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Flags of Iran, Palestine raised in Muharram procession in Srinagar

July 5, 2025, 12:42 am

Flags of Iran, Palestine and Hezbollah were raised by mourners during a 8th Mu- harram procession on Fri- day in Srinagar. The event, observed annually to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain witnessed thousands participating in religious gatherings and processions. Several mourners car- ried the flags as a mark of support to people in the Muslim world, particularly Palestinians facing the ongoing conflict.

While the procession remained largely peaceful, it drew attention from both the local administration and security agencies, given the geopolitical significance of the banners displayed. The display of such flags is not new in Kashmir during Muharram as participants often express broader Muslim unity and opposition to injustice.

For over three decades, the 8th Muharram procession was only permitted in selected areas under tight restrictions, and it is ongoing. The lifting of the ban in 2023 marked a major shift in policy and was hailed as a step towards religious inclusivity and reconciliation.

Moreover, the 8th of Muharram is part of the broader commemoration leading up to Ashura, the 10th of Muharram, which marks the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), along with 72 of his companions in the Battle of Karbala in present-day Iraq Muharram procession was barred due to security concerns in the late 1980s. The traditional mourning route was, however, restored in 2023, a move welcomed across religious and civil society circles.

The administration had made elaborate security and logistical arrangements. The Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri and senior police officials had earlier chaired high-level meetings with representatives of Shia organisations ahead of Muharram to coordinate efforts.

Also, traffic police Srinagar city issued an advisory in advance, announcing that vehicular movement along the route from Guru Bazar to Dalgate would be restricted from early morning. Additionally, traffic was diverted via Residency Road, Hari Singh High Street, Jehangir Chowk, and other inner routes, with designated parking provided at Gindun Park and SP College.

Four Palestinians Killed by Israeli Gunfire Near Gaza Aid Centre, Say Health Workers

June 8, 2025, 8:39 pm

At least four Palestinians were killed and shot near an aid distribution center in southern Gaza before dawn on Saturday, local health workers said. The victims were said to be on their way to a facility run by the newly established Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), an aid distribution project supported by Israel and the United States.

Deadly Incident at Rafah Aid Site

Paramedics reported the four were in a group of people waiting in the hopes of getting food assistance. One woman reported her husband was hit in the head while he was waiting for supplies. The facility, near Rafah, had not yet opened for the day.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) reported that soldiers opened fire in warning after issuing a verbal warning to an apparent group threat. “The number [of casualties] does not match information presently held by the IDF,” a release stated, although the military did confirm having knowledge of reports of injuries.

Increased Death Toll among Gaza GHF Distribution Points

The GHF system has been tainted by controversy since it was inaugurated. At least 60 Palestinians have been killed in reported shooting incidents in the first three days of aid distribution. Various eyewitnesses have accused Israeli soldiers of carrying out the shootings.

The IDF reported that it had only opened fire to issue warning shots in the first few days and eventually shot in the vicinity of people who were suspected. It stated that probes into the incidents are ongoing.

IDF Restrictions and Contested Gaza Aid Mechanism

Israeli troops have stated that entry and exit to GHF locations are only allowed between 06:00 and 18:00. During other times, the sites are considered “active combat areas.”

GHF established three centers on last Sunday one in Gaza City and two others in Rafah. Israel started permitting limited aid into Gaza after a three-month closure but diverted it through GHF instead of the United Nations.

Israeli authorities blame the UN for not doing enough to stop diversion of aid by Hamas combatants, a charge the UN does not acknowledge. Humanitarian agencies have universally criticized the GHF strategy as unsafe and unethical.

The Madleen, however, a ship belonging to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition with climate activist Greta Thunberg onboard, was said to be 160 nautical miles off Gaza. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz threatened that the boat should not make it to the coast, saying, “You’d better turn back, because you will not reach Gaza.”

Antonio Guterres Urges Independent Probe After 21 Dead in Rafah Aid Line

June 3, 2025, 1:19 pm

Palestinians shot dead in Gaza while queuing for food outside a Rafah aid centre have sparked outrage and global concern. It is reported that Israeli troops fired on civilians. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has demanded an immediate and impartial inquiry. The Israeli army is denying any role, while video footage and increasing death tolls fuel global pressure.

Deadly Incident Near Rafah Aid Centre

The bloodshed occurred close to the US-sponsored Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) food distribution centre in Rafah. Eyewitnesses say Israeli troops opened fire on individuals waiting in queues for relief. The Red Cross put deaths at 21. The Hamas-controlled Civil Defence organisation reported 31 fatalities.

Antonio Guterres, not mentioning Israel by name, denounced the attack. “It is deplorable that Palestinians are putting their lives in danger to obtain food,” he stated. He called for investigation and responsibility for the deaths.

Israeli Denial and Competing Claims

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) disputed the allegations. The army described troops firing “warning shots” only at people approaching them a kilometre from the Rafah location pre-dawn. GHF likewise refuted any discharge of shots at their facility.

However, AFP earlier released footage from another incident last week. It showed desperate civilians storming a food warehouse in Deir Al-Balah. Gunfire rang out as crowds seized flour and supplies. At least four died in that chaos.

On Monday, the IDF released new video showing armed men firing on civilians heading toward aid distribution zones. Israel claims the attackers were from militant groups.

Talks Stall, Truce Elusive

Ceasefire talks remain stalled as Egypt and Qatar pledge to intensify mediation efforts. Hamas has shown interest in “new” negotiations, but the parties have not reached any agreement yet.

Last week, CNN said Israel had accepted a US-sponsored ceasefire proposal. The proposal had included a 60-day ceasefire and a swap of 28 hostages—10 living, 18 dead. But nothing was agreed upon.

The Gaza war is now in its 20th month. Every day without peace brings more tragedy—and now more hunger—to an already battered population.

US Ambassador Huckabee Roasts France’s Palestine Push: “Build It On The French Riviera Instead”

June 2, 2025, 2:55 am

The US ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, criticized France’s recent move to rally support for the recognition of a Palestinian state as ill-timed and out of place in the current conflict in Gaza. In an interview with Fox News, Huckabee was quoted as having stated that if France is serious about building a Palestinian state, it should “carve out a piece of the French Riviera” instead of putting pressure on Israel.

France is hosting an international conference at the United Nations this month with Saudi Arabia to try to revive the stalled two-state solution. The effort has been met with firm resistance from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, which opposes renewed international pressure for Palestinian statehood. Paris has also suggested that it will formally recognize a Palestinian state in the coming year.

Huckabee pointed to the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel as a watershed moment. “October 7 changed a lot of things,” he said, and insisted that negotiating Palestinian statehood in an ongoing conflict is “incredibly inappropriate.”

His comments followed those of Israeli authorities accusing French President Emmanuel Macron of embarking on a “crusade against the Jewish state” after Macron urged European nations to make their opposition to Israel tougher if the Gaza humanitarian crisis escalated. Barely a week ago, Israel approved the construction of 22 new settlements in the West Bank a move unanimously denounced by the international community as illegal and a barrier to peace.

Huckabee, who is also a strong defender of Israel, rejected the idea of Israeli occupation of Palestinian land, upholding his position against undue pressure on Israel’s policy. The scandal highlights the profound disagreements over the Israeli-Palestinian issue amid a growing conflict and the realigning of international interests.

Ireland Becomes First EU State to Ban Imports from Israeli Settlements

May 27, 2025, 12:37 pm

Ireland has taken the unprecedented step of making imports from Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories illegal, a first for any EU member state. Goods coming from parts of the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza that are outside of Israel’s internationally recognized borders would be prohibited if the bill is approved.

This is a direct reaction to the ongoing blockade of humanitarian aid and Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. The action reflects mounting European pressure on Israel and sends a strong political message from Dublin, despite its limited trade impact.

