foreign minister

Violence against civilians in Gaza ‘no longer justifiable,’ Italy says

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Violence against civilians in Gaza ‘no longer justifiable,’ Italy says

Italy strongly criticized Israeli attacks on Palestinian civilians in Gaza, stating that the situation is increasingly difficult and no longer justifiable. Defence Minister Guido Crosetto expressed despair over the situation and emphasized the need to distinguish between Hamas and the Palestinian people. Italy has previously supported Israel’s right to defend itself from Hamas but has urged for a ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages.

Israel stops Spanish consulate from providing services to Palestinians

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Israel stops Spanish consulate from providing services to Palestinians

Israel is blocking the Spanish consulate in Jerusalem from providing services to Palestinians in the West Bank after Spain recognized Palestine. Israel accuses Spain, Ireland, and Norway of rewarding Hamas for attacking Israel. Spain’s Labour Minister used an expression that Israel sees as a call for its destruction. Spain is analyzing Israel’s decision to limit the consulate’s abilities to serve Palestinians.

Cyprus mulls Commissioner nominees as EU top jobs loom

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Cyprus mulls Commissioner nominees as EU top jobs loom

Cyprus is considering potential nominees for the next European Commissioner, with current health chief Stella Kyriakides among the names circulating. President Nikos Christodoulides has not ruled out reappointing Kyriakides for another term. Other possible candidates mentioned include Haris Georgiades, Yiorgos Lakkotrypis, and Konstantinos Kombos. The Cypriot shipping lobby is pushing for the transport portfolio, but Cyprus may again get the health portfolio. The new Commission leadership will take over later this year after the European Parliament elections in May.

Analysis: Israel’s allies grapple with bid for ICC warrant against Netanyahu

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Analysis: Israel’s allies grapple with bid for ICC warrant against Netanyahu

International Criminal Court Prosecutor Karim Khan has requested an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, causing a diplomatic dilemma for key member states who must balance support for Israel with backing the ICC’s actions. Some capitals, such as Paris, London, and Berlin, were informed beforehand about the plans, but many have not disclosed how they will respond if warrants are issued. Germany, in particular, faces challenges due to its support for Israel’s security and the ICC prosecutor’s independence. U.S. President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken have criticized the move, while European countries like Britain and Italy are divided over the issue. The ICC has jurisdiction over the conflict between Israel and Hamas since October 7, 2022, despite Israel not being a member of the court. The international community’s response to the arrest warrants will be crucial for the ICC’s credibility and the rule of law.

Ireland, Norway set to recognise Palestinian state today

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Ireland, Norway set to recognise Palestinian state today

Norway and Ireland are set to announce the recognition of an independent Palestinian state, following other European Union members in supporting a two-state solution for lasting peace in the region. The move is seen as a potential positive impact on the peace process between Israel and the Palestinians. Israel has warned against the recognition, stating it could lead to more terrorism and instability in the region.

Israel orders recall of ambassadors to Ireland and Norway after Palestine recognition

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Israel orders recall of ambassadors to Ireland and Norway after Palestine recognition

The Israeli foreign ministry has recalled its ambassadors to Ireland and Norway after the two nations recognized a Palestinian state. Foreign Minister Israel Katz stated that this decision undermines Israel’s right to self-defense and efforts to return 128 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. Katz emphasized Israel’s determination to achieve goals of restoring security, removing Hamas, and returning the hostages.

Iranian President Raisi, ’s memorial muted amid public discontent

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Iranian President Raisi, ’s memorial muted amid public discontent

Fact: President Ebrahim Raisi of Iran was killed in a helicopter crash near the Azerbaijan border along with his foreign minister and seven others.

Another Russian exodus: Many who fled to Turkey move on again

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Another Russian exodus: Many who fled to Turkey move on again

Tens of thousands of Russians who fled to Turkey after Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine have been leaving due to residency issues and soaring costs. The number of Russians with Turkish resident permits fell to 96,000, down by more than a third from 154,000 at the end of 2022. Many have headed to Serbia and Montenegro. Turkish inflation hit 70% last month, and basic banking has become difficult due to sanctions. Some Russians have also left due to struggles to get residence permits since early 2023.

What we know about the crashed helicopter carrying Iran’s president

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What we know about the crashed helicopter carrying Iran’s president

The helicopter that crashed in Iran, killing the president and foreign minister, was a Bell 212 model. Bell developed the aircraft in the late 1960s for the Canadian military, and it is used globally for various purposes. The Bell 212 can carry passengers, cargo, and mount weapons. Non-military organizations and countries like Japan, the United States, and Thailand operate the Bell 212. Iran’s current fleet includes Italian-built naval versions of the helicopter. The most recent fatal crash involving a Bell 212 was in 2023 off the coast of the United Arab Emirates. Iran has managed to keep its aviation fleets flying through a combination of smuggled parts and reverse-engineering. The accident does not automatically fall under global rules for air accident probes, and it is unlikely that Iran will seek outside help for the investigation.

Threat from Israeli operations preventing Rafah crossing aid deliveries, says Egypt

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Threat from Israeli operations preventing Rafah crossing aid deliveries, says Egypt

The cessation of aid deliveries through the Rafah crossing between Egypt and the Gaza Strip is due to the threat posed by Israel’s military operations in the area. Israel’s military offensive has caused activity to stop at the crossing since May 7, leaving international aid stuck on the Egyptian side of the border and raising concerns about food supplies perishing. Egypt’s foreign minister, Sameh Shoukry, has called for Israel to open other land crossings to deliver aid.