Israel-Gaza War Live

Twenty-one cancer patients from Gaza have successfully crossed into Egypt through the Karem Abu Salem (Kerem Shalom) crossing, as reported by AFP, citing an Egyptian medical source. These patients are en route to the United Arab Emirates to receive necessary medical treatment.

This marks the first group of patients to be evacuated from Gaza since Israeli forces took control of the Palestinian side of the Rafah border crossing in early May. The evacuation comes as a critical measure amidst ongoing medical crises in Gaza.

The Health Ministry of Gaza has raised alarms, highlighting that 25,000 children in the enclave are in desperate need of treatment abroad. The situation underscores the severe healthcare challenges faced by residents of Gaza and the urgent need for international medical aid and support.

Canada’s Foreign Ministry has imposed sanctions on seven Israeli settlers and five entities in the occupied West Bank, according to Al Jazeera. The sanctions are part of Canada’s response to ongoing extremist settler violence in the region.

Foreign Minister Melanie Joly issued a statement expressing deep concern over the violence perpetrated by extremist settlers, highlighting its significant impact on Palestinian lives and the negative implications for lasting peace prospects.

Among those sanctioned is Ben-Zion Gopstein, founder and leader of Lehava, a right-wing group that opposes Jewish assimilation with non-Jews. The targeted individuals and entities are being held accountable for actions that undermine peace and stability in the West Bank.

Judges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) have permitted the United Kingdom to submit legal arguments regarding the court’s jurisdiction over Israeli nationals in the Gaza case. This decision relates to the prosecution’s request for arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, as reported by Reuters.

Court documents reveal that the UK, an ICC member state, recently requested to provide written observations on the issue of whether the ICC can exercise jurisdiction over Israeli nationals when Palestine cannot exercise criminal jurisdiction over them, as per the Oslo Accords.

The judges have indicated that other interested parties may also submit their arguments on this legal issue, with a deadline set for July 12. The ICC’s acceptance of the UK's request could potentially delay the decision on the arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant, which ICC prosecutor Karim Khan requested in May, concerning Israel's actions in Gaza.

Khaled Quzmar, the general director of the child rights organisation Defence for Children International Palestine, has described the atrocities committed against children in Gaza as unprecedented and worse than those witnessed during the Second World War.

Speaking to Al Jazeera from Ramallah, Quzmar highlighted the severe impact of the Israeli operation in Gaza on children, following a call by UK-based Save the Children for an investigation into Gaza’s missing children. The investigation stresses that approximately 21,000 children are estimated to be lost, disappeared, detained, buried under rubble, or in mass graves.

“We have been working in this field for more than 30 years, but what we are witnessing in Gaza is at a level that we did not see during the Second World War,” Quzmar stated.

He described the situation as “a war against children,” asserting that children in Gaza are paying the highest price in what he termed the Israeli genocide in Gaza. Quzmar emphasized that children are being subjected to war crimes and crimes against humanity, with their fundamental rights being systematically and continuously violated by the Israeli army.

An Israeli airstrike has hit the vicinity of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) headquarters in Gaza City, resulting in the deaths of four Palestinians, according to reports from local sources. This attack follows a series of devastating strikes throughout the city, including on the Shati and Tufah refugee camps, which killed dozens of people yesterday.

The latest incident has raised further concerns about the escalating conflict and its impact on civilians and humanitarian operations in the region. The UNRWA headquarters is a critical facility, providing essential aid and services to Palestinian refugees in Gaza.

Our colleagues on the ground in Gaza City are working to gather more information about the latest attack and the overall situation. The international community has repeatedly called for restraint and the protection of civilians, but the conflict continues to inflict heavy casualties.

This strike adds to the mounting toll of the ongoing violence, which has already claimed thousands of lives and displaced many more. The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with widespread damage to infrastructure and critical shortages of food, medical supplies, and shelter.

Health officials in Gaza have reported that Israeli air strikes have killed at least 24 people in the northern part of the territory. This comes a day after the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) reported 22 fatalities in shelling that also damaged its office.

The strikes in Gaza City have added to a toll of at least 120 deaths over the past 48 hours, according to the Gaza health ministry. Dr. Mahmud Aliwa of Al-Ahli hospital in Gaza City stated that his facility received 24 bodies following the strikes, which left smoke rising over the city.

Gaza civil defence agency spokesman Mahmud Basal informed AFP that at least 20 people were killed in a strike on a house in the Al-Tuffah neighborhood. Additionally, a strike in the Al-Shati refugee camp resulted in the deaths of four others.

Israeli forces may have repeatedly violated fundamental principles of the laws of war during their Gaza Strip military campaign, according to the United Nations human rights office. In a report assessing six Israeli attacks that resulted in high casualties and destruction of civilian infrastructure, the UN human rights office suggested that Israeli forces “may have systematically violated the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precautions in attack.”

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk stated, “The requirement to select means and methods of warfare that avoid or at the very least minimize to every extent civilian harm appears to have been consistently violated in Israel’s bombing campaign.”

Israel’s air and ground offensive has reportedly killed more than 37,400 people in the Palestinian territory, according to local health authorities.

Last week, the UN human rights office also suggested that the killing of civilians during an Israeli operation to free four hostages could amount to war crimes, as could the holding of captives by Palestinian fighters in densely populated areas.

Israel's military actions in Gaza have resulted in the deaths of 193 UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) workers, marking the highest death toll ever recorded for UN staff, according to the agency. Despite these devastating losses, UNRWA continues to provide critical support and aid to families amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

In addition to the tragic loss of UNRWA staff, Israeli attacks on facilities run by the agency in Gaza have killed at least 497 internally displaced people who were sheltering in them. This information comes from the agency’s latest situation update.

The UN agency emphasized the commitment of its staff to continue their work in providing essential aid and support to the affected population, even under such dire circumstances.

Israel has issued a stark warning about the possibility of a serious escalation in conflict due to intensified cross-border fire from Lebanon's Hezbollah movement. According to a report by Reuters, the Israeli military has expressed concerns that the increasing aggression could trigger a wider conflict with significant repercussions for Lebanon and the entire region.

"Hezbollah’s increasing aggression is bringing us to the brink of what could be a wider escalation, one that could have devastating consequences for Lebanon and the entire region," stated Israeli military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari in a video statement delivered in English.

Rear Admiral Hagari emphasized that Israel is prepared to take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of its civilians. "Israel will take the necessary measures to protect its civilians — until security along our border with Lebanon is restored," he added.

The heightened tensions come amidst ongoing skirmishes and a volatile security situation along the Israel-Lebanon border. The potential for an escalation underscores the fragile peace in the region and the significant threat posed by the militant activities of Hezbollah.

As the situation develops, regional and international stakeholders are closely monitoring the actions of both Israel and Hezbollah to prevent a full-scale conflict that could destabilize the Middle East.

Israeli forces have arrested 22 people in the latest series of raids across the West Bank. The arrests were primarily concentrated in the Jenin governorate, particularly in the town of Arrabeh, where Israeli forces reportedly opened fire on a vehicle earlier.

Additional arrests took place in the governorates of Hebron, Tulkarem, Ramallah and el-Bireh, Qalqilya, and Jericho. These raids are part of near-daily operations in the occupied West Bank, which have resulted in the arrest of 9,125 people since October 7.

The ongoing raids have intensified tensions in the region, drawing criticism from human rights organizations and calls for restraint from the international community.

The death toll in Gaza has surpassed 37,000 as Israeli attacks continue to escalate. In the past 24 hours alone, 283 people have been killed and 814 injured, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.

The majority of the casualties occurred in Nuseirat, where 274 people were killed and 698 injured during an Israeli operation that reportedly freed four captives. The latest figures bring the total number of casualties in Gaza since October 7 to 37,084 killed and 84,494 injured.

