Former President Donald Trump has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to swiftly end the war in Gaza, criticizing President Biden’s repeated calls for a ceasefire. Trump believes a ceasefire would only give Hamas a chance to regroup, but he supports Israel’s efforts to win the war.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, expressing concerns about the escalating situation in West Asia. Modi stressed the need for de-escalation, reiterating calls for the release of hostages, a ceasefire, and continued humanitarian aid.
International mediators are working tirelessly to prevent the Israel-Hamas conflict from spiraling into a wider regional crisis, with ceasefire negotiations resuming in Qatar. The efforts come amidst a devastating death toll in Gaza exceeding 40,000 and growing fears of a wider Middle East war fueled by recent assassinations of key figures.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has expressed concerns about potential assassination threats due to his ongoing efforts to normalize relations with Israel. He reportedly raised these fears during negotiations with US lawmakers, citing the fate of Egyptian President Anwar Sadat who was assassinated after making peace with Israel. The Prince’s fears stem from potential backlash within Saudi Arabia and the broader Arab world, where support for Palestine remains strong.
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas announced his intention to travel to Gaza during his address to the Turkish parliament, emphasizing his commitment to Palestinian unity despite the risks involved. This declaration follows his meetings with Turkish and Russian leaders, highlighting international efforts to address the escalating Israel-Hamas conflict.
Ceasefire talks in Doha resumed on Thursday, but Hamas stayed away, accusing Israel of adding new demands and expressing concerns about a potential advantage for its rival. The US, Egypt, and Qatar are working on a ceasefire plan, hoping to avert a broader regional conflict. The talks focus on narrowing differences between Israel and Hamas, but Israel’s insistence on dismantling Hamas raises doubts about the talks’ success. Meanwhile, the conflict’s death toll surpasses 40,000, and tensions remain high after assassinations of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders.
In a heart-wrenching tragedy, newborn twins in Gaza were killed by an Israeli strike, along with their mother and grandmother, while their father was obtaining their birth certificates. The incident highlights the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict on civilians, particularly vulnerable families.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan hosted Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas in Ankara for crucial talks amidst the intensifying conflict in Gaza. The meeting focused on achieving a ceasefire and lasting peace, with Erdogan reaffirming Turkey’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause. The visit comes as tensions escalate following the assassination of a Hamas leader and highlights Turkey’s influential position in the region.
International mediators are working to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, aiming to release hostages and prevent a wider regional conflict. The deal hinges on Hamas releasing hostages in exchange for a lasting ceasefire, Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and the release of Palestinian prisoners. While both sides agree in principle, disagreements over details and accusations of new demands threaten the fragile negotiations.
The United States has approved a $20 billion arms sale to Israel, including fighter jets, tanks, and other equipment, as tensions in the Middle East escalate. The sale comes amidst concerns of a potential Iran-led attack on Israel and ongoing conflict in Gaza.
