In a significant policy shift, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee has decided to close the direct communication channel between the Office of Palestinian Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem and Washington, which previously allowed for unapproved reporting on Palestinian issues. This move merges the office’s responsibilities fully into the embassy, impacting its ability to provide independent insights amid heightened political sensitivity following the Israel-Gaza conflict. Critics, including former U.S. Special Representative Hady Amr, warn that this decision will undermine diplomatic credibility and engagement with the Palestinian population during a crucial time.
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Israeli forces raid West Bank, military vehicle rams into bus carrying Hajj pilgrims in Jenin – Middle East Monitor
Israeli forces conducted multiple raids in the occupied West Bank, arresting two Palestinians and damaging a bus carrying Hajj pilgrims in Jenin, where a military vehicle reportedly rammed into the bus. The bus was transporting elderly Palestinians to Saudi Arabia via Jordan, prompting condemnation from Jenin Deputy Governor Mansour al-Saadi due to the distress caused to vulnerable passengers. Additional arrests occurred in Silat al-Harithiya and Tulkarem, while military actions in Nablus involved gunfire and sound...
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