‘Like a quake’: Beirut shaken after deadliest strikes on centre

Israel and Hamas conducted a chaotic exchange of hostages, with Hamas releasing eight hostages, including an Israeli soldier and two others, leading Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to temporarily suspend the release of Palestinian prisoners. Despite the tumultuous handovers, all hostages were eventually freed, with crowds gathering in both Gaza and Israel to welcome them home. The exchanges took place during a provisional cease-fire, with negotiations ongoing for future rounds of releases. Full Article

Iraqi refugee Salwan Momika, known for controversial Koran burnings in Sweden, was shot dead after sparking outrage with his demonstrations. His protests, including stomping on the Islamic holy book and wrapping it in bacon, led to international condemnation and diplomatic tensions between Sweden and Iraq. Despite facing death threats, legal charges, and deportation, Momika expressed aspirations to enter politics in Sweden, aligning himself with the anti-immigration Sweden Democrats party, which distanced itself from his actions....

Israeli legislation taking effect on Thursday will ban the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) from operating in Israel, cutting off its ability to deliver aid to Gaza. Israel accuses UNRWA of being influenced by Hamas and employing Hamas members, leading to the ban. This move could severely undermine humanitarian aid efforts in Gaza, as UNRWA is the largest organization providing aid in the region. Full Article

Hamas handed over Israeli soldier Agam Berger as part of a third hostage-prisoner exchange, with three Israelis and five Thai captives set for release under a ceasefire deal. Berger was paraded by militants before being handed over to the Red Cross. Aid deliveries into Gaza have caused tension, with Hamas accusing Israel of delays, a claim Israel denies. Full Article

The rebel coalition in Syria appointed Ahmed al-Shara as president to oversee a transitional period, nullifying the Constitution and dissolving the previous regime's institutions. The coalition, led by H.T.S., aims to unite rebel factions under a new government, facing challenges in rebuilding the country and gaining broad support. Mr. al-Shara plans to establish a temporary legislative council, address economic hardships, and navigate sectarian tensions in Syria's diverse population. Full Article

Syria's new authorities announced Ahmed al-Sharaa as interim president, tasked with forming a transitional legislature, following Bashar al-Assad's ouster by a rebel alliance led by his Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. Sharaa will represent the country in international forums and work towards civil peace, rebuilding state institutions, and reconstructing the Syrian army. The dissolution of Assad-era institutions, armed groups, security agencies, and the Baath party was also announced, with plans for a new security apparatus...