Tyler Cherry, a White House official, has been promoted despite past controversial social media posts criticizing police, supporting the Palestinian cause, and calling for the abolishment of ICE. Cherry has downplayed these posts, saying they do not reflect his current views. His promotion comes amidst tensions between the Biden administration and Israel over the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
A viral video showing an Israeli soldier tying a wounded Palestinian man to the bonnet of a military vehicle during an arrest raid in Jenin, West Bank, has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation. The Israeli army has admitted to a violation of operational procedures and initiated an investigation into the incident. The incident highlights the escalating violence in the West Bank, where tensions have surged since the Israel-Hamas war began in October 2023.
A video showing an injured Palestinian man strapped to the hood of an Israeli military jeep during an arrest raid in Jenin has sparked outrage. The Israeli military confirmed the incident, stating it was a violation of protocol and will be investigated. The incident highlights the escalating violence in the West Bank since the Gaza war.
Israel’s telecoms regulator has extended a ban on Al Jazeera’s operations in Israel for another 45 days, following a cabinet decision that its broadcasts pose a threat to security. The ban was initially imposed for 35 days on national security grounds but was upheld last week by a Tel Aviv court. Al Jazeera has criticized the ban as disproportionate and claimed it does not incite violence or terrorism. The Israeli government has until August 8 to argue why the law preventing foreign broadcasters from harming national security should not be deemed void. Despite the ban, Al Jazeera’s broadcasts on cable and satellite companies and its website access will remain blocked.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to deliver a highly anticipated and potentially divisive speech before a joint session of the US Congress on July 24. The address comes amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas war that has sparked political divisions in the United States. Netanyahu’s appearance is sure to provoke protests and highlight the growing rift within the Democratic Party over the prime minister’s war strategy.
The Maldives has implemented a ban on Israeli passport holders, following pressure to protest the ongoing Gaza conflict. The government has also launched a national fundraising campaign in solidarity with Palestine. The ban follows a decline in Israeli tourism to the Maldives, with an 88% drop in the first four months of this year compared to the same period last year.
As the conflict in Gaza continues, global superstar Taylor Swift is facing increasing pressure from her fans to break her silence and speak out against the human rights abuses taking place. The #SwiftiesForPalestine movement has gained traction on social media, urging Swift to use her platform to address the situation. This comes after numerous other celebrities have expressed their support for Palestine, while some have faced criticism for their silence.
Palestine’s relentless pursuit of full membership in the United Nations remains hindered by geopolitical calculations, primarily influenced by the United States’ veto power in the UN Security Council. Despite the General Assembly’s reaffirmation of Palestine’s eligibility, the path to membership continues to be obstructed by the procedural requirement for Security Council recommendation. While India and other countries support Palestine’s application, the US’s consistent vetoes and apprehension from China and Russia over potential precedents cloud the prospects for Palestine’s full recognition as a UN member state.
Spain’s Cabinet has officially recognized a Palestinian state, signaling a deepening rift between the European Union and Israel. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced the historic decision on May 28th, stating its aim to facilitate peace between Israelis and Palestinians. Ireland and Norway also followed suit, recognizing Palestine later that day.
The White House responded to the decision of Ireland, Spain and Norway to recognize a Palestinian state, reiterating President Biden’s support for a “two-state solution” and expressing concern over Israel’s growing diplomatic isolation.
National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan stated that each country has the right to make its own determinations but emphasized the U.S. position that a two-state solution should be achieved through direct negotiations rather than unilateral recognition.
Sullivan explained that President Biden believes a two-state solution is the best way to bring about long-term security and stability for Israel, the Palestinians and Arabs in the region.
He also highlighted the potential for regional integration between Israel and moderate Arab states but acknowledged the growing chorus of voices supporting Palestinian recognition, which the U.S. views as a concern for Israel’s long-term security.
Sullivan condemned Israel’s decision to withhold tax revenue from the Palestinian Authority in retaliation for the European countries’ recognition of Palestine, calling it wrong and counterproductive to the search for security and prosperity in the region.
