Middle East Monitor Latest news from the Middle East and North Africa

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  Israel’s War on International Law | Palestine This Week

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  In this week’s episode, we begin with the growing normalisation of rhetoric aimed at erasing Palestinian identity and ask how Israel’s war on Gaza could reshape the global politics of genocide. We also explore the deepening crisis within Zionism, the surge in settler violence across the occupied West Bank and the future of the International Criminal Court following the removal of its chief prosecutor. The discussion also considers Zohran Mamdani’s call for Benjamin Netanyahu’s arrest, Washington’s escalating hostility towards international institutions that challenge Israel and the strategic calculations surrounding a Saudi-US nuclear deal tied to normalisation with Israel.   WATCH: The Anti-Klan Law Comes for Trump’s Israel Lobby | Palestine This Week

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  MBS vs MBZ: the acrimonious battle of the Mohammeds that will define the Gulf’s future

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  The deal between the US and Saudi Arabia to help the Gulf kingdom develop nuclear energy is a coup for Mohammed bin Salman. Some observers believe he played President Trump, letting it be known that if the US did not offer nuclear know-how, he would have happily collaborated with China, Pakistan, or even Russia. However it came about, the announcement heralds the start of a nuclear arms race in the Gulf, which will play out across the region over the coming years. It throws into sharp relief the intriguing relationship between the region’s two most powerful figures: Saudi ruler Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) and Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (MBZ), President of the UAE and ruler of Abu Dhabi. MBZ was

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  Gulf foreign ministers discuss regional security, Strait of Hormuz navigation

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) foreign ministers held a meeting on Tuesday to discuss ways to intensify coordination and consultation on regional developments and issues related to freedom and safety of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, Anadolu reports. A statement by the Qatari Foreign Ministry said the ministers exchanged views via video conference on current regional developments and ongoing negotiations to reach practical understandings to reduce tensions and strengthen regional security and stability. The meeting also addressed ways to step up coordination among GCC states on matters related to freedom and safety of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring passage and transit rights and the smooth flow of ships, trade and supplies under international law, the ministry added. The

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  Explosive hazards still pose risks in southern Lebanon despite reduced violence: UNIFIL

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  The UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) said Tuesday that explosive hazards and remnants of war continue to pose a threat in parts of southern Lebanon despite a decline in violence, Anadolu reports. In a statement, the peacekeeping mission said explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) specialists are deployed ahead of peacekeepers to assess areas before any movement takes place. The teams identify and safely neutralize explosive hazards, helping make routes safer for peacekeepers carrying out their duties while reducing risks, UNIFIL said. “Although violence has decreased, explosive hazards still pose risks in parts of southern Lebanon,” the mission said. It added that EOD teams are helping reduce those risks while contributing to safer conditions for residents returning to their villages, farms

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  US warplanes take off from Israel to attack Iran, Israeli defense minister says

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz claimed Tuesday that US warplanes are taking off from Israel to carry out attacks on Iran. “US fighter jets are taking off from Israel to launch attacks on Iran, and the Iranians know that,” Katz told Channel 14. The defense minister said that Israel wants to attack Iranian energy targets, but the Israeli plan is opposed by Washington. “We strongly want to attack Iranian energy targets, but the US does not agree to that at this stage,” Katz said, threatening to hit Iran in case of any attack by Tehran. “If they fire at Israel, we will respond with full force. We are ready to strike Iran independently.” There was no immediate comment from Iran

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  EU reiterates ICC cooperation obligation as Netanyahu again crosses airspace of member states

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  The European Commission reiterated Tuesday that all states should fully cooperate with the International Criminal Court (ICC), including by executing outstanding arrest warrants, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s aircraft once again crossed the airspace of several ICC member states en route to the United States, Anadolu reports. Speaking at the European Commission’s midday press briefing, spokesperson Anouar El Anouni declined to comment on Netanyahu’s specific case, saying that “any specific question on the ICC … should be addressed directly to the ICC.” He nevertheless underscored the EU’s position on the podium. “We, as EU, we do support the ICC and the principles set out in the Rome Statute. We as EU respect the court’s independence and impartiality, and we,

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  UK accused of branding Gaza children security threat while blocking family re-unification

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  Britain’s Home Office has blocked the evacuation of dozens of Palestinian women and children from Gaza, with officials allegedly claiming that some pose a security risk simply because they come from a “territory where terrorists operate”, according to The Guardian. The families are said to be trapped in life-threatening conditions despite the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office-which is responsible for organising British evacuations overseas-saying that it is ready to help them leave Gaza and reunite with relatives in the UK. Lawyers representing the families say that the Home Office, which controls immigration and entry to the UK, has adopted a harsher approach towards Palestinians than towards refugees from other countries seeking to join relatives in Britain. Some of those whom

