Israel increases bombardment of Gaza City, kills 16 people around the enclave – medics say

Nearly 42,000 people in Gaza have suffered life-changing injuries since October 7, 2023, according to a WHO report, with one in four being children and over 5,000 requiring amputations. The health system is nearing collapse, with only 14 of 36 hospitals partially functional and a critical shortage of rehabilitation services and specialists, prompting calls for urgent protection and medical support. Want More Context? 🔎

The call to demilitarise Gaza is criticized as an attempt to render Palestinians defenseless against Israeli military aggression, reinforcing narratives that justify ongoing colonial violence and genocide. The two-state paradigm, coupled with international support for demilitarisation, perpetuates Palestinian vulnerability and undermines their right to self-defense while affirming the power dynamics favoring Israel. Want More Context? 🔎

On September 29, President Donald Trump presented a peace proposal that aims to maintain Israeli dominance over Palestinian affairs, while calling for a ceasefire and the establishment of a Palestinian state under foreign supervision, with Hamas surrendering control of Gaza. The plan includes a transitional governance structure, an International Stabilisation Force, and a pathway to Palestinian self-determination, though it faced skepticism from Israeli leaders like Netanyahu and opposition figures. Want More Context? 🔎

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has ordered the expulsion of all remaining Israeli diplomats and called for suspending trade agreements with Israel following the detention of two Colombian women from the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters. Colombia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the actions of Israeli forces as a violation of international law and urged the release of its citizens, along with a call for global support to ensure their safety. Want More Context? 🔎

Pakistani Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar criticized US President Donald Trump's plan to end the Gaza war, stating it deviates from proposals made by Arab and Islamic states. He emphasized the original plan's focus on achieving a ceasefire, delivering humanitarian aid, and preventing forced displacement, highlighting significant changes made under Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's influence. Want More Context? 🔎

Dockworkers in Italian ports are intensifying actions to block shipments to Israel in response to the "Sumud Flotilla" approaching Gaza, with unions coordinating efforts across Europe to disrupt maritime trade if the flotilla is attacked. Genoa and Livorno have seen strikes and protests, notably delaying the container ship Zim Virginia and potentially affecting the Zim Iberia, as union leaders aim to pressure Israel and show solidarity with Gaza. Want More Context? 🔎