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

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  Beyond rhetoric, is there political will to move away from the two-state paradigm?

  by MI on April 16, 2026

  Europe’s stance on Palestine, although currently slightly shifting, remains “below the level required,”  Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin said in a recent interview with Anadolu. “What is needed now are practical decisions, not more statements,” Shahin added while noting that several European countries are speaking more clearly on Israel’s military occupation and settlement expansion. Undoubtedly, Europe can do much more. However, the Palestinian Authority is in the same collaborationist predicament – statements of condemnation but no action, unless action is directed against the Palestinian resistance. The middle ground created by colonialism, which is where the PA and Europe are stagnated, needs to be significantly altered before practical decisions are taken.  Since the start of Israel’s genocide in Gaza, the

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  378 crimes in 40 days: Surge in West Bank settler attacks occurring under government cover

  by MI on April 16, 2026

  An Israeli rights group has reported a sharp rise in settler violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, saying attacks are taking place under clear government cover. The organisation Yesh Din said it had documented 378 violent incidents carried out by settlers over just 40 days during the war with Iran— an average of ten incidents of settler violence took place per day. The attacks targeted Palestinians and their property across the territory. According to the group, the incidents occurred in 148 Palestinian villages and towns across the West Bank.   It added that eight Palestinians were killed by settler gunfire during that period, while around 200 others were injured. Cases of arson targeting property were also recorded. READ: Palestinians confront

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  Widespread popular activities in support of prisoners in the occupation prisons on Palestinian Prisoner’s Day

  by MI on April 16, 2026

  IMAGES: Fuel crisis in Gaza amid ongoing Israeli blockade

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  26 million Iranians volunteer to defend country, including public figures

  by MI on April 16, 2026

  More than 26 million people in Iran have volunteered for military service, according to the state broadcaster (IRIB). IRIB said the surge comes as part of a campaign titled “Sacrifice Your Life”, noting that volunteers are expected to be deployed alongside the Revolutionary Guard and the regular army. Plans also include forming human chains to protect potential targets. According to the broadcaster, the list of volunteers includes President Masoud Pezeshkian, most of his ministers, as well as a large number of officials, athletes and artists. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has also registered his name among the volunteers. READ: White House signals military option remains on table against Iran

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  Former European officials urge suspension of EU-Israel agreement

  by MI on April 16, 2026

  More than 350 former European officials, including ministers, ambassadors and senior EU figures, have called for the suspension of the EU’s association agreement with Israel over what they described as serious human rights violations against Palestinians. In an open letter issued on Wednesday, the signatories said Israel continues, in their view, policies of illegal occupation of Palestinian land, pointing to ongoing settlement activity, violence, and worsening humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip. The signatories, including former EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, said the Israeli government is violating the core principles on which the European Union is founded, adding that it remains legally and morally responsible as an occupying power. READ: European petition exceeds one million signatures to suspend EU-Israel agreement

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  White House signals military option remains on table against Iran

  by MI on April 16, 2026

  White House advisor, Stephen Miller said the United States is keeping all options on the table in dealing with Iran, including potential military action. Speaking to Fox News, Miller stated that President, Donald Trump is closely involved in shaping ongoing negotiations with Tehran. He said Washington is seeking peace and stability, but emphasized that it will not accept Iran acquiring a nuclear weapon. Miller added that the military option remains available, including the possibility of strikes targeting Iran’s energy infrastructure that could have long-term effects. He also noted that naval measures and energy-related restrictions are increasing pressure on the Iranian economy. READ: Iran and US deny reports of preliminary ceasefire extension agreement

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  Hope in the data: Can Palestine explain America’s moral shift?

  by MI on April 16, 2026

  In the Middle East, the perception of ordinary Americans has long followed a familiar script: detached, uninformed, inward-looking, and politically shallow— a society of ‘gas guzzlers’, with little grasp of global realities beyond their immediate geography. This perception did not emerge from thin air. It was cultivated—reinforced, even—by American political and media institutions themselves. Politicians claimed to speak on behalf of ‘the American people’, while mainstream media shaped what those people knew, and, crucially, what they did not know. For decades, Americans overwhelmingly aligned with Israel. This was not merely ideological; it was instructional. The public was told—repeatedly—that Israel reflected ‘American values’: democracy, civility, modernity. Palestinians and Arabs, by contrast, were framed as perpetual antagonists, initiators of violence, and ‘obstacles