Ireland Leads EU with Groundbreaking Legislation

Physical goods from illegal settlements, such as agricultural products like dates, oranges, olives, and some timber, are targeted by Ireland’s proposed law. Imports of these goods totaled just €685,000 between 2020 and 2024. Simon Harris, Ireland’s deputy PM, asserts that the symbolic significance is more important than the numerical figures.

Simon Harris told The Financial Times, “This is an appropriate course of action given the scale and gravity of what we’re now seeing with the deprivation of aid and the bombardment of Gaza.”

The bill does not call for a boycott of all products made in Israel. Rather, it only looks at those made in settlements, which are generally regarded as unlawful by the international community.

First Concrete EU Action on Israel’s Settlements

Conor O’Neill, policy head for Christian Aid Ireland, described it as a “massive welcome step.” EU countries have denounced the settlements for years. Ireland is now the first to put those words into practice through legislation.

“This is the first time that any EU nation has applied a trade measure of this kind to Israel,” O’Neill stated. “It marks a watershed in the fight against Israel’s illegal occupation.”

EU and UK Ramp Up Pressure on Israel

Ireland’s audacious action comes after more general EU actions. The European Union mandated a review of its cooperation agreement with Israel last week. The United Kingdom suspended trade negotiations with the Israeli government in the meantime. Additionally, France promised to formally acknowledge a Palestinian state.

At a meeting of foreign ministers, EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas stated that a “strong majority” of the 27 member states supported the review. “Countries recognize that the Gaza situation is unsustainable,” she stated. “We want to assist the people and make it possible for humanitarian aid to reach them by unblocking it.”

Shift in Europe’s Gaza Stance

Benjamin Netanyahu, the prime minister of Israel, has resisted growing international censure. Ireland’s action, backed by growing EU support, shows a clear change in strategy. Europe’s patience seems to be ebbing away as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens.

Ireland’s law may set a precedent. Israel’s actions in Gaza and the occupied territories might now impact trade and diplomacy.

Gaza Receives Flour and Baby Food Amid Global Pressure, But Aid Falls Short

May 22, 2025, 6:00 pm

Gaza receives flour and baby food on Thursday after Israel opened the gate to limited truckloads across the border. This follows an 11-week siege that put a quarter of the enclave’s 2.3 million residents in danger of famine. Israel eased the all-out supply ban under mounting world pressure put in place in March.

As 100 aid trucks rolled in Wednesday with baby formula and medical supplies, Palestinian officials and relief groups report that the shipments are woefully inadequate to meet needs. In the meantime, Israeli bombardments raged on throughout Gaza, claiming dozens of lives.

Aid Trucks Arrive, Supplies Are Grossly Inadequate

Israel permitted the passage of 100 trucks on Wednesday. They contained basic supplies such as flour, baby food, and medical equipment. The limited delivery is the first easing of the blockade imposed in March. Israel says that Hamas was hijacking supplies for combatants—a claim Hamas refutes.

Palestinian NGOs claimed that just 90 trucks had actually entered by Thursday. Under the previous ceasefire, 600 trucks would enter daily. “The number now is a drop in the ocean,” stated Amjad al-Shawa, head of the Palestinian Non-Governmental Organizations Network in Gaza.

UN-Backed Bakeries Start Distributing Bread

Some bakeries, supported by the UN World Food Programme, began to receive flour. They intend to bake bread for distribution by UN employees directly. This managed system substitutes previous attempts, when bakers retailed bread at subsidised prices. Shawa stated that the target is to provide “the most needy families, those who are desperate.”

Bombings Continue Even as Aid Begins to Flow

Despite the delivery of aid, Israeli attacks went on Thursday. At least 35 Palestinians were killed, reported Gaza health officials. A tank shell struck a warehouse of medicines at the Al-Awda Hospital in Beit Lahiya and it caught fire. Medics indicate that Israeli tanks are still blocking hospital doors outside.

Gaza’s Health System on the Brink of Collapse

Most of the hospitals are no longer operational. Strikes, raids, and the prohibition of medical equipment have destroyed Gaza’s healthcare system. Flames engulf destroyed warehouses, and patients and medics go without treatment or protection.

Ceasefire Talks and Political Standoff Intensify

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu announced Wednesday that he would accept a temporary ceasefire to facilitate hostage releases. Otherwise, he promised to press on with the military campaign to take over Gaza completely. Hamas turned it down. “There is no value to any agreement that doesn’t stop the massacres in Gaza permanently,” Hamas official Sami Ab Zuhri said.

Toll Rises as Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

Israel’s military retaliation followed Hamas’ October 7 attack that killed about 1,200 individuals and resulted in 251 abductions of hostages. More than 53,600 Palestinians have been killed since then, according to Gaza’s health officials.

The region is in ruins, and aid organizations say malnutrition is prevalent.

‘Free Palestine!’ Protest Halts Microsoft CEO’s Speech Briefly at Seattle Conference | Watch

May 20, 2025, 9:49 am

During Microsoft’s Build conference in Seattle, an employee interrupted CEO Satya Nadella’s speech. The protester shouted, “Free Palestine!” on stage. As a result, security quickly removed the protester. However, Nadella continued his speech and did not respond to the outburst.

Employee Sends Email After Protest

Afterward, the protester was identified as Joe Lopez, a firmware engineer on Microsoft’s Azure hardware systems team. Shortly after the disruption, Lopez emailed thousands of coworkers. He wrote, “I was shocked by the silence of our leadership.” Moreover, he accused Microsoft of ignoring the possible use of Azure and AI tools in Gaza. He stated, “Leadership rejects our claims that Azure technology is being used to target or harm civilians in Gaza.” He added, “Those of us who have been paying attention know that this is a bold-faced lie.”

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Lopez Raises Ethical Concerns

Furthermore, Lopez warned about the potential misuse of cloud data. He claimed, “Every byte of data that is stored on the cloud… can and will be used as justification to level cities and exterminate Palestinians.”

Microsoft Denies Any Misuse

In response, Microsoft launched an internal review. The company reported that it found no proof of its technology causing harm. It stated, “Our relationship with Israel’s Ministry of Defense is structured as a standard commercial relationship.” Additionally, it said, “We found no evidence that Microsoft’s Azure and AI technologies, or any of our other software, have been used to harm people.”

Group Behind the Protest Speaks Out

Meanwhile, the protest was organized by a group called No Azure for Apartheid. This group includes Microsoft employees opposing contracts with Israel. On its website, the group urged action: “Join the growing No Tech for Apartheid movement and demand that Microsoft live up to its own purported ethical values—by ending its direct and indirect complicity in Israeli apartheid and genocide.”

Fired Worker Criticizes Company’s Statement

In addition, former Microsoft employee Hossam Nasr criticized the company’s latest statement. Nasr, who helped organize the protest, was fired after holding a vigil outside Microsoft’s HQ. He argued, “In one breath, they claim that their technology is not being used to harm people in Gaza, while also admitting they don’t have insight into how their technologies are being used.” Therefore, he accused the company of staging “a PR stunt to whitewash their image.”

UN Accuses Israel of ‘Ethnic Cleansing’ in Gaza: ‘Barrage of Bombs’

May 18, 2025, 12:33 pm

Israel’s fresh military assault in Gaza has murdered more than 140 Palestinians in 24 hours, prompting sharp criticism from the United Nations. The UN human rights commissioner accused Israel of ethnic cleansing as fears grew of a forced demographic change in the conflict-wracked territory.

Over 300 people have been killed since the attack resumed on May 15, making this round one of the bloodiest since the collapse of the ceasefire in March.

‘Catastrophic’ Deaths and Disruption on the Ground

The Israeli bombing, according to local health officials, has pushed medical facilities to the limit. There were 58 confirmed overnight deaths by Dr. Marwan al-Sultan, director of the Indonesian hospital in northern Gaza. He also stated that numerous victims are still under debris. “The situation inside the hospital is catastrophic,” he said.

