On Tuesday, Israel launched a major offensive into Gaza City, causing mass displacement and heavy destruction. The Israeli military declared the “main phase” of the operation had begun with the goal of controlling the entire city. This escalation of conflict has likely pushed a ceasefire with Hamas further out of reach. The offensive began the same day independent experts commissioned by the United Nations Human Rights Council accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza. Meanwhile, a missile fired by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen set off rocket sirens in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
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Japan will not recognise a Palestinian state for now, and that’s the news according to the Asahi newspaper. It seems that the Land of the Rising Sun is taking a wait-and-see approach, and Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba even plans to skip a meeting on the subject during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly. It’s worth noting that this position puts Japan in a bit of a different camp compared to some of its allies, especially those in the Group of Seven.
Japan’s hesitance places it alongside the United States, Israel’s closest ally, in the non-recognition corner. This stance seems to reflect a more cautious approach, echoing concerns voiced by officials from Germany and Italy, who apparently believe immediate recognition could be “counterproductive.”… Continue reading
The BBC’s Executive Complaints Unit (ECU) determined that a presenter violated editorial guidelines by describing Hamas as a “terror group” during a June 15 broadcast. This ruling will likely fuel continued debate over the broadcaster’s characterization of Hamas, particularly since the October 7 attacks. The BBC’s editorial guidelines typically mandate that the term “terrorist” be used only with attribution. The BBC maintains its stance to avoid being perceived as aligned with the UK government, a move meant to preserve its impartiality in reporting.
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Amid the escalating conflict, displaced Palestinians sought refuge within the walls of Al Shifa hospital in Gaza City. Smoke billowed into the air as the fighting persisted, further intensifying the already dire humanitarian situation. This image, captured on November 8, 2023, highlights the hospital’s role as a shelter during the ongoing clashes between Hamas and Israel. The photograph, by REUTERS/DOAA ROUQA, underscores the devastating impact of the conflict on civilians.
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Qatar has again been targeted by missiles, raising questions within the ruling family about hosting both a terrorist organization and a major US military base. This has led to a halt in Gaza peace talks brokered by Qatar, endangering hostages and exacerbating the suffering of Gazans. Israel’s recent actions, backed by the US, demonstrate the ability to strike across the region. A potential backlash to these actions, however, may target US interests instead of Israeli ones.
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Hamas claimed responsibility for a shooting in Jerusalem that resulted in six fatalities. Two gunmen attacked a bus, prompting police to shoot them dead, while a third suspect was arrested. Following the attack, Israel ordered the demolition of the attackers’ homes and the revocation of work permits for hundreds of their relatives. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the scene, offering condolences and declaring a war against terror, as the attack left about 15 injured, with six in serious condition.
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The Israeli Air Force launched a strike in Doha, Qatar, targeting senior Hamas leaders deemed responsible for the October 7th massacre and ongoing war efforts. The IDF and Shin Bet confirmed the operation, emphasizing the intent to eliminate key figures like Khalil al-Hayya and Jabarin. Israeli officials stated the attack was a wholly independent operation, fully initiated and conducted by Israel, with efforts made to minimize civilian casualties. Qatar condemned the attack as a violation of international law, stating the strike targeted the residential headquarters of Hamas’ political bureau in the Al-Qatara neighborhood.
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An Israeli strike targeting Hamas leadership in Qatar, a U.S. ally and key mediator, has raised concerns about escalating the conflict and endangering ceasefire negotiations. This unprecedented attack, condemned by Qatar as a violation of international law, occurred while Hamas officials were reportedly discussing a U.S. ceasefire proposal. The strike, publicly claimed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, occurred amidst stalled talks and growing international pressure for a lasting truce. The future of negotiations and the fate of the remaining hostages remain uncertain, as the war continues and relations between nations are tested.
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On Monday morning in Jerusalem, Palestinian attackers opened fire at a bus stop, resulting in six deaths and twelve injuries. The attackers were killed by an Israeli soldier and civilians, with a third person later arrested in connection. This attack, occurring at a major intersection near Jewish settlements, is the deadliest in Israel since October 2024, amidst a surge of violence related to the war in Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded by visiting the scene and stating that Israel is “fighting a war on multiple fronts.”
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Addressing the ongoing hostage situation, Donald Trump suggested that fewer than 20 hostages remain alive, drawing criticism from Israeli security officials. These officials condemned Trump’s remarks, arguing they could be interpreted as condoning the deaths of the hostages. The comments were made as discussions surrounding a potential Gaza deal continued. The remarks by the former president sparked immediate backlash.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood