Jordan to reinstate conscription in 2026, Amman confirms

Israel is assessing Hamas' acceptance of a ceasefire and prisoner exchange proposal from Egyptian and Qatari mediators, which aims to prevent an Israeli ground invasion of Gaza City. The plan includes a temporary halt to military operations for two months, a prisoner-hostage exchange, and humanitarian aid facilitation, amid ongoing conflict resulting in over 62,000 Palestinian deaths since October 2023. Want More Context? 🔎

U.S.-based charity HEAL Palestine and other rights groups criticized the State Department's suspension of visitor visas for Palestinians from Gaza, claiming it jeopardizes medical treatment for injured children. The decision follows far-right claims about Palestinian refugees, while U.S. officials evaluate the visa process amid concerns of extremism ties, despite the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Want More Context? 🔎

The UN Security Council is debating a French-drafted resolution to extend the UN peacekeeping force in south Lebanon, UNIFIL, for a year, with a focus on eventual withdrawal contingent upon Lebanon providing security and achieving a political agreement. Opposition from Israel and the US complicates the situation, as Lebanon addresses the disarmament of Hezbollah amidst ongoing tensions and military operations in the region. Want More Context? 🔎

The UN Security Council is negotiating a French-drafted resolution to extend the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and signal a potential withdrawal of troops, contingent on the Lebanese Government's control over its territory and a political arrangement among parties. The U.S. has suggested a final one-year extension, emphasizing support for the Lebanese army amid tensions with Hezbollah, which dominates southern Lebanon. Want More Context? 🔎

A new Israeli settlement project in the occupied West Bank, approved by far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, will displace around 7,000 Palestinians and isolate Bedouin communities, according to the Jerusalem Governor’s Office. The plan, criticized as a colonial scheme and a threat to the two-state solution, coincides with international recognition efforts for Palestinian statehood amid ongoing violence and illegal settlements. Want More Context? 🔎

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