Saudi Arabia, France seek support for declaration on two-state solution between Israel, Palestinians

The anticipated ceasefire deal following the Israeli Defense Forces' successes has collapsed, with Iran reportedly instructing Hamas to resist negotiations instead of proceeding with a resolution. This development highlights Tehran's subtle but significant influence over the dynamics of the conflict in Gaza. Want More Context? 🔎

Gaza's civil defense agency reported that 14 Palestinians were killed by Israeli fire in incidents near aid distribution sites amidst a worsening humanitarian crisis, with over 60,000 deaths in Gaza since the conflict escalated after Hamas's October 2023 attack. While Israel confirmed firing near these sites, it disputed casualty figures, as media restrictions hinder independent verification. Want More Context? 🔎

In a coordinated effort, 17 countries, including Arab League members and the EU, urged Hamas to transfer governance of Gaza to the Palestinian Authority to salvage the two-state solution, amid ongoing conflict and Israeli occupation. The declaration condemned violence from both sides and called for international support for Palestinian sovereignty, while Israel dismissed the initiative as rewarding terrorism. Want More Context? 🔎

The EU is considering suspending Israeli access to its Horizon Europe research funding in response to Israel's actions in Gaza, marking a potential first step against Israel. The proposal, which requires a qualified majority to pass, aims to freeze funding for Israeli startups due to alleged human rights violations, though it faces opposition from some member states and criticism for being insufficient from human rights organizations. Want More Context? 🔎

In Susiya, West Bank, Palestinians face escalating violence from Israeli settlers, including attacks on water sources and olive groves, amid growing tensions following the October 7 outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas. Villagers, determined to remain on their land despite threats and destruction, report around 54 settler attacks since the conflict began, highlighting a struggle for survival and identity in a region marked by occupation. Want More Context? 🔎

Iran rejected claims by US President Donald Trump that it interfered in ceasefire and prisoner swap negotiations between Hamas and Israel, labeling the allegations as "completely baseless." Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei emphasized that Hamas is capable of negotiating independently and criticized the US for supplying weapons to Israel amid ongoing conflict in Gaza. Want More Context? 🔎