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  Hamas rejects US claims on Gaza aid as “misleading”

  by MI on April 16, 2026

  The Islamic Resistance Movement, Hamas condemned statements by the US Vice President J.D. Vance claiming that aid entering Gaza is at its highest level in five years, describing the remarks as “misleading and far removed from reality.” In a statement issued Wednesday, Hamas said the claims represent an attempt to distort facts and obscure the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. The movement stated that conditions on the ground contradict such assertions, pointing to Israel’s ongoing policies of “engineering starvation,” alongside strict restrictions on the entry of aid and disruption of essential supplies. It added that Israeli authorities have not implemented the terms of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement, maintaining a blockade that leaves residents in “life

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  Egypt-Cyprus gas deal signals strategic shift in regional energy balance

  by MI on April 16, 2026

  A new gas agreement between Egypt and Cyprus is being viewed as a strategic development in the Eastern Mediterranean, with implications extending beyond economics to regional influence and energy geopolitics. The deal aims to transport Cypriot natural gas to Egypt for processing and liquefaction using Egyptian infrastructure, before re-exporting it to global markets, particularly Europe, amid rising demand for stable alternative energy sources. An Egyptian international political analyst, Mahmoud Hussein said the agreement reflects a qualitative shift in Egypt’s role in the regional energy landscape. He noted that Egypt is no longer acting solely as a consumer or transit country, but is seeking to establish itself as a regional hub for gas collection, liquefaction, and export. READ: Egypt begins energy-saving measures

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  Hezbollah bloc chief rejects Lebanon direct talks with Israel

  by MI on April 16, 2026

  The head of the Hezbollah bloc in the Lebanese parliament, Mohammad Raad said that direct negotiations with Israel are “rejected and condemned,” describing them as a “fall for the Lebanese authority.” In a statement, Raad criticised the meeting held in Washington between representatives of Lebanon, Israel, and the United States, saying it reflects what he described as a low priority given to Lebanese affairs in US policy. He said that the outcome of what he called a “shameful session” undermines the Lebanese authorities’ stated position that a ceasefire should precede any negotiations, and questioned their commitment to sovereignty. Raad added that such talks, in his view, indicate submission to external demands, and argued that they aim not to end the

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  Jordan welcomes UNESCO decision on Jerusalem, rejects Israeli measures

  by MI on April 16, 2026

  Jordan’s Foreign Ministry on Wednesday welcomed a resolution adopted unanimously by the executive board of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) during its 224th session in Paris concerning the Old City of Jerusalem and its walls under the agenda item “Occupied Palestine”. The ministry said the decision considers all measures taken by Israel, as the occupying power, to change the character and legal status of Jerusalem to be null and void and should be reversed. It added that the resolution renews calls on Israel to halt all its actions in the Old City and its walls, which target the city’s cultural and historical value and put its heritage at risk. The ministry stressed that the decision reflects

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  Arab League outlines five principles to resolve Sudan crisis

  by MI on April 16, 2026

  The League of Arab States announced five key principles aimed at resolving the ongoing crisis in Sudan, during the third international meeting hosted in the German capital, Berlin. The Arab League delegation was headed by Ambassador Hossam Zaki, who said the League’s participation reflects its continued political support for Sudan in line with decisions of its governing bodies. Zaki explained that the League’s proposals are based on consultations with Sudanese civil forces and include prioritising Sudanese ownership of the political process, ensuring inclusive political dialogue, intensifying the preparatory phase, avoiding parallel political tracks in favour of a unified roadmap, and integrating the political process with ceasefire efforts. READ: ICRC: Over 11,000 missing in Sudan war He stressed the importance of continued

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  Iran and US deny reports of preliminary ceasefire extension agreement

  by MI on April 16, 2026

  Iran and the United States have both denied reports of a “preliminary agreement” to extend the ceasefire, amid continued diplomatic contacts between the two sides. A spokesperson for the Iranian Foreign Ministry rejected circulating claims of such an agreement, describing them as rumours and speculation that have not been confirmed. At the same time, a US source cited by Axios said that Washington has refused to extend the truce, despite ongoing communication channels aimed at reaching a broader understanding. The statements came in response to a report by the Associated Press suggesting that both sides had given initial approval to extend the ceasefire to allow more time for diplomacy. Negotiations remain stalled over three key issues: Iran’s nuclear program, navigation

