Author: Naharnet Newsdesk

As Joe Biden withdraws from the U.S. presidential race, the world faces increased uncertainty amidst ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, China’s assertiveness in Asia, and the rise of far-right movements in Europe. With Biden’s extensive relationships with foreign leaders, his departure leaves a void that will impact global affairs. Potential replacements, including Vice President Kamala Harris, bring their own perspectives on key issues. In Israel, speculation abounds on how a new Democratic candidate will influence the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Biden’s departure also raises questions about U.S. support for Ukraine, as tensions with Russia persist. China remains a significant challenge, with…

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is headed to Washington amidst a brutal war and political uncertainty. He aims to emphasize the strong alliance between Israel and the U.S. regardless of the upcoming presidential transition. With escalating violence in the region and Biden’s unexpected withdrawal from the race, Netanyahu’s speech to Congress carries significant implications. The visit poses challenges as he navigates delicate relationships with his governing partners, the Biden administration, and the Republican Party. Netanyahu’s statements during this critical time could impact his political future and Israel’s standing on the global stage. The trip comes amid controversy and criticism, highlighting…

A powerful moment unfolded in Paris as Lebanese photojournalist Christina Assi, who was severely injured in an Israeli strike in south Lebanon, carried the Olympic torch to honor journalists harmed or killed in the field. Assi, along with five other journalists, was hit by Israeli shelling while reporting on the conflict between Israeli troops and Hezbollah, resulting in the loss of her right leg. The torch relay, part of the pre-Olympic festivities, featured 10,000 individuals carrying the flame across France. Assi, accompanied by AFP videographer Dylan Collins, wheeled the torch through Vincennes amidst cheers from colleagues and spectators. Expressing her…

A recent Israeli strike on Yemen’s Hodeida port, controlled by Houthi rebels, caused a massive fire that killed three people and injured many others. The strike was in response to a drone attack by the Houthis on Tel Aviv that resulted in one death. Amidst the chaos, the Houthis vowed a significant response to the Israeli aggression. Firefighting teams are struggling to contain the blaze at the port, a critical entry point for fuel and aid. The ongoing conflict in Yemen has left millions reliant on this port for essential supplies. Experts fear the fire could worsen shortages and escalate…

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to deliver a historic speech to the U.S. Congress, amidst mounting pressure to reach a ceasefire agreement with Hamas following the Gaza war. This visit comes as tensions between Israel and the U.S. have escalated, with concerns over civilian casualties in Gaza and protests in Israel over hostages taken by Hamas. While there is optimism for a potential deal negotiated by Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S., there are also challenges as Hamas accuses Netanyahu of blocking the agreement. However, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken remains hopeful, stating that negotiators are close to…

by Naharnet Newsdesk 21 July 2024, 12:47 In a recent incident, Russia scrambled fighter jets to intercept two U.S. strategic bomber planes near its border over the Barents Sea in the Arctic. The U.S. military conducts routine flights over international waters, claiming they are in neutral airspace and comply with international law. However, Moscow has responded assertively in recent months, cautioning against U.S. drone flights over the Black Sea potentially leading to a military clash. The Russian defense ministry reported that fighter jets were scrambled to intercept the approaching “air target,” later identified as U.S. Air Force B-52H strategic bombers.…

In a daring attack that breached Israel’s sophisticated air defenses, a drone claimed by Yemen’s Houthi rebels killed a civilian in a Tel Aviv apartment building near a U.S. embassy annex. The incident drew strong condemnation from U.N. chief Antonio Guterres and calls for restraint to prevent further escalation. The attack came on the heels of a ruling by the U.N.’s top court declaring Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories as “illegal.” The Houthis, backed by Iran, have targeted Israeli cities with drone and missile attacks in retaliation for the Gaza war. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denied accusations of occupation,…

In a bold move, U.S. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump spoke with Ukraine’s President Zelensky to pledge an end to the war with Russia. Trump expressed his commitment to bringing peace to the world and negotiating a deal to end the violence, emphasizing prosperity for both sides. However, concerns arise over Trump’s affinity for Putin and his stance on NATO, raising worry among allies of Ukraine. Trump’s running mate J.D. Vance advocates for an isolationist approach, suggesting cutting aid to Ukraine despite the ongoing conflict. Despite Trump’s claims to quickly end the war, details remain scarce. His history with Zelensky…

Yemen’s Houthi rebels carried out a drone strike in central Tel Aviv, near the U.S. Embassy, resulting in one fatality and 10 injuries. The strike, breaking through Israel’s defense systems, was in retaliation for the ongoing war, the first successful attack on Tel Aviv in months. The blast injured civilians, shattered windows, and damaged buildings and cars. The strike has raised concerns about the conflict escalating beyond Gaza, with fears of a region-wide conflagration looming. International mediators are pushing for a cease-fire to halt the fighting that has caused a humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Israel’s aerial defense systems have intercepted…

The UK government has lifted the funding suspension for the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) and pledged £21 million in new funds. This decision comes after international donors cut off funding in January due to allegations of UNRWA staff involvement in a Hamas attack. Despite initial hesitancy, the UK foreign minister David Lammy reassured parliament that UNRWA is committed to neutrality and reforms. UNRWA plays a crucial role in distributing aid in Gaza, where a humanitarian crisis has been exacerbated by ongoing conflicts. The UK’s decision to resume funding has been praised by humanitarian organizations like Human Rights Watch.…