The situation in Gaza remains dire as the conflict shows no signs of abating. The international community continues to call for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid to alleviate the suffering of civilians.

Israel has extended the broadcasting ban on Al Jazeera’s offices for an additional 45 days, according to Israeli Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi. Karhi announced the extension on social media platform X, expressing confidence that the ban will continue to be extended in the future.

“We will not allow the Al Jazeera terrorist channel to broadcast in Israel and endanger our fighters. I have now signed the extension of the orders banning Al Jazeera channel broadcasts in Israel,” Karhi said.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli government approved the extension, which continues to keep Al Jazeera’s offices shut in the country.

Al Jazeera has strongly condemned the shutdown, describing it as a “criminal act” that violates human rights and the basic right to access information. The Doha-based news network rejected the minister's decision and denied all accusations and justifications behind the ban.

In a statement last month, Al Jazeera said: “Al Jazeera Media Network strongly condemns and denounces this criminal act that violates human rights and the basic right to access information. Al Jazeera affirms its right to continue to provide news and information to its global audiences.”

Unconfirmed reports suggest that the Israeli military has conducted a hostage rescue operation in Nuseirat, rescuing four individuals: Almog Meir, Shlomi Ziv, Andrey Kozlov, and Noa Argamani. The operation reportedly involved firebelts and resulted in hundreds of Palestinian casualties, including both killed and injured.

The rescue operation, which took place in the Nuseirat refugee camp, remains unconfirmed by official sources, but reports indicate that the hostages were rescued alive.

Between 35 and 45 people were killed in a strike on a UNRWA school in Gaza on Thursday, according to UNRWA spokeswoman Tamara Alrifai. The school, which had been housing up to 6,000 displaced people since the beginning of the conflict, was attacked around 2am.

“Originally, this was a school but since the beginning of the war, it has housed people who have been repeatedly displaced as the conflict in Gaza evolved,” Alrifai told Democracy Now. Many of the victims are reported to be children.

During a news conference, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller reiterated Israel’s statement that it targeted Hamas fighters in “a precision strike” on a UN-school in the Nuseirat refugee camp, which killed at least 40 people, including internally displaced individuals sheltering there.

“The government of Israel has said they’re going to release more information about this strike, including the names of those who died in it. We expect them to be fully transparent in making that information public,” said Miller.

“It gets back to this question of intent and results,” he added. “Even if the intent is what the [Israeli army] has said publicly: that they were trying to use a precision strike just to target 20 to 30 militants, if you have seen 14 children die in that strike that shows that something went wrong.”

“These are all facts that need to be verified and that’s what we want to see happen.”

Miller added that he did not have any information regarding whether US weapons were used in the strike.

Egypt’s state-linked Al Qahera News reports that Hamas has relayed “positive signs” regarding a potential Gaza ceasefire deal. The group is expected to formally respond to the proposal “in the coming days.”

A high-level Egyptian source stated, “Hamas leaders have informed us that they are studying the truce proposal seriously and positively.”

This comes after a Hamas official expressed concern over the current proposal, describing it as “too open-ended” and lacking a firm commitment to a permanent ceasefire with Israel.

Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri has told Reuters that while the group appreciates “Biden’s ideas”, the current ceasefire proposal does not provide a firm enough commitment to end the war.

“The Israeli documents speak of open-ended negotiation with no deadline, and it speaks of a stage during which the occupation regains its hostages and resumes the war. We had told the mediators that such a paper wasn’t acceptable to us,” said Abu Zuhri.

He added, “The (US) document…has no mention of ending the aggression or the withdrawal.”

Belgian Minister of Foreign Affairs Hadja Lahbib has condemned the Israeli strike on a UNRWA school in Nuseirat, central Gaza, which killed at least 40 people in the early hours of this morning. Lahbib called for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

“The devastating airstrike on a UNRWA school in Gaza is an appalling and unacceptable act of violence,” she wrote on X. “All parties must respect civilian infrastructure. This tragedy reminds us of the urgency to end the violence.”

The death toll from the Israeli air attack on a UN-run school in Nuseirat has risen to 40, according to the director of Gaza’s Government Media Office, who spoke to Reuters. Dozens more people are wounded and are currently receiving treatment at Deir el-Balah’s Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, which is now operating at three times its capacity.

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that peace in the Middle East cannot be achieved without the creation of an independent Palestinian state. During a meeting with senior editors from international news agencies at Russia’s flagship annual economic forum in St Petersburg, Putin emphasized Moscow's readiness to help resolve the crisis in Gaza.

Putin criticized Israel’s response to Hamas’s attack, describing it as the "total destruction of civilians." He attributed the ongoing conflict to the "total failure of the United States."

The Israeli War Cabinet is set to convene an emergency meeting following an attack by Hezbollah. Israeli media has posted videos on X showing an explosion and smoke rising as a result of a drone attack on the town of Hurfeish in the Upper Galilee in northern Israel.

According to Israel Hayom, at least 10 people have been injured, one of them seriously.

In response to the attack, prominent Israeli politicians Ben Gvir and Smotrich have urgently left the flag march and rushed to Tel Aviv.

Israeli settlers are entering Al-Aqsa Mosque holding Israeli flags and chanting on Jerusalem Day. This day marks the conclusion of the 1967 war and the beginning of the illegal Israeli occupation of the West Bank and East Jerusalem, which Israelis refer to as the “reunification” of Jerusalem.

Official ceremonies and memorials are being staged across Israel to commemorate the day. Chief among these is the controversial Dance of the Flags, also known as the Flag March, which features prominently in the day's events.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his war cabinet have approved US President Joe Biden’s ceasefire proposal, according to an Israeli official who spoke to CBS. The approval is pending Hamas's response.

The official emphasized that Netanyahu would not agree to a permanent ceasefire without fulfilling Israel’s war goals. These goals include the return of all Israeli captives held in Gaza and the "destruction" of Hamas and its capabilities.

Violence erupted in Tel Aviv as Israeli police moved to disperse demonstrators who had gathered in large numbers to demand swift action for the return of captives currently held in Gaza. 

The protests, which drew thousands to the streets of Tel Aviv, reflect growing public impatience and anxiety over the fate of Israelis believed to be held by militant groups in Gaza. The demonstrators are pressing for an expedited negotiation process, highlighting the emotional and political pressure on the Israeli government to secure the captives' safe release.

The Israeli military has intensified its operations across the Gaza Strip, targeting northern, central, and southern regions, including Rafah—an area specifically mandated by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to halt military activities. Despite this order, the Israeli air force has conducted a series of airstrikes, hitting over 50 targets in the past day.

This escalation comes amid ongoing tensions and widespread international concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza. The focus on Rafah is particularly significant given the recent ICJ directive, highlighting the complexities and challenges of enforcing international judicial decisions in active conflict zones.

The continued military engagement by Israel raises questions about compliance with international law and the potential consequences of defying such a high-profile judicial order.

Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has reported detecting "likely AI-generated" content on its platforms that deceptively praised Israel's military actions in Gaza. This content appeared in the comments sections of posts by global news organizations and U.S. lawmakers, according to a Reuters report.

In its quarterly security report, Meta revealed that the accounts responsible for this content masqueraded as Jewish students, African Americans, and other concerned citizens, specifically targeting audiences in the United States and Canada. The company traced the origins of this deceptive campaign to STOIC, a political marketing firm based in Tel Aviv.

This discovery highlights the increasing use of sophisticated AI tools in political propaganda efforts on social media, raising concerns about the impact of such tactics on public opinion and democratic discourse. Meta's identification of these activities underscores the ongoing challenges social media platforms face in combating misinformation and maintaining the integrity of communications on their networks.

