Hostage talks stall, Gaza war escalates: PM back from DC, fighting

Hezbollah condemned the Lebanese government's decision to authorize the army to establish a state monopoly on arms, labeling it a "grave sin" that aligns with Israeli interests. This move, pressured by the U.S. and anti-Hezbollah factions, aims to confine arms to official security forces, with further discussions on disarming Hezbollah scheduled for the next cabinet meeting. Want More Context? 🔎

Russia officially protested to Israel after Israeli settlers attacked a Russian diplomatic vehicle in Givat Assaf near Jerusalem on July 30, as reported by Reuters. The Russian Foreign Ministry claimed the assault occurred with the consent of Israeli military personnel, who did not intervene, despite the vehicle being part of their mission to the Palestinian National Authority and bearing diplomatic plates. Want More Context? 🔎

Pakistan has begun deporting documented Afghan refugees ahead of a September 1 deadline, potentially expelling over 1 million individuals, according to the UNHCR, which condemned the actions as violations of international obligations. The UN agency urged Pakistan to cease forced returns and adopt a humane approach, as many Afghans face instability upon repatriation amid ongoing deportations from Iran as well. Want More Context? 🔎

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced military chief Eyal Zamir's opposition during a meeting regarding the proposal to seize remaining areas of Gaza, with concerns about potential military entrapment and risks to hostages. Amidst ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises, international pressure mounts for a ceasefire and the release of hostages, while the Israeli military continues operations that have resulted in significant civilian casualties. Want More Context? 🔎

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev are set to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House to discuss a peace deal after decades of conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh. Key obstacles include Armenia's constitutional references to the region and a proposed transit corridor through Armenia, which Azerbaijan seeks but worries about Armenian control. Want More Context? 🔎

Sudan's Sovereignty Council Chairman, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, has vowed to defeat the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Darfur, emphasizing his commitment during a visit to Wad al-Noura village, a site of a recent massacre. The ongoing conflict between the Sudanese army and RSF, exacerbated by foreign mercenaries, has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis, with rising fears of famine and cholera outbreaks in El Fasher. Want More Context? 🔎