Israel withholds clearance funds for 4th month, US halts visas for Palestinians – Middle East Monitor

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan commemorated the 838th anniversary of the conquest of Jerusalem, honoring Salahuddin al-Ayyub and his soldiers on the Turkish social media platform NSosyal. He expressed commitment to defend Jerusalem, viewing it as a sacred legacy from the Prophet Muhammad and emphasizing its significance as the first qibla for Muslims. Want More Context? 🔎

Iran is signaling its continued support for Hezbollah, even in the potential absence of its leader Hassan Nasrallah, suggesting that new leaders will emerge to take his place. This development, highlighted by Ali Larijani, serves as a warning to both Israel and the United States regarding Iran's commitment to backing Hezbollah's rebuilding efforts. Want More Context? 🔎

Amid global outrage over its actions in Gaza, Israel's push to influence online narratives has surfaced with Oracle CEO Safra Catz's 2015 email advocating for pro-Israel messaging in American culture, particularly targeting young audiences. The recent $14 billion TikTok acquisition reflects concerns over Chinese influence but may also pivot U.S. public discourse in favor of Israel, as younger Americans increasingly oppose its policies. Want More Context? 🔎

Donald Trump discusses a peace deal for Gaza with Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, as Hamas is likely to reject Trump's 20-point plan, according to a senior official's statement to the BBC. The situation remains tense as Israel awaits Hamas's response amidst ongoing conflicts in the region. Want More Context? 🔎

Nearly 42,000 people in Gaza have suffered life-changing injuries since October 7, 2023, according to a WHO report, with one in four being children and over 5,000 requiring amputations. The health system is nearing collapse, with only 14 of 36 hospitals partially functional and a critical shortage of rehabilitation services and specialists, prompting calls for urgent protection and medical support. Want More Context? 🔎

The call to demilitarise Gaza is criticized as an attempt to render Palestinians defenseless against Israeli military aggression, reinforcing narratives that justify ongoing colonial violence and genocide. The two-state paradigm, coupled with international support for demilitarisation, perpetuates Palestinian vulnerability and undermines their right to self-defense while affirming the power dynamics favoring Israel. Want More Context? 🔎