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  Several countries urge protection of journalists amid Middle East escalation

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  Members of the Media Freedom Coalition (MFC) issued a joint statement Tuesday expressing concern over the safety of journalists and media workers and the impact of escalating regional tensions in the Middle East on access to information, Anadolu reports. The coalition said independent media play a critical role during armed conflicts by providing accurate and timely information to affected communities and the international public. In the statement, the signatories said they were concerned about what they described as an increasing number of journalists being killed, arrested or detained across the region. “The safety of journalists and media workers, and the access to information are under serious threat,” it said. The statement accused the Israeli government of preventing independent international journalists from

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  The Field Marshal’s expiring warranty

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  Strongmen are not discarded because they become brutal. Brutality is often the job description. They are discarded when brutality stops delivering. That is why the Financial Times’ recent scrutiny of Field Marshal Asim Munir matters. After years in which much of the Western press handled Pakistan’s authoritarian order with the discretion normally reserved for intelligence assets, covert arrangements and embarrassing allies, one of the world’s most influential establishment newspapers has finally begun examining the machinery behind the medals. The timing is revealing. Empires do not suddenly discover constitutionalism. They conduct performance reviews. The article, titled, “The grand designs of Pakistan’s strongman,” does not prove that Washington has turned against Munir. The Financial Times is not an imperial dismissal notice, and

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  Turkiye delivers humanitarian aid to 85 countries

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  Turkiye has so far delivered aid to 85 countries and communities across five continents through international humanitarian assistance activities coordinated by the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) under the Interior Ministry. AFAD continues to conduct search and rescue operations and humanitarian assistance activities not only within Turkiye but also in different regions of the world as part of its disaster diplomacy efforts. Under AFAD’s coordination, Turkiye has provided countries and communities across five continents with food, shelter, healthcare supplies and essential living materials, as well as financial assistance, logistical support and search and rescue equipment. According to information compiled by Anadolu Agency, one of Turkiye’s largest international humanitarian assistance operations was carried out for Gaza. A total of 109,332

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  Hamas delegation heads to Egypt for talks on implementing 2nd phase of Gaza ceasefire agreement

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  Hamas said its negotiating delegation will head to Egypt on Tuesday to continue talks on implementing the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, Anadolu reports. In a statement on Telegram, the group said its delegation will meet Egyptian officials, and mediators from Egypt, Qatar and Turkiye, as well as Palestinian factions and forces. The talks aim to consolidate the ceasefire and ensure the implementation of commitments agreed in Egypt’s Red Sea city of Sharm el-Sheikh, particularly those related to humanitarian conditions in Gaza and the transition to the second phase of US President Donald Trump’s plan, Hamas said. Israel launched its genocide in Gaza on Oct. 8, 2023, with US support, killing more than 73,000 Palestinians and injuring over 174,000

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  Iraqi premier says he will discuss investment, water, security during his 1st official visit to Turkiye

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Ali Al-Zaidi said Tuesday that he will discuss bilateral cooperation in investment, water resources, regional security and major infrastructure projects during his first official visit to Turkiye since taking office in May, Anadolu reports. Al-Zaidi said in a post on the US social media company X that the visit comes upon an invitation from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and is intended “to further develop the political and economic relations between the two countries.” “History, geography, culture, shared interests, and everything bring us together with Turkiye,” the Iraqi premier said. He said the talks will focus on investment, water and transportation development routes and efforts to strengthen stability in the region ​​​​​​​Al-Zaidi added that the two sides

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  Israeli army arrests 14 Palestinians, demolishes 3 homes in occupied West Bank

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  The Israeli army rounded up at least 14 Palestinians, including a woman, in military raids across the West Bank on Tuesday and demolished three homes in the occupied territory, according to local sources. In Nablus, Israeli forces raided the Ras al-Ain neighborhood, stormed three buildings, and searched several homes before detaining eight Palestinians, including a woman, the sources said. In Tubas province, army forces raided the town of Tammun before withdrawing several hours later, with no arrests reported. In Jenin, Israeli forces moved into the town of Al-Yamoun and arrested a former prisoner from Jenin city and another Palestinian from Deir Ghazaleh, northeast of the province. Israeli forces also arrested a Palestinian customs police officer and a young man from

