After failed ceasefire talks, Israel has resumed its attacks on Gaza, resulting in the deaths of at least 200 people. The Israeli army claims to be targeting terror targets belonging to Hamas, while the group accuses Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement. The ongoing conflict has left over 48,500 people dead and has displaced most of the population in Gaza. As mediators struggle to restart talks, the situation continues to worsen for the residents of Gaza.
The US conducted overnight airstrikes in Yemen, targeting the capital Sanaa and other areas, resulting in numerous casualties. President Trump has vowed to use overwhelming force against the Iran-backed Houthis, who have been attacking international ships in the Red Sea in solidarity with Gaza. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the strikes will continue until the militants are no longer capable of attacking ships. The Houthis, who have previously targeted the US Navy and commercial shipping, have not carried out any attacks since the ceasefire in Gaza began in January.
After its record-smashing theatrical run, Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire is set to return to the big screen for a second round. Starring Prabhas and Prithviraj Sukumaran, the film follows two princes battling for power in a dystopian city. With acclaimed director Prashanth Neel at the helm and a stellar cast including Shruti Haasan and Jagapathi Babu, viewers can expect an electrifying movie experience once again.
In a dramatic and unprecedented meeting, US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy clashed over ongoing negotiations between the two countries. Despite pressure from Trump to accept a ceasefire in the peace agreement with Russia, Zelenskyy stood firm on Ukraine's stance towards their neighbour. The heated exchange has caused a rift between the two leaders, with other world leaders expressing support for Ukraine's position. However, it seems that Trump's priority in these negotiations is his image at home, rather than international diplomacy.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy travels to Washington DC to secure a ceasefire agreement with Russia and a possible mineral deal with the US. However, tensions arise as he openly challenges President Trump for his softer approach to Vladimir Putin and urges him to not make any compromises with a "killer". Their meeting ends in chaos and a joint press conference is cancelled, highlighting the strained relationship between the two leaders.
Israel has accused Palestinian "terrorists" of killing two young boys, Ariel and Kfir Bibas, who were held hostage by the militant group Hamas since October 2023. The boys' remains were among four bodies handed over by Hamas in a prisoner exchange this week. However, Israel has identified one of the bodies as belonging to a different person, not Shiri Bibas as claimed by Hamas. The Israeli military has demanded Hamas return Shiri, along with all other abducted individuals. It is the first time Israeli bodies have been returned since the ceasefire in Gaza.
As the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas took effect, three Israeli hostages, all women, were officially handed over to the Red Cross in Gaza City for their return to Israel. Despite the delay in the truce, the UN was able to send aid trucks into the devastated Palestinian territory, as thousands of war-displaced Palestinians made their way back to their homes, facing scenes of destruction and rubble. One resident described the destruction as "unprecedented" and said there was "nothing left" in the once-bustling northern area of Jabalia.
At a press briefing in the State Department, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was repeatedly interrupted by hecklers, who denounced U.S. policy on the Israel-Gaza conflict. The interruptions occurred as Blinken discussed a recent ceasefire and hostage deal in Gaza. This display highlights the ongoing tensions and divisions surrounding the Israel-Gaza conflict and the challenges facing the Biden administration in navigating this complex issue.
In his final speech as President, Joe Biden sounded the alarm on the rise of oligarchy in America, warning that it threatens democracy and basic rights. He credited his administration for the recent Israel-Hamas ceasefire and called for accountability among the ultra-wealthy. With powerful words and a call to action, Biden urged Americans to come together and address the dangerous concentration of power in the hands of a select few.
After months of negotiations mediated by Egypt and Qatar, a deal has been reached between Israel and Hamas to end the war in Gaza. The ceasefire, set to last for six weeks, will see the exchange of hostages for Palestinian detainees, the return of displaced Palestinians to their homes, and the repositioning of Israeli forces. The agreement, facilitated by the United States, has been welcomed by President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump. Israel's security cabinet is expected to approve the deal on Thursday.