US strikes Iran-backed militias in Syria in latest round of retaliation

Hamas announced the names of three Israeli hostages for release in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, following a tense cease-fire deal with Israel. The hostages were abducted during a Hamas-led attack in 2023, sparking a deadly war. The truce has seen several crises, with both sides accusing each other of violations, as efforts continue to release remaining hostages and reach a lasting peace agreement. Full Article

US President Donald Trump imposed sanctions on the International Criminal Court for targeting America and Israel, leading to asset freezes and travel bans against ICC officials, employees, and their associates. Despite the sanctions, the ICC vowed to continue its judicial work globally, while the UN and EU criticized Trump's move as a threat to the court's independence and international justice system. Previous US sanctions were lifted by President Joe Biden in 2021, but Trump's latest...

Rukaya al-Zubaidi tentatively tried skateboarding at Baghdad's new skatepark, a project spearheaded by three organisations after five years of negotiations with authorities. The park provides a much-needed escape for young Iraqis from the country's conflict-ridden past and conservative societal norms, offering inclusivity and community building opportunities. Skaters like Mohammad al-Qadi and Hussein Ali see skateboarding as a way to find solace, build friendships, and potentially even represent Iraq in future competitions, showcasing the positive impact...

President Trump has proposed displacing the entire Palestinian population of Gaza to establish it as a U.S. territory, effectively ending the long sought-after goal of a Palestinian state. The plan also includes openness to Israeli annexation of parts of the West Bank. Trump's vision has sparked controversy and skepticism, with critics doubting the feasibility of a two-state solution and questioning the future of peace in the Middle East. Full Article

Israelis initially praised President Trump for his role in securing a cease-fire deal in Gaza, but were shocked by his proposal to relocate Gazans to create a Middle Eastern Riviera. This diversion shifted focus from the cease-fire negotiations, leaving the fate of the remaining hostages uncertain as talks stall and tensions rise between Israel and Hamas. Netanyahu's priorities for Gaza conflict with Hamas's demands, risking a return to violence as Trump and Israeli officials remain...

Israel's defence minister ordered the army to prepare for "voluntary" departures from Gaza following Trump's suggestion to move Palestinians out, sparking global outrage. The UN warned against forced displacement, while Trump's plan to have the US take over Gaza was met with skepticism. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu praised the proposal as a potential solution for Gaza's future, despite opposition from Palestinians and concerns about ethnic cleansing. Full Article