Oil transport costs drop as shipping traffic rises via Strait of Hormuz after Israel-Iran ceasefire – Middle East Monitor

In a coordinated effort, 17 countries, including Arab League members and the EU, urged Hamas to transfer governance of Gaza to the Palestinian Authority to salvage the two-state solution, amid ongoing conflict and Israeli occupation. The declaration condemned violence from both sides and called for international support for Palestinian sovereignty, while Israel dismissed the initiative as rewarding terrorism. Want More Context? 🔎

The EU is considering suspending Israeli access to its Horizon Europe research funding in response to Israel's actions in Gaza, marking a potential first step against Israel. The proposal, which requires a qualified majority to pass, aims to freeze funding for Israeli startups due to alleged human rights violations, though it faces opposition from some member states and criticism for being insufficient from human rights organizations. Want More Context? 🔎

In Susiya, West Bank, Palestinians face escalating violence from Israeli settlers, including attacks on water sources and olive groves, amid growing tensions following the October 7 outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas. Villagers, determined to remain on their land despite threats and destruction, report around 54 settler attacks since the conflict began, highlighting a struggle for survival and identity in a region marked by occupation. Want More Context? 🔎

Iran rejected claims by US President Donald Trump that it interfered in ceasefire and prisoner swap negotiations between Hamas and Israel, labeling the allegations as "completely baseless." Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei emphasized that Hamas is capable of negotiating independently and criticized the US for supplying weapons to Israel amid ongoing conflict in Gaza. Want More Context? 🔎

On July 30, 2025, Palestinian man Abdulhadi Subh and his family scavenged for food scraps among waste materials in Yarmouk camp, Gaza City, due to severe starvation caused by the ongoing Israeli blockade that restricts food entry. They had previously migrated to the camp from Beit Lahia amidst intense Israeli attacks, highlighting the dire humanitarian crisis faced by Palestinians. Want More Context? 🔎

Malta's Prime Minister Robert Abela announced that the country will recognize the state of Palestine during the UN General Assembly in September, emphasizing a commitment to lasting peace in the Middle East. This declaration follows similar announcements from UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and France, with Abela having initially planned recognition in May during a postponed conference on Palestine. Want More Context? 🔎