Israel launches heavy airstrikes on southern, eastern Lebanon in major escalation – Middle East Monitor

France has suspended its program for receiving Palestinians fleeing Gaza while investigating a Palestinian student accused of making antisemitic remarks online. The 25-year-old woman, who was on a scholarship in Lille, has been deregistered from her university, and existing beneficiaries will undergo new security checks following this incident. Want More Context? 🔎

Tribal leaders in Gaza have condemned aid distribution centers managed by Israel and the US as humiliating, accusing them of exacerbating the humanitarian crisis amid widespread starvation and suffering. They demand dignity and true human rights for Palestinians, highlighting that since the conflict escalated on October 7, over 60,200 have died, with many children succumbing to malnutrition. Want More Context? 🔎

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz described the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as "unacceptable," emphasizing the need for immediate aid while acknowledging Israel's significant responsibility. Despite calls for tougher measures against Israel due to allegations of genocide amid ongoing military actions, Germany has resisted sanctions and is awaiting a report from its Foreign Minister on the situation. Want More Context? 🔎

During a meeting in Istanbul, Turkish President Erdogan, Italian Prime Minister Meloni, and Libyan Prime Minister al-Dbeibah discussed migration issues from Libya across the Mediterranean, emphasizing the need for long-term solutions and multilateral cooperation. The leaders also highlighted their countries' strong ties, with plans for enhanced defense collaboration and energy exploration agreements, amid regional political complexities. Want More Context? 🔎

The Trump administration is exploring the inclusion of Azerbaijan and Central Asian nations in the Abraham Accords to strengthen ties with Israel, despite existing relations being largely symbolic. Key challenges include Azerbaijan's ongoing conflict with Armenia and the broader geopolitical tensions exacerbated by the Gaza war, which complicates efforts to expand the accords. Want More Context? 🔎

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) announced that the federal government is suspending certain research funding due to alleged antisemitism on campus, which Chancellor Julio Frenk called a significant loss for America. This decision follows a recent $6 million settlement related to discrimination claims against the university and comes amid increased scrutiny over pro-Palestinian protests after the Gaza conflict. Want More Context? 🔎