Ahmed al-Shara: The Evolution of Syria’s New Leader

On 23 August, Universitas Indonesia controversially invited Peter Berkowitz, a known defender of Israel's actions in Gaza, to speak at a graduate program orientation, provoking outrage for undermining Indonesia’s anti-colonial legacy and Palestinian solidarity. The university's inadequate apology highlighted a troubling complicity in normalizing narratives that justify oppression and genocide, prompting calls for a reevaluation of its commitment to moral integrity in academia. Want More Context? 🔎

Iran may reduce uranium enrichment to avoid UK sanctions The Iranian Supreme National Security Council Secretary, Ali Larijani, has indicated a potential decrease in the country's uranium enrichment from 60% to 20% purity to mitigate sanctions imposed by the UK. This move reflects ongoing diplomatic tensions surrounding Iran's nuclear program. Want More Context? 🔎

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will lead an extraordinary meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to address the crisis in Gaza, as Türkiye currently holds the OIC presidency. The meeting aims to coordinate member states' responses to the ongoing Israeli military actions, which have resulted in over 62,600 Palestinian deaths since October 2023 and a humanitarian crisis in the region. Want More Context? 🔎

Israeli far-right ministers, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, advocated for extreme measures against Gaza’s population during a Cabinet meeting, leading to a confrontation with military chief Eyal Zamir over the war strategy. As the military campaign continues, over 62,600 Palestinians have been killed, and Israel faces international scrutiny for potential war crimes. Want More Context? 🔎

Despite extensive diplomatic efforts, the ongoing war in Gaza, which began on October 7, 2023, remains unresolved, with Israel struggling to establish a viable post-war governance framework. Prime Minister Netanyahu's government aims for a complete military occupation of Gaza, driven by a far-right ideology that seeks to eliminate Hamas, but faces political repercussions and a strategic impasse as it fails to achieve its military objectives. Want More Context? 🔎

Thousands of Australians participated in pro-Palestinian rallies on Sunday, with organizers claiming around 350,000 attendees across more than 40 protests nationwide, amidst diplomatic tensions following the Australian government's recognition of a Palestinian state. The protests, spearheaded by groups demanding an end to violence in Gaza, drew criticism from Jewish leaders who argued they created an unsafe environment, coinciding with escalating rhetoric from Israeli leadership. Want More Context? 🔎