US hits Iranian shipping network with major new sanctions

The U.S. State Department imposed visa sanctions on members of the Palestinian Authority (PA) and Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), citing their obstruction of peace efforts with Israel and violations of U.S. laws. Although the impact may be limited due to existing avoidance of U.S. travel by Palestinian officials, these sanctions coincide with increasing global recognition of Palestinian statehood amid ongoing tensions in Gaza. Want More Context? 🔎

The US imposed sanctions on the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and Palestinian Authority (PA), citing their failure to meet commitments and jeopardizing Middle East peace. The sanctions include visa denials for PLO and PA members, stemming from violations of the PLO Commitments Compliance Act and the Middle East Peace Commitments Act, including actions viewed as supporting terrorism and undermining international resolutions. Want More Context? 🔎

The Government Media Office in Gaza reported that Israeli forces killed 51 Palestinians and injured 648 while they sought food aid, describing the incident as a “bloody massacre.” It criticized the ongoing blockade and chaos that disrupts aid distribution, accusing Israel of using hunger as a weapon against civilians in violation of international laws. Want More Context? 🔎

Israel has warned that it will stop humanitarian airdrop operations in Gaza if footage of the destruction caused by its airstrikes is recorded, urging participating countries to prevent media documentation. In response, Gaza's Government Media Office condemned this restriction, highlighting the severe humanitarian crisis and extensive damage, with 70% of buildings affected and over 40 million tons of rubble, while questioning why journalists are barred from reporting. Want More Context? 🔎

U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff is set to arrive in Israel to revive ceasefire talks amid a worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where famine is reportedly unfolding. With indirect negotiations at a standstill, Israel faces international pressure as it responds to Hamas' proposals for a 60-day truce, while the death toll in Gaza surpasses 60,000, leading to protests in Israel calling for an end to the war. Want More Context? 🔎

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) reported that intensified fighting in Sudan's Kordofan region since early 2025 has resulted in hundreds of deaths, mass displacement, and the collapse of essential services, with some areas seeing 90% of civilians fleeing. The ICRC urged respect for international humanitarian law to protect civilians and ensure access to aid amid the worsening humanitarian crisis. Want More Context? 🔎