Palestinian Ambassador also addressed Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, asserting that he defended Lebanon and its people “against the criminal regime of Netanyahu.” Alhaija remarked, “Nasrallah was a resistance leader and defended the land of Lebanon. He tried to help the people of Lebanon… against the criminal regime of Netanyahu. I think the Palestinian people and the area are facing the most extreme government in the history of Israel.”

Hassan Nasrallah was reportedly killed in a precision strike by Israeli Defence Forces (IDF). Netanyahu referred to Nasrallah as “the main engine of Iran’s axis of evil,” stating, “If someone rises up to kill you, kill him first…”

In October last year, Israel launched a counter-offensive against Hamas after hundreds of Hamas terrorists infiltrated Israeli borders, resulting in over 1,200 deaths and more than 250 hostages taken, of which 100 remain in captivity. The conflict has recently escalated, with Houthi rebels in Yemen targeting Israel and other nations in the Red Sea, and Israel continuing its strikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon. As tensions rise, major countries are calling for a ceasefire and a hostage deal while emphasizing the need for a two-state solution to achieve lasting peace in the region.

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The Legal And Human Rights Implications Of The Taliban’s De Facto Authority In Afghanistan

July 29, 2024, 11:03 pm

As the ICJ in its opinion on the Israel-Palestinian dispute called the occupation unlawful and

human rights, ICJ, Israel-Palestine, Afghanistan, Taliban, women’s rights, international law

declared that building settlements in the occupied West Bank and occupied East Jerusalem was illegal and rejected any argument that Israel has sovereignty over the territories, despite its claims. Another issue that needs to be taken up seriously, is the violation of the human rights of women by the de facto authority of Afghanistan. Even though the third UN-convened meeting of Special Envoys and Special Representatives on Afghanistan took place on 30 June–1 July 2024 in Doha, Qatar to discuss the international community’s approach to Afghanistan. More than one year after the first Doha meeting, there is growing concern that the international community lacks the necessary resolve to defend and advocate for the human rights of Afghan women and girls. Many Afghan women civil society have even called for a boycott of continued negotiations with the Taliban until women’s rights are restored. In this context, the authors discuss the ongoing violations of human rights of women and girls and the need for fixing the responsibility of the de facto government of the Taliban .

After the US left Afghanistan, the Taliban took control of the state. They formed a de facto government which most of the states have not recognised. Thus, this government is lacking legal capacity to enter into any diplomatic relations under international law. Under International law, recognition of state and recognition of government are different. On the one hand States recognition has four criterions which are territory, population, government and capacity to enter into foreign relations. On the other hand, recognition of government is different. A state may recognize another state but at the same time does not recognise the government which is exactly the case with the de facto government of Taliban
However, when the UN body is inviting this government at UN meeting the legal question may arise, whether UN is recognizing Taliban government or not? If UN recognizes Taliban, it may be a collective recognition. But in international law recognition government doesn’t happen by any dialogue. There is a process to recognition. It may be express or may be implied. Many states engage with different bodies of government even though they do not recognize the government. Non-recognition does not waive the duty of international responsibility. Therefore, if Taliban is doing wrong by women rights violation, it can be responsible in international forum without recognising the government.

Coming to the human rights situation of Afghan women, their rights and their role within society can be traced back to 1978 when a coup d’etat resulted in the fall of Daud Khan’s government which led to the commencement of militarisation of communist factions and mujahideen who had excluded Afghan women from the decision-making processes and access to leadership roles. Before the Soviet Invasion of 1979, there were signs of progress for women, Afghanistan has several women in the cabinet, women were going to school in cities, female presence within police force

However, the gravitiy of the current situation can be traced from the fact that the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has issued a warning against systematic ‘gender apartheid and gender persecution’.In a joint report last year to UNHRC, Richard Bennett, the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, and Dorothy Estrada-Tanck, Chair of the Working Group on discrimination against women and girls, said that the situation of women and girls in Afghanistan was among the worst in the world
In contrast, the Taliban have defended their decisions by stating that the working women in Afghanistan are violating the sharia law of their land and that their de facto government is committed to enforcing sharia law in Afghanistan which has led to the de facto authorities dismantling the most fundamental principles of human rights, particularly for women and girls.

Going forward, the need of the hour is to establish the human rights obligations of the de facto government of the Taliban, who call themselves the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, and at present are exercising governmental functions and have de facto authority over the population that in essence meets the criteria of application of human rights law. It is imperative to hold the Taliban responsible under Article 10 of the Draft Articles on State Responsibility, which declares that “the conduct of an insurrectional movement which becomes the new government of a State shall be considered an act of that State under international law.