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  US officials say sanctions may hurt Iran more than strikes: Report

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  US officials are of the view that pressuring Tehran with sanctions would damage the country more than bombs, Axios reported Tuesday, claiming there is a deepening economic crisis inside Iran. “The Iranians want to stop being bombed and they want money,” a senior US official said. “But that’s almost in reverse order. They really want the money first.” US President Donald Trump said Monday that Iran had requested talks on a deal after he paused US strikes over the weekend following 13 days of attacks. Iran denied the claim. Mediators from Oman, Qatar and Pakistan are trying to turn the pause into a lasting ceasefire. One proposal would give Iran and Oman a role in managing Strait of Hormuz traffic,

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  Israeli army raids Quran radio station in occupied West Bank, shuts it down

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  Israeli forces raided the headquarters of Al-Huda Quran Radio in the occupied West Bank city of Qalqilya on Tuesday, shutting down the station and confiscating its equipment, Anadolu reports. A large Israeli military force, accompanied by a bulldozer, entered Qalqilya before storming the radio station’s offices, local sources told Anadolu. The sources said the forces closed the station and seized equipment and other contents from the building. It was not immediately clear what items were confiscated or how long the closure would remain in effect. READ: Eisenkot warns West Bank nearing ‘chaos’ under Netanyahu government policies The Israeli military posted a notice at the entrance to the station, stating: “This association has been declared an unlawful organization and closed due to its

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  Pro-Palestinians gather outside White House to protest Netanyahu visit

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  Pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered outside the White House on Monday to protest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Washington ahead of his scheduled meeting with US President Donald Trump, Anadolu reports. Waving Palestinian flags, protesters held signs criticizing US support for Israel. Among the messages on display were “Stop US / Israel war machine,” “Expose Israel’s control of Washington,” and “Palestinian human rights matter too.” READ: Former New York mayor secretly honoured Israeli soldiers amid Gaza genocide The demonstration took place as Netanyahu arrived in Washington, DC for talks with Trump at the White House on Tuesday. This will mark Netanyahu’s eighth meeting with Trump since the president was elected to his second term. Following his meeting with Trump, Netanyahu is

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  The colonial context matters in Gaza’s food insecurity

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  A joint press release by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), UNICEF and the World Food Programme (WFP) gave an overview of the current food insecurity in Gaza, exacerbated in recent years by Israel’s genocide. “There is progress on food security in Gaza, but it is fragile and can easily be reversed,” the WFP Acting Executive Director Carl Skau stated.  Of course, in the press release, Israel’s genocide was not mentioned. Neither were colonialism and military occupation. Food insecurity in Gaza is a result of various forms of colonial violence. While the report points out what needs to be done to alleviate the current situation in which 1.4 million people are still experiencing acute food insecurity, international organisations are missing

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  Former New York mayor secretly honoured Israeli soldiers amid Gaza genocide

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  Former New York City mayor Eric Adams hosted active-duty Israeli soldiers at City Hall and honoured them for fighting in Gaza while his administration concealed the meeting from the public, according to a report by Politico. The previously undisclosed event took place in April 2024, as Israel intensified its military assault on the besieged Gaza Strip. Adams’s staff are said to have kept the meeting off his public schedule and received instructions not to publish photographs or information about it on social media. “The timing of this seems extraordinary poor,” an administration official reportedly wrote in an email ordering the social media blackout. The email appears in a federal discrimination lawsuit filed by Hasibe Rashid, a Palestinian-American former City Hall

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  Egypt announces annual reshuffle of senior security leadership

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  Egypt’s Ministry of Interior has announced a broad reshuffle of senior security officials, appointing new leaders to several security directorates and police sectors as part of its annual restructuring process. The ministry said the changes are intended to redistribute leadership responsibilities, strengthen security operations, and improve the efficiency of police services across the country. Among the appointments, Major General Hatem Hassan was named Director of Security for Giza, Major General Hatem al-Haddad for Alexandria, Major General Ashraf Abdel-Malik for Sohag, Major General Ahmed Ezzat for Minya, Major General Walid al-Shabrawi for Qalyubia, and Major General Sherif Abdel-Mawgoud for Fayoum. The reshuffle also included appointments in key police sectors. Major General Ahmed Khalaf was named Director of the General Directorate of

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  UN rights chief says office has documented possible war crimes during conflict in Lebanon