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  Celebrating division as a success in Libya

  by MI on April 16, 2026

  This week, Libya witnessed two events that were celebrated as signs of progress, even though they express nothing more than the normalisation of division within what is supposed to be a single state. This happens in a country that the Greek historian Herodotus once described as “the source of all new things.” But what “new” can we speak of today, when novelty itself has become synonymous with fragmentation? The first event was the participation of forces from Libya’s rival governments—one based in the east and the other in the west—in joint US special forces training in the central city of Sirte. It was the first military exercise of its kind bringing together former adversaries from the civil war. The Flintlock

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  White House says next round of talks with Iran ‘very likely’ in Islamabad

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said Wednesday that the next round of negotiations with Iran tied to ceasefire discussions is expected in the Pakistani capital, Anadolu reports. “They would very likely be in the same place as they were last time,” Leavitt told reporters. “The Pakistanis have been incredible mediators throughout this process, and we really appreciate their friendship and their efforts to bring this deal to a close. So, they are the only mediator in this negotiation. While there have been many countries around the world who want to offer their help, the president (Donald Trump) feels it’s important to continue to streamline this communication through the Pakistanis, and so that’s what continues to take place,” she added. Leavitt

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  Strait of Hormuz should not be used as political, economic pressure tool: Gulf Cooperation Council chief

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  The Strait of Hormuz should not be used as a political or economic pressure tool, Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi said Wednesday, Anadolu reports. Speaking during an exchange of views with the European Parliament Committee on Foreign Affairs, Albudaiwi stressed that any attempt to impose a new reality by force in the vital maritime corridor is unacceptable. “The Strait of Hormuz must remain an open and secure international waterway free from threats or restrictions. Any attempt to impose a new reality by force or to use it as a political and economical pressure tool is unacceptable and has been condemned at both regional and international levels,” he said. He highlighted that the Strait of Hormuz is a key

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  China’s Xi assured Trump of no weapons support to Iran: White House

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said Wednesday that Chinese President Xi Jinping assured President Donald Trump that Beijing is not supplying weapons to Iran amid the regional conflict, Anadolu reports. “President Xi assured the president that they are not supplying Iran with weapons throughout this conflict, and that assurance was made to the president,” Leavitt told reporters, alongside Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Bessent, for his part, highlighted China’s significant role in purchasing Iranian oil. “China was purchasing more than 90% of their oil, which is about 8% of China’s energy needs,” said Bessent, adding a blockade near the Strait of Hormuz could temporarily halt Chinese purchases of Iranian crude. He said two Chinese banks were warned that they could face

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  Israel appoints 1st ambassador to Somalia’s breakaway region in controversial move

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  Israel appointed on Wednesday its first ambassador to Somalia’s breakaway region of Somaliland, Anadolu reports. Michael Lotem was appointed as a non-resident ambassador to Somaliland, the Israeli Foreign Ministry said in a statement. Lotem previously served as ambassador to Kenya, Azerbaijan, and Kazakhstan, according to Israel’s public broadcaster KAN. In December 2025, Israel announced mutual recognition with Somaliland, a move strongly rejected by the Somali government and criticized by many countries across the world. Somaliland, which has lacked official recognition since declaring independence from Somalia in 1991, operates as a de facto independent administrative, political, and security entity, with the central government unable to assert control over the region and its leadership unable to secure international recognition of independence. The

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  Senate minority leader pushes 4th war powers vote as Iran war enters day 47

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  The US Senate minority leader said Wednesday that Senate Democrats will force a fourth vote on a war powers resolution aimed at halting US military involvement in Iran as the war stretches into its seventh week, Anadolu reports. Speaking on the Senate floor, Chuck Schumer stressed that this latest effort marks a continued campaign by Democrats to compel congressional oversight and potentially halt the war, after three previous attempts failed to gain Republican support. “Republicans have voted against this resolution three times now, but as the war drags on for 47 days with no end in sight, they should join us on this resolution and end the war once and for all,” Schumer said. Schumer signaled that Democrats are prepared

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  China urges stable transit and respect for Iran’s rights in Strait of Hormuz

