US approves $510 million arms deal for Israel – Middle East Monitor

French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will officially recognize Palestine as a state, aligning with his commitment to peace in the Middle East, and will make a formal announcement at the UN General Assembly in September. He emphasized the need for a demilitarized Palestinian state that recognizes Israel, amid ongoing humanitarian concerns in Gaza and recent conflicts affecting peace talks. Want More Context? 🔎

Gazans are facing a dire humanitarian crisis after over 21 months of conflict, with major obstacles hindering aid delivery due to Israeli restrictions and safety issues. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), Israel's chosen aid distributor, has been criticized for its limited distribution sites and deadly incidents, while international organizations report significant quantities of aid stockpiled outside Gaza awaiting clearance for entry. Want More Context? 🔎

The UN reports a severe hunger crisis in Gaza, with one in five children malnourished, and over 100 international organizations warning of mass starvation. Local residents struggle to find food, facing exorbitant prices and dangerous conditions to access aid, while Israel maintains that it is providing assistance and blames Hamas for the crisis. Want More Context? 🔎

Israel’s far-right Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu declared intentions to "wipe out Gaza and its Palestinian population," stating the territory will become "entirely Jewish," while dismissing concerns over hunger. Over 59,200 Palestinians, primarily women and children, have died since October 2023, as Israel faces war crimes charges from the International Criminal Court and a genocide case at the International Court of Justice. Want More Context? 🔎

An Israeli drone strike in Aita al-Shaab, southern Lebanon, killed one person, adding to ongoing ceasefire violations along the border. Despite a November 2024 truce, Israeli forces have conducted near-daily attacks, with reports of nearly 3,000 violations since, resulting in 259 deaths and over 562 injuries, while Israel maintains military presence at five border outposts. Want More Context? 🔎

France, Britain, and Germany will meet with Iran in Istanbul on Friday to discuss potential compromises to avoid sanctions following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. The talks will focus on the snapback mechanism for U.N. sanctions and Iran's nuclear program, with European diplomats urging Iran to engage with the IAEA and consider future negotiations with the U.S. Want More Context? 🔎