On its 79th anniversary, the United Nations continues to face scrutiny for its effectiveness in promoting peace and resolving conflicts. However, the organisation has played a pivotal role in shaping the world order over the past decades, particularly in the creation of Israel and the Korean War. From the UN Special Committee on Palestine to the adoption of Resolution 181, the organisation's decisions have had lasting impacts on the Middle East. Similarly, the UN's condemnation of North Korea's invasion of South Korea played a crucial role in the Korean War. Despite facing criticism for its handling of these conflicts, the UN's decisions continue to have a profound impact on global politics.
Intel from the recent Friday prayers at Tehran's Grand Mosalla Mosque reveals Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's views on Iran's attack on Israel earlier this week. Addressing a massive crowd, Khamenei called the attack "completely legal and legitimate work" and also delivered a message to the Islamic world, particularly Lebanon and Palestine. The event also included a ceremony commemorating the death of Hezbollah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah by the Israeli Air Force. Khamenei expressed the need to honour Nasrallah, whom he described as an "admired personality" and urged the youth of Hezbollah to fulfil his wishes and defend the region from external threats.
The Israeli army's deadly raids in the West Bank have resulted in the death of at least six Palestinians, including the son of well-known prisoner Zakaria al-Zubaidi. The ongoing violence also saw four more people killed in Gaza as forces carried out air strikes on Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital and Tulkarem refugee camp. This comes after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statement about a permanent ceasefire deal, which has been criticized by Hamas for jeopardizing progress. The situation remains tense as multiple casualties have been reported in Kamal Adwan Hospital following an airstrike by Israeli forces.
As the 2024 Democratic National Convention begins in Chicago, Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz are set to accept the party's nominations. However, tensions surrounding Israel and Palestine are expected to be on the forefront of discussions, with thousands of pro-Palestine demonstrators expected to protest the event. While the DNC schedule does not currently show any events specifically addressing Israel, there will be a panel discussing Palestinian human rights, featuring Palestinian voices and Jewish congressman Andy Levin. The Jewish Democratic Council of America will also be hosting an event "on the sidelines" of the convention to address antisemitism and extremism.
As the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to devastate the Gaza Strip, international pressure is mounting for a ceasefire. In a joint statement, leaders from Britain, France, and Germany urged an immediate end to the fighting and called for the release of hostages held by Hamas. They also emphasized the urgent need for aid to be delivered and distributed to the people of Gaza.
As Israeli military operations continue in the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis, international efforts to broker a ceasefire and prevent a larger regional conflict involving Iran and its allies are intensifying. However, as more casualties are reported and more civilians are displaced in Gaza, Hamas has remained skeptical of the latest round of negotiations and is calling for more action from mediators to hold Israel accountable for its aggression. Meanwhile, tensions are rising as the US deploys a guided missile submarine to the Middle East and Israel prepares for potential retaliation from Iran and Hezbollah after the assassination of a top Hamas leader in Tehran.
The assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh by Israel has caused tensions in the region. With the recent attack on a Hezbollah commander, the situation risks escalating into an all-out regional war. This could have serious consequences for India as it has economic stakes in the Middle East, and the conflict threatens the India-Middle-East-Europe Economic Corridor. As a friend to both Israel and Palestine, India should continue efforts to bring both sides to the negotiating table.
At a pro-Palestine protest in London, Independent MP Jeremy Corbyn promised to use his voice to advocate for peace, justice, equality, and humanity. As emotions ran high among the protesters, Corbyn urged them to stand strong in the face of the new Labour government in power. The powerful message delivered by Corbyn on this historic Sunday in 2024 left a resounding impact on the crowd gathered, who were all united in their support for Palestinian rights.
As India prepares to enforce new criminal laws on July 1, many wonder if the country's police forces are adequately prepared for the changes. The laws, meant to address issues of forced displacement and discrimination against minority groups such as Muslims and Adivasis, raise concerns about how they will be enforced and if they will truly address the underlying issues. This development also highlights the role of moral diplomacy in realpolitik, as seen in India's strained relationships with Israel, Palestine, and Myanmar under the leadership of Janata Dal (United) and PV Narasimha Rao.
Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has stated that he is consulting with the chair on the appropriate action to be taken against MP Asaduddin Owaisi for his 'Jai Palestine' slogan during oath-taking in Parliament. Rijiju emphasized that India is not against any country but does not condone chanting in support of another country inside the Parliament. Don't miss the chance to read this exclusive news on how the controversy unfolds.