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  China urged respect for Tehran’s rights as a littoral state of the Strait of Hormuz but called for freedom and safety of navigation through the key waterway amid conflict between the US and Iran, Anadolu reports. “China supports maintaining the momentum of the ceasefire and peace talks, which serves the fundamental interests of the Iranian people and reflects the shared expectations of countries in the region and the international community,” Foreign Minister Wang Yi told his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi in a phone call on Wednesday. “Iran’s sovereignty, security, and legitimate rights and interests as a littoral state of the Strait of Hormuz should be respected and upheld,” said Wang, according to a statement from the Chinese Foreign Ministry. Wang,

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  Pakistan army chief in Tehran for talks with Iranian foreign minister ahead of expected fresh US talks

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  A high-level Pakistani delegation led by the army chief arrived in Iran’s capital Tehran on Wednesday for talks with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi ahead of possible fresh negotiations with the US, Anadolu reports. Field Marshal Asim Munir is accompanied by Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and others, who arrived in Tehran “as part of the ongoing mediation efforts,” said the army in an official statement. Araghchi himself received the delegation on arrival. Munir’s talks with Araghchi will outline a plan for potential talks between Iran and the US, Iran’s state-run media reported. Carrying Washington’s new message, the Pakistani delegation is expected to discuss upcoming negotiations in meetings with Iranian officials, IRIB News reported. The US and Iran held rare direct

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  Israel’s New Gospel of Perpetual War | Palestine This Week with Mouin Rabbani

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  In this episode, we examine why the first round of Iran-US talks broke down, how Lebanon has moved to the centre of ceasefire negotiations and why Trump appears to be retreating from his earlier endorsement of Iran’s 10-point plan. We also ask whether the war on Iran now amounts to a historic strategic defeat for both Washington and Tel Aviv, before looking at the build-up to war and Netanyahu’s role in shaping it. The discussion then turns to the growing rift between Pope Leo and Trump, the dangerous normalisation of political assassination and the rise in US soldiers refusing to fight with Iran. We close by considering why Israel is more dangerous than ever and what Viktor Orban’s defeat could

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  UN chief calls Sudan conflict world’s ‘largest humanitarian crisis’ 3 years on

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday marked three years since the war in Sudan began, warning of catastrophic humanitarian conditions at an international conference in Berlin, Anadolu reports. “Today marks three years since the war in Sudan began,” Guterres said in a video message to the International Humanitarian Conference for Sudan, calling it “a tragic milestone in a conflict that has shattered a country of immense promise, and created the world’s largest humanitarian crisis.” “Nearly 34 million people inside Sudan now need humanitarian assistance,” with “more than 4.5 million” forced to flee across borders, he said. He warned that “famine has taken hold in what was once a breadbasket for the region,” adding that “an entire generation of children has been

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  Israel launches operation to demolish homes in frontline villages in Lebanon: Report

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  Israel has begun a military operation to demolish dozens of homes in frontline villages in southern Lebanon, as Tel Aviv continues to expand its ongoing assault in the Arab country, Israeli media reported on Wednesday. The operation, code-named “Silver Plow,” aims to “clear” the first line of villages near the border, in a tactic applied during Israel’s two-year offensive in the Gaza Strip, Channel 12 said. According to the broadcaster, the Israeli army has identified more than 20 villages in southern Lebanon for home demolitions and is reinforcing the operation with heavy engineering equipment. The channel said the military does not intend to allow Lebanese residents to return to the area “until security is restored” for residents of northern Israel.

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  8 more Gazans killed by Israeli fire despite ceasefire, death toll nears 72,350

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  Eight Palestinians were killed by Israeli army fire in the Gaza Strip over the past 24 hours, in the latest violation of a ceasefire agreement in effect since last October, the Health Ministry said Wednesday, Anadolu reports. Hospitals in Gaza also received 29 wounded in attacks by Israeli forces, the ministry added in a statement. The ministry did not give details on the circumstances of the casualties, but said Israel continues daily strikes despite the Oct. 10 ceasefire. According to the ministry, the death toll from Israeli attacks since Oct. 8, 2023 rose to 72,344, while 172,242 people have been injured. Since the ceasefire began, a total of 765 Palestinians have been killed, 2,140 injured and 760 bodies recovered, the ministry

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  Washington yet to formally agree to Iran ceasefire extension: US official

