Hamas hopes new pope will strengthen advocacy for the oppressed – Middle East Monitor

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel must "complete the job" of defeating Hamas, citing the group's refusal to disarm. He revealed plans for a new offensive targeting two remaining Hamas strongholds in Gaza during a news conference. Want More Context? 🔎

Families of Israeli captives and soldiers have called for a nationwide strike on August 17 to pressure Prime Minister Netanyahu for a prisoner swap, while opposition leader Yair Lapid supports their actions. Protests intensified as demonstrators stormed a TV station, demanding a ceasefire and criticizing the government's Gaza operations amid growing international condemnation of Israel's military actions, which have led to significant casualties. Want More Context? 🔎

The UN special rapporteur for human rights in the Palestinian territories, Francesca Albanese, urged UEFA to expel Israel from competitions due to its alleged war crimes in Gaza, following the death of Palestinian footballer Suleiman al-Obeid. Since October 2023, over 61,400 people have been killed in Gaza amid Israel's military campaign, which has drawn international condemnation and legal actions for war crimes. Want More Context? 🔎

Laila Cunningham, a British lawyer of Egyptian descent and a new figure in the Reform Party, uses her identity to promote anti-immigrant rhetoric, undermining the very communities she represents. Her statements reflect a troubling trend of exploiting minority voices for exclusionary politics, contrasting sharply with figures like Haya Adam, who stand firm in their values and advocate for justice. Want More Context? 🔎

Egyptian football star Mohamed Salah criticized UEFA for its silence regarding the death of former Palestinian player Suleiman al-Obaid, who was killed by an Israeli attack while waiting for humanitarian aid in Gaza. Salah's remarks follow the deaths of over 800 athletes amid the ongoing violence, with al-Obaid being a notable figure in Palestinian football history, having played 24 matches for the national team. Want More Context? 🔎

Israel's far-right leaders are urging Prime Minister Netanyahu to intensify military action against Hamas, as a UN Security Council meeting approaches regarding his plans to capture Gaza City amid ongoing protests. With deepening divisions in Israel over the conflict and calls for a negotiated truce to secure hostage releases, Netanyahu insists the goal is to "free Gaza from Hamas," despite significant casualties on both sides. Want More Context? 🔎