The persistent attacks commenced after Israel restarted its Gaza offensive last Thursday under the banner of Operation Gideon’s Chariots. The Israeli Defence Forces have advanced further into Gaza, bringing widespread devastation and fear among civilians.

UN Condemnation: Push for Demographic Change

UN human rights head Volker Türk made a scathing statement on Friday. Israel’s conduct constitutes ethnic cleansing, he said. Türk accused Israel of withholding humanitarian aid and displacing civilians in a deliberate fashion.

These new waves of bombing and the refusal to grant humanitarian aid highlight that there is a seeming drive towards a definitive demographic change in Gaza that goes against international law and is equivalent to ethnic cleansing,” Türk said.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres reiterated his concern at the Arab League summit in Baghdad. He demanded an immediate and sustained ceasefire.

Israel Defends its Operation

Israel says its offensive is in pursuit of national security objectives. Officials said the mission is to “achieve all war goals in Gaza.” Militiary operations along Gaza’s borders and troop mobilization indicate Israel is likely to take operational control of more of the territory soon.

Previous ceasefire attempts fell through in March after Israel declined to start the agreed second phase. Israel’s security cabinet recently approved plans that could involve total control of Gaza.

Regional Diplomacy and Ceasefire Negotiations Resume

Member states at Saturday’s Arab League summit committed $40 million towards reconstruction in Gaza and Lebanon. Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein rejected Trump-era ideas of seizing Palestinian territory.

Hamas, too, confirmed new ceasefire negotiations with Israel in Doha, Qatar. Spokesperson Taher al-Nono stated that talks are underway without conditions. With violence escalating and diplomacy reviving, Gaza is at yet another crossroads.

Palestinians Battle Hunger, Israel Halts Food Supplies to Gaza for Nearly 60 Days

April 27, 2025, 6:26 pm

For almost two months, Israel has blocked food, fuel, medicine, and other vital commodities from entering the Gaza Strip. Aid organizations are low on stock, markets are almost bare, and Palestinian families are having trouble feeding their children.

In a wide tent camp in the open just outside Khan Younis, Mariam al-Najjar and her mother-in-law cooked four cans of carrot and pea along with a wee bit of bouillon and spice over a fire of wood. This, coupled with a portion of rice, was the solitary meal on Friday for their own family of 11, comprised of six youngsters.

Among Palestinian Arabs, “Fridays are sacred,” Mariam commented, usually the occasion for ceremonial meals with a meat or stuffed vegetable. “Now we eat peas and rice,” she said. “We never used to eat canned peas prior to the war. Only during this war that ruined our lives.”

Food Shortages Hit Gaza Hard

Approximately 2.3 million Palestinians in Gaza are now mainly living on canned vegetables, rice, pasta, and lentils. Fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy, meat, and fruit have nearly disappeared. Bread and eggs are luxuries that few can afford, and the little vegetables available are sold at astronomical prices, out of reach for most families.
“We can’t get anything that gives any protein or nutrients,” Mariam added.

The Israeli blockade was implemented on March 2, and military operations resumed on March 18, breaking a two-month ceasefire. Israel says the steps are to put pressure on Hamas to free hostages, but rights groups have denounced the blockade as a “starvation tactic” and a possible war crime. Gradually, product after product vanished from store shelves. First, when meat ran out, Mariam resorted to canned sardines, but they too have disappeared now. U.N. milk rations ceased weeks ago. Tomatoes, a weekly luxury, are now out of reach.

Today, the family subsists mainly on cans of beans, peas, or carrots, or receives lentils or pasta from a charity kitchen. When there is bread or sugar, Mariam feeds her children bread soaked in tea to fill their bellies. “I fear my son’s children will starve to death,” said Sumaya al-Najjar, Mariam’s mother-in-law. The 61-year-old explained that she and her husband, both suffering from cancer, are now without adequate medication.

Gaza’s Children Suffer from Severe Malnutrition

Physicians are sounding the alarm over the increasing malnutrition epidemic.
Dr. Ayman Abu Teir, director of the Therapeutic Feeding department at Khan Younis’ Nasser Hospital, reported that cases of malnutrition among children have “increased in a very substantial way.

Special milk for infants has been depleted, and the U.N. had 3,700 children with acute malnutrition in March, an 80% increase from February.

“Children need the food pyramid for their growth,” Abu Teir said, stressing the essential shortage of meat, eggs, fish, dairy, fruits, and vegetables in Gaza. He stated that a 1-year-old child needs approximately 700 calories per day. The al-Najjars’ four cans of carrots and peas that they had on Friday gave approximately 1,000 calories — not rice — to 11 family members, six of them young children.

Israel claims that there was ample aid during the ceasefire and blames Hamas for channeling supplies. Humanitarian aid workers argue this, explaining that distribution of the aid is highly controlled by the U.N.

Markets, Farms, and Kitchens Struggle to Survive

In the markets of Khan Younis, stalls are mostly empty, with small heaps of tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplant that has shriveled, and onions. The only canned foods remaining are a few dented cans of beans and peas. The shelves in the grocery stores are almost bare with the exception of some pasta.

Tomatoes cost 50 shekels per kilo almost $14 now, as opposed to less than a dollar prior to the war. “I dream of being able to eat a tomato,” Khalil al-Faqawi said, surveying the bare stalls. He reported having a hard time to feed his family of nine. “The kids ask for meat, for chicken, for a cookie. We can’t offer it,” he said. “Forget meat. We’ve lentils. Terrific. Much obliged. What do we do when the lentils are finished?”

Israel’s assault has ruined Gaza’s fields. Many have been destroyed or converted into battlefields. The crops have died from shortages of water and equipment. Farmer Mahmoud al-Shaer claimed his greenhouse yield of tomatoes decreased from 600 kilos weekly to 150 kilos. “In two weeks or a month, you won’t find any at all,” he cautioned.

Since Israel launched its October 7, 2023, air and land assault on Hamas, large sections of Gaza have been left in ruins. Gaza’s Health Ministry says more than 51,000 Palestinians, the majority women and children, have been murdered. The Oct. 7 Hamas attack had killed around 1,200 Israelis and 251 taken captive, with 59 hostages remaining.

In Khan Younis, children stand in line for hours at the Rafah Charity Kitchen, clutching metal pots to get small amounts of boiled lentils.
Charity kitchens are now the only dependable source of food, but they too are subject to closure.

The World Food Program said Friday it had distributed its last food supplies to the 47 kitchens that it subsidizes Gaza’s largest stating that these kitchens would be out of meals within days.

Even these kitchens now can offer nothing more than lentils or unadorned pasta and rice. “These individuals who rely on us are at risk of starvation if this kitchen is shut down,” said Hani Abu Qasim, a staff member of the Rafah Charity Kitchen.

Palestine’s Abbas Picks Loyalist Hussein Al-Sheikh As Deputy, Signaling Future Leadership Shift

April 27, 2025, 12:58 am

Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas Saturday named his old friend and loyal aide, Hussein al-Sheikh, vice president of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), a long-anticipated shift viewed as progress toward naming a successor.

At 89, Abbas has headed both the PLO and the Palestinian Authority (PA) since Yasser Arafat’s death in 2004, frequently pushing back against reform and succession calls. Although al-Sheikh’s appointment is no guarantee he will be the next Palestinian leader, it places him as one of the senior Fatah figures with the best shot at succeeding Abbas.

The move comes as Western and Arab allies increasingly urge Abbas to revamp the PA, which holds sway over fragments of the West Bank under Israeli occupation. Last week, Fatah agreed to establish the position of vice president of the PLO, with the vice president taking over if the president is incapacitated or dies. The executive committee of the PLO would need to formally agree on a permanent replacement.

Al-Sheikh, 64, has been a key figure in Palestinian politics for decades, most recently serving as secretary-general of the PLO Executive Committee. A former security officer and Palestinian prisoner within Israeli prisons, he wields substantial influence, most notably by his position coordinating with Israel on critical permits and diplomacy.