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk said on Monday that the UN Human Rights Office has documented violations of international law committed during the conflict in Lebanon, adding that some of the alleged violations may amount to war crimes. Speaking to reporters in Beirut following meetings with Lebanese officials, Türk said his office is documenting violations committed by all parties to the conflict while assessing whether widespread destruction and displacement could constitute international crimes. He stressed the importance of protecting civilians, respecting international humanitarian law, and ensuring accountability for violations. Türk also highlighted concerns over large-scale displacement and called for stronger Lebanese state institutions, improved prison conditions, the abolition of the death penalty, and accountability through both domestic

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  Chad announces withdrawal from International Criminal Court Treaty

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  Chad announced on Monday that it is withdrawing from the Rome Statute, the founding treaty of the International Criminal Court (ICC), saying it has formally notified the United Nations of its decision. In a statement, Chad’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the ICC had become “a politicised and biased tool” against countries in the Global South, particularly in Africa, and argued that the court lacked balance and effectiveness in addressing cases from different regions. The ministry said the court’s focus on African cases prompted the government to reassess its membership in the Rome Statute. According to the statement, the decision followed what the government described as a comprehensive review of the ICC’s performance since its establishment in 2002. While criticizing

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  Former Israeli military intelligence chief warns over Iran’s nuclear programme and future US support

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  Tamir Hayman, executive director of Israel’s Institute for National Security Studies (INSS) and former head of Israeli Military Intelligence, said Israel would not tolerate what he described as the crossing of an unspecified red line in Iran’s nuclear programme. Speaking at a national security conference organized by the Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth in cooperation with the INSS, Hayman said Israel would not disclose the nature or location of that threshold. “Iran is not satisfied with what it has achieved so far, but continues to develop its nuclear programme,” Hayman said, according to remarks reported from the conference. Addressing Israel’s relationship with the United States, Hayman warned that American political support for Israel could weaken after the end of President Donald

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  Eisenkot warns West Bank nearing ‘chaos’ under Netanyahu government policies

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  Israeli opposition politician Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the Yashar! party and a former military chief, warned on Monday that the occupied West Bank is approaching “chaos” because of what he described as a loss of Israeli security control. Speaking at a national security conference organised by Yedioth Ahronoth in cooperation with the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS), Eisenkot criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government over its management of the West Bank. He accused the government of weakening the administrative framework that had previously overseen the territory, arguing that political considerations linked to the governing coalition had undermined the role of the Israeli military. READ: UN: Israeli settlers carried out 1,330 attacks in West Bank since January Eisenkot said the transfer

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  Violent drone attacks target bases of Iranian Kurdish opposition parties in Iraq’s Kurdistan

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  Violent drone attacks targeted bases of Iranian Kurdish opposition parties in Iraq’s Kurdistan region on Monday evening, after air defences intercepted drones over the city of Erbil, according to Iraqi media. The US-led international coalition also shot down an Iranian drone in the border area of Soran near Iran, the same sources said. Iraqi news agency Shafaq News reported that the headquarters of two Iranian Kurdish opposition parties were targeted in separate attacks involving three drones in the Bahrka and Khalifan areas, north of Erbil province. No casualties were reported. The agency quoted Karim Barouzi, a senior official in the Kurdistan Democratic Party of Iran (KDPI), as saying that a drone struck the party’s Jiznikan camp in the Bahrka area,

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  Israel expands ‘yellow zone’, forcing thousands more Gazans to flee again – Israeli media

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  Israel is continuing to expand its control over the Gaza Strip by moving yellow concrete barriers deeper into the territory, after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel now controls 70 per cent of the enclave, according to Yedioth Ahronoth. The Israeli newspaper, citing Palestinian sources, reported that the barriers are being placed further west, reducing the areas where civilians can move and triggering new waves of displacement. The latest expansion reportedly took place over the past 24 hours east of Gaza City, near Salah al-Din Road. According to the report, the deeper advance is intended to increase pressure on Hamas while providing the Israeli military with wider security zones to protect its forward positions and nearby Israeli settlements. The report

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  Israel releases 60 more Palestinian detainees under ceasefire deal

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  Sixty Palestinians, released by the Israeli military, arrived in the central Gaza Strip through the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) on Monday, Anadolu reports. The 60 prisoners who arrived in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip became the largest single group of prisoners handed over since the prisoner exchanges. Family members welcomed the released detainees upon their arrival at the Nasser Hospital. ICRC announced that it has facilitated the transfer of more than 2,500 released Palestinian detainees since 2023. In a statement, the humanitarian organization highlighted that it has been unable to visit or gain access to Palestinian detainees held in Israeli detention since October 2023. READ: Israeli army detains at least 70 Palestinians across West Bank, 8 injured

