Canada announced its intention to recognize a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025, following similar announcements from other nations like the United Kingdom and France. This decision, spurred by global pressure and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, hinges on the Palestinian Authority holding elections in 2026 without Hamas participation and the demilitarization of the Palestinian state. Although largely symbolic, this move adds to the growing international pressure on Israel to seek a two-state solution. Israel has responded by rejecting these recognitions, citing security concerns and the role of Hamas, while maintaining its stance against the current state of affairs.
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A report compiled by several NGOs reveals that despite government claims, Canadian military goods continue to be exported to Israel. Researchers analyzed Israeli import data and shipping records, uncovering entries indicating the import of Canadian-made military components, including ammunition. These findings directly contradict the Canadian government’s assertion that it has not approved any new permits for items that could be used in the current conflict in Gaza since January 2024. While the government states restrictions are in place, active permits and ongoing shipments of military equipment raise questions about transparency and whether current policies are effective. The report highlights a lack of clarity regarding active permits and the potential for military components to be used in the conflict.
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The European Union’s executive body has recommended curbing Israel’s access to its Horizon research funding program due to concerns over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This proposal comes after multiple EU countries expressed that Israel was not meeting its obligations regarding aid to Gaza. If approved by a qualified majority of EU countries, the suspension would impact Israel’s participation in the European Innovation Council Accelerator, impacting funding for Israeli start-ups. The proposal is a response to a review of Israel’s compliance with human rights clauses, and Israel has expressed strong opposition to the move.
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Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar has refuted Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s claims that Israel is withholding aid from Gaza, labeling the accusations as “a lie”. This comes as a global hunger monitor issued an alert warning that famine is “playing out” in the Gaza Strip, highlighting widespread starvation, malnutrition, and disease. The Israeli government, however, continues to deny the severity of the humanitarian crisis, while the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) indicates that famine thresholds have been reached for food consumption and acute malnutrition in certain areas. Despite Israel’s claims of open aid access, restrictions remain, contrasting with the urgent needs of a population facing escalating food insecurity and mortality.
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According to the directors of the Oscar-winning documentary *No Other Land*, Palestinian community leader Awdah Hathaleen was killed by a sanctioned Israeli settler in the West Bank. The suspect, Yinon Levi, who was sanctioned by the UK and EU, was reportedly released under house arrest. The killing occurred in front of a community center and was captured on video. The directors of *No Other Land*, which documented the struggle of Masafer Yatta residents, have expressed their grief, and the incident underscores the rise in violence in the West Bank.
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The U.K. announced it would recognize a Palestinian state in September, contingent on Israel’s actions. This follows mounting domestic pressure and a shift in the international landscape, with France already planning similar recognition. Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that the UK would only proceed with recognition if Israel takes substantive steps towards a ceasefire, allows UN aid, and commits to a long-term peace. This decision has been met with rejection from Israel’s foreign ministry, which views it as a reward for Hamas and a hindrance to peace efforts. The UK government will assess the parties’ actions in September before making a final decision on recognition.
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Palestinian activist and journalist Awdah Hathaleen, who contributed to the Oscar-winning documentary “No Other Land,” was killed during an attack by Israeli settlers in the West Bank. The incident, captured on video, allegedly shows settler Yinon Levi firing a gun, leading to his arrest for questioning. The killing adds to the increasing violence against Palestinians, where accountability for settler actions is rare. Hathaleen had recently documented settler encroachment and displacement efforts, highlighting the community’s struggles.
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Recent reports indicate escalating international efforts to address the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Luxembourg hinted at recognizing a Palestinian state, potentially following France’s lead. France has also urged the EU to pressure Israel toward a two-state solution and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where airdrops of aid have begun amidst widespread famine-like conditions. The US, however, rejected a UN conference on the two-state solution, labeling it a “publicity stunt.” Furthermore, the situation in Gaza remains dire, with Israeli strikes resulting in numerous casualties.
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Further escalating tensions in the Red Sea, the Houthi rebels have warned that they will target any ship connected to Israeli ports, regardless of its flag. This announcement signifies a move into the “4th phase” of their naval blockade against Israel. The Houthis stated that they would attack vessels belonging to companies that have dealings with Israeli ports, asserting that they could reach these targets with their missiles and drones. This poses a significant threat to international shipping and further destabilizes the already volatile region.
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In recent reports, two prominent Israeli human rights organizations, B’Tselem and Physicians for Human Rights (PHR), have accused Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. The groups detailed intentional attacks on civilians, causing severe damage and targeting individuals based on their identity, while also emphasizing the destruction of healthcare infrastructure. They further state that Israel’s western allies are enabling this campaign and share responsibility for the ongoing suffering. These reports highlight the extensive documentation of these alleged genocidal acts, adding pressure for stronger action from the international community.
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John Q. Hosedrinker