Israel intends to re-arrest released Palestinian prisoners, media reports claim – Middle East Monitor

Dozens of former Israeli female soldiers protested outside the Ministry of Defence in Tel Aviv, demanding the release of Matan Angrest, an occupation soldier captured in Gaza since October 7, 2023. The demonstration, titled “All eyes on Nahal Oz,” featured 70 participants wearing uniforms similar to Angrest's, covering their faces with red paint to symbolize blood and bandaging their hands to represent his injuries. Organiser Amit emphasized the urgency of bringing Angrest home, as he...

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani expressed strong support for Cardinal Louis Sako to succeed Pope Francis as the head of the Roman Catholic Church. He highlighted Sako's respect and contributions to peace and interfaith tolerance, emphasizing Iraq's historical significance as a homeland for Christians. Following the announcement of Pope Francis's death at 88, Al-Sudani reiterated that Iraq embodies unity among various religious communities, with Sako being the sole nominee from the Middle East for...

At least 47 civilians were killed and dozens injured in artillery shelling by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in El-Fasher, North Darfur State, as the group fired about 250 shells into the city. The military reported the destruction of an RSF artillery platform and noted that clashes have continued since May 2024, with the RSF claiming control of the Zamzam refugee camp. Since April 15, 2023, fighting between the RSF and the Sudanese army...

On Wednesday, Gaza's civil defense agency reported 17 fatalities from Israeli airstrikes, including 11 at a school sheltering displaced individuals. Germany, France, and Britain called on Israel to lift its blockade on humanitarian aid, citing risks of starvation and disease, as the UN warned that community kitchens are closing due to dwindling supplies. Since the war's escalation on October 7, 2023, over 51,266 people have died in Gaza, while aid agencies report the majority of...

Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Oman's Sultan Haitham Bin Tariq Al-Said to discuss Iran's nuclear program amid ongoing negotiations between Iran and the U.S., as reported by Kremlin officials. Oman is mediating these talks, with President Trump threatening military action if a deal is not reached, while Iran denies seeking nuclear weapons. Putin emphasized Russia's commitment to supporting Iran and indicated that Russian energy companies are interested in enhancing relations with Oman, following his...

As Israel maintains its blockade of Gaza, Palestinians are engaged in repairing water tanks damaged by tank shells and bombs, with significant impact noted by plumber Ihab Abdel Bari, who highlights the vulnerability of these tanks on rooftops. The scarcity of water makes these tanks crucial for storage, yet the lack of available repair equipment due to the blockade raises costs, with a 500-litre tank's price skyrocketing from $20 to over $140. Rights groups assert...