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
Israeli army forces strapped a wounded Palestinian man to the hood of a military jeep during an arrest raid in the occupied West Bank city of Jenin on Saturday. A video circulating on social media and verified by Reuters showed a Palestinian resident of Jenin, Mujahed Azmi, on the jeep that passes through two ambulances. … Read more
The threats fired against Cyprus this week by Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, as far-fetched as they may seem, should not be taken lightly. The Shia cleric and leader of the militant group commands considerable influence in almost everything that happens in Lebanon, from politics to the economy and national defence. Apart from securing vast amounts … Read more
Egypt has detained students promoting pro-Palestinian boycotts and solidarity campaigns, along with many others protesting against Israel’s military campaign. At least 125 people have been arrested since the Gaza war began in October, with 95 still in pre-trial detention. The crackdown on dissent in Egypt has intensified since 2013, with tens of thousands arrested for speaking out against the government. Public demonstrations are outlawed, and authorities fear protests over the Israeli-Palestinian conflict could fuel political dissent.
Stacy Gilbert, a U.S. State Department official, resigned in protest after a report to Congress falsely claimed that Israel was not blocking humanitarian aid to Gaza. Gilbert, who worked in the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration, stated that the report’s conclusions were incorrect. The report was submitted in accordance with a new National Security Memorandum issued by President Joe Biden. Gilbert’s resignation came after she disagreed with the final version of the report, which she believed did not accurately reflect the situation in Gaza.
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.
European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell urged some European countries to stop intimidating International Criminal Court judges over a case against Israeli leaders. ICC chief prosecutor Karim Khan filed for arrest warrants against Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, as well as three Hamas leaders. Israel denies committing war crimes in Gaza and has called the ICC politically motivated. Several countries, including the United States, have denounced the ICC prosecutor’s decision. Spain, Norway, and Ireland announced they will recognize an independent Palestinian state. Borrell stated that supporting Palestinian state-building should not be considered antisemitic.
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.
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.
Scores of graduating students staged a walkout from Yale University’s commencement exercises on Monday, protesting the Israeli war in Gaza, Yale’s financial ties to weapons makers, and its response to pro-Palestinian demonstrations on campus. The walkout drew cheers from fellow students but was otherwise peaceful, with no mention made from the stage.