Germany’s Merz announces Gaza aid airlift, mulls upping ante on Israel

The European Commission has proposed curbing Israel's access to the Horizon Europe research funding program due to concerns over Israel's compliance with humanitarian aid commitments in Gaza, following pressure from multiple EU countries. This proposal, which requires approval from a qualified majority of EU member states, could affect Israeli participation in key EU research initiatives amid ongoing humanitarian crises in Gaza. Want More Context? 🔎

Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthis announced the rescue of 10 seafarers from the Greek-operated cargo ship Eternity C, which they attacked and sank in the Red Sea earlier this month, marking a resurgence in their maritime assaults. The Houthis have vowed to target vessels linked to Israeli ports, while Greece plans to send a salvage vessel to aid shipping security following these incidents. Want More Context? 🔎

Saudi Arabia's foreign minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, stated that the kingdom will not normalize relations with Israel until a Palestinian state is established and the Gaza conflict ends, linking recognition to the two-state solution's progress. During a conference co-hosted with France, he emphasized that normalization discussions are impossible amid ongoing violence and suffering in Gaza. Want More Context? 🔎

Donald Trump stated there is "real starvation" in Gaza, contrasting Israeli PM Netanyahu's denial, while UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher highlighted the urgent need for vast food supplies, noting that recent aid was insufficient. Despite Israel's efforts to allow aid into Gaza, the WHO reported a spike in malnutrition-related deaths, indicating the humanitarian crisis is worsening. Want More Context? 🔎

The BBC's international editor Jeremy Bowen reported from a Jordanian military plane delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza, noting that Israel restricted filming from the plane. He observed the devastation of northern Gaza, while Israel denied allegations of starvation and humanitarian groups emphasized that airdrops alone are insufficient to meet the region's needs, urging for increased truck access. Want More Context? 🔎

U.S. President Donald Trump emphasized the urgent need for humanitarian aid in Gaza, stating that the priority is feeding the starving population, while refraining from commenting on Palestinian statehood. He criticized Hamas for not releasing more hostages, discussed the situation with European leaders, and noted Israel's responsibility in addressing the humanitarian crisis amid rising death tolls from starvation. Want More Context? 🔎