Israel prepares mass reserve call-up to expand Gaza offensive – Middle East Monitor

A British couple, Lindsay and Craig Foreman, detained in Iran for espionage for over seven months, have been moved to separate notorious prisons near Tehran, raising concerns for their welfare, according to their son. The couple was accused of espionage while on a round-the-world motorbike trip, prompting their family to criticize the UK government's response and emphasize their innocence. Want More Context? 🔎

The Israeli government unanimously voted to dismiss Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, with Justice Minister Yariv Levin leading the proposal, despite Baharav-Miara refusing to participate, labeling the action illegal and accusing the government of seeking legal compliance for its violations. The High Court has since issued an interim order to suspend the dismissal, highlighting ongoing tensions amid Prime Minister Netanyahu's corruption trial. Want More Context? 🔎

The Palestinian Foreign Ministry condemned US House Speaker Mike Johnson's visit to the illegal Israeli settlement of Ariel, labeling his support for annexation as a "blatant violation of international law" that incites settler violence and undermines peace efforts. Johnson's remarks during the visit contradict the US position on settlements, as the UN considers all such expansions illegal. Want More Context? 🔎

Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney has criticized the UK government for delays in evacuating up to 300 injured and sick children from Gaza for medical treatment, a plan expected to be announced soon. Swinney, who called for action a month ago, emphasized the urgent need to address the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by ongoing violence and food shortages in Gaza. Want More Context? 🔎

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet his security cabinet this week to discuss military options in Gaza after ceasefire talks with Hamas collapsed, signaling a potential increase in military action. While U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff was working on a plan for a truce, Israeli officials are considering annexation and military governance in Gaza, with concerns about the safety of hostages complicating the military's strategic direction. Want More Context? 🔎

The Trump administration announced that states and cities must certify they will not boycott Israeli companies to receive federal disaster funding, impacting at least $1.9 billion for emergency services. This requirement, targeting the BDS movement, is seen as largely symbolic, as 34 states already have anti-BDS laws, and major cities must comply to access $553.5 million for terrorism prevention. Want More Context? 🔎