Israeli drone kills civilian repairing house roof in southern Lebanon – Middle East Monitor

California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned a $1 billion settlement offer from the Trump administration for UCLA as political extortion, following the freezing of $584 million in funding over pro-Palestinian protests. The University of California is reviewing the situation amid allegations of antisemitism during protests, raising concerns about free speech and academic freedom. Want More Context? 🔎

Twenty people were killed and over 30 injured in central Gaza when four trucks overturned after crowds rushed to them for supplies, amidst ongoing shortages exacerbated by Israeli military control. The UN warns Gaza faces famine as 90% of its population is displaced, while Israel's military offensive, launched after Hamas's attack on October 7, has resulted in at least 61,020 Palestinian deaths. Want More Context? 🔎

Protests in Jerusalem and other Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv and Haifa, erupted over Prime Minister Netanyahu's Gaza City takeover plan, with former soldier Max Kresch leading demonstrators who refused to serve in what they termed a "political war." The Israeli security cabinet's plan aims to disarm Hamas and establish new governance in Gaza, drawing international condemnation and prompting Germany to halt military exports to Israel. Want More Context? 🔎

Thousands protested in Tel Aviv against the Israeli government's plans to expand military operations in Gaza, demanding the release of hostages and criticizing Prime Minister Netanyahu's decision to target Gaza City. Amid rising casualties and international calls for a ceasefire, Netanyahu asserted the intent to "free Gaza from Hamas," while the Palestinian Authority condemned the proposed actions as a "new crime." Want More Context? 🔎

Palestinian-American withdraws from US negotiating teamBishara Bahbah, a Palestinian-American who played a role in negotiating the release of Edan Alexander, has withdrawn from the U.S. negotiating team amid stalled ceasefire negotiations. He expressed on Facebook, "I am not a mediator in the true sense of the word, but I share your suffering." Want More Context? 🔎

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's controversial plan for military occupation of Gaza faces backlash from across the political spectrum, primarily due to concerns over hostages, military costs, and potential political fallout. While the international community condemns the occupation, it often overlooks the broader colonial implications, as Israel continues to expand control over Palestinian territories since 1967. Want More Context? 🔎