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  Washington has not yet “formally agreed” to extend of Iran ceasefire, but efforts continue for the extension of a ceasefire between the US and Iran, a US official said. “The United States has not formally agreed to an extension of the ceasefire. There is continued engagement between the US and Iran to reach a deal,” the official told Anadolu. Talks were held in the Pakistani capital Islamabad over the weekend to try to permanently end the US-Israeli war on Iran that began on Feb. 28, but no agreement was reached. The talks were held after Pakistan secured two-week ceasefire on April 08 and is set to expire next week on April 22. READ: Trump says Iran war is ‘close to over’

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  Most Italians view Trump’s handling of Iran war negatively

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  A vast majority of Italians view US President Donald Trump’s handling of the Iran war negatively, according to a new survey released on Wednesday, Anadolu reports. The Youtrend poll for Sky TG24 found that negative views were consistent on the US-Iran war across Italy’s political spectrum, as 79% of Italians expressed disapproval of Trump’s handling of the situation. Among those who expressed negative views, 76% are center-right voters, 91% center-left, and 89% are supporters of other parties. The joint US-Israeli war with Iran left some 3,300 people dead and hundreds of thousands displaced in Iran, while 13 US servicemen were killed and hundreds of others wounded in the 39-day war since Feb. 28. The US and Iran held direct talks in

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  US to deploy thousands more troops to Middle East to pressure Iran: Report

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  The US is moving to deploy thousands of additional troops to the Middle East in the coming days as Washington seeks to pressure Iran into reaching a deal to end the conflict, The Washington Post reported Wednesday. The reinforcements reportedly include roughly 6,000 personnel aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush and its accompanying warships, according to current and former officials who spoke anonymously. Another 4,200 troops, part of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and the Marine Corps’ 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, are also expected to arrive near the end of April. The buildup is expected to add to existing forces in the region as the two-week ceasefire approaches its April 22 deadline. These incoming troops will join about

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  Iran threatens to block exports, imports in Gulf if US blockade continues

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters threatened Wednesday to block exports and imports through the Gulf, the Sea of Oman and the Red Sea in response to the US naval blockade on Iranian ports. If the “aggressive and terrorist US” continues “illegal maritime blockade actions and creates insecurity for Iranian commercial vessels and oil tankers,” such moves would be seen as “a prelude to violating the ceasefire,” Major General Ali Abdollahi, the commander of the Central Headquarters, said in a statement carried by Fars News Agency. He warned that if the blockade persists, Iran’s armed forces “will not allow any exports or imports to continue” in strategic waterways, including the Gulf, Sea of Oman, and the Red Sea. The US has

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  Europe promotes plan to reopen Strait of Hormuz without US: report

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  Europe is promoting a plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz without the involvement of the US, according to a report in The Wall Street Journal. Britain and France are leading an initiative to form an international force to clear mines and secure shipping lanes, with the aim of restoring confidence among shipping companies. The plan would exclude the US, Israel and Iran. French President Emmanuel Macron said that the mission would be a defensive international effort and would not include “warring parties”. Diplomatic sources said that the European forces would not operate under US command. Under the proposal, military vessels, including mine-clearing ships, are expected to take part in ensuring the safe passage of commercial shipping and rebuilding confidence

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  Marwan Barghouti subjected to “brutal” assaults in Israeli jail

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  A campaign calling for the release of Palestinian prisoner Marwan Barghouti has said that he has been subjected to “brutal” assaults inside Israeli prisons, claiming that he was beaten three times in less than a month. In a statement, the Popular Campaign for the Release of Barghouti and Other Prisoners said that he had recently been subjected to new attacks while being held in isolation in Megiddo Prison in the north and Ramon Prison in the south, ahead of the 24th anniversary of his arrest. READ: Marwan Barghouti ‘brutally assaulted’ while in solitary confinement in Israeli prison Barghouti, a senior member of the Fatah movement, was arrested by Israel in April, 2002, and later convicted by the occupation state of

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  European petition exceeds one million signatures to suspend EU-Israel agreement

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  A European petition calling for the complete suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement has surpassed one million signatures within three months of its launch. According to the European Commission’s Citizens’ Initiatives platform, the number of signatures reached 1,007,331, exceeding the threshold required for official consideration, with the legal criteria met in at least seven EU member states. The campaign reflects growing public discontent across Europe over Israeli policies, particularly in the context of the war on the Gaza Strip and reports of serious human rights violations. The petition accuses Israel of violating international law and disregarding rulings by the International Court of Justice, especially those related to the prevention of genocide. READ: France signals possible review of EU-Israel agreement over

