German foreign minister tones down Palestinian recognition talk on West Bank trip

Ethiopia inaugurated the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), Africa's largest hydroelectric project, aimed at providing energy to millions and driving economic growth, despite tensions with downstream Egypt, which fears water supply limitations. While Ethiopia insists the dam poses no threat and will benefit the region, Egypt and Sudan continue to demand legally binding agreements on its operation, reflecting a deepening regional conflict over Nile water rights. Want More Context? 🔎

Gaza ceasefire gains ground as factions align in Cairo As factions converge in Cairo, a potential ceasefire in Gaza is emerging amid a power struggle involving Hamas commander Izz al-Din al-Haddad, who is seen as a possible successor to Hamas military leader Mohammed Sinwar, raising questions about Israel's next strategic moves. Want More Context? 🔎

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas to express support for Palestinian statehood at the UN. He emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and reiterated that Hamas should have no role in Palestine. Want More Context? 🔎

Over 1,800 actors and entertainers, including stars like Olivia Colman and Mark Ruffalo, signed a pledge to boycott Israeli film institutions they believe are complicit in human rights abuses against Palestinians. This comes amid escalating humanitarian crises in Gaza, with supporters citing historical parallels to apartheid South Africa and condemning Israeli actions as genocide. Want More Context? 🔎

By Michelle NicholsSouth Korea has finalized a draft U.N. Security Council resolution to permanently lift sanctions on Iran, but a vote is not yet scheduled. Meanwhile, Britain, France, and Germany are attempting to reimpose sanctions due to Iran's non-compliance with a nuclear deal, while Russia and China propose extending the deal and resuming negotiations. Want More Context? 🔎

The Lebanese government, led by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, is committed to ensuring that all weapons are under state control, emphasizing that state sovereignty is vital for Lebanon's stability. Despite a Cabinet directive for the army to create a disarmament plan by 2025, Hezbollah has rejected this, linking disarmament to Israel's withdrawal and ongoing military actions in Lebanon. Want More Context? 🔎