Al-Monitor: First stop for understanding the Middle East in 2024

A 20-year-old Palestinian, Ahmad Saeed Tazazaa, died in Israeli detention at Megiddo Prison, according to prisoners’ affairs groups, marking the 76th Palestinian fatality in Israeli custody since October 2023. Tazazaa had been held without trial under administrative detention since May 6, amid ongoing violence in the West Bank, where over 1,012 Palestinians have died since the onset of Israel's military actions in Gaza. Want More Context? 🔎

Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh stated that the country is not eager to engage in indirect negotiations with the US, citing distrust and warning of potential regional escalation due to US and Israeli policies. He emphasized Iran's commitment to peaceful nuclear activities under IAEA supervision and condemned US attacks on Iranian facilities as violations of international law. Want More Context? 🔎

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun declared "justice is coming" on the anniversary of the 2020 Beirut port explosion that killed over 220 people, as national mourning is observed. Investigating judge Tarek Bitar has resumed his inquiry after a political impasse, and families of victims demand accountability and preservation of the port's silos as a memorial. Want More Context? 🔎

US President Donald Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, visited a controversial aid distribution site in Gaza to assess the humanitarian situation amid reports of violence and starvation. Criticism arose from Gazans and observers who labeled the visit a "media stunt," while Human Rights Watch condemned the militarized aid distribution system, calling for an end to the lethal force used against civilians. Want More Context? 🔎

Gaza faces an unprecedented water crisis exacerbated by nearly 22 months of war, with over 80% of its water infrastructure damaged, leading to severe shortages and contamination. Residents struggle to access clean water, facing health risks from brackish groundwater and sewage flooding, while aid workers emphasize the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and infrastructure repair. Want More Context? 🔎

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appealed to the International Committee of the Red Cross for help in aiding hostages in Gaza, following the release of distressing videos showing two emaciated captives. In response, Hamas said it would allow access to the hostages only if humanitarian corridors for aid were established, while the situation remains dire as Israel's military actions continue to result in civilian casualties. Want More Context? 🔎