Gaza death toll reaches 84,000 far higher than official counts, new study finds – Middle East Monitor

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned Israel's military control of Gaza as "absolutely unacceptable" during a phone call with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, emphasizing Turkey's support for Palestine amid rising Western criticism of Israel. Erdogan also acknowledged the significance of potential recognition of a Palestinian state by France, Britain, and Canada, reaffirming Turkey's commitment to pursuing peace in the region. Want More Context? 🔎

Israel’s security cabinet has approved a plan to take military control of Gaza City, aiming to weaken Hamas while avoiding full occupation of the Gaza Strip. This strategic shift reflects international pressures, internal political dynamics, and the desire to negotiate from a position of strength, yet it risks escalating humanitarian crises and failing to address the underlying political challenges. Want More Context? 🔎

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? 🔎