Middle East

More than 2 million people are currently trapped in the Gaza Strip, according to UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric, who highlighted the increasing stress levels, particularly among children, due to ongoing hostilities and diminishing aid supplies. Humanitarian supplies are nearing depletion following Israel's full closure of cargo entry, including aid, since March 2, severely impacting the water sector, with nearly 90% of water assets affected. Since March, approximately 500,000 Palestinians have been displaced within Gaza, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Full Article

Iran has filed a challenge at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against Canada, Sweden, Ukraine, and Britain regarding a UN aviation body's ruling on the 2020 downing of a Ukrainian passenger plane that killed all 176 people onboard. Iran argues that the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) lacked jurisdiction over the case, asserting the incident was unintentional and due to human error amid heightened military alert due to tensions with the U.S. The four countries are seeking accountability and compensation from Iran for the victims' families. Full Article

Israeli air strikes on encampments for displaced Palestinians in Gaza have resulted in at least 40 deaths, primarily among women and children, according to local civil defense. Meanwhile, Hamas officials reported nearing completion of consultations on a ceasefire proposal from Israel which demands disarmament from Hamas, a condition the group rejects. With humanitarian aid blocked and the region facing severe shortages, the UN has warned of an escalating crisis as the overall death toll in Gaza rises significantly amid ongoing hostilities. Full Article

Clashes between Sudanese paramilitaries and the army in El-Fasher have resulted in at least 57 civilian deaths, as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) intensify their assault on the city, which has been besieged for nearly a year. The UN reports that the RSF killed over 400 individuals in recent attacks on El-Fasher and nearby camps, with UNICEF warning that 825,000 children are trapped in dire conditions. Amidst ongoing violence, displaced residents face imminent danger, and aid workers highlight the critical lack of medical facilities and resources for the injured. Full Article

Russia has lifted its ban on the Taliban, a group it designated as a terrorist organization for over two decades, signaling a move towards normalizing relations with Afghanistan's leadership. This decision follows Russia's growing ties with the Taliban, which it views as a partner in combating terrorism amid security threats from Islamist militant groups, particularly after a deadly attack in Moscow linked to ISIS-K. However, the Taliban's international recognition remains hindered by its restrictions on women's rights, including the closure of schools and universities for girls. Full Article

Libyans are experiencing a significant decline in purchasing power due to a 13.3% devaluation of the Libyan dinar, driven by rising public expenditures from rival governments amid ongoing political turmoil since the 2011 uprising. With Libya's economy heavily reliant on imports and oil exports, the devaluation has led to immediate cost increases for businesses and worsened living conditions for citizens, prompting calls for urgent economic measures from the UN. Experts argue that the central bank, often blamed for the crisis, is a victim of political mismanagement and fiscal irresponsibility by the ruling factions. Full Article

The United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia have denied media reports regarding their involvement in discussions with the US about a potential land offensive by Yemeni factions against the Houthi group. A senior UAE official labeled the reports as "unsubstantiated," while a Saudi source dismissed them as false. Despite reports from the Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg suggesting that Yemeni forces opposed to the Houthis were planning a ground offensive, both Gulf states emphasized the inaccuracy of these claims amid ongoing tensions in the region. Full Article

UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi warned that Iran and the US are running out of time to finalize a nuclear deal as they prepare for new talks in Rome this weekend, following their highest-level discussions since the US withdrew from the nuclear accord in 2018. Grossi emphasized the urgency of the negotiations, acknowledging the challenges, while Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed that Iran's uranium enrichment is non-negotiable. Tensions remain as conflicting positions may hinder progress, and Grossi noted that Iran is "not far" from achieving nuclear bomb capabilities. Full Article

Israeli air strikes in Gaza have reportedly killed at least 37 people, primarily in encampments for displaced civilians, as the military offensive continues. The strikes targeted areas declared safe, resulting in a high civilian toll, with survivors recounting devastating explosions. Amidst the ongoing conflict, a new ceasefire proposal from Israel is being discussed by Hamas, while the humanitarian crisis worsens, exacerbated by restrictions on aid, leading to accusations of war crimes against Israel for using starvation as a weapon. Full Article

UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi met with Iran's atomic energy head, Mohammad Eslami, ahead of new nuclear talks in Rome between Iranian and US delegations, following significant discussions since the US withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal. Grossi emphasized the IAEA's crucial role in ensuring the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear program, while Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed concerns over the need for constructive US positions to avoid complications in negotiations. Tensions remain as Iran's uranium enrichment exceeds the limits established by the 2015 agreement, raising international concerns about its nuclear ambitions. Full Article