Salwan Momika, the Koran burner who sparked international tensions

Britain has lifted asset freezes on Syria’s defense and interior ministries, along with various intelligence agencies, reversing sanctions from Bashar Al-Assad's presidency, as reported by Reuters. This shift comes as the West reevaluates its stance following the ousting of Assad by insurgent forces led by Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham after a protracted civil war. The British finance ministry's notice detailed that 12 entities are no longer under asset freezes, although it did not specify reasons for...

The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Rwandan-backed M23 group have agreed to halt fighting in eastern DRC while negotiating a permanent truce, following talks mediated by Qatar. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to an immediate cessation of hostilities, despite numerous previous truces collapsing since 2021. The DRC president, Félix Tshisekedi, has historically refused direct talks with M23, which has been accused of receiving Rwandan support, a claim Rwanda denies, amidst...

My cousin Ziyad, a dedicated social worker in Khan Younis refugee camp, was killed in a missile strike on his home, where he was sleeping. The attack injured his wife and four children, and multiple family members, highlighting the devastating toll of ongoing violence in Gaza, particularly on children. Ziyad's compassionate nature and community involvement were well-known, and the loss of him and many others in this tragedy underscores the profound impact of the conflict...

The Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) condemned an Israeli military report attributing the killing of 15 workers in Gaza to "professional failures," labeling it "full of lies" and "invalid." The incident, where a convoy of ambulances was attacked, has sparked calls for an independent investigation, as the UN's humanitarian chief criticized the lack of accountability. Despite the Israeli Defense Forces claiming the attack was a response to perceived threats, conflicting evidence, including video footage showing...

Colonel (res.) Dr. Moshe Elad, a Lebanon expert, asserts that Lebanon is at a "moment of truth," caught between hopes for reconstruction and fears of Hezbollah's resurgence. He highlights Hezbollah's continued strength and its potential to disrupt the government, despite its current restraint, as it yields to public demand for stability. Elad notes a proposed compromise involving Hezbollah storing its weapons with the Lebanese Army, but suggests that Hezbollah is unlikely to relinquish its arms,...

Paul AdamsBBC News, JerusalemIn Gaza, growing public dissent against Hamas is evident, with protests demanding its removal amid accusations of worsening conditions faced by Palestinians. Activists like Moumen al-Natour openly criticize Hamas, citing its oppressive rule since 2007 and the brutal treatment of dissenters, exemplified by the recent murder of protester Oday al-Rubai. As violence escalates again, residents increasingly resist Hamas's military actions, reflecting a shift in sentiment as civilians confront the dangers of speaking...