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  Former Israeli intelligence chief labels war a ” major strategic failure” despite military gains

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  A former senior Israeli intelligence officer has described the war as a major strategic failure, saying Hamas remains intact despite what he called Israel’s “exceptional operational achievements”.  Brigadier General (Res.) Dror Shalom, former head of the Research Division at Israeli Military Intelligence (Aman) and former head of the Political-Military Bureau at the Israeli Ministry of Defence, said the war represented “a resounding failure at the strategic level”. Shalom made the remarks during a conference organised by the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS) and Yedioth Ahronoth, in his first public interview since leaving military service. He criticised Israel’s handling of the fighting on multiple fronts. He said Israel had achieved significant military gains, “but at the strategic level there is

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  Hundreds of former Israeli officials urge Trump ahead of Netanyahu meeting

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  Around 600 former senior Israeli officials have sent a letter to US President Donald Trump ahead of his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging him to act over escalating settler violence in the occupied West Bank. According to the letter, revealed by Hebrew-language media, the former officials warned of what they described as “terrorist activity carried out by settlers” in the West Bank. The signatories, including former senior officials from the Israeli military, the Mossad, the Shin Bet and Israel’s Foreign Ministry, said the growing wave of violence could prove “more destructive” than Hamas’ 7 October attack and its aftermath. The letter was sent to the White House and several US officials, including Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff.

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  Hemeti orders urgent tactical shift after army advances in North Kordofan

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  Rapid Support Forces (RSF) commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemeti, has ordered his troops to change their military strategy in his first public appearance since the Sudanese army announced it had captured several areas in North Kordofan state. In a recorded video released on Monday, Hemeti urged his forces to “change their way” starting immediately and called on RSF fighters to stop filming their movements, saying such videos provide the army with useful intelligence. He also instructed his troops to comply with military rules and regulations and to protect civilians, adding: “From today, there is no sleep. It is do or die.” Hemeti said the RSF leadership was now on the front lines and announced that he would join

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  UN: Israeli settlers carried out 1,330 attacks in West Bank since January

  by Mehdi Editor on July 28, 2026

  The UN said Israeli settlers have carried out more than 1,330 attacks in the occupied West Bank since the start of 2026, causing casualties and damage to Palestinian property. The UN humanitarian affairs office (OCHA) said in a statement on Monday that it was deeply concerned “over the escalating violence across the West Bank in recent days.”     The agency stated that since January, it had “documented more than 1,330 incidents involving Israeli settlers that resulted in casualties, property damage, or both.” According to OCHA, at least eight Palestinians, including a child, and two Israelis have been killed since last Thursday, while others have been injured. The office added that homes, mosques, trees and agricultural facilities had been burned or vandalised, with

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  Iraq orders probe into reported drone attacks on Saudi Arabia from its territory

  by Mehdi Editor on July 27, 2026

  Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi ordered security authorities on Monday to investigate drone attacks targeting Saudi Arabia that were reportedly launched from Iraqi territory, Anadolu reports. Al-Zaidi, who is the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, directed the relevant security agencies to investigate information provided by the Saudi side, according to a statement by his spokesman, Sabah al-Numan. “The Iraqi government reaffirms its constitutional and unwavering commitment to the principles of good neighborliness and to not allowing the use of Iraqi territory as a corridor or launchpad for any attack targeting brotherly or friendly countries,” he said. Baghdad is “examining the evidence and information” and will take legal action against anyone proven to have been involved, depending on the investigation’s findings,

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  Trump dismisses Israeli opposition to potential F-35 sale to Turkiye

  by Mehdi Editor on July 27, 2026

  US President Donald Trump on Monday rejected Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s opposition to the potential sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkiye, Anadolu reports. “Nobody tells me what we should be selling,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One. He described Turkiye as a “tremendous ally” that has done a “very good job” in regional matters, including Syria. While acknowledging that Ankara is “not a big fan” of Israel or Netanyahu, the US president emphasized that the bilateral partnership between Washington and Ankara remains strong. During the NATO summit in Turkiye, Trump said he would “certainly consider” restoring sales to Ankara, characterizing Turkiye as being “much more loyal than other countries.” READ: Netanyahu urges Trump to block Turkish access to