The Guardian has reported allegations that Yossi Cohen, the former head of Mossad, Israel's foreign intelligence agency, engaged in a series of clandestine meetings with Fatou Bensouda, the then-chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC). These meetings were aimed at dissuading her from pursuing a war crimes investigation into activities conducted by Israel in the occupied Palestinian territories.

The discussions reportedly took place over several years, leading up to Bensouda's decision to launch a formal investigation into the allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity. This move by Cohen highlights the lengths to which some officials may go to influence international legal proceedings and protect national interests.

The implications of these allegations are significant, as they suggest attempts to interfere with the judicial independence of the ICC.

Tensions escalated dramatically at the Rafah crossing after an armed confrontation between Egyptian and Israeli forces resulted in casualties on both sides. According to Egyptian sources cited by Al-Sharq News, the incident began when Israeli soldiers from the 401st Armored Brigade attempted to cross near the Rafah checkpoint, purportedly in pursuit of terrorists.

The situation intensified when an Egyptian soldier stationed at a watchtower opened fire on the advancing Israeli troops. In response, an Israeli tank targeted the watchtower, resulting in the death of the Egyptian soldier. The clash continued, leading to the death of an Israeli soldier and injuries to seven others, three of whom are reported to be in serious condition.

Following the exchange, Israeli forces retreated to take cover under one of the barriers. High-level communications were then initiated between security leaders in Tel Aviv and Cairo in an attempt to manage the fallout from the incident.

This version of events is in stark contrast to the ones being perpetuated by Israeli media who have stated the exchange of fire occurred due to mistaken identities when a unit of the Israeli Combat Engineering Corps was exploring a Hamas tunnel near the Rafah border crossing when they were spotted by Egyptian soldiers who opened fire, leading to a return of fire and causing casualties among the Egyptian soldiers. 

French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his outrage over the Israeli military strikes on a camp for displaced persons in Rafah, which resulted in numerous casualties. Macron's strong condemnation came through a statement on the social media platform X, where he highlighted the lack of safe zones for Palestinian civilians in the area and criticized the ongoing military operations.

Macron stated, “These operations must stop. There are no safe areas in Rafah for Palestinian civilians.” He emphasized the urgency of adhering to international law and called for an immediate ceasefire in the region.

The French President's call reflects growing international concern over the escalation of violence in Gaza and the dire humanitarian situation facing civilians caught in the crossfire. His remarks add to the chorus of global voices demanding a halt to hostilities and a respect for human rights and international humanitarian standards.

The recent Israeli attack on displaced Palestinians in the Tal as-Sultan area of Rafah, described as one of the deadliest since the onset of the Gaza conflict, has led to devastating casualties among civilians, particularly children. The attack involved the use of heavy bombs, reportedly US-made 2,000-pound bombs, which inflicted severe injuries and deaths, tearing victims apart.

Paramedics at the scene described harrowing details to the Anadolu Agency, recounting the retrieval of children’s bodies so mutilated that identification and intact recovery were nearly impossible. "We retrieved a large number of child martyrs from the Israeli bombardment, including a child without a head and children whose bodies have turned into fragments," a paramedic reported.

Further emphasizing the brutality of the attack, Mohammad al-Mughayyir, a senior official at the civil defence agency, told AFP about encountering "charred bodies and dismembered limbs" at the site. Victims included children, women, and the elderly, many suffering from severe injuries and amputations.

Despite the severe civilian impact, the Israeli military has stated that the attack was carried out in compliance with international law, a claim that contrasts sharply with reports from the ground. The Government Media Office in Gaza highlighted the use of powerful munitions in the attack, underlining the scale and intensity of the bombing.

Israel's top military prosecutor, Major General Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi, has announced that a thorough investigation is being conducted into the air strikes on Rafah, which she referred to as "very grave." The strikes, which occurred on Monday, targeted a camp housing displaced Palestinians in the southern Gaza Strip.

Speaking at a conference hosted by the Israel Bar Association, Major General Tomer-Yerushalmi emphasized the commitment to fully investigate the details of the incident. According to officials in Gaza, the strikes resulted in the deaths of 40 individuals.

In a distressing turn of events, Israeli forces launched eight air strikes on a makeshift tent in Rafah, Gaza, an area previously declared by the Israeli military as a humanitarian safe zone. Emerging footage from the site depicts horrific scenes, with bodies so severely damaged they are unrecognizable. Medical sources fear the death toll may rise further due to the severity of the attack.

Compounding the tragedy, the healthcare infrastructure in Rafah is critically limited. The Kuwaiti Hospital, currently the only operational medical facility in the area, lacks an intensive care unit, severely hindering its ability to manage severe injuries. Additionally, the situation is exacerbated by a dire shortage of fuel, rendering ambulances unable to transport the wounded to and from field hospitals.

This attack raises serious concerns about the safety of supposedly secure zones and the dire humanitarian situation for civilians in Gaza, particularly in terms of medical care and infrastructure.

According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, Israeli drone strikes targeted a convoy near Qusayr, a western Syrian city, resulting in the deaths of two Hezbollah members and injuries to several others. The attacked vehicles, which subsequently caught fire, were reportedly en route to Syria's Dabaa military airfield close to the Lebanese border.

As of now, the Israeli government has not issued any statements regarding the reported strikes. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights also noted that throughout 2024, Israel has conducted 41 strikes on Syrian territories, which have cumulatively resulted in the deaths of 153 individuals, including 12 civilians.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has issued a directive for Israel to immediately cease its military offensive in Rafah, Gaza. Judge Salam of the ICJ highlighted the severe risks and the potential for irreparable harm to the rights of the people in Gaza as the basis for the court's decision.

The judge noted that the situation in Rafah has significantly deteriorated since the ICJ's previous orders, justifying the imposition of new emergency measures. The court has mandated that Israel report back within one month on the steps it has taken to comply with this order.

It is important to note that while ICJ rulings are legally binding, they lack direct enforcement mechanisms. This ruling underscores the international legal community's concern over the humanitarian situation in Rafah and places pressure on Israel to adjust its military strategies in accordance with international law.

Ahead of an expected ruling from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Friday, Israel's government has affirmed its commitment to continue its military operations in Gaza. Government spokesman Avi Hyman emphasized Israel's resolve in a recent statement to reporters, declaring, “No power on Earth will stop Israel from protecting its citizens and going after Hamas in Gaza.” This statement was in response to questions about whether Israel would comply with a potential adverse ruling by the ICJ.

Concerns have risen within Israel's political circles following a case presented by South Africa to the ICJ last week, which argued for the court to demand an end to Israeli military activities in Rafah. According to reports by Haaretz, senior Israeli officials are apprehensive that a strict verdict could expose Israel to international sanctions.

Israeli tanks have moved deeper into Rafah, reaching the densely populated Yibna neighborhood at the heart of the city. This advancement, reported by Reuters, marks a significant escalation in the military offensive that began earlier this month in southern Gaza.

The Israeli military's push into the eastern outskirts has been gradual but intensified on Wednesday night, marking one of the most severe bombardments of Rafah so far. Local residents and militants report that tanks have now positioned themselves farther west along the southern border fence with Egypt than previously observed.

Amidst these developments, Hamas's armed wing claimed to have targeted two Israeli armored troop carriers with anti-tank rockets at a border fence gate. Meanwhile, Palestinian residents reported that Israeli drones had been active over the Yibna suburb, engaging targets on the ground and attacking fishing boats along Rafah's beachfront, causing several to catch fire.

The night was described by locals as having relentless Israeli fire from drones, helicopters, warplanes, and tanks. Despite the heavy resistance, tanks were reported to have made a limited push southeastward.

