Iranian missiles damage oil refinery in northern Israel – Middle East Monitor

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has threatened Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir with dismissal if he rejects a plan for full military occupation of Gaza, reflecting escalating internal disputes over the war's management. Concurrently, the Israeli army announced measures to alleviate troop pressure, including ending a state of emergency and withdrawing platoons from active duty for rest after prolonged service. Want More Context? 🔎

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu plans to propose the full reoccupation of the Gaza Strip amid opposition from military leaders, with fears that this could endanger hostages. As international pressure mounts for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid, critics warn that such actions could exacerbate the conflict and undermine efforts for a two-state solution. Want More Context? 🔎

Lebanon's cabinet will convene to discuss disarming Hezbollah amid U.S. pressure and concerns over potential Israeli strikes. The meeting follows a proposal from U.S. envoy Thomas Barrack for a national defense strategy, while Lebanese officials fear that a lack of a clear decision could escalate tensions, particularly given Hezbollah's significant support within the Shi'ite community. Want More Context? 🔎

On July 26, Israel announced humanitarian corridors for aid in Gaza but simultaneously intensified violence, resulting in over 1,054 deaths at distribution points since December 2023. Critics argue that the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, funded by the U.S., is ineffective and serves as a facade for Israeli military actions, exacerbating the starvation crisis instead of alleviating it. Want More Context? 🔎

International human rights organizations have condemned US Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff's denial of famine in Gaza, emphasizing the existence of a humanitarian crisis affecting over two million Palestinians, which has resulted in 159 deaths, including 90 children. They urged the UN and ICC to investigate the systematic starvation as a war crime, call for a ceasefire, and demand the lifting of media bans to expose these conditions. Want More Context? 🔎

Yair Netanyahu, son of the Israeli Prime Minister, accused Qatar of being the root of a global antisemitism wave in an X post, likening it to "modern-day Nazi Germany" and criticizing its Emir and his mother. His comments arise amid the "Qatar-gate" investigation into potential financial ties between close associates of his father and the Qatari government, raising concerns over state security. Want More Context? 🔎