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  CENTCOM says US forces redirected 17 commercial vessels, boarded 2

  by Mehdi Editor on July 27, 2026

  US Central Command (CENTCOM) said Monday that its forces had redirected 17 commercial vessels, disabled two and boarded two while enforcing a US maritime blockade against Iran, Anadolu reports. In a post on US social media company X, CENTCOM said the actions were carried out to ensure compliance during operations in the Arabian Sea. CENTCOM also shared a photo showing a US sailor standing watch aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. (DDG 121) as it patrolled the Arabian Sea in support of the blockade. The command did not identify the vessels involved or provide further details on the enforcement actions. READ: Trump says there is ‘good chance’ of deal with Iran

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  Netanyahu flight to US again crosses ICC member states’ airspace

  by Mehdi Editor on July 27, 2026

  The aircraft carrying Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the US on Monday again crossed the airspace of European countries that are parties to the International Criminal Court (ICC), despite the court’s arrest warrant against him, Anadolu reports. According to Flightradar data, the aircraft passed through the airspace of Greece, Italy and France, all ICC member states, on its way to Washington. The route closely resembled those used during Netanyahu’s previous visits to the US on Dec. 28 and Feb. 10. During his trip to New York in September 2025, Netanyahu’s aircraft flew through the airspace of Greece and Italy but did not enter French airspace. The ICC has issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant

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  UN chief ‘deeply concerned’ by Israeli plans to legalize West Bank outposts

  by Mehdi Editor on July 27, 2026

  The UN on Monday expressed grave concern over Israeli plans to accelerate the legalization of outposts and establish new ones in the occupied West Bank, Anadolu reports. “The Secretary-General (Antonio Guterres) is deeply concerned at the recent announcement by the Israeli authorities … including reports of an accelerated process to legalize farm outposts and establish new ones,” deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq told reporters. He emphasized Guterres’ position that all settlements, including outposts, lack legal validity and represent a “flagrant violation of international law.” Haq warned that such activities remain a “major obstacle” to achieving a two-state solution and lasting peace. The remarks follow a surge in violence by Israeli occupiers against Palestinians and their property in recent weeks. Haq highlighted

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  Trump says there is ‘good chance’ of deal with Iran

  by Mehdi Editor on July 27, 2026

  US President Donald Trump said on Monday that there is a good chance” of reaching a deal with Iran, but warned that Washington would resume military operation if negotiations fail, Anadolu reports. “They want to meet, and we are meeting. We’ll what happens. There is a chance we can make a deal,” Trump told reporters. “Without what we did, they wouldn’t even be talking to us,” he added. “We’re talking with Iran right now,” he said. “We are having good talks. So, we’ll see what happens. There is a good chance something can happen.” “If it doesn’t, then we go back to doing what we were doing two days ago,” he said, without elaborating. “They would not have requested the

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  Colombia to restore relations with Israel and halt embassy plans in Palestine

  by Mehdi Editor on July 27, 2026

  Colombia’s incoming government is preparing to reverse one of the most significant foreign policy shifts of President Gustavo Petro’s administration by restoring full diplomatic relations with Israel, halting plans to open an embassy in Palestine, and advancing the relocation of Colombia’s embassy to occupied Jerusalem. The changes, announced by President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella, mark a dramatic departure from Petro’s pro-Palestinian foreign policy and signal Colombia’s return to its traditional alignment with Israel and the United States. De la Espriella announced that his administration will suspend the opening of Colombia’s embassy in Palestine, arguing that the diplomatic mission “never actually became operational.” The decision forms part of a broader restructuring of Colombia’s foreign policy that includes closing several embassies and

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  Yemen’s Houthis announce deaths of 9 fighters amid escalating clashes with gov’t forces

  by Mehdi Editor on July 27, 2026

  Yemen’s Houthi group announced Monday that nine of its fighters had been killed amid escalating military confrontations with Yemeni government forces backed by the Saudi-led coalition in recent days. The group’s Al-Masirah television aired footage showing funeral ceremonies for the nine fighters, according to an Anadolu Agency correspondent. Three were buried in the northern province of Saada, two in the southwestern province of Taiz, and four others in the provinces of Ibb, Amran, and Sanaa. READ: Yemen’s Houthis claim drone attack on oil supply, transport points in Saudi Arabia The report did not specify when or where they were killed, saying only that they had died in a “decisive battle with Saudi Arabia” — an apparent reference to fighting with Yemeni

