Yemen’s Houthis declare “fourth phase” of naval blockade – Middle East Monitor

U.S. President Donald Trump emphasized the urgent need for humanitarian aid in Gaza, stating that the priority is feeding the starving population, while refraining from commenting on Palestinian statehood. He criticized Hamas for not releasing more hostages, discussed the situation with European leaders, and noted Israel's responsibility in addressing the humanitarian crisis amid rising death tolls from starvation. Want More Context? 🔎

On a sweltering Monday morning at Cairo's railway station, hundreds of Sudanese families awaited a train to return home as Egypt's voluntary return program resumes, offering free transport to Khartoum. Despite ongoing conflict and dire conditions in Sudan, many refugees, driven by hardships in Egypt, are choosing to return, with hopes of rebuilding their lives amidst a backdrop of significant humanitarian challenges. Want More Context? 🔎

Germany will initiate an airlift to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza as Chancellor Friedrich Merz considers increasing pressure on Israel amid the grave humanitarian crisis, with death tolls nearing 60,000. While maintaining strong ties with Israel, Germany is exploring diplomatic options and preparing for a Gaza reconstruction conference, facing internal and external criticism for its stance on the conflict. Want More Context? 🔎

At a food summit in Africa, UN chief Antonio Guterres emphasized that food should not be a weapon of war as 280 million people face hunger, especially in Africa, where the situation is deteriorating. Despite a slight global decline in hunger, the UN warns that millions remain food insecure, exacerbated by climate change, conflict, and economic disruptions, with urgent calls for increased support from donors. Want More Context? 🔎

SummaryOver 40,000 infants in Gaza are at imminent risk of death due to Israel's 150-day ban on baby formula, exacerbating a severe humanitarian crisis amidst ongoing violence that has resulted in nearly 60,000 Palestinian deaths since October 2023. Local authorities have called for urgent humanitarian aid and condemned the blockade as a form of systematic genocide, holding Israel and the international community accountable for the loss of innocent lives. Want More Context? 🔎

A Syrian government official revealed that Hikmat al-Hijri, a prominent Druze leader in Sweida, has called for an "autonomous zone," restricting aid access to only the Syrian Arab Red Crescent. Amidst a humanitarian crisis, 150,000 civilians have fled to Daraa, with allegations that al-Hijri has misappropriated aid intended for those affected by recent clashes. Want More Context? 🔎