Haaretz – Middle East Monitor

Tens of thousands marched across Sydney's Harbour Bridge in the 'March for Humanity,' demanding peace and aid for Gaza amid a worsening humanitarian crisis, with estimates of attendees ranging from 90,000 to 300,000. The protest, supported by various activists including Julian Assange, followed recent diplomatic pressures on Israel, highlighting the severe impact of the ongoing conflict on civilians in Gaza. Want More Context? 🔎

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed "profound shock" over videos of two malnourished hostages released by Hamas, prompting calls for their immediate release and a truce after nearly 22 months of war. The EU condemned the clips, demanding the release of all hostages and highlighting the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where ongoing violence continues to claim lives. Want More Context? 🔎

In response to recent statements from Western governments about recognizing a Palestinian state, the article critiques these gestures as potentially misleading, arguing that they often come with conditions that undermine Palestinian self-determination and rights. The author emphasizes that true liberation requires ending the siege and allowing Palestinians to determine their future without external impositions, highlighting the ongoing suffering in Gaza. Want More Context? 🔎

UN agencies report that food aid entering Gaza is often looted, diverted, or seized under dangerous conditions, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis, as nearly 1,400 Palestinians have died waiting for assistance since May. Despite international condemnation of Israeli restrictions on aid distribution, efforts to deliver food are chaotic and insufficient, with the situation described as a "Darwinian experiment" for survival among the desperate population. Want More Context? 🔎

In Amsterdam, around 80 pride boats paraded through the canals, celebrating LGBTQ+ rights amid contrasting crackdowns in Hungary. Attendees voiced concerns over global leaders, including U.S. policies under Trump, while emphasizing the importance of self-expression and freedom in Europe. Want More Context? 🔎

Hamas has stated it will not disarm unless a sovereign Palestinian state is established, rejecting Israeli demands amid stalled ceasefire negotiations. Meanwhile, US envoy Steve Witkoff is pressing for a comprehensive peace deal as humanitarian conditions in Gaza deteriorate, with over 60,000 reported dead since the conflict escalated following Hamas's attack on Israel in October. Want More Context? 🔎