Humanitarian response in Gaza ‘on the verge of total collapse’, Red Cross warns – Middle East Monitor

Israeli air strikes targeted Beirut's southern suburbs on Thursday night, aiming at underground Hezbollah drone factories, resulting in plumes of smoke and mass civilian evacuations. The Israeli military warned residents to leave the area, citing strikes on "terror targets" associated with Hezbollah and highlighting concerns over UAV production near civilians. In response, Lebanese officials condemned the strikes as violations of a ceasefire and Lebanese sovereignty, while the UN called for de-escalation and adherence to diplomatic...

The United States has imposed sanctions on four female judges of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in response to an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, increasing pressure on the court. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that these actions are necessary to protect U.S. and Israeli sovereignty, while the ICC condemned the sanctions as an attempt to undermine its independence. The judges participated in proceedings related to war crimes allegations against Netanyahu...

Uzbekistan has qualified for the World Cup for the first time in its history, achieving this milestone with a 0-0 draw against the UAE, marking a significant moment in the nation's football journey post-Soviet Union. The team's success is attributed to years of state-backed reforms, including the construction of new facilities and the development of young talent, with key players like Abdukodir Khusanov leading the charge. As Uzbekistan prepares for the tournament in the U.S.,...

Five individuals, including three journalists, were killed in an Israeli strike on al-Ahli hospital in Gaza City, as reported by the Anglican Church. The Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem condemned the attack, which also injured 30 bystanders, while the Israeli military claimed it targeted a Palestinian Islamic Jihad fighter. On the same day, over 130 media organizations called for international access to Gaza for journalists, emphasizing the ongoing threats faced by local reporters in a conflict...

Thousands of Israelis marched in Jerusalem's annual Pride event under heavy police presence, marking the 10th anniversary of Shira Banki's murder by a Jewish extremist during the 2015 parade. Participants, including Israeli President Isaac Herzog, who was the first president to attend since Banki's death, honored her memory and advocated against violence. Despite the presence of anti-LGBT counter-protesters, the event emphasized support for LGBTQ rights, reflecting Israel's influential LGBTQ community amidst ongoing conservative opposition. Full...

SummaryOver 130 news outlets and press freedom organizations urged Israel to lift its ban on international media access to Gaza and to enhance protections for Palestinian journalists. The Committee to Protect Journalists and Reporters Without Borders stated that the situation is unprecedented in modern warfare, with nearly 200 journalists killed and many facing threats. They emphasized the necessity for journalists to report freely and safely as Israel's military actions continue, highlighting the vital role of...