As of now, there has been no official comment from the Israeli military regarding the latest developments in Rafah.

Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris has announced a significant diplomatic shift as Ireland, along with Norway and Spain, will officially recognize the state of Palestine today. This landmark decision was disclosed during a press conference where PM Harris expressed that each participating country will proceed with the necessary national measures to formalize this recognition.

PM Harris expressed optimism about the impact of this decision, suggesting that it could pave the way for more countries to acknowledge Palestinian statehood in the near future. "I’m confident that further countries will join us in taking this important step in the coming weeks,” he stated, indicating a potential shift in international relations regarding the Palestinian issue.

In one of the most violent raids in recent months, Israeli security forces stormed the Jenin refugee camp early this morning, engaging in heavy clashes with local Palestinian fighters. The raid, described by the Israeli military as a "counterterrorism operation," targeted what is known as a stronghold for Palestinian armed groups.

The confrontation led to the deaths of at least seven individuals, including a doctor, a teacher, and a student, highlighting the tragic impact of the conflict on the local community. Additionally, at least 12 people sustained injuries in the raid, with several students among the wounded.

Due to the intense violence, all educational institutions in both Jenin and its adjacent refugee camp were evacuated as a precautionary measure.

According to AFP, Israeli activists from the grassroots organization Standing Together joined a humanitarian aid convoy destined for Gaza to shield it from potential attacks by settlers and right-wing extremists. The group, comprising about 30 members, traveled alongside approximately 30 trucks carrying aid to the besieged Palestinian territory.

During the journey, which took place on Sunday, one truck in the convoy was attacked, highlighting the ongoing risks these missions face. This incident follows another recent disruption where at least seven aid trucks from Jordan were stopped and ransacked by Israelis last week, underscoring the volatile environment these humanitarian efforts continue to operate in.

Gaza's civil defense has reported that Israeli military operations have resulted in the destruction of 300 homes in Jabalia, a city in northern Gaza. The offensive, which began earlier this month, has also led to numerous casualties, with many people reported killed in the attacks and others still trapped under the rubble.

According to a statement released on Telegram, Israeli forces have been actively shelling areas around al-Awda Hospital in the Tel al-Zaatar region of Jabalia. Additionally, Kamal Adwan Hospital is facing imminent closure due to ongoing threats and direct targeting by Israeli operations, further compounding the humanitarian crisis in the area.

According to a report by The Washington Post, a group of prominent business figures has been actively lobbying New York City Mayor Eric Adams to use police intervention against pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia University. This lobbying effort reflects the business community's interest in influencing U.S. public opinion regarding the ongoing Israeli conflict in Gaza.

The disclosed communications reveal that on April 26, a group including Kind snack company founder Daniel Lubetzky, hedge fund manager Daniel Loeb, billionaire Len Blavatnik, and real estate investor Joseph Sitt participated in a Zoom call with Mayor Adams. During this meeting, discussions were not only focused on the protests but also touched on political donations to Adams and potential pressure tactics on Columbia University’s leadership to sanction police action on its campus.

Five Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers, injured during recent fighting in Gaza, have been airlifted to the trauma unit at Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital. The evacuation was carried out by helicopter, underscoring the severity of the injuries sustained.

Of the evacuated soldiers, two are reported to be in serious condition, requiring immediate and intensive medical care. Two others are in moderate condition, while one has sustained mild injuries. The medical team at Hadassah Ein Kerem is providing necessary treatment to stabilize and recover the health of these soldiers.

Hezbollah has made a significant escalation in its military tactics by deploying a rocket-armed drone against Israeli targets for the first time. The Lebanese armed group released footage showing the drone attack, where air-to-ground S-5 rockets were launched at Israeli troops and vehicles stationed at the Metula base.

The S-5 rocket, originally Russian-made, measures approximately 1.4 meters (4.6 feet) in length and weighs 5 kg (11 pounds). Hezbollah's use of such technology marks a notable advancement in its arsenal and represents an escalation in the conflict dynamics with Israel.

In addition to this drone strike, Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for a total of 13 attacks on Israeli positions on Thursday alone.

Egypt has rejected a proposal from Israel to reopen and collaboratively manage the Rafah crossing, which has been a critical point for humanitarian aid and medical evacuations from Gaza. According to two security sources, the proposal was made by Israel's Shin Bet security service and included details on the management of the crossing post-Israeli withdrawal.

However, Egypt has insisted that the management of the Rafah crossing should remain solely under Palestinian authority. This crossing has been shut since May 7, following its seizure by the Israeli military, exacerbating the humanitarian situation by blocking critical aid and exit routes for Gazan civilians.

The closure of the Rafah crossing has led to a blame game between Egypt and Israel. While Egypt attributes the closure strictly to Israeli military operations, an Israeli government spokesperson claimed that Egypt had previously rejected a request to open the crossing to allow Gazan civilians to flee the conflict.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have reported a tragic incident of friendly fire in northern Gaza that resulted in the deaths of five Israeli soldiers. According to military sources, the incident involved "tank crossfire of the 202 battalion" at the Jabaliya refugee camp. This misfire occurred when a tank engaged a building after mistaking the gunfire from Israeli soldiers for hostile Hamas forces.

In addition to the fatalities, seven other soldiers were injured during the incident. They have been evacuated for medical treatment, and their families have been notified.

This incident contributes to a troubling pattern of friendly fire within the IDF during the ongoing seven-month conflict in Gaza, with at least 27 soldiers reported killed by mistaken fire from their own forces, according to military figures.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has publicly expressed his frustration with the government's lack of a clear post-war strategy for Gaza. In a statement that highlights divisions within Israel’s war cabinet, Gallant criticized the absence of a response to his repeated inquiries about the future governance of Gaza following military operations.

In a cabinet meeting, Gallant urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to clarify that Israel does not intend to assume civilian or military control over Gaza. His concern is that without a definitive plan, the region might fall under less favorable conditions, either continuing under Hamas rule or shifting to a potentially burdensome Israeli military rule.

Prime Minister Netanyahu, resisting the notion of replacing Hamas with the rival Palestinian faction Fatah, underscored the dilemma of either option potentially undermining Israel’s military achievements and affecting negotiations for the release of hostages.

Echoing Gallant’s concerns, Benny Gantz, another member of the war cabinet and a past rival of Netanyahu, supported Gallant's call for decisive leadership, stressing the importance of responsible governance and strategic planning for the future of Gaza and Israel.

Students at Melbourne University have launched a pro-Palestine demonstration, staging a sit-in at the university's Arts West building, which they have temporarily renamed "Mahmoud’s Hall." This act of protest is in honor of Mahmoud Alnaouq, a prospective student of the University of Melbourne who was recently killed in Gaza.

The sit-in reflects the students' solidarity with the Palestinian cause and their call for greater awareness and action regarding the situation in Gaza. The renaming of the building symbolizes their tribute to Alnaouq's memory and their protest against the violence affecting prospective and current students from conflict zones.

Australian Senator Fatima Payman, a member of the Australian Labor Party, has publicly denounced Israel's military actions in Gaza as “genocide,” marking a significant departure from her party’s usual stance. In a bold statement, Payman called on her colleagues to uphold moral integrity and “stand for what is right.”

Criticizing the leadership of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Payman expressed dissatisfaction with what she described as “performative gestures” and the narrative surrounding Israel’s right to self-defense, which she labeled as “gaslighting.” Her outspoken comments reflect a deep moral concern over the ongoing conflict.

“My conscience has been uneasy for far too long and I must call this out for what it is,” Payman declared, emphasizing the need for clear and decisive action. “This is a genocide and we need to stop pretending otherwise. The lack of clarity, the moral confusion, the indecisiveness is eating at the heart of this nation,” she added, highlighting a growing internal debate within Australia over its foreign policy towards Israel and Gaza.

