ongoing conflict

Global campaign “All Eyes on Rafah” gains momentum

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Global campaign “All Eyes on Rafah” gains momentum

The “All eyes on Rafah” campaign is gaining traction in Western Europe, Australia, and India, aiming to raise awareness about the conflict in Gaza, which has resulted in the deaths of at least 36,171 Palestinians. Israeli forces have intensified their assault on Rafah, prompting global attention and support for the residents seeking refuge from the violence. Social media, including platforms like TikTok and Instagram, has seen a massive outpouring of support with millions of users sharing the hashtag #AllEyesOnRafah. The campaign has coincided with international condemnation of Israel following airstrikes that resulted in civilian casualties. Israeli military operations in Rafah have continued despite the heightened scrutiny and criticism.

COMMENT: Russian tax hikes – important but not large enough

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COMMENT: Russian tax hikes – important but not large enough

Russia has announced changes to its tax system, moving from a flat to a progressive system by 2025. The upper rate of income tax will rise from 15% to 22% and for corporate taxes from 20% to 25%. These changes are expected to reduce the budget deficit caused by increased military spending but may not be enough to prevent economic overheating. The tax hikes are modest compared to military and defense spending, which is 6% of GDP and rising. The overall fiscal stance remains expansionary, challenging the central bank’s efforts to combat inflation. Russia’s budget deficit is expected to halve this year and remain flat in 2025, while growth forecasts vary with some predicting modest growth and others more upbeat figures.

COMMENT: Russian tax hikes – important but not large enough

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COMMENT: Russian tax hikes – important but not large enough

Russia has announced changes to its tax system, including a shift to a progressive income tax system in 2025, with the upper rate increasing from 15% to 22% and corporate taxes from 20% to 25%. These changes are expected to reduce the budget deficit caused by increased military spending.

Gaza aid deliveries drop by two-thirds since Israel’s move into Rafah, UN says

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Gaza aid deliveries drop by two-thirds since Israel’s move into Rafah, UN says

The United Nations has reported a significant drop in humanitarian aid entering Gaza since Israel began its military operation in the region. The daily average of aid trucks reaching Gaza dropped by 67%, with only 58 trucks reaching the area from May 7 to Tuesday. Israel has stated that it is committed to facilitating the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza despite ongoing conflict with Hamas.

Cyprus , ‘not alone’ over migration

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Cyprus , ‘not alone’ over migration

Fact: Greek Migration Minister Dimitris Kairidis said that Cyprus is “not alone” on the matter of migration and that Greece supports the initiatives put forward by Cyprus.

As Rafah offensive looms, Palestinians fear dispossession again

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As Rafah offensive looms, Palestinians fear dispossession again

Israeli forces are massing on the outskirts of Rafah in Gaza, causing fear among Palestinians of another “Nakba” like the one in 1948. Many people in Rafah have been displaced multiple times as Israel continues to bombard Gaza. Mohammad Emad and his family have moved four times since October. The uncertainty and closed borders make finding refuge difficult. Israel disputes the claim that Palestinians were forced out in 1948. The ongoing conflict has resulted in casualties and destruction, with the United Nations warning of a humanitarian catastrophe if Israel continues incursions into Rafah.

Ukraine peace talks should include Russia, Chinese diplomat says

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Ukraine peace talks should include Russia, Chinese diplomat says

Beijing supports a peace conference on the Ukraine war with equal participation of all parties, aiming to achieve peace in Ukraine. Switzerland will host talks on June 15-16, but Moscow and Kyiv have expressed doubts about the summit. China had previously proposed a 12-point plan to end the war, which received a mixed reception. Despite the ongoing conflict, Beijing is willing to continue playing a role in finding a solution to the crisis.

Israel intensifies strikes on Gaza’s Rafah ahead of threatened invasion

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Israel intensifies strikes on Gaza’s Rafah ahead of threatened invasion

Israel has increased airstrikes on Rafah, killing at least six Palestinians, as part of their ongoing conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Israeli forces are preparing for an all-out assault on Hamas holdouts in Rafah, despite warnings from allies about potential mass casualties. Residents are fleeing the area, seeking safety in nearby locations, but many are uncertain about where to go. The conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties and displacement, with the war now in its seventh month. Israel has vowed to eradicate Hamas, with the conflict showing no signs of abating.

California university cancels Muslim valedictorian’s speech, citing safety concerns

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California university cancels Muslim valedictorian’s speech, citing safety concerns

The University of Southern California canceled the valedictorian speech of Muslim student Asna Tabassum due to safety concerns and tensions surrounding the Middle East conflict. USC Provost Andrew Guzman stated that the decision was made to protect campus security, as discussions about the valedictorian selection had become alarming. Tabassum challenged the university’s rationale, questioning if the decision was solely based on safety. USC faced opposition from groups like Trojans for Israel and We Are Tov, who called for Tabassum’s removal as commencement speaker, citing her social media profile and past views on Palestine and Israel. Tabassum’s invitation to speak was withdrawn without USC reviewing her speech, leading to criticism and calls for her reinstatement from groups like the Council on American Islamic Relations.