Even with his close affiliations with Abbas and regional partners, al-Sheikh is unpopular among Palestinians, who overwhelmingly consider Fatah leadership to be corrupt and out of touch. His selection by the PLO’s geriatric leadership, without consulting the people, may isolate the population even more.

Meanwhile, Marwan Barghouti, the most widely acclaimed Palestinian leader, is still imprisoned in Israel with no hope of release. While the Gaza war rages on and tensions rise in the region, al-Sheikh comes under increasing pressure to consolidate the divided Palestinian leadership against outside attacks.

In his earlier interviews, al-Sheikh justified his contentious coordination with Israel as an unavoidable step on the way towards a political settlement.

Iran’s Envoy to India Supports Palestinians, Calls Resistance “Just Defense”

March 30, 2025, 5:05 am

Iran’s Ambassador to India, Iraj Elahi, expressed unwavering support for Palestinians, calling their struggle a “just defense” while speaking at a gathering in Delhi. Elahi stated, “Today, on the last Friday of Ramzan, people around the world have gathered to support the oppressed people of Palestine. I stand with Indian Muslims and the people of India in expressing solidarity with Palestine.”

Diplomats Gather for Sadbhavana Iftar

The Indian Minorities Federation (IMF) hosted a Sadbhavana Iftar at the residence of Rajya Sabha MP and IMF Convener Satnam Singh Sandhu in New Delhi. The event brought together ambassadors from 19 Muslim-majority nations, highlighting India’s strong ties with the Islamic world.

Diplomats Laud India’s Global Role

Ambassadors from Somalia, Morocco, Afghanistan, Syria, Gambia, Mali, Bangladesh, Sudan, Djibouti, Algeria, Malawi, Cameroon, Chad, Guinea, Iraq, Cote d’Ivoire, Tanzania, Nigeria, Iran, and the UAE attended the Iftar. They praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for fostering stronger relationships with Muslim nations and acknowledged India’s efforts in promoting peace and stability globally.

India’s Consistent Support for Peace

Diplomats highlighted India’s support for a two-state solution in Palestine and its humanitarian aid to Gaza. They also commended India’s constructive role in Afghanistan by investing in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. They noted, “India has never engaged in military aggression against any Muslim-majority country and has upheld diplomacy as a guiding principle.”

Strengthening India’s Inclusive Ethos

Addressing the gathering, Satnam Singh Sandhu underscored India’s tradition of coexistence and inclusivity. He said, “Ramadan is not just a religious observance but a time for reflection, generosity, and community bonding—values that India deeply upholds. Prime Minister Modi’s ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ mantra has strengthened this spirit of oneness and brotherhood.”

The Sadbhavana Iftar not only celebrated the spirit of Ramadan but also reflected India’s commitment to fostering global peace and harmony.

Why is Canary Mission “The Secret Website” Targeting Pro-Palestine College Students in US? | TDG Explainer

March 28, 2025, 3:43 pm

The Trump administration has intensified efforts to detain and deport foreign students from U.S. campuses. A recent case highlights the role of a secretive online entity, Canary Mission. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents arrested Rumeysa Ozturk, a Turkish doctoral student at Tufts University, after her name appeared on the group’s website. While Canary Mission claims to expose anti-Israel activism, critics argue it serves as a blacklist, threatening students’ futures. With little transparency about its backers, the group has ties to pro-Israel lobbying efforts and Israeli government agencies.

What is Canary Mission?

Canary Mission, launched in 2015, presents itself as a watchdog monitoring individuals and organizations allegedly promoting antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment on North American college campuses. The group claims to combat rising antisemitic hate crimes and counter the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, which calls for economic and political pressure on Israel over its treatment of Palestinians.

The website maintains a blacklist of students, faculty, and professionals it accuses of anti-Israel activities. It publishes personal details, including names, photos, institutional affiliations, and social media links. According to its mission statement, these records aim to prevent so-called “radicals” from securing jobs.

A 2015 promotional video from Canary Mission depicted Jews wearing yellow stars alongside hijab-wearing Palestinian women waving flags. The video concluded with the warning: “It is your duty to ensure that today’s radicals are not tomorrow’s employees.”

How Canary Mission Affects Students and Academics

Many students and faculty targeted by Canary Mission report serious consequences, including job rejections, online harassment, and threats. Since the website’s pages rank high on search engines, listed individuals often find their profiles appearing first in Google searches, affecting hiring decisions and admissions.

Will Mleczko, a 20-year-old student, voiced his concerns: “If a prospective employer finds you on there, they probably won’t hire you. You’ll be blacklisted.”

Nadine Jawad, a University of Michigan student government leader, discovered her profile accused her of associating with people who “support terrorists,” despite her strong academic record and lack of extremist ties.

Layla Saliba, a graduate student at Columbia University, protested Israeli airstrikes that killed her family members in Gaza. Soon after, Canary Mission labeled her a “supporter of terrorists,” leading to online harassment and death threats.

Egyptian-American student Layla Sayed also found herself targeted. Shortly after attending a pro-Palestinian demonstration, a friend informed her that Canary Mission had listed her profile. The website included her name, personal details, and a social media link. Following this, she received threats and was falsely branded a “Hamas War Crimes Apologist.”

Who Funds Canary Mission?

Despite its influence, little is known about Canary Mission’s financial backers. However, investigative reports have revealed some connections.

In 2018, journalist Josh Nathan-Kazis of The Forward identified the Jewish Community Federation of San Francisco as a funder. After this revelation, the federation publicly withdrew its support.

Al Jazeera’s The Lobby – USA documentary linked Israeli-American businessman Adam Milstein to Canary Mission’s funding. Adam Milstein denied direct involvement but praised the blacklist.

Reports from Haaretz indicate that Israel’s Ministry of Strategic Affairs uses Canary Mission’s data to bar activists from entering Israel. This raises concerns that the website functions as an intelligence asset rather than an independent watchdog.

How the Blacklist Operates ?

Canary Mission targets students, professors, professionals, and organizations it deems anti-Israel. It collects and publishes their personal information, often distorting quotes and affiliations to portray them as extremists.

According to the Middle East Studies Association, the group’s framing “makes individuals appear monstrous, guilty of raving antisemitism, and supportive of terrorism.”

The only way to be removed from the blacklist is by submitting a written apology. Many critics call this practice coercive and unethical.

Legal and Social Consequences

Students listed by Canary Mission report anxiety, fear, and paranoia. Many receive rape and death threats. Some have even been doxxed, with their phone numbers and addresses leaked online.

Beyond online harassment, Canary Mission’s influence extends into real-life intimidation. At George Washington University in 2018, two men dressed in yellow canary costumes entered a campus building, frightening pro-Palestinian activists.

Many argue that the blacklist stifles student activism. Rani al-Hindi, a former Palestine solidarity activist at Hunter College, noted, “It’s killing the student movement. We’re too intimidated to organize protests or launch divestment campaigns.”

Can Anything Be Done About Canary Mission?

Currently, students have little legal recourse against Canary Mission. Legal experts note that much of the website’s content is protected under the First Amendment.

However, academic institutions are being urged to take action. Experts argue that university leaders must educate themselves about Canary Mission’s tactics and support students and faculty facing harassment.

Bill Mullen, a professor at Purdue University and co-founder of Against Canary Mission, emphasized its chilling effect on activism: “It is the most significant and effective pro-Israel intimidation tool. It operates 24/7 and constantly updates its targets.”

As debates over free speech, academic freedom, and political activism continue, Canary Mission remains a troubling example of how anonymous groups wield digital blacklists to shape discourse and suppress dissent.

UNRWA Collapse May Doom Palestinian Children’s Future

March 15, 2025, 10:38 pm

Gaza City [Palestine]: The Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), Philippe Lazzarini, has issued a stark warning about the agency’s worsening financial crisis. He cautioned that the collapse of UNRWA could leave an entire generation of Palestinian children without access to education.