Abhinav Mehrotra & Bishwanath Gupta

Abhinav Mehrotra is Assistant Professor and Dr Biswanath Gupta is Associate Professor at OP Jindal Global University. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost’s views.

Palestinian Village in Crisis : Homes Demolished and Settler Attacks Intensify

July 19, 2024, 11:15 am

The village of Umm al-Khair in the West Bank is in a severe crisis. Many people have lost their homes and have no reliable access to water and electricity. This is due to the recent increase in home demolitions by the Israeli military and attacks by Israeli settlers.

Demolitions and Violence

The problems started when Israeli bulldozers destroyed a quarter of the homes in the village. After that, Israeli settlers attacked the villagers. Many people were hurt, and the village’s water pipe was cut, while Israeli soldiers reportedly did nothing to stop it.

“Where can I go?” asked Yasser Hathaleen, sitting near the rubble of his family’s homes. “Who can I complain to? I need laws to protect me. Where are the people who enforce the laws?”

Background and Recent Events

Umm al-Khair was founded in the 1950s by Bedouins who were forced out of the Negev desert during the 1948 war. In the 1970s, the village came under Israeli control. Since the 1980s, after the nearby Israeli settlement of Carmel was built, there have been occasional attacks by settlers. However, the violence got much worse when an unauthorized outpost called “Roots Farm” was set up nearby.

On July 1, settlers attacked the village, injuring about 10 people with sticks and pepper spray. “There were many women on the ground, struggling to breathe,” said Basel Adra, a Palestinian activist. Videos show settlers tampering with the village’s water pipes and entering the village with rifles while Israeli soldiers watched.

Legal and Humanitarian Issues

The situation in Umm al-Khair is part of a larger problem where Bedouin communities are being forced off their land by settler violence and state-backed demolitions. Palestinians in the West Bank find it nearly impossible to get building permits, so many homes are destroyed for being ‘illegal.’

Naomi Kahn of the settler group Regavim calls Umm al-Khair an “illegal squatters camp” on Israeli land. The Israeli military said the demolished homes were built without permission.

International Response and Future Prospects

The international community considers Israeli settlements in the West Bank illegal and a barrier to peace. Rights groups say that the expansion of these settlements and outposts, along with violence against Palestinians, makes it harder to achieve a Palestinian state.

Since the Israel-Hamas war began, the U.N. reports a rise in settler violence in the West Bank, displacing over 1,200 Palestinians, many from Bedouin villages like Umm al-Khair. A group of NGOs documented over 1,000 settler attacks in the past nine months, averaging four attacks a day, double the previous year’s daily average.

Outgoing Israeli general Maj. Gen. Yehuda Fox condemned the increase in settler violence, urging leaders to stop the chaos and fear among Palestinian residents.

Despite these challenges, the people of Umm al-Khair are determined to stay. “They knock down our homes, and then we rebuild,” said shepherd Bilal Hathaleen. “They come to knock them down again, so we rebuild. We are not going anywhere.”

This crisis shows the need for a solution that protects the rights and safety of everyone living in the West Bank.

Bollywood Stands with Palestine: Alia, Kareena, Varun Show Support After Rafah Attack

May 29, 2024, 10:25 am

Days following Israel’s attack on Rafah, several Bollywood actors have expressed support for Palestine. Celebrities like Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor, and Varun Dhawan joined in solidarity.

Alia shared a post on her Instagram Stories from @themotherhoodhome, advocating for children’s safety and peace in Rafah, with the caption “#AllEyesOnRafah.” Kareena Kapoor also shared a UNICEF post condemning the killing of children and families in Rafah. Varun Dhawan posted the “All Eyes on Rafah” image on his Instagram stories in protest of Israel’s attack.

Other actors showing solidarity include Triptii Dimri, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Samantha Prabhu, Dia Mirza, and Swara Bhasker.

The conflict saw Israeli shelling and airstrikes killing at least 37 people in Rafah, many of whom were sheltering in tents. The attack occurred in an area previously struck by deadly fires in a camp for displaced Palestinians. The assault prompted over a million people to flee the city, with families scattered across makeshift camps and war-ravaged areas.

The World Health Organization reported that casualties from the strike overwhelmed field hospitals already facing shortages in supplies. The United States and other Israeli allies have cautioned against further escalation, with the Biden administration warning of crossing a “red line” and refusing to provide offensive arms.

UN’s Top Court Orders “Immediate Halt” to Israeli Operations in Rafah

May 24, 2024, 10:30 pm

The top court of the United Nations has instructed Israel to cease its activities in Rafah, a city in southern Gaza, and withdraw from the area, according to CNN. This order, issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, Netherlands, came on Friday following a case brought by South Africa alleging Israel of genocide, citing a significant threat to the Palestinian population.