The Israeli military has escalated its operations in Gaza, with intensified attacks both from the air and on the ground. Recent reports indicate that Israeli fighter jets have been heavily bombarding areas in Jabalia and the Rafah district. Street confrontations have been reported within the Jabalia refugee camp, while fighting also persists in the Jnaina and Salam neighborhoods of the eastern Rafah district.

In a tragic turn of events, ten Palestinians were killed in the Sabra neighborhood of Gaza City following an airstrike on a UN-run clinic. Additionally, five Palestinians lost their lives in overnight strikes targeting the Bureij refugee camp.

All casualties have been transported to Al-Aqsa Hospital, where preparations are being made for their burial. These developments mark a severe uptick in the violence affecting the central and southern regions of Gaza, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the area.

Israeli shelling targeted a clinic operated by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in the Sabra neighborhood of Gaza City, resulting in the deaths of at least ten displaced Palestinians. This attack adds to a series of strikes that have impacted UN facilities during the ongoing conflict.

According to UNRWA, the Israeli military's operations have damaged a total of 171 of its facilities throughout the war.

The Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas, has reported a successful missile attack against an Israeli troop carrier. According to their statement, the attack was carried out using an Al-Yassin 105 missile in the eastern al-Salam neighborhood of Gaza. The strike reportedly resulted in the death and injury of several crew members aboard the carrier. 

The International Court of Justice (ICJ), the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, has announced that it will hold hearings this Thursday and Friday. The sessions will focus on new emergency measures requested by South Africa in response to Israel's ongoing attacks on Rafah during the Gaza conflict. This development was reported by Reuters on Monday.

The hearings come amidst continued international concern over Israel's military strategies in Rafah, especially given the dense population of Palestinians in the area who report having no alternative places to seek refuge. Despite repeated cautions from international allies and aid organizations against a ground incursion, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has proceeded with the offensive, heightening fears of a major humanitarian crisis.

Details of the specific measures South Africa has proposed are yet to be disclosed, but the hearings signify a significant step towards addressing the international legal implications of the conflict in Gaza. Further information is expected as the ICJ proceedings commence.

According to a CNN report citing senior Biden administration officials, Israel has positioned enough troops near Rafah to potentially initiate a full-scale incursion into the southern Gaza city in the coming days. This development comes despite President Joe Biden's explicit warnings against such an action.

The officials expressed uncertainty over whether Israel has definitively decided to proceed with the invasion. Concerns were also raised about Israel's lack of adequate preparations for the evacuation of Palestinian civilians from Rafah, particularly regarding food supplies, hygiene, and shelter.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has criticized the Israeli strategy, stating that it lacks a "credible plan" to protect Palestinian civilians and cautioning that a poorly executed attack could lead to an insurgency, as it might not eliminate all Hamas fighters in the area.

As Israel intensifies its military activities in Rafah, including bombardments and ordering evacuations, residents report that there are no safe havens remaining. The ongoing conflict has also hindered aid groups from accessing the Kerem Shalom crossing with Israel, a critical point for aid delivery.

Amidst these developments, the U.S. has expressed growing impatience with Israel’s tactics and indicated it will not provide offensive arms for a full-scale assault on Rafah, underscoring a potential shift in U.S. policy amidst the ongoing conflict.

According to the Gaza Government Media Office, all hospitals in the northern part of the Gaza Strip have ceased operations. This shutdown comes as the Israeli military intensifies its assaults, coinciding with the launch of a new ground operation in the area. The United Nations reports that these recent military activities have displaced approximately 100,000 people.

The Jabalia refugee camp, in particular, has been a hotspot for severe clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinian groups. Displaced civilians describe the situation as "disastrous," with reports of Israeli forces targeting UNRWA shelters, exacerbating the already critical humanitarian crisis and prompting further mass evacuations.

Israeli military actions have intensified in the Gaza Strip, with airstrikes targeting homes in the Jabalia refugee camp, specifically on al-Ternis Street, as reported by Al Jazeera Arabic journalists on the ground. The ongoing bombardment has significantly affected the northern areas of Gaza.

Additionally, artillery shelling in the Zeitoun neighborhood, located south of Gaza City, has resulted in at least one fatality and multiple injuries. These developments continue to escalate the humanitarian crisis in the region, impacting residential areas and contributing to the rising civilian casualty toll.

The United Nations has confirmed the death of an international staff member in Gaza, marking the first such casualty among its personnel. The incident occurred when a UN vehicle was hit in Rafah. Farhan Haq, a spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, disclosed the information during a press conference, stating that this incident brings the total number of UN staff killed in Gaza since October 7 to 190.

Haq described the incident in Rafah as an attack, highlighting the dangerous conditions under which UN and humanitarian agencies operate in the conflict zone.

Israeli military operations have escalated in Gaza, with forces advancing into the northern and southern regions of the enclave, according to Reuters. In the north, Israeli troops have reentered areas previously declared cleared of Hamas, while in the south, significant movements into Rafah were reported, with tanks crossing major highways.

This resurgence of combat, described as some of the most intense in recent weeks, has triggered another mass displacement of Palestinians, heightening fears of a deepening humanitarian crisis. Aid organizations are sounding alarms about the potential for worsening conditions as hundreds of thousands flee the renewed fighting.

In the north, Israel's military has described its actions as a "mop-up" operation intended to prevent the return of fighters, stating that such strategies were always part of their operational plan. However, Palestinians argue that the continued conflict amid previously secured zones illustrates the unattainability of Israel's military goals.

In Jabalia, Gaza's largest refugee camp established 75 years ago, the conflict has intensified with tanks advancing towards the district's center amid reports of tank shells hitting central areas and airstrikes causing significant destruction to residential buildings.

While the Israeli public has largely supported the military's actions in Gaza, there has been a noticeable shift in sentiment regarding the government's leadership and strategies. Growing dissatisfaction is particularly directed at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whom many citizens view as prioritizing his political longevity over effective conflict resolution, especially concerning the return of Israeli captives.

Recent events have highlighted this discontent, with right-wing ministers such as Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich facing public backlash, including being booed at a recent event. Critics argue that Netanyahu's alliance with these hardline figures is a strategic move to secure his position, even at the cost of prolonging the conflict.

There have been multiple reports of internal disagreements within the government, with leaks suggesting that Netanyahu has been hesitant to formulate or discuss a post-war strategy, a critical component that security heads and cabinet members see as necessary.

Hezbollah, the armed group based in Lebanon, has claimed responsibility for a missile attack on an Israeli Merkava tank at the Yiftah barracks in the occupied Lebanese village of Quds. According to a statement released on Telegram, the missile strike resulted in the tank being destroyed and its crew suffering casualties.

The group stated that the attack occurred at 10:35 am local time (07:35 GMT) as part of its support for Gaza. In a related operation earlier today, Hezbollah also claimed responsibility for an aerial assault on the 403rd Reserve Artillery Battalion of the 91st Division, located south of Beit Hillel in northern Israel. This attack reportedly resulted in casualties among Israeli officers and soldiers.

According to a report from Al Jazeera’s Tareq Abu Azzoum in Deir el-Balah, Gaza Strip, Israeli forces have issued an evacuation order to the medical staff at the Kuwaiti Hospital in Rafah. This is the first direct communication from Israeli forces to the hospital’s director amid ongoing hostilities.

The staff at the hospital, which has been operating under dire conditions, expressed concerns that an attack on the facility could lead to a complete collapse of Rafah’s already strained medical system. The situation highlights the escalating humanitarian crisis in the area and the critical role of medical facilities in providing necessary care amidst conflict.