UNRWA Facing Financial Collapse

Lazzarini stated that UNRWA is at a “real risk of collapsing and imploding” due to severe financial shortfalls. If the agency ceases operations, it would directly impact nearly six million Palestinian refugees across the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, Lebanon, Jordan, and Syria.

Impact on Education

According to the UN agency, around 260,000 children have been relying on UNRWA’s distance learning program since January. Lazzarini emphasized that without this support, “we will certainly sacrifice a generation of children who will be deprived of a proper education.”

A Lifeline for Palestinian Refugees

UNRWA provides essential services, including education, healthcare, and humanitarian aid, to Palestinian refugees. The Commissioner-General described it as a “lifeline” for those who depend on it for survival.

Urgent Call for Support

Lazzarini urged the international community to step in and provide the necessary funds to keep the agency operational. Without immediate financial aid, millions of Palestinian refugees could face worsening conditions, particularly in education and essential services.

War Drums In The West Bank! Israel To Continue Military Action For 12 More Months

February 24, 2025, 10:17 am

Israel has deployed tanks to the West Bank city of Jenin, marking the first such action in over two decades. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) justified the deployment as a necessary measure for an operation expected to last at least a year. This move comes amid uncertainty regarding the future of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Extended Military Operation in Urban Hotspots

Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, announced on Sunday that military operations in the West Bank will continue to expand, with troops remaining in key urban hotspots throughout the year. Katz also confirmed that 40,000 displaced individuals would not be permitted to return to their homes until the operation concludes. The last instance of Israeli tanks rolling into Jenin was in 2002 during the Second Intifada, a period of intense Palestinian uprisings.

Escalating Violence and Rising Death Toll

The recent military operation in the West Bank was launched just two days after the Gaza ceasefire took effect on January 19. Reports indicate that over 50 people have been killed so far, with significant damage inflicted on roads and infrastructure near refugee camps. The situation is particularly volatile, as these refugee camps, initially established in 1948, have long been centers of Palestinian resistance against Israeli occupation.

Terror Attack in Tel Aviv Adds to Growing Unrest

Tensions escalated further on Thursday when multiple bus explosions struck Tel Aviv. The explosives detonated prematurely, causing no casualties. Although Hamas’ military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, praised the attack, they did not officially claim responsibility.

Gaza Ceasefire Talks in Limbo

Meanwhile, negotiations over the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire remain stalled. The proposed phase includes a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in exchange for the release of hostages. Although discussions were set to begin this week, no formal agreements have been announced.

Netanyahu Signals Readiness for Renewed Conflict

On Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated that Israel is prepared to resume hostilities in Gaza “at any moment.” He stressed that the war’s objectives would be met “whether through negotiation or other means.” In response, senior Hamas official Mahmoud Mardawi asserted that there would be “no dialogue with Israel through mediators” until Palestinian prisoners are released, demanding Israel’s adherence to previous agreements.

As tensions surge in the region, the latest developments indicate that peace remains uncertain, and further escalations could be imminent.

EU: Gaza Must Be Part of Future Palestinian State

February 6, 2025, 4:38 am

Berlin: The European Union (EU) has reaffirmed its commitment to a two-state solution, stating that Gaza is an integral part of a future Palestinian state. This statement comes after former US President Donald Trump proposed that the United States take control of Gaza following the resettlement of Palestinians elsewhere, a suggestion that has drawn global condemnation.

EU Reaffirms Support for Two-State Solution

An EU foreign policy spokesperson responded to Trump’s remarks on Wednesday, stating:

“We took note of President Trump’s comments. The EU remains firmly committed to a two-state solution, which we believe is the only path to long-term peace for both Israelis and Palestinians.”

He further emphasized that Gaza must be included in any future Palestinian state, dismissing Trump’s suggestion as contrary to international consensus.

Trump’s Controversial Proposal Sparks Global Criticism

Donald Trump’s proposal suggests that the US should take over Gaza while relocating Palestinians elsewhere. This idea has been met with widespread criticism from international leaders, human rights organizations, and Palestinian officials.

The EU’s firm stance signals opposition to unilateral moves that could undermine Palestinian sovereignty and escalate regional tensions.

Conclusion

With ongoing conflict in Gaza, the EU remains steadfast in its vision of a negotiated two-state solution that includes Gaza as a fundamental part of a future Palestinian state. Meanwhile, Trump’s proposal has intensified global debates over the future of the region.

Settlers Attack Palestinian Villages as Trump Lifts Biden-Era Sanctions

January 22, 2025, 2:48 pm

Late Monday, suspected Jewish settlers attacked Palestinian villages in the occupied West Bank, setting fire to property. This occurred just as President Donald Trump revoked sanctions against Israelis accused of violent acts in the region, reversing Biden’s earlier measures aimed at punishing radical settlers.This may indicate a further trend in increasing the US’s support for the expansion of Israeli settlements and allowing the violence to Palestinians.

Immediately after the announcement, settler leaders praised the decision as “a just decision” and described the sanctions as “interference from abroad.” Smotrich of the Finance Ministry praised Trump’s “unwavering and uncompromising support for the state of Israel.”Assault on the West Bank villages of Jinsafut and Al-Funduq, where masked men set cars ablaze and attacked homes, further raised tensions in the West Bank.

Palestinians, who already live under Israeli military rule, view the settlements as a significant barrier to peace.International law classifies these settlements as illegal. There is increasing impunity for settlers; rights groups believe that this situation has worsened under the policies of Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz. Meanwhile, despite sanctions imposed by Biden, settlers have continued to operate with little accountability, but Palestinians are now being tried in military courts.

The sanctions were initially meted out by Biden for violent acts and destruction of properties carried out by the settlers. However, with Trump reversing the decision, the likes of Reut Ben-Chaim, a founder of one of these sanctioned groups, hailed the administration for its pro-Israel stance. Then all of Trump’s greater foreign policy ambitions, like ending wars in the Middle East, would then balance its support for Israel with diplomatic work into actions, such as the involvement of Saudi Arabia in the Abraham Accords, depending on the state of Palestine.

You’re Antisemitic: Pro-Palestinian Pin On Flight Attendant Ignites In-Flight Drama | WATCH

January 6, 2025, 1:19 pm

A heated confrontation unfolded aboard an American Airlines flight bound for Miami when a Jewish passenger accused a flight attendant of being “antisemitic” for wearing a watermelon pin, a symbol increasingly associated with Palestinian solidarity. The incident, captured on video and shared widely on social media, has sparked controversy and prompted an investigation by the airline.

Passenger Confronts Flight Attendant

The altercation began when the passenger accused the flight attendant of supporting terrorism and discriminating against him for being Jewish. “You support terrorism, you’re antisemitic,” he shouted, adding, “Why are you preventing me from leaving the plane—is it because I’m Jewish?”

Flight attendants attempted to de-escalate the situation, citing US aviation regulations prohibiting passengers from filming airline staff. They also accused the man of physically placing his hands on them, though the passenger disputed this claim.

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Allegations of Unlawful Detention

According to the passenger, he was detained on the plane and told he could not leave until he deleted the video. Law enforcement was called to the scene, and the man claimed he was the one who initially contacted the police.

“When officers arrived, they informed the airline that I hadn’t broken any laws, and they were in the wrong for detaining me,” the passenger said. “Eventually, the officers removed me from the plane.”

The man described the ordeal as “very upsetting,” adding that he felt he had been treated like a criminal.

American Airlines Investigates Policy Violation

American Airlines confirmed it is investigating the incident, which reportedly occurred last week. The airline’s uniform policy prohibits staff from wearing unauthorised pins, including those not issued by the company. Approved pins include those celebrating anniversaries, awards, union affiliations, military service, or specific religious, ethnic, or LGBTQ identities.

This isn’t the first time American Airlines staff have come under scrutiny for breaking pin-wearing rules. In 2022, employees were criticised for sporting stickers and pins with the anti-Biden slogan “Let’s Go Brandon.”

