Ziad Rahbani, Lebanese musical giant and sardonic critic, dead at 69

Tony Blair's government resisted Israeli demands to ban the Palestinian Relief and Development Fund (Interpal) despite accusations of funding Hamas, as newly released British documents reveal. The UK maintained that there was insufficient evidence to justify action against Interpal, which had been cleared of wrongdoing in multiple investigations, while Israel pushed for its proscription after labeling it a terrorist organization. Want More Context? 🔎

Three freelance Palestinian journalists in Gaza, relied upon by the BBC, are facing severe food shortages and personal crises amid ongoing conflict, with many going days without meals. Despite their struggles, they continue to document the dire conditions, highlighting a looming crisis of deprivation and global food insecurity exacerbated by Israel's control over supplies. Want More Context? 🔎

Israel announced a "tactical pause" in fighting in parts of Gaza to allow humanitarian aid access as hunger crisis escalates, coordinating with the UN for increased aid delivery. Despite ongoing military operations and skepticism from humanitarian sources regarding the effectiveness of air drops of food, Israel claims to be facilitating aid while rejecting accusations of using starvation as a weapon against civilians. Want More Context? 🔎

The Israeli military announced a daily pause in military operations in three Gaza areas—Al-Mawasi, Deir al-Balah, and Gaza City—from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. to address the humanitarian crisis, along with the establishment of secure routes from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. until further notice. Want More Context? 🔎

Iraqi table tennis player Nur al-Huda Sarmad trains with seven other women with disabilities in Diwaniyah, facing inadequate facilities and societal stigma while aiming for the Paralympics. Despite challenges like broken equipment and limited funding, they persist, inspired by Paralympic champion Najlah Imad's success and determination to overcome perceptions of helplessness. Want More Context? 🔎

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition reported that Israeli troops intercepted the Handala vessel in international waters while attempting to deliver food aid to Gaza, declaring it an illegal breach of the blockade. The Israeli foreign ministry confirmed the interception, stating all passengers were safe, while the FFC claimed the crew of 19 activists and journalists was "kidnapped" and urged global pressure on governments to sanction Israel. Want More Context? 🔎