Turkey’s actors, artists under pressure as govt turns up the heat

Reports indicate that Mohammed Sinwar, a Hamas leader, may have been killed in an airstrike, prompting discussions on the need for a replacement for Hamas in Gaza. Despite significant casualties among Hamas leadership over 19 months of conflict, there has been no clear strategy to capitalize on their weakened state or to establish alternative governance in Gaza. The current situation leaves a power vacuum filled by Hamas, with no evident plan to introduce non-Hamas leadership...

Iraq has pledged $20 million for the reconstruction of Gaza and Lebanon during the Arab League summit in Baghdad, reflecting its desire to regain influence in the Arab world amidst past turmoil. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani emphasized the need for collective Arab action to address the crises in these regions. However, the actual disbursement of funds to Gaza remains uncertain due to the ongoing war, highlighting the challenges of aid delivery in conflict...

Hasan Hadi, Iraq's first filmmaker selected for the Cannes Festival, criticized economic sanctions, stating they empower dictators by consolidating resources and increasing brutality. His debut feature, "The President's Cake," which explores the struggles of a young girl in 1990s Iraq under UN sanctions, has received acclaim and is seen as a potential Oscar contender. Hadi emphasizes the film's authentic portrayal of his homeland, shot entirely in Iraq, and highlights the lasting impacts of sanctions on...

In a powerful demonstration of solidarity, over half a million people gathered in central London to demand an end to the ongoing genocide against Palestinians, marking the 77th anniversary of the Nakba. Organized by a coalition of groups including the Palestinian Forum in Britain and the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, the protest featured speakers like historian William Dalrymple and activist Leanne Mohamad, who emphasized the resilience of the Palestinian people against efforts to erase their existence....

Germany has expressed concern over Israel's renewed military actions in Gaza, warning that they could jeopardize ceasefire efforts, threaten hostages' lives, and exacerbate the humanitarian crisis. The German Foreign Ministry stated that while Israel has the right to defend itself, the large-scale offensive risks worsening conditions for over 2 million Palestinians and could hinder a long-term ceasefire. Additionally, Israel faces international scrutiny for its actions, including a genocide case at the International Court of Justice...

Israel has escalated its military campaign in Gaza, warning residents of an impending ground offensive through leaflets stating, “People of Gaza, the Israeli army is coming.” This announcement follows the expansion of “Operation Gideon’s Chariots,” with reports indicating that the operation aims for complete occupation of Gaza. Since the conflict reignited in October 2023, over 53,200 Palestinians have died, exacerbated by Israel's blockade of essential supplies and a significant increase in fatalities during a recent...