As the investigation continues, the incident highlights the complexities surrounding workplace policies, freedom of expression, and cultural symbols in increasingly polarized times.

Priyanka Gandhi Carries ‘Palestine’ Bag In Parliament | Pic

December 16, 2024, 1:30 pm

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi is in the news for creating controversy. Recently, a photograph of her carrying a bag with the word ‘Palestine’ on it was doing the rounds on the social media. The image is undated and was posted on social media by Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed on 16 December. Priyanka Gandhi is smiling with the bag in hand which has attracted the attention of the social media users.

Immediately backlash on social media

The post soon became the talk of the town, with some users criticising her for displaying support for Palestine on Vijay Diwas, a day of great importance to India. The day marks the victory of India over Pakistan during the 1971 war, which resulted in the birth of Bangladesh. Many people feel that it is inappropriate to carry a symbol associated with the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas on the very day that marks India’s military success.

HAVE A LOOK AT THE VIRAL POST:

Smt. @priyankagandhi Ji shows her solidarity with Palestine by carrying a special bag symbolizing her support.

A gesture of compassion, commitment to justice and humanity! She is clear that nobody can violate the Geneva convention pic.twitter.com/2i1XtQRd2T

— Dr. Shama Mohamed (@drshamamohd) December 16, 2024

One user commented that it would have suited Priyanka much better if she had chosen to grab something that represented India‘s victory. The comment was, “She should immediately fire her advisors.” In spite of the criticism, however, the post found its share of supporters, with some of the users agreeing to this within the first few minutes of posting.

Contextual Background of the Palestine-Israel Conflict

The conflict in Palestine has been ongoing, but mainly since Hamas launched an attack on Israeli territory in October 2023, killing over a thousand Israelis. Israel responded by starting military actions withinPalestinian territories. A huge number of Palestinian civilians, and most of them in Gaza, have been killed as the hospitals in the areas experienced heavy fighting.

While the international community condemned the attacks by Hamas, the situation soon evolved into a humanitarian crisis, drawing global attention to the plight of Palestinian citizens. Many people worldwide have expressed solidarity with Palestinians amidst the ongoing conflict.

Growing Divisions Over Symbols and Political Statements

The backlash against the accessory chosen by Priyanka Gandhi reflects a larger debate of how political symbols, such as support for Palestine, are perceived in the context of different places. The debate brings to the fore the highly sensitive nature of the long-standing Israel-Palestine conflict and how global political affairs affect local sentiments.

In fact, as the situation escalates in Palestine, politicians and public figures across the globe would find themselves under intense scrutiny in regards to their associations and displays of solidarity with either side of the conflict.

Israel Cuts Ties With UNRWA: Declares It A Terror Group, Threatening Aid To Millions

October 29, 2024, 12:15 pm

Knesset Approves Controversial Legislation

Israel’s parliament has passed legislation that prohibits the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) from operating within Israel and the Palestinian territories, designating the agency as a terror organization. This move effectively cuts all ties between UNRWA and the Israeli government, with 92 MPs voting in favor and only 10 opposing.

Background on UNRWA

UNRWA was established in 1948 to assist the 700,000 Palestinians displaced during the war that led to the founding of Israel. The agency provides essential services, including education, healthcare, relief, and social services, across the Middle East. Currently, it supports nearly 6 million refugees in areas like the occupied West Bank, Gaza Strip, Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan. In Gaza alone, over 1.4 million Palestinians are registered as refugees in eight camps, with the population heavily relying on UNRWA for basic needs amid ongoing conflict.

Concerns Over the Ban

The Israeli government has long criticized UNRWA, claiming that its support for descendants of the original refugees hinders peace negotiations. However, during the parliamentary debate, no alternative plans were proposed for the agency’s potential replacement, raising questions about the future of aid to Palestinian refugees.

Matthew Miller, spokesperson for the US State Department, expressed deep concern regarding the legislation, noting the absence of any viable replacement for UNRWA during the current crisis. He emphasized that the agency plays a crucial role in addressing immediate humanitarian needs.

UNRWA Responds

Philippe Lazzarini, UNRWA’s commissioner general, condemned the Knesset’s decision, stating that the legislation would exacerbate the suffering of Palestinians, particularly in Gaza, where conditions have been dire for over a year. He warned that depriving more than 650,000 children of education could jeopardize an entire generation, describing the measures as a form of collective punishment.

Can Hezbollah Survive After Losing 7 Key Leaders? Find Out Who They Were!

September 30, 2024, 5:00 pm

In a dramatic escalation of hostilities, intensified Israeli airstrikes have killed seven senior commanders and officials of Hezbollah, including its leader, Hassan Nasrallah. The strikes, carried out over the past week, have significantly weakened Hezbollah’s leadership, heightening tensions across the Middle East and pushing the region closer to a wider war.

Seven Key Hezbollah Figures Killed

The Israeli air campaign has focused on eliminating high-ranking members of Hezbollah, severely impacting the group’s leadership structure. Here are the key figures who lost their lives in the recent strikes:

Hassan Nasrallah

As Hezbollah’s leader since 1992, Nasrallah was a pivotal figure in the organization’s military and political strategy. Under his leadership, Hezbollah not only waged multiple wars against Israel but also extended its influence across the Middle East, particularly through involvement in conflicts like the Syrian civil war. Nasrallah was highly controversial in Lebanon, seen by some as a protector of Lebanese sovereignty and by others as a divisive figure.

Nabil Kaouk

Nabil Kaouk, deputy head of Hezbollah’s central council, was a veteran military commander with deep ties to Hezbollah’s early days. Joining the group in the 1980s, Kaouk was instrumental in Hezbollah’s operations in southern Lebanon. His death in a recent Israeli airstrike is a significant blow to Hezbollah’s military structure.

Ibrahim Akil

One of Hezbollah’s top military commanders, Akil headed the elite Radwan forces, the group’s most formidable combat unit. Akil had a long history of involvement in Hezbollah’s military actions, including the infamous 1983 bombing of the US embassy in Beirut. He was on the US wanted list for decades.

Ahmad Wehbe

Wehbe, a key figure in Hezbollah’s Radwan forces, was killed alongside Akil in a strike in Beirut. Known for his role in enhancing Hezbollah’s military capabilities, Wehbe’s death marks a major loss for the group’s fighting strength.

Ali Karaki

Karaki was a leader of Hezbollah’s southern front, playing a critical role in the group’s operations against Israel. His expertise in military strategy has been vital to Hezbollah’s ongoing conflict with the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).

Mohammad Surour

As the head of Hezbollah’s drone unit, Surour led the group’s use of unmanned aerial vehicles in attacks against Israel. His death represents a significant setback in Hezbollah’s drone warfare capabilities.

Ibrahim Kobeissi

Kobeissi, commander of Hezbollah’s missile unit, was involved in several high-profile attacks, including the kidnapping and murder of three Israeli soldiers in 2000. His death weakens Hezbollah’s missile strategy and operational capabilities.

Hezbollah’s Leadership After Nasrallah

With the death of Nasrallah, the leadership vacuum within Hezbollah is now filled by Naim Kassem, the group’s second-in-command. Kassem, who has served as Hezbollah’s deputy leader since 1991, is a founding member and a central figure in Hezbollah’s political and military operations.

Hashim Safieddine, head of Hezbollah’s central council and a cousin of Nasrallah, is considered the likely long-term successor. Safieddine has strong ties to Iran, and his familial connection to the late Iranian General Qassem Soleimani further bolsters his position within the group.

Talal Hamieh and Abu Ali Reda, two of Hezbollah’s top military commanders, remain key players but are now considered prime targets of Israeli airstrikes as the conflict continues to intensify.

