Israel authorities announced they are ending their agreement with UNRWA. This decision effectively shuts down the agency’s operations in areas they control. The move comes amid long-standing opposition to UNRWA. Tensions increased after accusations that some staff members were involved in the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. The UN dismissed nine staff members, but Israel has not provided evidence for broader claims. This led several Western countries to suspend their funding for UNRWA, although that funding has since been reinstated.
Read more: Israel’s Military Response to Hamas and the Ban on UNRWA
Israel has also intensified military operations in the region. Over the weekend, Israeli forces captured a Syrian national accused of collaborating with Iran. This marks the first confirmed instance of Israeli troops operating on Syrian soil during the current conflict. Additionally, Israel has escalated its military actions against Hezbollah in Lebanon. They have extended operations beyond the border despite international calls for a ceasefire.
In Gaza, the conflict continues to escalate. Israeli military actions against Hamas have resulted in a staggering death toll. Palestinian health authorities estimate over 43,000 deaths since the conflict began. Many casualties are women and children, highlighting the deepening humanitarian crisis.
Violence has surged in the West Bank as well. Reports indicate that Israeli settlers set fire to several vehicles near Ramallah. This prompted condemnation from the Palestinian Authority. Israel police have opened an investigation into the incident. These attacks reflect a troubling trend, as violence against Palestinian communities has increased significantly since the Gaza conflict started. (Courtesy of Newsweek)
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