Judge Nawaf Salam, the president of the ICJ, stated, “Israel must immediately halt its military offensive and any other action in the Rafah Governorate which may inflict on the Palestinian group in Gaza conditions of life that could bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part.”

This decision, the third of its kind this year from the 15-judge panel, aims to reduce casualties and alleviate humanitarian suffering in Gaza. However, it’s essential to note that while these orders are legally binding, the court lacks enforcement power.

The ICJ emphasized the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza since its last provisional measures order in March. Judge Salam described it as “disastrous,” noting the displacement of around 800,000 Palestinians from Rafah following Israel’s military offensive beginning on May 7.

Despite Israel’s warnings for civilians to evacuate parts of the city before its operation, the court deemed these efforts insufficient to mitigate the substantial risk faced by the Palestinian population due to Israel’s incursion, as reported by CNN.

The court also expressed grave concern over the fate of hostages abducted by Hamas and other armed groups during the October 7 attacks in Israel. It urged for their immediate and unconditional release.

According to Al Jazeera, Israel launched its assault on Rafah, forcing hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to flee. The operation disrupted aid routes, raising the risk of famine in the enclave.

The ICJ further ordered Israel to provide a progress report within one month regarding the measures instructed by the court. It demanded effective measures to ensure access for UN fact-finding missions to investigate allegations of genocide and the opening of the Rafah border crossing for humanitarian assistance.

Judge Salam warned that the situation could worsen if Israel’s operation in Rafah continues, as per indications from UN officials.

Israel vehemently condemned the ICJ’s order. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened a meeting with key cabinet members to discuss the ruling, as reported by CNN. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich rejected calls to halt the war, arguing that it would endanger Israel’s existence.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir criticized the ICJ’s decision as antisemitic, advocating for a more aggressive military approach against Hamas.

In a previous ruling in January, the ICJ instructed Israel to prevent genocidal acts in Gaza but did not order a halt to the fighting. Israel denies accusations of genocide, asserting its operations in Gaza as self-defense against Hamas attacks.

UAE: Emirates Have Openly Decided To Align Themselves With Biden Administration

May 18, 2024, 2:04 pm

At the annual Arab League summit in Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is becoming a strong critic of the Palestinian Authority, withholding support for a major budget until Ramallah implements substantial reforms, including stopping payments to terrorists and ending incitement.

“In this way, the Emirates is aligning itself with the American position that strives for a new Palestinian Authority,” a high-level Arab diplomat conveyed to The Press Service of Israel.

Tensions have risen behind the scenes as the Emirates obstructed a proposed resolution to grant the Palestinian Authority USD 100 million monthly, citing issues of corruption and poor leadership. The Emiratis also called for increased financial transparency and anti-corruption measures within the PA, angering the Palestinian delegation.

“The Emiratis practically emptied the initiative to budget the Palestinian Authority of any content,” the diplomatic source explained to TPS-IL. “The refusal of the Emiratis to budget a corrupt authority should not surprise anyone.”

The UAE’s position, which questions President Mahmoud Abbas’s leadership, has gained backing from Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Galant, who is open to recognizing PA authority in a post-war Gaza. Despite this, the PA maintains its boycott of the US and Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, following the US veto of a UN Security Resolution that aimed to grant the Palestinians full UN membership.

“The Emirates have openly decided to align themselves with the Biden administration, which repeats and claims that only a new and reformed Palestinian Authority can be a partner in the eyes of the Americans the day after the war in the Gaza Strip,” the source told TPS-IL.

“The Emiratis have decided to teach the Palestinian Authority a lesson, and they are demanding from it a long series of reforms that will transform it from a Palestinian Authority into a completely different entity. Only when the Palestinian Authority is not Palestinian will it be kosher in the eyes of the Emirates,” he added mockingly.

The UAE is supporting Muhammed Dahlan, a rival of Abbas. Conversations with various Arab sources frequently mention Dahlan as a favored candidate to lead post-war Gaza.

Dahlan, once a prominent figure in Fatah, was the PA’s “strong man” in Gaza when Hamas forcibly took over the Strip in 2007. As Dahlan’s influence in Fatah grew, he clashed with Abbas and was expelled from the party in 2011. He was subsequently tried in absentia in Ramallah on corruption charges, which he denies.

TPS-IL has reported that during a recent Zoom conference of Arab diplomats in April, participants expressed opposition to Abbas’s leadership. Palestinians have not held national elections since 2005, and Abbas is now in the 19th year of a four-year term. Since then, Abbas has canceled multiple election attempts due to Fatah-Hamas conflicts, most recently in 2021.