Middle East Conflict Deepens

The deaths of these senior Hezbollah leaders mark a turning point in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. With both sides entrenched in their positions, the prospect of further escalation seems inevitable. Israel has vowed to continue its operations, with the stated aim of making northern Israel “safe” again and enabling displaced citizens to return to their homes. Meanwhile, Hezbollah’s remaining leadership is preparing for what may be an even fiercer phase of conflict.

As the situation in Lebanon and Israel deteriorates, the broader Middle East braces for the possibility of a full-scale war that could draw in other regional players.

Israeli Forces Launch Major Operation In West Bank, Leaving 9 Palestinians Dead

August 28, 2024, 11:10 am

At least nine Palestinians have been killed in a large-scale Israeli military operation in the northern occupied West Bank, according to Palestinian health officials and media reports. The attack, which involved both ground troops and airstrikes, targeted several areas, including the Far’a refugee camp in Tubas.

The director of the ambulance department at the Palestine Red Crescent Society told Al Jazeera that four people were killed during an Israeli assault on the Far’a camp early Wednesday. Several others were injured, but Israeli forces blocked ambulances from reaching the wounded, complicating rescue efforts.

In separate incidents, two more people were killed in an Israeli attack on Jenin, and three others died when an Israeli drone struck their vehicle in the village of Seir, the Palestinian Health Ministry reported.

The Israeli operation, described by official Israeli radio as the largest in the occupied West Bank since 2002, involved hundreds of soldiers and air force support. Channel 14 reported that the operation had been in the planning stages for weeks.

Middle East political analyst Omar Baddar suggested that the attack is part of a broader Israeli strategy aimed at annexing and “ethnically cleansing” significant portions of the West Bank. Baddar argued that Israel seized the opportunity to escalate its actions in the West Bank while global attention is focused on the situation in Gaza. He noted that over the past several months, more than 650 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli soldiers and settlers throughout the West Bank.

Palestinian armed groups, including the al-Quds Brigades and the Qassam Brigades, reported engaging Israeli forces in the Nur Shams and Jenin refugee camps. The groups claimed to have targeted Israeli military vehicles with explosive devices and engaged in intense clashes with the occupying forces.

Biden Dials Netanyahu: Urges Urgent Ceasefire Deal Between Israel and Hamas

August 22, 2024, 4:02 am

In a critical phone call on Wednesday, U.S. President Joe Biden emphasized the urgent need for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to conclude a ceasefire-for-hostages deal in Gaza. The White House reported that Biden also highlighted the significance of upcoming talks in Cairo, which are seen as pivotal in overcoming the remaining hurdles in the negotiations.

The call came on the heels of U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s recent visit to the Middle East, which ended without an agreement between Israel and Hamas. Despite months of negotiations, a ceasefire deal has remained elusive, with key issues still unresolved.

Biden’s discussions with Netanyahu also touched on broader U.S. support for Israel in the face of threats from Iran and its proxy groups, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis. The U.S. has responded to the escalating tensions by deploying additional military assets to the region, including a guided missile submarine and the Abraham Lincoln strike group.

Netanyahu’s office, however, denied reports that Israel had agreed to withdraw its troops from the Philadelphi corridor, a strategic strip of land along Gaza’s southern border with Egypt. Hamas is demanding a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, including the corridor, which Israel has held since late May after destroying numerous tunnels used for smuggling weapons.

Biden’s call underscores the high stakes involved in the ongoing negotiations, as both sides continue to grapple with the complex issues at the heart of the conflict.

Gaza Journalist Killed by Israeli Fire in War’s Deadliest Period for Media

August 20, 2024, 3:28 am

On Monday, the health ministry in Gaza, governed by Hamas, and a Palestinian news site reported that a journalist named Ibrahim Muharab was killed by Israeli fire on Sunday in the southern part of the territory. Muharab, who worked for the Palestinian Daily News, was found dead in Hamad City, a large apartment complex built by Qatar, now reduced to ruins. His body was transported to Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis, according to the health ministry.

Two other journalists who were with Muharab at the time of the incident were injured and also taken to Nasser Hospital. Footage obtained by AFP, though not independently verified, shows an Israeli armored vehicle advancing toward a neighborhood controlled by Hamas while gunfire is exchanged. In one of these videos, a man wearing a jacket labeled “Press” is seen fleeing from the gunfire, and a voice can be heard asking, “Ibrahim is wounded, where is he?”

About 30 people gathered at Nasser Hospital on Monday to mourn Muharab. His body was laid on the ground under a white plastic tarp, with his bulletproof jacket marked “Press” placed on top as a tribute, according to footage from AFPTV.

When contacted by AFP, the Israeli army declined to comment on Muharab’s death without receiving specific geographic coordinates of the incident and his identification details. A spokesperson for the army stated that they “have never, and will never, deliberately target journalists.”

The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate condemned Muharab’s death as an “assassination” and accused the Israeli army of conducting an “organized campaign… to kill journalists” in Gaza. Gaza journalist Ibrahim Qanan, who was at the hospital, accused Israel of “killing the truth by trying to wipe out all traces of transmission towards the outside world of what is happening in the Gaza Strip.”

The Israeli army has previously been accused of killing several journalists in Gaza, alleging that they were affiliated with Hamas or Islamic Jihad’s armed factions.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) reported on Monday that “at least 113 journalists and media workers” have been killed since the war between Israel and Hamas began on October 7. This period is noted as the “deadliest for journalists” since CPJ started keeping records in 1992.

Final Chance for Truce? Blinken’s 24-Hour Visit to Israel Highlights Urgency in Gaza Negotiations

August 20, 2024, 2:04 am

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to Israel has highlighted the urgency of the current ceasefire negotiations in the ongoing Gaza conflict, which has lasted for 10 months. This trip, marking Blinken’s ninth visit since the war began, was characterized as possibly the final chance to broker a meaningful truce and facilitate a hostage and prisoner exchange.

During his 24-hour visit, Blinken met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for a detailed three-hour discussion. Following the meeting, Blinken confirmed that Netanyahu supports the proposed ceasefire plan, which includes an initial six-week truce. This ceasefire aims to allow for a partial release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinians held in Israeli jails, alongside an increase in humanitarian aid to Gaza. The plan is intended to be extendable, with further negotiations focusing on additional hostage and prisoner exchanges and a gradual withdrawal of Israeli troops.

The recent assassination of top figures from Hamas and Hezbollah has added to the volatility in the region. Despite these developments, Netanyahu’s office has publicly backed the US proposal. However, Hamas has expressed strong opposition, criticizing the plan as too favorable to Israeli demands and potentially ending further negotiations. Hamas is not directly participating in the current discussions but is being updated by mediators from Qatar and Egypt.

Complicating the negotiations are Israel’s firm positions on key issues, such as maintaining control over the Gaza-Egypt border zone, known as the Philadelphi corridor. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has indicated that while some concessions might be possible, others are non-negotiable. This stance has led to friction within his government, particularly with his defence minister and other security officials who believe a compromise could be reached through advanced surveillance technology.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire. Recent weeks have seen significant displacement of civilians, with new evacuation orders affecting about 170,000 people. The area deemed safe for civilians has shrunk to just 11% of Gaza’s total area. Israeli airstrikes have targeted areas previously considered safe zones, exacerbating the crisis. The UN estimates that around 40,000 people have died due to the conflict, with extensive destruction impacting the civilian population.

The ceasefire talks have been further challenged by ongoing violence. Shortly after Blinken’s arrival in Tel Aviv, a suicide bombing claimed by Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad resulted in casualties. Additionally, cross-border clashes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters have resulted in further loss of life and military actions.

Blinken’s visit underscores the international community’s pressure to end the conflict and address the severe humanitarian issues in Gaza. The negotiations are now moving to Cairo, where continued efforts aim to secure a lasting ceasefire and stabilize the region.

