Israel declares Gaza fighting pause amid deepening hunger crisis

Yolande KnellMiddle East correspondent, JerusalemChurch leaders returning from Gaza expressed deep sorrow over the dire humanitarian crisis, witnessing starvation and devastation firsthand, including the aftermath of an Israeli strike on a Catholic church. They emphasized the urgent need for solidarity and support for the vulnerable Christian community amidst escalating violence and suffering in the region. Want More Context? 🔎

Two prominent Israeli rights organizations, B'Tselem and Physicians for Human Rights-Israel, have accused Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, highlighting systematic targeting of civilians and healthcare infrastructure in their reports. In response, the Israeli government has firmly rejected these allegations, asserting that its military actions are aimed solely at Hamas militants. Want More Context? 🔎

Emir NaderBBC News, JerusalemBBCMary Sheikh al-Eid’s family arrived at Nasser hospital in Khan Younis after learning she had been killedMary Sheikh al-Eid, a mother of seven, was shot and killed during a women-only food aid distribution event organized by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, amid chaotic scenes that led to violence. The UN reports over 1,000 Palestinians have died at aid sites since May, with Israel claiming it fired warning shots, while witnesses describe indiscriminate force...

The US has dismissed an upcoming international conference on the two-state solution at the UN as “unproductive” and “ill-timed,” stating it undermines current diplomatic efforts and could prolong conflict while empowering Hamas. State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce criticized the conference and French President Macron's recognition of a Palestinian state, calling them counterproductive gestures amid a humanitarian crisis in Gaza where over 59,000 Palestinians have died since October 2023. Want More Context? 🔎

During talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at his Turnberry golf resort, President Donald Trump threatened to launch new U.S. attacks on Iran's nuclear facilities if Tehran attempts to restart its nuclear program, which the U.S. previously targeted. In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned of a decisive reaction to any renewed aggression, asserting that Iran's nuclear ambitions are strictly civilian. Want More Context? 🔎

The European Commission has proposed curbing Israel's access to the Horizon Europe research funding program due to concerns over Israel's compliance with humanitarian aid commitments in Gaza, following pressure from multiple EU countries. This proposal, which requires approval from a qualified majority of EU member states, could affect Israeli participation in key EU research initiatives amid ongoing humanitarian crises in Gaza. Want More Context? 🔎