Iran executed 975 people in ‘horrifying’ 2024 escalation: rights groups

The Israeli military launched airstrikes in the southern outskirts of Beirut for the first time since a cease-fire in November, following rocket attacks from Lebanon, leading to fears of escalation. Hezbollah denied involvement, but tensions remain high after recent exchanges of fire and casualties in southern Lebanon. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to enforce the cease-fire, while Lebanon's Prime Minister called the rocket fire irresponsible and a threat to stability, as the U.N. urged...

Israel conducted air strikes in southern Lebanon following new rocket fire, threatening Beirut and violating a fragile ceasefire with Hezbollah. Defence Minister Israel Katz warned of retaliation if attacks on northern towns continued, with Israel targeting Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah denied involvement in the rocket fire, as tensions escalate and schools close in the region, with recent Israeli strikes killing civilians and displacing thousands in Gaza. Full Article

In recent years, countries like Turkey have shown how democracy can deteriorate into "competitive authoritarianism," where leaders manipulate rules to their advantage and violate civil liberties. The arrest of Istanbul's mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu, signals a shift towards full authoritarianism in Turkey, as President Erdogan aims to eliminate potential challengers. The geopolitical climate, lack of criticism from allies, and economic struggles have made it easier for authoritarian leaders like Erdogan to maintain power despite growing opposition....

The Australian competition regulator approved Qatar Airways to form an alliance with Virgin Australia, allowing Qatar Airways to take a 25% stake and increase flights between Doha and major Australian cities. The decision is expected to lower prices and increase flight options for customers of both airlines. The alliance comes after Virgin Australia faced bankruptcy in 2020 and was rescued by Bain Capital, with Qatar Airways seeking to expand its presence in the Australian market....

When an Israeli airstrike hit a building in Beit Lahia, Gaza, tensions were already high due to an evacuation order and ongoing conflict with Hamas. The strike sparked rare protests against Hamas in Gaza, with residents demanding an end to the war and Hamas's rule. While Hamas has supporters, protesters hope to show that not all of Gaza supports the group and that they want peace and a better future. Full Article

Israel hosted a conference on fighting anti-Semitism, attended by European far-right politicians, including Hungary's Fidesz and France's National Rally. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar denounced the rise of "new anti-Semitism" fueled by a radical-left and Islamist alliance. The event sparked controversy, with some guests cancelling appearances in protest, while others, like RN president Jordan Bardella, visited sites of past attacks in Israel to show solidarity against terrorism. Full Article