The US has been urging Abbas to reform the PA as a prerequisite for managing Gaza’s administration and reconstruction. The proposed reforms include reducing the PA’s bloated and inefficient bureaucracy, replacing diplomats representing the PA abroad, and establishing an internal self-investigation mechanism within the Palestinian Preventive Security. Ramallah aims to meet US demands by forming a Palestinian technocratic government that includes “softcore” Hamas members and facilitating indirect “pay-for-slay” funding.

However, there is widespread skepticism in Ramallah about Abbas’s commitment to implementing these reforms. A March survey by the Palestinian Centre for Policy and Survey Research revealed that 81 percent of Palestinians in Judea, Samaria, and Gaza are dissatisfied with Abbas’s leadership, and 84 percent want him to resign.

Palestinians have not held national elections since 2005, and Abbas is now in the 19th year of what was supposed to be a four-year term. Abbas has canceled several election attempts due to Fatah-Hamas disagreements, most recently in 2021.

On October 7, Hamas’s attacks on Israeli communities near the Gaza border resulted in at least 1,200 deaths and the kidnapping of 240 Israelis and foreigners. Approximately 30 of the remaining 132 hostages are believed to be dead.

Israel prepares for massive Rafah evacuations amid rising tensions

April 24, 2024, 4:36 pm

Israel has obtained tens of thousands of tents for Palestinian civilians in preparation for evacuations from Rafah ahead of an anticipated assault on the city, perceived as the last stronghold of Hamas in Gaza. The population of Rafah has surged due to over a million Palestinians fleeing the ongoing Israeli offensive.

Concerns over the fate of these refugees have been raised by Western powers and Egypt, which has ruled out receiving them in the Sinai region. After negotiations with the United States regarding civilian protection measures, Israel’s Defence Ministry has purchased 40,000 tents for relocated Palestinians from Rafah.

While specific battle plans are not disclosed, Israeli military readiness signals an impending move. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s cabinet is expected to authorize civilian evacuations, likely lasting around a month, as the initial phase of the Rafah operation.

“Hamas was hit hard in the northern sector. It was also hit hard in the centre of the Strip. And soon it will be hit hard in Rafah, too,” Brigadier-General Itzik Cohen, who leads the 162nd Division in Gaza, spoke to Kan public TV on Tuesday.

Israel asserts that taking control of Rafah is crucial for victory in the Gaza conflict, targeting Hamas combat units and recovering hostages held there. Hamas has not commented on its military deployments, while asserting that Israel’s campaign has resulted in significant Palestinian casualties.

The situation has left displaced individuals in Rafah facing grim prospects, with concerns about safety and limited options for relocation amid escalating tensions in the region. Analysts anticipate an assault on Rafah soon, driven by political pressures and military objectives, but warn of potential humanitarian consequences and casualties in such an operation.

Israel airstrikes kill 13, including 9 children, amid US aid

April 21, 2024, 5:17 pm

In the midst of escalating tensions, Israel unleashed airstrikes on the southern Gaza city of Rafah, resulting in the deaths of 13 individuals, including nine children, according to health authorities on Sunday.

The attacks come as the United States gears up to sanction billions of dollars in additional military aid to Israel, intensifying an already volatile situation in the region. Israel’s relentless airstrikes on Rafah, a city where over half of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents have sought refuge from ongoing conflict, have drawn international condemnation, including pleas for moderation from the US.

Despite international calls for restraint, Israel has signaled its intent to persist with its ground offensive in Rafah, located on the Egyptian border.

The recent airstrikes claimed the lives of several families, with the first strike resulting in the deaths of a man, his wife, and their 3-year-old child, while the second strike claimed the lives of eight children and two mothers from the same family. Additionally, nine individuals, including six children, were killed in a previous airstrike in Rafah the previous evening.

The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has exacted a heavy toll on Gaza, with over 34,000 Palestinians losing their lives, significant damage to infrastructure in Gaza’s major cities, and widespread displacement. Experts warn of an impending humanitarian crisis, with nearly 80% of the population forced to flee their homes.

The conflict, now in its seventh month, has also exacerbated tensions across the Middle East, with Israel and the US facing off against Iran and allied militant groups. Recent clashes between Israel and Iran have heightened fears of a broader regional conflagration.

Meanwhile, tensions have surged in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, where Israeli forces reportedly “neutralized” two Palestinians who attacked a checkpoint near Hebron early Sunday. The exact fate of the Palestinians remains unclear.

Since the onset of the Gaza war, at least 469 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank, with the majority of casualties occurring during Israeli military operations or violent protests.