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  Israel arrested 1,700 Palestinian children in West Bank since October, 2023, rights group says

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  The Palestinian Centre for the Defence of Prisoners reported that Israel has arrested 1,700 Palestinian children in the illegally occupied West Bank since October, 2023, in addition to dozens more in Gaza, with limited information available about the fate of some detainees. In a report titled “The Reality of Palestinian Children’s Detention in Israeli Prisons”, the centre documented more than 55,500 child arrests since 1967, noting that around 350 children remain imprisoned, including some serving sentences and others held under administrative detention. The report states that arrests are often carried out through night raids and home incursions, with children reportedly detained while handcuffed and blindfolded. READ: Israel forces detaining record numbers of Palestinian children without charge It also cited testimonies

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  Afghanistan delivers 530 tons of aid to Gaza

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  Afghanistan has sent 530 tons of essential humanitarian aid to Gaza through the Rafah crossing, Kabul’s Information Ministry said Wednesday, Anadolu reports. The consignment, prepared and purchased by an Afghan government delegation in Egypt, will be distributed among 22,000 families, according to the ministry statement. The aid includes food, clothing, and other vital supplies, with an estimated value of around $500,000. Kabul also reaffirmed its “firm” stance on the Palestinian issue, emphasizing that it should be resolved “in accordance with established historical facts and the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.” At least 72,336 people, mostly children and women, have been killed and 172,213 others injured in Israeli aggression since Oct. 8, 2023, according to Palestinian health authorities. Despite a ceasefire

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  Pakistani premier departs for Saudi Arabia on regional tour to discuss Middle East situation

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday flew to Saudi Arabia as part of his three-nation regional tour ahead of a possible second round of talks between the US and Iran aimed at ending the ongoing Middle East conflict, Anadolu reports. Apart from Saudi Arabia, Sharif will also visit Qatar and Turkiye from April 15 to 18, said a statement from Islamabad’s Foreign Ministry. He is scheduled to meet Saudi Crown Prince Mohamad bin Salman to discuss the regional situation, a Foreign Ministry source told Anadolu. “The visits to Saudi Arabia and Qatar will be in the bilateral context, where the prime minister will meet the leadership of Saudi Arabia and Qatar to discuss ongoing bilateral cooperation as well as regional

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  Iran interior minister dismisses impact of blockade threats

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni said that Iran will not be affected by what he described as the illusion of a blockade, citing the country’s more than 8,000 kilometres of land and sea borders. He stressed that authorities in border provinces must facilitate the import of essential goods to counter any potential restrictions and ensure continuity of supply. In an earlier statement, Mossad chief David Barnea said that Israel did not expect the Iranian regime to fall immediately after the end of active fighting. He added that efforts would continue beyond the combat phase, stating that work to overthrow the Iranian regime was ongoing. The statements come amid continued regional tensions following the recent escalation and ceasefire developments. READ: Iran warns

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  Drone attack hits Iranian Kurdish opposition camp in northern Iraq

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  A drone attack targeted a camp belonging to the Komala Kurdish opposition group in Sulaimaniyah province in northern Iraq. According to local media cited by Anadolu Agency, two drones struck the camp. No immediate information was available about casualties. Videos circulating on social media showed a drone crashing into houses inside the camp, causing a large explosion and sending smoke billowing from the site. In a related development, the counter-terrorism unit of the Kurdistan Regional Government said that two additional drone attacks targeted Erbil province. It added that fighter jets intercepted and shot down the drones without causing casualties or material damage. READ: Barzani tells Iran Kurdistan Region will not join regional conflicts No party has claimed responsibility for the

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  ICRC: Over 11,000 missing in Sudan war

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has announced that more than 11,000 people have gone missing in Sudan since the outbreak of war three years ago, with thousands of cases still lacking information about the victims’ fate. In a statement, the ICRC said that the number of missing persons cases has increased by more than 40 per cent over the past year, noting that the documented figures likely represent only a small fraction of the true scale of the crisis. In a related development, James Reynolds, the ICRC’s deputy regional director, said that shifting front lines have contributed to the displacement of more than 11 million people across the country. READ:IOM: 1,725 newly displaced in Sudan’s Blue Nile

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  Tunisia court sentences Ghannouchi to 20 years in prison