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  Israeli violations in Lebanon may amount to ‘war crimes’: UN rights chief

  by Mehdi Editor on July 27, 2026

  The UN human rights chief said on Monday that his office has documented large-scale violations of international humanitarian law in Lebanon, some of which may amount to war crimes, Anadolu reports. “My office has recorded large-scale violations of international humanitarian law, some possibly amounting to war crimes, and under certain circumstances they may also constitute crimes under international law,” Volker Turk told a news conference in Beirut. Since March 2, more than 4,300 people have been killed and 12,200 injured in Lebanon, according to figures from Lebanese authorities, Turk said. He added that more than 135 health care workers, as well as many journalists and media workers, were among those killed. Israel launched a new offensive in Lebanon early March

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  Saudi Arabia calls on Iraq to prevent its territory from being used for attacks

  by Mehdi Editor on July 27, 2026

  Saudi Arabia on Monday called on the Iraqi government to take all necessary measures to prevent its territory from being used as a “launching point” for attacks against the kingdom, Anadolu reports. In a statement, the Foreign Ministry condemned “in the strongest terms” what it described as “reprehensible” drone attacks launched by Iran-backed militias from Iraqi territory. The ministry affirmed the kingdom’s determination to protect its security and sovereignty, deter the attackers and exercise “its right to respond to the sources of the aggression.” It stressed “the need for the Iraqi government to take all necessary measures to ensure that its territory is not used as a launching point for aggression.” Earlier, Riyadh said its air defenses intercepted and destroyed

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  Israeli shelling targets southern Lebanon despite US-mediated framework agreement

  by Mehdi Editor on July 27, 2026

  Israeli artillery shelling targeted areas in southern Lebanon on Monday, amid explosions carried out by the army inside residential neighborhoods in the town of Markaba, despite a US-mediated framework agreement between Beirut and Tel Aviv, according to Lebanese media. Artillery fire hit the outskirts of the towns of Tallouseh and Markaba in Marjayoun district, causing fires, the state news agency NNA reported. The Israeli army also carried out explosions inside residential neighborhoods in Markaba, with successive blasts heard and plumes of smoke rising from the area, the agency added. An Israeli drone dropped a sound bomb in the town of Al-Mansouri in Tyre, with no injuries reported, according to NNA. READ: Mojtaba Khamenei tells Hezbollah ending Israeli attacks on Lebanon was

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  Yemen’s Houthis claim drone attack on oil supply, transport points in Saudi Arabia

  by Mehdi Editor on July 27, 2026

  Yemen’s Houthi group claimed drone attacks on key oil facilities in eastern Saudi Arabia on Monday, Anadolu reports. In a statement, military spokesman Yahya Saree said the group targeted “a number of sensitive targets and points for the supply and transport of crude oil from eastern Saudi Arabia to Yanbu” with drones. It claimed that the attack was in response to what it called repeated violations of Yemeni airspace by Saudi Arabia. No details were provided about any possible damage or casualties. There was no immediate comment from Saudi authorities on the Houthi claim. Early Monday, Saudi Arabia said that its air defenses had intercepted and destroyed several drones launched from Iraqi territory targeting oil facilities in the kingdom. ​​​​​​​Last

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  Lebanese officials meet UN rights chief, back collection of evidence on war crimes

  by Mehdi Editor on July 27, 2026

  Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned home demolitions by Israel in southern Lebanon during a meeting with UN rights chief Volker Turk on Monday, as Prime Minister Nawaf Salam reaffirmed his government’s support for collecting evidence of war crimes and violations of international humanitarian law, Anadolu reports. “Israel’s continued destruction of homes and bulldozing of villages in the south constitutes a direct violation of human rights and a clear breach of international laws and norms, which necessitates international action to end it,” Aoun said during the meeting in Beirut, as cited by a presidency statement. “Israel also targeted religious and heritage sites, and this shows premeditated intentions against people and stones, especially since such places are not military sites and do

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  Trump warns of ‘strong military action’ if Iran talks fail

  by Mehdi Editor on July 27, 2026

  US President Donald Trump said on Monday that Washington remains engaged in “deep talks” with Tehran, but is also preparing to restart military operations if negotiations stall. “If they don’t work out, we will go back to very strong military action,” Trump told Israeli broadcaster Channel 12. He emphasized that the diplomatic window is narrow, noting that the process must move forward rapidly “or not at all.” He asserted that he thinks Iran wants to make a deal. The US president explained he paused strikes on Friday following appeals from regional mediators. “All of the people that deal with Iran asked me: ‘Don’t fire’,” Trump claimed, asserting that there was “nothing gained, nothing lost by granting the request.” Trump’s remarks

