Microsoft confirms AI, cloud services to Israeli Defense Ministry amid Gaza war scrutiny – Middle East Monitor

Six more Palestinians, including two children, have died from starvation in Gaza amid an ongoing Israeli blockade, raising the death toll from malnutrition to 133 since October 2023. The Health Ministry attributes these deaths to the blockade's catastrophic impact, as Israel continues a military offensive that has killed over 59,700 Palestinians, primarily women and children. Want More Context? 🔎

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has escalated, with over 100 organizations condemning Israel's siege that has led to widespread starvation and death among civilians, including aid workers. Despite international legal warnings, Israel's minimal aid deliveries and promises of humanitarian corridors seem insufficient to address the dire conditions, as acute malnutrition and illness surge among the population. Want More Context? 🔎

Tony Blair's government resisted Israeli demands to ban the Palestinian Relief and Development Fund (Interpal) despite accusations of funding Hamas, as newly released British documents reveal. The UK maintained that there was insufficient evidence to justify action against Interpal, which had been cleared of wrongdoing in multiple investigations, while Israel pushed for its proscription after labeling it a terrorist organization. Want More Context? 🔎

Three freelance Palestinian journalists in Gaza, relied upon by the BBC, are facing severe food shortages and personal crises amid ongoing conflict, with many going days without meals. Despite their struggles, they continue to document the dire conditions, highlighting a looming crisis of deprivation and global food insecurity exacerbated by Israel's control over supplies. Want More Context? 🔎

Israel announced a "tactical pause" in fighting in parts of Gaza to allow humanitarian aid access as hunger crisis escalates, coordinating with the UN for increased aid delivery. Despite ongoing military operations and skepticism from humanitarian sources regarding the effectiveness of air drops of food, Israel claims to be facilitating aid while rejecting accusations of using starvation as a weapon against civilians. Want More Context? 🔎

The Israeli military announced a daily pause in military operations in three Gaza areas—Al-Mawasi, Deir al-Balah, and Gaza City—from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. to address the humanitarian crisis, along with the establishment of secure routes from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. until further notice. Want More Context? 🔎