Kurdish PKK begins disarmament process – Middle East Monitor

Meir Simcha, a leader of Jewish settlers in the West Bank, discusses the shifting dynamics following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks and Israel's military response, claiming the Palestinians are losing hope in their presence. Amid escalating violence and accusations against Israeli forces for failing to protect Palestinians, Simcha asserts that the land is destined for Jews, reflecting a broader agenda to expand settlements and diminish Palestinian aspirations for statehood. Want More Context? 🔎

Earthquake in TurkeyA magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck western Turkey on Sunday evening, primarily affecting the Balikesir province near Istanbul, with no immediate reports of casualties or damage. Emergency teams from AFAD are conducting inspections, and the quake occurred at a depth of approximately 11 km, as reported by local authorities and the German Research Centre for Geosciences. Want More Context? 🔎

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed Israel's new Gaza offensive plans with U.S. President Donald Trump, aiming to take control of remaining Hamas strongholds and end the war by securing hostages' release and defeating Hamas, according to Netanyahu's office. Want More Context? 🔎

Several hundred people marched in London demanding the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas and protesting Britain's recognition of a Palestinian state. The demonstration, which concluded at 10 Downing Street, featured relatives of hostages and highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza amid escalating violence and international criticism of Israel's military actions. Want More Context? 🔎

A UN official warned the Security Council that Israel's plans to control Gaza City could lead to "another calamity," as Prime Minister Netanyahu insisted he did not intend to occupy the territory. The emergency meeting followed global criticism of the plan, with the UN citing severe humanitarian crises in Gaza, while calls for sanctions against Israel emerged amidst the ongoing conflict. Want More Context? 🔎

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi announced that an official from the International Atomic Energy Agency will visit Iran for discussions on Monday, but there will be no inspections of nuclear sites during this trip. Want More Context? 🔎