Cyprus fully supports the joint effort by the United States, Egypt and Qatar to get both sides of the war in Gaza to meet next week and resume talks on a ceasefire and release of hostages. President Nikos Christodoulides stated on Friday that he, “fully endorses (the statement by) Presidents Joe Biden, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi … Read more
The price of Silver halted its five-day winning streak, with XAGUSD trading around $30.40 per troy ounce on Thursday. The decline in the safe-haven metal is attributed to increased optimism following signs of renewed efforts to secure a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, as reported by Reuters. Mediators Egypt and Qatar delivered a response from … Read more
Recognizing the State of Palestine is fully in line with international law and UN resolutions, serving as an opportunity to revive the peace process between the two sides, according to Palestine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Dr Varsen Aghabekian Shahin. This recognition empowers the Palestinian government to fulfill its duties and address the daily needs of its citizens.
Countries mediating ceasefire negotiations, including Qatar, the USA, and Egypt, called on Israel and Hamas to finalize an agreement based on a plan presented by US President Joe Biden. The plan includes a three-phase approach to achieve a permanent ceasefire, with conditions such as the release of hostages and the withdrawal of troops. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated his government’s conditions for a ceasefire, including the destruction of Hamas and the release of all hostages. Hamas responded cautiously, demanding the withdrawal of Israeli troops before agreeing to a ceasefire. Netanyahu faces pressure from both right-wing ministers and Israeli citizens demanding the return of hostages.
The Emir of Qatar’s visit to the Presidential Palace focused on discussing concrete projects rather than indulging in rhetoric. During the meeting, both leaders emphasized specific references and tangible results, agreeing to establish a working committee to review progress every six months. Qatar expressed interest in energy, ports, the financial sector, and technology collaborations. They also discussed political issues such as the Cyprus problem and the situation in Gaza. The Emir’s visit marked a strategic step towards further developing strong bilateral ties between Qatar and Cyprus.
The Slovenian government has initiated the procedure for the recognition of a Palestinian state as a way to help end the conflict in Gaza. This decision was made to encourage negotiations and speed up dialogue in the United Nations for a ceasefire and a two-state solution. Other European Union member states are also considering recognizing a Palestinian state, with Slovenia aiming to complete the recognition process by June 13 at the latest. Israel has criticized this move, calling it a “prize for terrorism” that could hinder peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Jordan’s King Abdullah warned U.S. President Joe Biden that an Israeli offensive in Rafah could lead to a new massacre of Palestinian civilians and urged urgent international action. Israel carried out airstrikes in Rafah, prompting concerns about a regional conflict. Biden pressed Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu not to proceed with a large-scale military offensive in Rafah without a plan to protect civilians. The leaders discussed the need for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas. Jordan and other Arab states have been critical of Israel’s actions and have been calling for a ceasefire.
The West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil price rose to around .20 a barrel in the Asian session on Monday after Saudi Arabia raised June crude prices for most regions.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected Hamas demands to end the Gaza war in exchange for freeing hostages, stating that it would keep Hamas in power and pose a threat to Israel. Israel is willing to pause fighting to secure the release of over 130 hostages held by Hamas. Netanyahu expressed concern that if Hamas remained in power, they would continue carrying out massacres, rapes, and kidnappings. Hamas leaders in Cairo maintained their demand for an agreement to end the war in Gaza. The war began after Hamas attacked southern Israel on Oct. 7, resulting in casualties and hostages. Israel’s military offensive has led to the deaths of over 34,600 Palestinians and caused a humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Thousands of people in various Israeli cities protested for the dismissal of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the release of hostages held by Hamas. Participants demanded early elections and showed support for the hostages, with some carrying Israeli flags and signs calling for their safe return. Opposition leaders like Yair Lapid and Dan Halutz joined the demonstrations, criticizing Netanyahu’s government and accusing him of prioritizing his rule over the hostages’ return.