Tragedy in Gaza: 18 Family Members Killed in Israeli Airstrike Amid Ongoing Conflict

August 19, 2024, 3:41 am

An Israeli airstrike in Gaza on Saturday killed at least 18 members of the same family, including Sami Jawad al-Ejlah, a wholesaler who coordinated with the Israeli military to supply meat and fish to Gaza. The strike targeted a house and an adjacent warehouse in Zawaida, where more than 40 civilians had taken shelter. Among the dead were al-Ejlah’s two wives, 11 of their children aged two to 22, a grandmother, and three other relatives. The Israeli military stated that the strike was aimed at “terrorist infrastructure” in central Gaza, but acknowledged that civilians were killed and said the incident was under review.

This incident occurred amid ongoing efforts by international mediators to secure a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas after 10 months of conflict. The war began on October 7 when Hamas militants attacked Israel, killing approximately 1,200 people and abducting 250 others to Gaza. Since then, Israel has conducted extensive military operations in Gaza, resulting in over 40,000 Palestinian deaths according to Gaza’s health ministry, with thousands more injured or buried under rubble.

Negotiations for a ceasefire, involving the release of hostages and a withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, have been ongoing. While U.S. President Joe Biden expressed optimism about a potential deal, a senior Hamas official dismissed the notion that an agreement was close, calling it “an illusion.” The situation remains volatile, with mass evacuations ordered in parts of central Gaza and widespread displacement across the territory.

As Israel Strikes School in Gaza, Survivors Share Heart-Wrenching Stories

August 12, 2024, 5:07 am

On Saturday morning, Louay Nasser chose to perform his dawn prayer in the classroom where he and his family were staying at Tabeen school in Gaza City, instead of going to the mosque. This choice might have saved his life.

As he began praying, he saw a “bright red light” and heard a powerful explosion. He ran outside to find a horrific scene with scattered body parts and severed limbs. The most distressing sight was a man on fire, whom Nasser and others managed to extinguish, though he was severely burned.

The Israeli missile strikes on the school, where approximately 6,000 displaced people were sheltered, killed at least 80 people. This attack is one of the deadliest in the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel, following a Hamas assault that killed about 1,200 people.

Manal al-Jabari, 21, lost seven family members and had another 10 injured in the attack. She described the aftermath as a “nightmare,” filled with the cries of children, the smell of burning flesh, and severed body parts. The building’s intact wall contrasted starkly with the devastation.

Israel has been criticized internationally for targeting civilian sites, asserting that the school was used by Hamas and Islamic Jihad. The Israeli military claimed the Palestinian death toll included fighters, a point disputed by the Palestinian health ministry. Since July, Israel has targeted 21 schools for similar reasons, leading to UN condemnation of systematic attacks.

Dr. Fadel Naeem of al-Ahli hospital described Saturday’s attack as one of the war’s most challenging. He treated a 16-year-old boy with severe injuries, discovering another person’s head among the boy’s wrecked lower body.

International leaders, including US Vice President Kamala Harris, have condemned the strikes, but many in Gaza believe such statements are inadequate. “It is not enough to watch all these massacres without doing anything,” Nasser said.

Despite the loss, Jabari and her family choose to stay in Gaza City, believing there is no safe place to go. “There is nowhere safe anyway,” she said.

IDF Airstrike Kills 19 Militants In Gaza Command Centre

August 11, 2024, 5:53 pm

On Saturday night, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that an airstrike targeted a Hamas command centre inside a mosque within a Gaza City school compound, resulting in the deaths of 19 militants. The IDF clarified that these militants were affiliated with Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. The military also countered unverified claims of significant collateral damage from the strike and released an infographic detailing the identities and affiliations of those killed.

“The Hamas terrorist organization systematically violates international law and operates from within civilian infrastructure and shelters, brutally exploiting the civilian population and institutions as human shields for their terror activities,” the IDF said.

“The strike was carried out using three precise munitions, which, according to professional analysis, cannot cause the amount of damage that is being reported by the Hamas-run Government Information Office in Gaza. Furthermore, no severe damage was caused to the compound where the terrorists were situated,” the army said.

“Prior to the strike, numerous steps were taken to mitigate the risk of harming civilians, including the use of a small warhead, aerial surveillance, and intelligence information.”

Hamas reported that 90 people were killed in the airstrike, though this number has not been independently confirmed. The Hamas-run government in Gaza has previously been known to exaggerate casualty figures. Both Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad have frequently used schools in Gaza for various military purposes, including as command centres, hideouts, observation points, tunnel entrances, and weapons storage. Israel had also targeted two schools in Gaza City on Thursday that were being used by Hamas for attacks.

On October 7, Hamas’s attacks on Israeli communities near the Gaza border resulted in at least 1,200 deaths and 252 Israelis and foreigners being taken hostage. Of the remaining 111 hostages, 39 have been confirmed dead. Additionally, Hamas has been holding two Israeli civilians captive since 2014 and 2015, along with the bodies of two soldiers killed in 2014.

White House Expresses Deep Concern Over Reports Of Abuse Of Palestinian Prisoners

August 8, 2024, 5:33 pm

On Wednesday, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre voiced strong concern regarding reports of rape, torture, and mistreatment of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli detention. During a press briefing, Jean-Pierre underscored that the US has consistently and clearly communicated to Israel the importance of humane treatment for detainees. “The reports of rape, torture, and abuse are deeply, deeply concerning. And we have been clear and consistent with Israel that it must treat all detainees humanely and with dignity in accordance with international law, must respect detainees’ human rights, and must ensure accountability for any abuses or violations,” she stated.

She stated that the US has informed Israel that it must treat all detainees in line with international law, uphold their human rights, and ensure accountability for any abuses or violations. US will also engage in discussions regarding the investigation by the Israeli Defence Forces into the reported mistreatment of Palestinians by Israeli soldiers. “We support an IDF investigation into allegations of serious abuse of Palestinian detainees by IDF soldiers. It is essential that the rule of law and due process prevail,” Pierre added.

Jean-Pierre emphasised the importance of upholding the rule of law and due process. She also noted that leaders have “closed some important gaps”.
“Our focus is going to continue to have those diplomatic conversations with Middle East leaders on de-escalation and the tensions there in the region, obviously bringing in the ceasefire and hostage release deal to a conclusion.”

“This is something that the president has talked about for some time now. And his — he and his team are going to continue to work around the clock to get that deal done,” she said.
Jean-Pierre, addressing the wider Middle East context, stated that President Joe Biden’s primary focus is on de-escalation. “We want to see a de-escalation in tension,” she added.

Palestinian Attacker Stabs And Kills Woman, Injures Three In Central Israel

August 4, 2024, 12:31 pm

In a tragic incident during the morning rush hour on Sunday, a Palestinian attacker stabbed and killed a woman and wounded three others in the city of Holon, just outside Tel Aviv. The attacker was later shot and “neutralized” by police, according to Israeli authorities.

The attack occurred near a gas station and a park, with the initial report of the stabbings coming from Israel’s ambulance service. A 66-year-old woman was fatally wounded, while two other senior citizens sustained serious injuries and were rushed to a hospital. A younger man also suffered injuries in the attack.

“Large police forces are present at the scene and are conducting extensive searches with a helicopter and additional resources,” the police said in a statement. The police confirmed that the attacker, identified as a resident of the West Bank, had been neutralized. They are continuing to search for other potential suspects in the area.

The incident has added to the rising tensions in the region, which have been particularly high since the Hamas attack on October 7 last year, igniting the war in Gaza. The situation has been further exacerbated by the recent killings of a senior Hezbollah commander in Lebanon and Hamas’ top political leader in Iran.

Initially, police reported that four people had been wounded in the attack. Israel’s Magen David Adom rescue service later confirmed that the 66-year-old woman had died. The service also provided an update on the conditions of the injured: a 70-year-old man remains in critical condition, a 68-year-old man is in severe condition, and a 26-year-old man is in moderate condition.

The stabbing in Holon underscores the ongoing and volatile nature of the conflict in the region, with both Israeli and Palestinian lives being tragically affected.