Democratic freedoms at risk as Germany’s new government prioritises support for Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned air force reservists' criticism of the Gaza war as "unforgivable," asserting that the military would dismiss those who signed a letter prioritizing the return of hostages over fighting Hamas. The letter claimed the war serves political interests rather than security and warned it could lead to further deaths among hostages and civilians. Despite the reservists' concerns, public opinion polls indicate strong support for a ceasefire and prioritizing hostage release...

Hamas's armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, released a video of Edan Alexander, an Israeli-American hostage, who criticizes the Israeli government for not securing his release while expressing a desire to return home for the holidays. Alexander, a 21-year-old soldier captured during the October 7 attack on Israel, was identified by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum. His family emphasized the somber nature of Passover celebrations, urging that the holiday cannot be a true celebration...

Israel's military announced on Saturday the complete takeover of the Morag axis in southern Gaza, amid escalating operations and a sweeping evacuation order for residents of Khan Yunis following projectile fire from the area. As talks for a potential ceasefire with Hamas were set to occur in Cairo, Israel's Defence Minister urged residents to evacuate combat zones while emphasizing the need to remove Hamas and secure the release of Israeli hostages. The ongoing conflict has...

Following rare talks in Oman, Iran stated the US seeks a swift nuclear agreement, with President Trump threatening military action if negotiations fail. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated progress was made, emphasizing the need for both sides to engage constructively, while Iran seeks relief from sanctions amid pressure from Israel. The US, represented by special envoy Steve Witkoff, insists on dismantling Iran's nuclear program, although compromise may be possible, as both nations navigate a complex...

The CEO of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), Jagan Chapagain, called for an end to attacks on humanitarian workers during the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, highlighting the challenges in delivering aid to the Gaza Strip. He noted that no humanitarian aid has entered Gaza since Israel halted it on March 2, emphasizing the urgent need to protect humanitarian workers globally. Chapagain urged adherence to fundamental principles and international emergency law...

A U.S. immigration judge ruled on March 12, 2025, that pro-Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil, a legal permanent resident and Columbia University student, can be deported under a federal law linked to foreign policy concerns. Khalil was arrested by ICE on March 8 at his university housing and subsequently detained in Louisiana. Judge Jamee Comans based the decision on a finding by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who indicated that Khalil's presence in the U.S. posed...