Former Greek Finance Minister Varoufakis Joins Middle East Monitor

Amid global outrage over its actions in Gaza, Israel's push to influence online narratives has surfaced with Oracle CEO Safra Catz's 2015 email advocating for pro-Israel messaging in American culture, particularly targeting young audiences. The recent $14 billion TikTok acquisition reflects concerns over Chinese influence but may also pivot U.S. public discourse in favor of Israel, as younger Americans increasingly oppose its policies. Want More Context? 🔎

Donald Trump discusses a peace deal for Gaza with Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, as Hamas is likely to reject Trump's 20-point plan, according to a senior official's statement to the BBC. The situation remains tense as Israel awaits Hamas's response amidst ongoing conflicts in the region. Want More Context? 🔎

Nearly 42,000 people in Gaza have suffered life-changing injuries since October 7, 2023, according to a WHO report, with one in four being children and over 5,000 requiring amputations. The health system is nearing collapse, with only 14 of 36 hospitals partially functional and a critical shortage of rehabilitation services and specialists, prompting calls for urgent protection and medical support. Want More Context? 🔎

The call to demilitarise Gaza is criticized as an attempt to render Palestinians defenseless against Israeli military aggression, reinforcing narratives that justify ongoing colonial violence and genocide. The two-state paradigm, coupled with international support for demilitarisation, perpetuates Palestinian vulnerability and undermines their right to self-defense while affirming the power dynamics favoring Israel. Want More Context? 🔎

On September 29, President Donald Trump presented a peace proposal that aims to maintain Israeli dominance over Palestinian affairs, while calling for a ceasefire and the establishment of a Palestinian state under foreign supervision, with Hamas surrendering control of Gaza. The plan includes a transitional governance structure, an International Stabilisation Force, and a pathway to Palestinian self-determination, though it faced skepticism from Israeli leaders like Netanyahu and opposition figures. Want More Context? 🔎

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has ordered the expulsion of all remaining Israeli diplomats and called for suspending trade agreements with Israel following the detention of two Colombian women from the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters. Colombia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the actions of Israeli forces as a violation of international law and urged the release of its citizens, along with a call for global support to ensure their safety. Want More Context? 🔎