Middle East

SummaryThe Governor of Gezira State, Al-Tahir Ibrahim, reported the arrest of 4,000 individuals for allegedly collaborating with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) during security operations in the state. Some detainees confessed to participating in sabotage and providing logistical support to the RSF, prompting the governor to assert his administration's commitment to maintaining security and stability. Since the outbreak of conflict in April 2023 between the RSF and the armed forces, the humanitarian crisis has escalated, with over 20,000 confirmed dead and millions displaced. Full Article

The United States should impose sanctions on Iranian-backed militias in Iraq, particularly the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), according to Reps. Joe Wilson and Greg Steube in a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The PMF, legitimized as part of Iraq’s security services and funded by U.S. taxpayer dollars, has been involved in criminal activities and attacks on U.S. bases. The representatives called for expanded sanctions against various militias and individuals supporting Iran, emphasizing the need to counter Iran’s influence over Iraq, which they consider a consequence of past U.S. policies. Full Article

Hundreds of young African women, some under 18, find themselves in an alarming situation as they are involved in assembling Iranian drones within a Russian factory, a scenario resulting from a work-study programme. This unusual option presents a dire choice, as few would willingly become military targets. The circumstances highlight the desperation and vulnerability of these individuals, who have unwittingly entered a dangerous and precarious environment. Full Article

The Iranian Embassy in India is investigating the disappearance of three Indian men from Punjab who went missing in Tehran on May 1 while en route to Australia for job opportunities. Allegations have surfaced that they were kidnapped upon arrival, with ransom demands of 5 million rupees ($63,000). The families, having engaged a travel agent for documentation, reported that after the men arrived, they received distressing calls before becoming unreachable, prompting police action against the agents and ongoing searches for the missing individuals. Full Article

Pop star Dua Lipa, along with 300 UK celebrities, signed an open letter urging Prime Minister Keir Starmer to halt arms sales to Israel in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The letter, organized by the charity Choose Love, calls for a ceasefire and humanitarian access, highlighting the urgency of the humanitarian crisis as Israel's military operations have resulted in significant civilian casualties. Other notable signatories include actors Benedict Cumberbatch and Tilda Swinton, as well as sports broadcaster Gary Lineker, emphasizing widespread concern over the situation in Gaza. Full Article

Beni Sabti, a researcher on Iranian affairs at INSS, claims that the US-Iran negotiations are largely a strategic game for Iran, characterized by political maneuvering rather than imminent conflict. He argues that Iran utilizes delay tactics in nuclear talks and emphasizes their ability to propose compromises while maintaining diplomatic flexibility. Despite Israeli military capabilities and rising tensions, Sabti believes that there are ongoing backchannel discussions between Israel and the US, suggesting a potential diplomatic resolution rather than military confrontation. Full Article

Israel has announced the establishment of 22 new settlements in the occupied West Bank, a decision made by the security cabinet and communicated by far-right officials, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Defence Minister Israel Katz. This move, which is condemned by the UN as illegal and seen as a barrier to peace, includes re-settlements of two communities evacuated in 2005 and aims to strengthen Israel's presence in the region. The announcement precedes an international conference aimed at reviving the two-state solution, amidst growing concerns over the Israeli government's intentions regarding the annexation of the West Bank. Full Article

SummaryIsraeli ministers have approved 22 new Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank, marking the largest expansion in decades, according to Defence Minister Israel Katz and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. These settlements, many of which were previously unauthorized outposts, will be legalized under Israeli law, a move that the Israeli government argues prevents the establishment of a Palestinian state, while the Palestinian presidency condemns it as a "dangerous escalation." The anti-settlement group Peace Now warns that this development will significantly reshape the West Bank and further entrench the occupation. Full Article

The UN's World Food Programme (WFP) reported that "hordes of hungry people" broke into a food supply warehouse in central Gaza, resulting in two deaths and several injuries amid gunfire. Humanitarian needs have escalated following an Israeli blockade, with the WFP emphasizing the urgent need for increased food assistance to prevent starvation. Meanwhile, a controversial private aid group, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, has been established to distribute aid, but the UN warns that criminal gangs, not Hamas, are responsible for the looting of aid supplies. Full Article

Thousands of Palestinians stormed a UN warehouse in Gaza amid a worsening hunger crisis, with reports of two deaths during the chaos as aid trickles in after a two-month blockade. The UN and Israel exchanged blame over aid distribution failures, with Israel accusing the UN of obstructing a new US-backed aid mechanism while the UN insisted it would not cooperate with it due to humanitarian principles. As the conflict enters its 600th day, calls for a ceasefire continue amidst rising casualties, with over 54,000 reported dead since the war escalated, predominantly civilians. Full Article