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  A Tunisian court yesterday sentenced Ennahda movement leader Rached Ghannouchi to 20 years in prison on charges of conspiring against state security, in a case linked to a “Ramadan gathering”. The same sentence was handed to Ennahda figures Youssef Nouri and Ahmed Mechri. The court also issued 20-year prison terms, effective immediately, against three other leaders abroad, including Ghannouchi’s son-in-law and former foreign minister, Rafik Abdessalem, according to Mosaique FM. In addition, three other defendants, who had been released pending trial, were each sentenced to three years in prison. The case relates to a meeting organised by the opposition during Ramadan in 2023, in which Ghannouchi warned of the dangers of “political exclusion” by the authorities. Ghannouchi, 84, has been

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  Gaza flooded with sweets as fuel and medicine withheld, health official warns

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  The director-general of the Ministry of Health in Gaza, Munir Al-Barsh, has described a catastrophic situation in the besieged enclave, saying that it is being flooded with chocolate and soft drinks while fuel, medicine and basic food are withheld, leaving infants in incubators at constant risk of death. Al-Barsh said that the situation is not a temporary shortage but a deliberate manipulation of aid, masking ongoing starvation and continued killings despite claims of a ceasefire. Inside the corridors of Al-Shifa Hospital in the Gaza Strip, where the sounds of medical devices mix with the cries of the wounded, doctors are struggling with a harsh reality: babies in incubators need electricity to survive, yet fuel is unavailable and the aid that

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  Lebanon’s Amal Movement rejects Washington meeting, rules out direct talks with Israel

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  Lebanon’s Amal Movement has rejected the direct talks held in Washington between Lebanese and Israeli officials, reaffirming its refusal to engage in any direct negotiations with Israel. Mustafa Fawani, head of the movement’s executive body, said that Amal remains committed to the ceasefire framework overseen by the “mechanism committee”, which he described as the body responsible for implementing the truce announced in November, 2024. He added that Israel “has not adhered” to the agreement. Fawani said that the movement “does not seek validation from anyone” but instead “grants recognition in national belonging, resistance and steadfastness”. He added that its path “is lived, not merely told”, stressing that its history is built on sacrifices and martyrs in defence of Lebanon. OPINION:

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  Vance likely to lead potential 2nd round of talks with Iran: Report

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  US Vice President JD Vance is likely to lead a potential second round of talks with Iranian officials, CNN reported on Wednesday. Vance is “expected to lead another round of negotiations with Iranian officials, should a meeting happen before the ceasefire expires next week,” CNN reported, citing sources. The first round of talks was held in the Pakistani capital Islamabad over the weekend to permanently end the US-Israeli war on Iran that began on Feb. 28, but an agreement could not be reached. Efforts to hold another round of talks are underway. Pakistan brokered a two-week ceasefire on April 8, which is still holding. On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump suggested that talks could resume in Pakistan in the next

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  Palestinians confront Israeli occupiers attempting to seize West Bank home

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  Palestinian residents confronted Israeli occupiers Tuesday who attempted to seize a home in the town of Shuyukh in the southern occupied West Bank, according to sources. A group of armed occupiers stormed the town in northeastern Hebron and raided a Palestinian home, trying to take it by force, but residents intervened and prevented the confiscation, sources told Anadolu. Fadi al-Ayaydeh, executive director of Shuyukh municipality, said residents were surprised early Tuesday to find occupiers had set up a tent on land belonging to Palestinians. “We went to the site and found a large number of residents there. During that time, armed settlers confronted us and fired shots in the air to intimidate people,” al-Ayaydeh told Anadolu. READ: UN experts urge end

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  Israel envoy to US says France should be excluded from Lebanon talks

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  Israel’s ambassador to the United States said his country does not want France involved in peace negotiations with Lebanon, following calls from a group of countries urging both sides to advance talks, Anadolu reports. After direct discussions between Israel and Lebanon in Washington, Yechiel Leiter criticized France’s role, saying Paris should not be part of the process, according to French media reports. “It is certain that we do not want to see the French interfering in these negotiations,” Leiter told reporters. His remarks came after 17 countries, including France, called on Israel and Lebanon to “seize the opportunity” presented by ongoing peace talks. READ: France signals possible review of EU-Israel agreement over Lebanon strikes Asked whether the Israeli government had made a

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  Israeli High Court begins hearing petition seeking removal of far-right minister Ben-Gvir

