Israel turning aid centres into mass death traps – Middle East Monitor

Israel's President Isaac Herzog visited the Gaza Strip, discussing ongoing negotiations for the return of hostages and expressing hope for positive news soon, according to his spokesperson. The visit underscores the urgency of the situation as efforts continue to resolve the hostage crisis. Want More Context? 🔎

Karim Attiyeh, a Lebanese-born technologist and co-founder of Ramp, has been recognized by Forbes Middle East as a billionaire with a net worth of $1.3 billion, making him the youngest Arab-American billionaire in the US and the sixth Arab-born billionaire in the country. Attiyeh's fintech startup has rapidly grown, serving over 40,000 businesses and achieving a valuation of nearly $16 billion by 2025. Want More Context? 🔎

Saudi Arabia is set to sign investment deals worth approximately $4 billion with Syria during the Syrian-Saudi Investment Forum in Damascus, attended by a delegation of over 120 Saudi investors. This initiative aims to enhance economic ties following recent violence in Syria, amid efforts to rebuild the country's economy and counter Iran's regional influence. Want More Context? 🔎

Voices of Resistance: Diaries of Genocide (Comma Press, 2025) features diary entries from four Palestinian women—Batool Abu Akleen, Sondos Sabra, Nahil Mohama, and Ala’a Obaid—chronicling their experiences during the genocide in Gaza from 2003 to 2025, highlighting themes of adaptation, displacement, and the impact of war on personal relationships and childhood amid ongoing violence. Want More Context? 🔎

The Palestinian resistance movement, Hamas, has urged Arab and Muslim leaders to take decisive action against the Israeli blockade of Gaza, citing a severe famine that has led to nearly 100 civilian deaths, including 80 children, due to malnutrition. Hamas condemned the lack of response from regional leaders and called for immediate humanitarian aid to alleviate the suffering of 2.25 million people in the Strip. Want More Context? 🔎

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as a "horror show," highlighting mass devastation, soaring malnourishment, and intensive Israeli military operations leading to further displacement. He condemned attacks on UN facilities, urged adherence to international law, and called for Security Council reform to enhance cooperation and peace efforts amid global conflicts. Want More Context? 🔎