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  Indonesia cannot claim solidarity with Palestine while it maintains ties with Elbit

  by Mehdi Editor on July 27, 2026

  A photograph is circulating from the Farnborough International Airshow in England, held from 20 to 24 July. It shows Lieutenant General Rui F.G.P. Duarte, a senior Indonesian defence official, posing in front of the stand of Elbit Systems. Elbit is Israel’s largest privately owned arms company, and one of the main manufacturers arming the assault on Gaza. Duarte was there representing Indonesia’s defence minister. The visit itself came through Indonesia’s Ministry of Defence, which confirmed that Duarte attended Farnborough from 20 to 24 July on the minister’s behalf. The photo of him at the Elbit stand was then posted by the ministry itself, on its own Instagram account. Nobody forced this photograph into existence. Jakarta published it, proudly, as if

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  Spain ‘cares about you’: Sanchez thanks Palestinian girl for painting mural of him in Gaza

  by Mehdi Editor on July 27, 2026

  Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Monday shared a video on social media thanking a Plestinian girl and local artists for painting a mural of him in Gaza, reaffirming Spain’s support for the Palestinian people, Anadolu reports. In the video, Sanchez responded to a message from a Palestinian girl named Layan, who unveiled the portrait of the Spanish premier that she and other artists painted amid the destruction in Gaza. He thanked the artists for the “beautiful gesture” and expressed gratitude to the Palestinian people for showing “such affection toward Spain.” “In the midst of so much pain, you found a moment to send us your kindness. So, to Layan, to all the boys and girls of Gaza, and to your families,

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  Israeli army raids UNRWA training center north of East Jerusalem, detains staff

  by Mehdi Editor on July 27, 2026

  Israeli forces raided the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) Training Center in the Qalandia refuge camp, north of occupied East Jerusalem, on Monday and detained staff inside the site, the Jerusalem Governorate said, Anadolu reports. In a statement, the governorate said Israeli forces stormed the center, fired tear gas canisters and held teaching and administrative staff inside one of its halls. Israeli forces also climbed onto the roof of the camp’s local committee building, it added. The Israeli army had raided the Qalandia camp overnight Sunday into Monday, deploying forces across several neighborhoods and heavily firing stun grenades and tear gas, causing fire, according to the governorate. The raid came about six weeks after the Jerusalem Governorate warned of an Israeli

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  Former Israeli security officials urge Trump to press Netanyahu to end ‘settler terrorism’ in occupied West Bank

  by Mehdi Editor on July 27, 2026

  Hundreds of former Israeli security officials have urged President Donald Trump to press Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to curb “settler terror” in the occupied West Bank, warning that escalating violence by occupiers threatens both Israel’s security and US interests in the region, Anadolu reports. The appeal came in a letter initiated by Commanders for Israel’s Security, a group of about 600 retired officials from the Israeli military, the Shin Bet domestic security agency, the Mossad intelligence service, the police and the diplomatic corps. The letter, signed on behalf of the group by former Israeli Deputy Chief of Staff Matan Vilnai, was sent Monday ahead of Netanyahu’s scheduled meeting with Trump at the White House on Tuesday, according to a copy reviewed by

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  In Middle East energy, flexibility is the new power

  by Mehdi Editor on July 27, 2026

  From attacks on shipping in the Red Sea to repeated threats around the Strait of Hormuz, the Middle East’s energy arteries are under growing pressure. The war in Gaza and its regional repercussions have added another layer of instability to a system already strained by sanctions, political fragmentation and competition over new corridors. Together, these shocks have exposed a hard truth: in today’s energy order, power belongs not only to those who produce, but increasingly to those who can redirect flows, reach alternative markets and adapt their energy systems fastest when disruption strikes. For decades, influence was measured primarily through reserves, production and export capacity. Those measures still matter, but they no longer tell the whole story. A country may

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  Israel kills 3 more Palestinians in Gaza, death toll neas 73,350: Health Ministry

  by Mehdi Editor on July 27, 2026

  Israeli forces killed three more Palestinians over the past 24 hours in the Gaza Strip, raising the death toll from Israel’s genocide since October 2023 to 73,329, the Health Ministry said Monday, Anadolu reports. In a statement, the ministry said hospitals in the enclave received three bodies, including two killed by Israeli fire and a third who died of previous wounds. The ministry said 12 injured people were also transferred to hospitals in the last 24 hours, taking the number of injuries to 174,009. Despite a ceasefire that took effect on Oct. 10, 2025, the Israeli army has continued its daily attacks in Gaza, killing at least 1,203 Palestinians and injuring 3,900 others. ​​​​​​​The ceasefire agreement was reached after two years of