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  Israel’s High Court of Justice on Wednesday began hearing a petition seeking the removal of the far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir from his post over allegations of interference in the Israeli police, Anadolu reports. Amid concerns over potential disruptions inside the courtroom, the judges decided to hold the hearing without public attendance, while broadcasting the proceedings live, according to an Anadolu correspondent. Ahead of the session, dozens of Ben-Gvir supporters gathered outside the court building, carrying signs reading “It’s time to tell the High Court: Enough” and “End the judicial dictatorship.” Ben-Gvir arrived outside the courtroom and addressed his supporters, saying: “Gali Baharav-Miara (The government’s legal adviser) says that I am deciding policy and changing the police — she is

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  30 projectiles fired from Lebanon toward northern Israel: Report

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  At least 30 projectiles were fired from Lebanon toward northern Israel in less than an hour, according to Israeli media on Wednesday morning, Anadolu reports. Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth reported that more than 20 projectiles were initially launched toward the Galilee Panhandle, with about eight intercepted by air defense systems, while the rest fell in open areas. Around 10 additional projectiles were fired toward Acre, Nahariya, and nearby communities, the report said, adding three were intercepted, with the remainder landing in open areas. There were no immediate reports of casualties or material damage. READ: Hezbollah rejects any deal from US-backed Lebanon-Israel talks

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  Saudi Arabia to provide $3B to Pakistan amid debt repayment obligations to UAE

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  Pakistan’s finance minister confirmed late Tuesday that Saudi Arabia has agreed to provide $3 billion in financial assistance to Islamabad to avert stress on its weak foreign reserves amid debt repayment obligations to the United Arab Emirates, Anadolu reports. Muhammad Aurangzeb, who is in Washington to hold staff level talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), told reporters that Riyadh will provide the promised amount next week, Pakistani broadcaster Geo News reported Wednesday. “We have held a detailed meeting with the Saudi finance minister today. He has clearly told (me) that $3 billion will be provided (to Pakistan) as additional deposits,” Aurangzeb was quoted as saying. The development comes as Pakistan is set to repay a $3.5 billion debt to the

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  Trump says Iran war is ‘close to over’

  by MI on April 15, 2026

  US President Donald Trump, in an interview to be aired on Wednesday, said the US-Israeli war on Iran is “close to over.” “I think it’s close to over, yeah. I mean, I view it as very close to over,” Trump told Fox Business anchor Maria Bartiromo when asked if the war is “over.” A video excerpt of the interview was shared on US social media company X. “You know what, if I pulled up stakes right now, it would take them 20 years to rebuild that country, and we’re not finished. We’ll see what happens. I think they want to make a deal very badly,” Trump added. Earlier, Bartiromo said in a video on Instagram that Trump repeatedly referred to

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  Greece accused of using migrant ‘mercenaries’ in pushback operations on Turkish border

  by Marwa A on April 14, 2026

  Police in Greece have been recruiting migrants to violently force other migrants back across the land border with Türkiye, according to a BBC investigation published on Tuesday, Anadolu reports. The report, done in collaboration with the Consolidated Rescue Group (CRG), alleges that so-called “mercenaries” – themselves migrants – have been deployed in the Evros border region since at least 2020 as overseen by senior officers. Internal police documents are said to describe how the recruitment was ordered and managed. Witness testimony gathered by investigators describes serious brutality, including migrants being stripped, robbed, beaten, and in some cases sexually assaulted. The BBC says it was first alerted by a video showing alleged mistreatment, later corroborated through accounts from migrants, former mercenaries,

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  Humanitarian access to southern Lebanon severely restricted, markets have collapsed: UN official

  by Marwa A on April 14, 2026

  Nearly 63% of planned humanitarian convoys to southern Lebanon have not been completed due to negative or absent responses to deconfliction requests, a senior UN official said Tuesday, warning that aid delivery is severely hampered by escalating violence, Anadolu reports. “Nearly 63% of planned humanitarian convoys to southern Lebanon have not been completed due to negative or absent response or deconfliction requests… Even when convoys are cleared, our teams are being stopped at multiple holding points. Last week, one of our convoy missions took 15 hours to complete,” Samer AbdelJaber, regional director for the Middle East, North Africa, and Eastern Europe at the World Food Program (WFP), told lawmakers in Brussels during a session at the European Parliament Committee on