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has reported that nearly 360,000 Palestinians have fled the city of Rafah in the Gaza Strip following evacuation orders issued by Israel on May 6. This large-scale displacement underscores the severe impact of the ongoing military operations in the area.

UNRWA has highlighted the dire situation for those displaced, stating, "There’s nowhere to go. There’s no safety without a ceasefire," in a recent post on X.

At a recent conference held in Kuwait, international donors committed more than $2 billion to support the Gaza Strip, which has been heavily affected by seven months of Israeli bombardment. The conference, organized by the International Islamic Charitable Organization (IICO) and the UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), aims to disburse the pledged funds over a two-year period, with the potential for extension.

These funds are designated for critical humanitarian interventions in Gaza to address the dire needs of the population, which has suffered significant infrastructural damage and loss of life. 

British Foreign Minister David Cameron has voiced strong concerns regarding a potential Israeli military offensive in the Gazan city of Rafah, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive plan to protect civilian lives. In an interview with Sky News, Cameron stressed that any major offensive should include clear strategies for evacuating civilians, providing food, medicine, and shelter, and ensuring their safety.

Cameron highlighted the lack of such a plan from the Israeli side, leading to the UK's non-support for the proposed offensive. Additionally, he criticized the current pace of humanitarian aid flow into Gaza, acknowledging some signs of improvement but insisting that the efforts are not progressing swiftly enough.

Reports from Israel confirm an ambush involving Israeli soldiers in the Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza. The incident has resulted in casualties among the soldiers. Details on the exact number of casualties and the circumstances surrounding the ambush remain limited at this time.

Recent reports indicate that Israeli quadcopters have opened fire on ambulances within the Jabaliya refugee camp in Northern Gaza. This attack is part of an ongoing series of military actions in the region, escalating concerns about the safety of medical personnel and the violation of international humanitarian norms regarding the protection of medical services in conflict zones.

Loreen, the previous Eurovision winner, has announced her intention to break with the contest's traditional protocol by refusing to hand over the trophy to this year's potential winner, Israel’s Eden Golan, should she win. Loreen cited her objections to what she described as Israel's actions in Gaza as the reason for her decision.

This statement comes amid ongoing tensions and conflicts in the region, highlighting the impact of geopolitical issues on cultural and entertainment events. Loreen's planned action could stir significant controversy and discussion within the Eurovision community and beyond, reflecting the broader international reaction to the situation in Gaza.

Hezbollah, the armed Lebanese group, has reported carrying out six attacks on Israeli targets within the last few hours. The most recent of these involved rocket fire aimed at a site in the occupied Shebaa Farms area.

Additional strikes included a direct hit on the as-Summaqa site in Kfarchouba, southern Lebanon, using an unspecified weapon. Hezbollah also claimed to have targeted "spy equipment" in Jal al-Allam and reported successful artillery shell strikes on the Ramyah site.

These developments mark a continuation of the hostilities that have flared across the Lebanon-Israel border since October. The ongoing exchanges between Hezbollah and the Israeli military are escalating concerns about the potential for a broader regional conflict.

Criticism is intensifying against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over his handling of the ongoing hostage situation in Gaza. Relatives of the captives and the public at large have expressed growing discontent, accusing the Prime Minister of neglecting the urgent need to secure the release of hostages. This sentiment has been echoed strongly since the recent announcement of the death of Nadav Popplewell, a captive who reportedly died from injuries sustained in an Israeli airstrike.

Netanyahu, known for his political acumen, returned to power by aligning with far-right factions, a move critics argue was more about political necessity than ideological alignment. Now, these right-wing coalition partners are pushing for aggressive military actions, such as an invasion of Rafah, adding to the complexities of Netanyahu’s leadership. Accusations are surfacing that Netanyahu may be prolonging the conflict in Gaza to maintain his political position, amidst calls for more decisive action to end the hostage crisis and the broader conflict.

Relatives of captives currently held in Gaza have announced plans to convene an emergency news conference this evening in front of the Defense Ministry headquarters in Tel Aviv. This decision follows recent announcements from the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades regarding the death of 51-year-old Nadav Popplewell, who reportedly succumbed to injuries from an Israeli airstrike over a month ago.

The families are expected to address the conditions of the captives, the impact of ongoing military actions, and possibly demand more proactive measures from the Israeli government to ensure the safety and release of their loved ones.

Abu Obeida, the spokesperson for Hamas's armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, has issued a statement concerning the death of Nadav Popplewell, a 51-year-old Israeli hostage who also held British citizenship. According to Obeida, Popplewell's death resulted from injuries sustained during an Israeli airstrike on the location where he and another prisoner, Judy Weinstein, were being held. The incident reportedly occurred over a month ago.

Obeida further claimed that Popplewell's condition worsened over time due to the lack of available intensive medical care, attributing this to the extensive damage and cessation of services at hospitals in the Gaza Strip caused by Israeli actions. This statement highlights the dire healthcare situation in conflict zones and the impact on both civilians and detainees.

Hamas's armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, has released a video purportedly showing Nadav Popplewell, an Israeli hostage who they claim died from wounds sustained in an Israeli airstrike.

Overnight, Israeli forces conducted airstrikes targeting the Al-Maghazi refugee camp located in the southern Gaza Strip. This marks another attack on the camp, which is situated east of what the Israeli army designates as "an extended humanitarian zone" around Deir al-Balah. The repeated strikes on Al-Maghazi have intensified concerns about the safety of civilians in areas.

Al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas, released a video showing Nadav Popplewell, a 51-year-old man held hostage in Gaza. The 11-second video features Popplewell speaking, with a message in Arabic and Hebrew superimposed that reads: “Time is running out. Your government is lying.”

Gaza’s Health Ministry has reported the recent deaths of four medical officials at al-Shifa Hospital, increasing the total number of medical staff fatalities to 492 since the onset of the war. Additionally, the ministry disclosed that Israeli forces have detained 42 medical staff from the same hospital, raising the total detained to 310.

The detained health officials are reportedly being held under conditions described as "dire," posing serious threats to their lives. The ministry highlighted the death of surgeon Adnan al-Bursh while in Israeli custody as a pressing example of the risks faced by detained medical personnel.

In response to these events, the Health Ministry has urgently called on Israel to release all detained medical staff and to take immediate measures to support the remaining medical facilities.

Despite ongoing military operations in Rafah, Israeli officials have indicated that truce talks with Hamas are not yet off the table, according to a report from Al Jazeera citing Israel's Ynetnews. The officials stated that Israel remains open to pursuing a ceasefire agreement, contingent on receiving satisfactory responses from Hamas.

The negotiations, which had been taking place in Cairo, saw both Hamas and Israeli negotiators depart last Thursday without reaching a deal.

Al Jazeera reports that recent airstrikes in central Gaza have resulted in at least 20 fatalities. These casualties, which include eight children and eight women, were confirmed by medical sources at Deir el-Balah’s Al-Aqsa Hospital. The death toll reflects the ongoing severe impact on civilian populations in the region.

Since the beginning of Israel's invasion of Gaza, statistics indicate that approximately 70 percent of the 34,904 fatalities within the enclave have been children and women, underscoring the disproportionate effect of the conflict on vulnerable groups.

Today in the southern Gaza Strip, near the town of Nirim, an unusual incident resulted in injuries to 12 Israeli soldiers. The group suffered minor to moderate injuries after their IDF tank inadvertently disturbed a wasps' nest, prompting the insects to swarm and sting the soldiers. Several of the affected soldiers were subsequently evacuated from the Gaza Strip to local hospitals for medical treatment.

