Ziad Rahbani, Lebanese musical giant and sardonic critic, dead at 69

The Freedom Flotilla Coalition reported that Israeli troops intercepted the Handala vessel in international waters while attempting to deliver food aid to Gaza, declaring it an illegal breach of the blockade. The Israeli foreign ministry confirmed the interception, stating all passengers were safe, while the FFC claimed the crew of 19 activists and journalists was "kidnapped" and urged global pressure on governments to sanction Israel. Want More Context? 🔎

An Israeli drone strike in southern Lebanon's Tyre district killed one person, according to the Lebanese National News Agency. This incident occurred amid ongoing tensions, as Israel has reportedly committed nearly 3,000 violations of a truce established after the full-scale war with Hezbollah in September 2024, resulting in significant casualties and extended military presence in the region. Want More Context? 🔎

Israel announced the air dropping of aid into Gaza and the opening of humanitarian corridors amid mounting international criticism over the hunger crisis, following a total blockade imposed in March. While some countries, including the UAE and the UK, pledged to contribute to aid efforts, humanitarian leaders remain skeptical about the effectiveness of air drops in addressing the dire situation, citing excessive Israeli restrictions on aid delivery. Want More Context? 🔎

More than 6,000 aid trucks are stranded in Jordan and Egypt, unable to reach Gaza due to Israeli restrictions, according to UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini, who emphasizes that a political solution is needed to alleviate the humanitarian crisis. He countered allegations of aid diversion, citing a USAID report showing no systemic misuse of US-supplied aid, amidst ongoing violence that has resulted in over 59,700 Palestinian deaths since October 2023. Want More Context? 🔎

A Sudanese coalition led by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) announced a parallel government, intensifying tensions with the army amid an ongoing civil war. The RSF, led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti), controls much of western Sudan, while the military, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, regains ground in the capital, Khartoum, amidst a humanitarian crisis affecting half the population. Want More Context? 🔎

Arab countries will condemn Hamas and call for its disarmament at a UN ministerial event next week, aiming to encourage European recognition of Palestinian statehood, according to French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot. This initiative, led by France and Saudi Arabia, includes plans for a post-war roadmap towards a two-state solution and demands for an end to Israeli settlement expansion and the financial blockade on the Palestinian authority. Want More Context? 🔎