US Senate rejects bids to block arms sales to Israel over Gaza

UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese has urged for sanctions and an arms embargo on Israel to halt the ongoing violence in Gaza, condemning the recent Israeli attack on the Nasser Medical Complex that killed at least 19, including journalists. She highlighted the humanitarian crisis, with over 62,744 Palestinians killed and widespread starvation, calling for an end to the blockade and international action to protect civilians. Want More Context? 🔎

Lebanon will present a plan on August 31 to persuade Hezbollah to disarm, according to U.S. Special Envoy Thomas Barrack, who stated that military action is not being considered. In response, Israel will offer a counterproposal, while Hezbollah's chief warned against confrontation, emphasizing potential protests against the U.S. Embassy if dialogue fails. Want More Context? 🔎

Resistance security in Gaza reported that Israeli forces are sending text messages to residents, which they claim are attempts at malicious recruitment through monetary offers or threats. These messages are characterized as tools for espionage aimed at infiltrating society, and residents are urged to ignore, delete, and not respond to them for the sake of community safety amid ongoing conflict that has resulted in significant casualties since October 2023. Want More Context? 🔎

The ongoing war in Gaza has prompted regional and international actors to consider deploying an Arab-international force to stabilize the region, spurred by Egypt's recent acceptance of such a plan. This shift aims to prevent Israeli reoccupation, support the Palestinian Authority's governance, and address security concerns, but it raises questions about the force's mandate, composition, and potential clashes with resistance factions. Want More Context? 🔎

Iraqi buffalo herder Watheq Abbas faces dire challenges as persistent drought and climate change shrink the wetlands that sustain his livelihood, with his herd dwindling from 120 to 30 buffaloes due to water scarcity and pollution. As the ecosystem deteriorates and traditional ways of life vanish, local residents, including Abbas and others, grapple with the loss of their water sources and the threat of extinction for their livestock. Want More Context? 🔎

Australia expelled Iran's ambassador, Ahmad Sadeghi, and three officials, citing Iranian responsibility for antisemitic arson attacks in Sydney and Melbourne, marking the first such expulsion since World War II. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced plans to designate Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization, emphasizing the need to protect social cohesion and community safety. Want More Context? 🔎