Nukes, nationalism, and manufactured madness in South Asia – Middle East Monitor

Hamza Jabbari is one of Tunisia's increasing number of informal plastic recyclers, known as "barbechas," driven by economic challenges and rising living costs, with around 25,000 collectors in the country. Many, including migrants from sub-Saharan Africa, have turned to this laborious work as they struggle to make ends meet amid high unemployment and inflation rates. Want More Context? 🔎

The Vatican urged the international community to actively pursue a two-state solution amid the escalating crisis in Gaza, highlighting the urgent need for a just political resolution as Israeli military actions have resulted in nearly 60,000 Palestinian deaths since October 7, 2023. The Holy See condemned civilian attacks, called for adherence to humanitarian law, and emphasized that peace relies on justice and recognition of rights for both Palestinians and Israelis. Want More Context? 🔎

The Vatican urged the international community to pursue a two-state solution amid the escalating crisis in Gaza, highlighting the urgent need to halt military attacks that have resulted in significant civilian casualties and suffering. It reaffirmed support for a political resolution based on UN resolutions, condemned violence against civilians, and criticized Israel's blockade and military actions, which have led to nearly 60,000 Palestinian deaths since October 2023. Want More Context? 🔎

Since the UN's 1947 partition of Palestine into Jewish and Arab states, it has played a crucial role in Palestinian affairs, aiming to revive the two-state solution. Key events include the 1948 Nakba, the 1967 Resolution 242 calling for Israeli withdrawal, the 1993 Oslo Accords, and recent US vetoes on Palestinian statehood requests despite global recognition of Palestine by numerous UN members. Want More Context? 🔎

France and Saudi Arabia will co-chair a UN conference from July 28-30 aimed at reviving the two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, with French President Macron announcing plans to recognize Palestine in September. The conference will address Palestinian state recognition, reform of the Palestinian Authority, disarmament of Hamas, and normalization of relations with Israel, amid escalating tensions and humanitarian crises in Gaza, although Israel and the US will not participate. Want More Context? 🔎

Syria is set to hold its first parliamentary election under the new administration from September 15-20, according to Mohamed Taha, head of the electoral process, as reported by the state news agency SANA. This election will allow citizens to vote for the People's Assembly for the first time since the change in leadership. Want More Context? 🔎