Hamas hopes new pope will strengthen advocacy for the oppressed – Middle East Monitor

Six Lebanese soldiers were killed and several injured in an explosion of a weapons depot during a dismantling operation in Wadi Zibqin, southern Lebanon, attributed to unexploded ordnance from recent Israeli military actions. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam expressed national mourning for the soldiers, as tensions persist in the region with ongoing Israeli military presence and attacks despite a ceasefire agreement. Want More Context? 🔎

Russia's Foreign Ministry has condemned Israel's plan to expand its military operations in the Gaza Strip, warning that such actions could worsen the already dire humanitarian situation in the region. The ministry's statement emphasizes the risk of escalating tensions and highlights the potential for a humanitarian catastrophe in the Palestinian enclave. Want More Context? 🔎

More than 50 protesters were arrested outside the UK Parliament in response to the banning of the Palestine Action group under anti-terrorism laws, which followed their protest actions against Britain's support for Israel. The group's co-founder, Huda Ammori, is pursuing a legal challenge against the ban, which imposes severe penalties for membership. Want More Context? 🔎

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto's plan to transport 2,000 Gaza war victims to Pulau Galang for medical care is viewed as symbolic but impractical, given the logistical and medical risks involved in such a long journey. Critics argue that true support for Palestine should focus on political actions and local medical aid rather than temporary evacuations that could inadvertently aid Israel's demographic strategies. Want More Context? 🔎

ANKARA (Reuters)Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized the necessity for Muslim nations to unite and engage the international community against Israel's intentions to control Gaza City, following discussions in Egypt with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. He also announced an emergency meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation to address the situation. Want More Context? 🔎

The UN Security Council will hold an emergency meeting on August 10 to discuss Israel's recent decision to occupy Gaza City, a session prompted by requests from the UK, Denmark, France, Greece, and Slovenia. Although the meeting has garnered support from most members, Panama and the US have not endorsed it, following Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statement about gaining full control of Gaza. Want More Context? 🔎