Last night, the Israeli security cabinet authorized an expansion of the Israeli Defense Forces' (IDF) operational area in Rafah, according to reports from three informed sources. This decision marks a significant escalation in the military's engagement in the region, potentially widening the scope and intensity of its activities. The exact details of the expansion and the strategic objectives behind this move have not been disclosed yet, but this development indicates a deepening of the Israeli military's involvement in Rafah amidst ongoing conflicts

Arizona State University (ASU) has terminated the employment of Jonathan Yudelman, a postdoctoral researcher, following an incident involving the verbal assault of a woman wearing a hijab. ASU President Michael Crow confirmed in a statement to CNN that Yudelman is no longer permitted on campus and will not be teaching at the university again.

The decision comes after a social media video, which captured Yudelman intimidating two individuals near a pro-Israel rally on May 5, was widely shared online. Yudelman was subsequently placed on leave as the university investigated the incident. This action reflects ASU's commitment to maintaining a safe and inclusive environment for all its students and staff.

Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandela, grandson of the iconic South African leader Nelson Mandela, has publicly voiced support for pro-Palestine student protesters worldwide, particularly those in US universities. In a bold statement, Mandela encouraged students in the UK and Europe to follow suit, advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza and supporting Palestinian rights.

Contradicting remarks by the UK’s shadow foreign secretary, David Lammy, Mandela emphasized that his grandfather was a steadfast supporter of student-led protest movements and was deeply committed to the Palestinian cause. He criticized Lammy’s stance, urging him to cease being an “apologist for genocide” and instead to support the students’ activism for justice.

Mandela praised the global youth for being the "conscience of our world" and stressed the importance of their role as a moral compass. He called for an end to the criminalization and brutalization of protest activities, urging support for the youth in their continued advocacy for human rights and dignity. Addressing the protesters directly, Mandela declared, “You are our heroes, we salute you.”

The United States, traditionally Israel's largest arms supplier, has temporarily suspended a shipment of weapons to Israel, including heavy, bunker-busting bombs used in the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has resulted in nearly 35,000 Palestinian fatalities over the past seven months. The U.S. has historically provided 69 percent of Israel’s military aid, with Germany and Italy following as significant contributors.

Recent developments have seen several countries ceasing arms exports to Israel due to concerns over potential violations of international humanitarian law. Canada and the Netherlands have both announced halts, with Canada stopping the licensing of arms exports since January 8, pending assurance that the arms will be used in compliance with humanitarian law. The Netherlands specifically halted shipments of parts for F-35 jets after a court ruling underscored concerns over humanitarian law violations.

Additionally, Japan, Spain, and Belgium have also suspended arms sales to Israel in response to its military actions in Gaza. This reflects a growing international scrutiny over arms sales practices and their implications in conflict zones.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have initiated operations in the eastern suburbs of Rafah, focusing on clearing the area. Concurrently, construction has begun on the Philadelphi Corridor, a 1-kilometer zone inside Gaza. This corridor will entail the demolition of all existing buildings in the area to establish a permanent military base.

These developments mark a significant escalation in the region's security dynamics, indicating a strategic shift in the IDF's approach to maintaining control and ensuring security along its border with Gaza. 

While the Israeli military claims to be conducting a limited operation solely in the eastern area of Gaza's southern city of Rafah, reports suggest that attacks have extended to other densely populated parts of the city.

Al Jazeera's Tareq Abu Azzoum reports that the onslaught has resulted in widespread destruction and the use of lethal force not only in the eastern areas but also in the middle and western sections of Rafah, including al-Mawasi.

Abu Azzoum, reporting from central Gaza's Deir el-Balah, highlights the intensity of the bombardment, which has led Palestinians to seek refuge in al-Mawasi, a region currently housing approximately 400,000 people, according to the UN.

Demonstrators have assembled in Malmo, Sweden, to protest against Israel's involvement in the 68th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC).

The gathering, known as the "Stop Israel" demonstration, reflects ongoing opposition to Israel's participation in the event.

The protest underscores broader sentiments surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict, with some advocating for boycotts and divestment initiatives against Israel as a form of protest.

The leader of Yemen's Houthis, Abdul Malik al-Houthi, has issued a warning, stating that the group will target ships associated with the supply or transportation of goods to Israel, regardless of their final destination. This declaration comes as part of what al-Houthi describes as the fourth stage of escalation in response to perceived Israeli aggression in the southern Gaza Strip.

Al-Houthi indicated that the group is considering further escalatory measures beyond the current stage, suggesting potential future actions against perceived adversaries.

The ongoing attacks by the Houthis in the Red Sea have disrupted global shipping routes, prompting firms to seek alternative, longer, and more expensive journeys around southern Africa. Concerns have also arisen regarding the potential for the Israel-Hamas conflict to exacerbate instability in the wider Middle East.

In response to the attacks on shipping, the United States and Britain have conducted strikes against Houthi targets.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has conveyed a resolute message, suggesting Israel's willingness to stand independently, even amidst recent shifts in international support.

Reportedly addressing US President Joe Biden's decision to suspend certain arms deliveries to Israel, Netanyahu shared a video of his speech commemorating the Holocaust. In the address, he underscored Israel's unwavering commitment to self-defense and its determination to achieve its objectives.

Reflecting on the historical vulnerability of the Jewish people during the Holocaust, Netanyahu emphasized Israel's resolve to safeguard its sovereignty. He pledged from Jerusalem that if Israel is compelled to stand alone, it will do so, drawing strength from the support of countless individuals worldwide who advocate for its just cause.

Reports indicate that the Hamas delegation has left Cairo for consultations, according to information obtained by BBC.

Despite ongoing fighting, ceasefire negotiations persist in Cairo, with representatives from Israel, Hamas, and the US engaging in discussions alongside Egyptian and Qatari mediators.

According to reports from Al Jazeera, sick and injured Palestinians in Gaza are facing dire circumstances as they remain trapped without access to medical care due to Israel's closure of border crossings. The enclave's health ministry has expressed alarm over the situation, stating that individuals in need of treatment are experiencing a slow decline in health with no possibility of receiving assistance.

The closure of Gaza's border crossings has resulted in the inability to transport essential medical supplies and equipment, exacerbating the crisis. Gaza's only dialysis center has been forced to shut down, further limiting medical services available to the population.

In response to the escalating health emergency, the health ministry has issued a plea for urgent action to alleviate the suffering of those in need. They have called for pressure to reopen the border crossings to allow the entry of medical and relief supplies crucial for saving lives.

Lebanon's civil defense reports that four individuals lost their lives in an Israeli airstrike targeting a vehicle in southern Lebanon, according to a security source cited by AFP. The victims are identified as members of Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Shia group.

Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon have become frequent since Hezbollah launched rockets at Israel on October 8th in support of Hamas in Gaza. This exchange of fire has led to a series of escalating attacks and counter-attacks between the two sides.

The Israeli army, when approached by AFP for comment, declined to address reports from foreign media outlets. The Israeli military maintains that it targets Hezbollah operatives and infrastructure while retaliating against attacks on Israeli military bases in northern Israel.

Israel's Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, has declared the country's unwavering commitment to combat Hamas, stating that Israel will persist in the fight until the group's eradication.

In a statement posted on X, Katz asserted, "Israel will continue to fight Hamas until its destruction. There is no war more just than this."

Israeli attorney and Israeli-Palestinian relations specialist, Daniel Seidmann, has cautioned that the Israeli presence in Gaza amidst ongoing hostilities poses a dire threat to hostages held in the region.

Citing opinion polls and expert analysis, Seidmann emphasized the incompatibility between freeing captives and sustaining military operations. He stressed the urgent need for Israel to make a decisive choice between ending hostilities and withdrawing from Gaza to ensure the safety of the hostages.

Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel’s far-right National Security Minister known for his confrontational use of social media, has stirred controversy with a new post on the X platform. His post, which included a heart emoji placed between the words "Hamas" and "Biden," appears to suggest a favorable relationship between the Palestinian group and US President Joe Biden.

The post contained no further comments, leaving the provocative statement to stand alone. This has prompted a strong response from Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid, who labeled Ben-Gvir a national liability. In a post on X, Lapid urged Prime Minister Netanyahu to dismiss Ben-Gvir immediately, arguing that failing to do so would jeopardize the safety of both the Israeli military and the nation's citizens. Lapid’s forceful critique underscores the high tensions within Israeli politics over Ben-Gvir’s actions and statements.

In a recent speech on UK security held in London, Lord Cameron, the Foreign Secretary, highlighted the escalating dangers and volatilities in the current global environment. He specifically pointed to the ongoing crisis in Gaza, where innocent citizens are facing worsening conditions, underscoring the necessity for safe aid delivery.

"This is a world more dangerous, more volatile, and more confrontational than most of us have ever known, and we need to face up to that fact and act accordingly," Lord Cameron stated. He also referred to the situation in the Red Sea, noting that numerous ships have been attacked, with only the US and Britain effectively responding to these hostilities.

Addressing the need for heightened security measures, Lord Cameron urged NATO countries to commit to spending 2.5% of their GDP on defense. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing security to meet the challenges posed by the current international climate.

On the topic of the conflict in Gaza, Lord Cameron expressed a preference for an "immediate humanitarian pause" over an immediate ceasefire, arguing that it would facilitate the release of hostages and aid delivery, potentially leading to a sustainable ceasefire without resumption of hostilities. He stated that focusing on securing a temporary halt in fighting was a more practical approach currently being pursued by the UK in the UN and other forums.

Rafah has faced an unprecedented level of bombardment over the last 24 hours, surpassing the combined intensity of the past two weeks, according to Louise Wateridge, a communications officer at the UN aid agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA). Speaking to the BBC, Wateridge described the ongoing situation, noting that the frequency of bombings had escalated particularly in the eastern parts of Rafah this morning.

From her location in western Rafah, Wateridge reported that the building she was in shook intermittently due to the nearby explosions. She observed vehicles leaving the area, transporting families displaced by the recent surge in violence.

Wateridge highlighted the challenges faced by the local population, including those who cannot relocate due to responsibilities towards elderly parents or young children. She pointed out the lack of safe havens within the Gaza Strip, mentioning that available spaces are minimal, poorly equipped, and offer no guarantee of safety.

Israeli forces have demolished the Jerusalem residence of Fadi Jamjoum, a 37-year-old man alleged to have carried out a shooting at a bus stop in southern Israel in February, according to the Wafa news agency. The action resulted in the destruction of an eighth-floor apartment located in the Shuafat refugee camp, rendering his wife and four children homeless.

Jamjoum was fatally shot by an Israeli reservist following the incident at the bus stop. Shortly thereafter, Israeli forces conducted a raid on Jamjoum's home, taking precise measurements in preparation for its eventual demolition.

This practice of demolishing the homes of Palestinians accused of attacks against Israelis is a longstanding Israeli policy, which has been widely criticized by human rights organizations as a form of collective punishment.

The United States has paused its arms shipments to Israel, a move described as "largely symbolic" by Marc Owen Jones, an associate professor of Middle East studies and digital humanities at Hamad bin Khalifa University. In an interview with Al Jazeera, Jones interpreted this decision as an indication of President Biden's dissatisfaction with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, particularly over actions in Rafah, which he identified as crossing a US "red line."

This suspension in military aid, which comes after a year of significant U.S. support to Israel, carries substantial political implications. According to Jones, the pause is likely intended to pressure Netanyahu into agreeing to ceasefire terms. He speculated on the potential consequences for Netanyahu, suggesting that continued military activities in Rafah without US support could lead to military failures, while abstaining could jeopardize his political coalition. This scenario, Jones noted, might signal a pivotal point in Netanyahu's leadership.

Ireland, Spain, and several other European Union member states are reportedly considering the recognition of a Palestinian state on May 21, according to a report from Ireland’s RTE News cited by Reuters. Discussions have reportedly intensified between Dublin and Madrid, as well as between Slovenia and Malta, focusing on a joint declaration of Palestinian statehood.

The move is pending the outcome of a United Nations General Assembly vote scheduled for May 10, which could potentially qualify Palestinians to become a full UN member. Following a joint statement on March 22, the governments of Spain, Ireland, Malta, and Slovenia announced their initial agreement to move forward with recognizing a Palestinian state, aligning their diplomatic efforts towards this goal.

A vessel carrying humanitarian aid has set sail from Cyprus to a floating pier constructed by the US off the coast of Gaza, according to marine tracking websites and a report from Reuters. The US-flagged Sagamore departed from the port of Larnaca, with US officials indicating that the ship's mission is to deliver supplies directly to the besieged enclave via the newly built platform.

Cypriot authorities have not provided a comment following the departure of the Sagamore. They had previously stated that the vessel would leave once the floating pier was operational and weather conditions permitted. The pier is intended to facilitate faster delivery of aid into Gaza.

During a raid in the occupied West Bank city of Qalqilya, the Israeli military shot a 15-year-old Palestinian boy in the leg, as reported by Al Jazeera citing the Wafa news agency. The incident occurred early this morning when Israeli forces used tear gas and live ammunition while entering the city.

In addition to injuring the teenager, the forces also detained a man in his 20s. The injured teenager has been hospitalized, and his condition is currently reported as stable.

The health ministry in Gaza, operated by Hamas, has reported that the conflict has resulted in over 34,900 Palestinian fatalities and 78,500 injuries since the initiation of Israel's military campaign in the region. The latest daily figures indicate that 60 individuals were killed and 110 others were injured in the past 24 hours.

The escalation in violence began after Israeli forces launched a significant retaliatory operation following cross-border attacks by Hamas on 7 October, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and 252 hostages in southern Israel. The ongoing conflict continues to exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in the area.

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) has reported that approximately 80,000 people have evacuated Rafah since Monday. This mass displacement occurs as international pressure mounts on Israel to avoid escalating to a full-scale ground operation in the area.

According to Israeli officials, the military is engaging in what is described as a "precise counterterrorism operation" targeting specific areas in eastern Rafah. The ongoing operations and the resulting humanitarian impact continue to draw global attention and concern.

Witnesses in Rafah have reported ongoing intense shelling. The situation has resulted in significant casualties, with local hospitals struggling to manage the influx of wounded.

Last night, footage from Kuwaiti Hospital depicted children and a baby with severe injuries being admitted for urgent medical attention. Adult casualties were also seen, with some being carried on stretchers while displaying signs of extreme discomfort. Medical staff at the hospital reported treating 25 individuals from a nearby neighborhood.

Khaled Taweel, a local resident,  stated that the shelling affected all demographics, including children, women, and the elderly. He highlighted a discrepancy between official descriptions of the military actions as "limited incursions" and the reality observed on the ground, particularly near Yousef al-Najjar Hospital in eastern Rafah.

As the situation escalates, many Palestinians have been fleeing the area along the coastal road, seeking safety from the continuous bombardment.

Rescue efforts are underway in Rafah as locals sift through debris following an Israeli airstrike targeting residential areas.

Early reports from Agence France-Presse described intense shelling in the region this morning, while the Palestinian news agency Wafa confirmed eight fatalities due to a house being bombed by an aircraft. According to Israel, Rafah remains a significant base for Hamas in Gaza, with threats of an extensive military invasion persisting despite international cautions.

Amid escalating conflict, over one million Palestinian civilians have congregated in southern Gaza, seeking refuge after being compelled to leave other areas on evacuation orders issued by Israel.