The conflict was sparked by a deadly raid into southern Israel by Hamas and other militants, resulting in the deaths of around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and the abduction of approximately 250 hostages. Israel alleges that militants are still holding around 100 hostages and the remains of over 30 others.

The devastating toll of the conflict is evident, with Gaza’s Health Ministry reporting over 34,000 Palestinians killed and nearly 77,000 wounded. While Israel attributes civilian casualties to Hamas’s use of residential areas for combat, the true extent of the humanitarian crisis continues to unfold.

Israel maintains its stance of continuing the war until Hamas is dismantled and all hostages are released, while thousands of Israelis demand new elections to replace Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and secure a resolution to the crisis.

The conflict shows no signs of abating, with both sides entrenched in their positions, leaving the civilian population of Gaza trapped in the crossfire of a protracted and

and devastating conflict.

Israeli Civilian Deaths in Palestinian Attacks Reach 814 Since Oct 7

April 2, 2024, 10:19 pm

As per data disclosed by Israel’s National Insurance Institute on Tuesday, approximately 814 Israeli civilians have lost their lives in Palestinian terror attacks in the approximately six months following Hamas’s assault on Oct 7.

Among the 814 individuals who lost their lives since Oct 7, the Institute reported that 39 were children.

The Institute’s statistics excluded soldiers, police officers, and members of local security patrols. According to the breakdown provided by the Institute, out of the 814 casualties, five were children under the age of five, five were aged 6-10, and 29 were between the ages of 11 and 18.

Additionally, grants have been provided to 65,032 Israelis who were injured in terror attacks. The Institute further stated that it has disbursed over USD 275 million to civilian terror victims since Oct 7.

This comprises $5.2 million allocated for initial aid, covering funeral grants, widow grants, bereavement grants, and burial grants for the families of the deceased. Following Hamas’s attacks on Israeli communities near the Gaza border on Oct 7, at least 1,200 individuals were killed, and 240 Israelis and foreigners were held hostage. Israel has recently confirmed the deaths of 31 out of the remaining 134 hostages.

EAM Jaishankar Affirms Palestinian Right to Homeland Amid Israel-Palestine Conflict

March 27, 2024, 11:23 pm

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made a firm statement regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict, emphasizing that regardless of the complexities involved, the fundamental reality remains that Palestinians have been deprived of their rights and homeland.

He described the events of October 7 as a ‘terrorist attack’ while also recognizing the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law in any response, alluding to the Israeli counteroffensive in Gaza.

Jaishankar, currently visiting Malaysia, engaged with the Indian community during an event.

“How different pulls and pressures can be. On one hand, what happened on Oct 7 was terrorism. On the other hand, nobody would countenance the death of innocent civilians. Countries may be justified in their own minds in responding, but you cannot have a response that…every response must take into account something called international humanitarian law,” Jaishankar said.

“The fact is whatever the rights and wrongs of the issue, there is underlying issue of the rights of the Palestinians and the fact that they have been denied their homeland,” he added.

Hamas perpetrated a devastating terror assault in Israel on Oct 7, resulting in the deaths of over 1200 individuals and the abduction of more than 250 hostages, with over 100 still held captive.

In retaliation, Israel initiated a robust counterattack in the Gaza Strip, targeting Hamas units. Nevertheless, the operation has led to civilian casualties as well. According to the Gaza ministry, over 32,000 individuals, including women and children, have lost their lives in Gaza.

PM Modi was among the initial global leaders to denounce the heinous terror attack by Hamas on Israel on Oct 7.

However, India has maintained its support for the ‘two-state solution’ to the enduring Israel-Palestine conflict.

Meanwhile, Jaishankar is undertaking an official visit to Malaysia, with subsequent visits planned for Singapore and the Philippines.

Earlier in the day, he met with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, expressing appreciation for his vision focused on bolstering ties between India and Malaysia.

He also underscored that this vision will act as a driving force for formulating a more ambitious agenda to enhance the relationship between the two nations.

He also convened a round-table meeting with CEOs in Malaysia and commended their increasing interest in collaborating with Indian industries.

“A productive round-table meeting with CEOs in Malaysia. Glad to hear about growing interest in partnering with Indian industries. Encouraged them to join in India’s growth story. Discussed geopolitical developments that can provide more opportunities in business interactions,” the EAM posted on X.

A productive round-table meeting with CEOs in Malaysia.

Glad to hear about growing interest in partnering with Indian industries. Encouraged them to join in India’s growth story.

Discussed geopolitical developments that can provide more opportunities in ?? ?? business… pic.twitter.com/Qt76qXmI41

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (Modi Ka Parivar) (@DrSJaishankar) March 27, 2024