Bottles, bags and a balloon: Photos of the week

The UK and four allies have condemned Israel's new large-scale military operation in Gaza, warning it may worsen the humanitarian crisis, endanger hostages, and violate international law. Following Israel's decision to take military control of Gaza City, these countries called for a ceasefire as famine looms, while tensions escalate with criticisms from various global leaders, including the US ambassador. Want More Context? 🔎

Louisiana authorities have agreed to pay $9 million to Clifton “Scotty” Dilley, who was partially paralyzed after a trooper shot him during a 2018 traffic stop, misreporting it as a Taser incident. The settlement, one of the largest in the state for police violence, follows a U.S. Justice Department report criticizing excessive force by state police, which led to the trooper's termination and criminal charges. Want More Context? 🔎

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres criticized Israel's plan to take control of Gaza City, labeling it a "dangerous escalation" that would lead to further displacement and suffering of Palestinians amidst ongoing violence. Israel's military offensive, following an October attack by Hamas, has resulted in over 61,000 Palestinian deaths and accusations of war crimes. Want More Context? 🔎

Multiple female lawyers have accused former senior partner James Gardner-Hopkins of using social media to intimidate them after he was suspended for drunkenly groping interns at a Christmas party. His inappropriate conduct, revealed in 2022, inadvertently made him a prominent figure in New Zealand’s #MeToo movement, yet he has since sought a Practising Approval Certificate to return to the legal profession. Want More Context? 🔎

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel's military plan aims not to occupy Gaza but to "free" it from Hamas, establishing a peaceful civilian government instead. This announcement follows criticism of the plan, which includes controlling Gaza City, and comes amid Germany's suspension of arms exports to Israel due to concerns over their use in the conflict. Want More Context? 🔎

A weeklong walkout by Texas House Democrats is obstructing redrawn congressional maps sought by Trump, leading to a broader nationwide redistricting fight. As Texas Republicans escalate pressure with civil arrest warrants and fines, Democrats remain in blue states, asserting that the mid-cycle redistricting is a partisan power grab aimed at securing additional GOP seats for the 2026 elections. Want More Context? 🔎