Daily News Brief

*) Israeli opposition leaders slam Netanyahu's speech to US Congress Israeli opposition leaders sharply criticised Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's speech to the US Congress. Yair Lapid, the leader of the There Is a Future Party, accused the prime minister of failing to address a prisoner exchange deal with the Palestinian resistance group Hamas. Lapid called the address "disgraceful” and said, “An hour of talking without uttering the single sentence: 'There will be a kidnapping deal.” *) Türkiye says could be part of mechanism in case of two-state solution deal Türkiye's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan warned that without the immediate implementation of the two-state solution, a fourth Gaza war is inevitable. In an interview with Sky News Arabia, Fidan said that if an agreement on a two-state solution is reached in Gaza, Türkiye can participate in the guarantor mechanism that Ankara proposed. *) US Senator Bob Menendez steps down following corruption conviction US Senator Bob Menendez submitted his resignation in the aftermath of his conviction on corruption charges including bribery and acting as an agent for a foreign government, bowing to pressure from fellow Democrats to give up the job. Democratic New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy will appoint a replacement for Menendez, who has served in the Senate since 2006 and was the Foreign Relations Committee chairman until charged last year. *) Several dead, over 150 missing after boat capsizes off Mauritania: IOM The International Organization for Migration said at least 15 people have been killed and more than 150 missing after a boat carrying 300 passengers capsized near Mauritania's capital Nouakchott on Wednesday. The organisation said the Mauritanian coastguard rescued 120 people and that 10 of them were taken to hospitals while efforts to locate the missing continued. *) Brazil's Lula launches global effort to end hunger, poverty at G20 summit Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has kicked off a global effort to end hunger and extreme poverty, aiming to make it a hallmark of Brazil's G20 presidency as he seeks to restore the country's soft power on the world stage. Lula said "Nothing is as absurd and unacceptable in the 21st century as the persistence of hunger and poverty, when we have so much abundance and so many scientific and technological resources at our disposal.”

*) Netanyahu visit sparks wave of protests in DC, with all sides criticising the Israeli PM The arrival of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has touched off a flurry of protests in the US capital, including a sit-in at a congressional office building that ended with multiple arrests. Some of the demonstrations have condemned Israel but others have expressed support while pressuring Netanyahu to strike a ceasefire deal and bring home the hostages. Dozens of protesters rallied outside his hotel Monday evening, and on Tuesday afternoon, hundreds of demonstrators staged a flash mob-style protest in the Cannon Building, which houses offices of House of Representatives members. *) WHO ‘extremely worried’ over possible polio outbreak in Gaza A top WHO official said he was “extremely worried” over possible outbreaks in war-torn Gaza after poliovirus was detected in the sewage. The official warned that communicable diseases could cause more deaths than injuries. But since human samples were yet to be collected, according to the WHO, it remained unclear if anyone was actually infected with the virus. *) Secret Service asks Trump to cancel outdoor rallies: report In a dramatic turn of events, the US Secret Service has thrown a major wrench into former US president Donald Trump’s campaign plans following a harrowing assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania on July 13. According to the Washington Post, the Secret Service has asked Trump’s team to stop large outdoor rallies and events, reflecting concerns over the former president’s safety. The assassination attempt has prompted the Secret Service to re-evaluate the risks associated with Trump’s public appearances. *) Death toll soars to over 200 in Ethiopia landslide Using shovels or their bare hands, local residents searched desperately for survivors after a landslide in a remote area of southern Ethiopia killed at least 229 people. It is reported to be the deadliest disaster recorded in the Horn of Africa nation. So far, 148 men and 81 women are confirmed to have lost their lives after the disaster struck in the Kencho-Shacha locality in the Gofa Zone on Monday. And finally… *) IOC mulls Palestinian call for Israel ban from Paris 2024 The International Olympic Committee has been weighing a Palestinian call for Israeli athletes to be barred from the Games over the war in Gaza, three days before the Opening Ceremony in Paris. As the Israeli Olympic team settled into the Athletes’ Village on Tuesday, the IOC was studying a letter sent by the Palestine Olympic Committee to President Thomas Bach. The letter sent on Monday asked him to ban the Israelis, citing the bombings of besieged Gaza as a breach of the Olympic truce.

*) Pro-Palestine protesters demonstrate against Netanyahu in US Pro-Palestine protesters gathered outside Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s hotel in Washington DC before he addresses the US Congress. Protesters carried placards that read: “Arrest Netanyahu” and “A war criminal stays here”, referring to the hawkish Israeli premier responsible for the death of thousands of innocent Palestinian civilians. *) Israel wants to remain allies with US after Biden: Netanyahu Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel will be the United States’ strongest ally in the Middle East regardless of who is elected president in the upcoming US elections. The visit, however, has been overshadowed by President Joe Biden’s decision not to seek reelection. Netanyahu said he would thank Biden for all he has done for Israel throughout his career and discuss with him issues such as securing the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza. *) Kamala Harris surpasses support needed to become Democratic party’s nominee US Vice President Kamala Harris said she has secured the broad support needed to become the Democratic party’s nominee for the upcoming presidential election. Haris said she looks “forward to formally accepting nomination soon”, adding that she is “proud” to have enough delegates for the Democratic party. According to an Associated Press tally, Harris had 2,214 delegates by Monday night, well beyond the simple majority needed to clinch the nomination on the first ballot. *) Türkiye warns against treating Syria terror groups as ‘legitimate actors’ Türkiye’s envoy to the UN, Ahmet Yildiz, has warned that terrorist organisations in Syria should not be treated as “legitimate actors”, urging the preservation of Syria’s territorial integrity and political unity. Addressing a UN Security Council meeting on the political process and the humanitarian situation in Syria, the Turkish envoy warned that “the terrorist organisations commit grave human rights violations against local people in northeast Syria”. The Turkish diplomat described the humanitarian situation in the country as “catastrophic” and “worsening” and reassured Türkiye’s stance, saying it will continue its efforts to ensure peace in the region. *) Landslides wreak havoc, kill dozens in southern Ethiopia At least 55 people have been killed in two landslides in a remote area of southern Ethiopia, local authorities said, warning that the death toll could rise. The first landslide occurred around 0700 GMT following heavy rains in the remote region. Authorities said the search for survivors was “continuing vigorously”.

*) Joe Biden withdraws from US presidential race US President Joe Biden has ended his reelection campaign after fellow Democrats lost faith in his mental acuity and ability to beat Donald Trump. His decision to quit leaves the presidential race in uncharted territory. Biden, in a post on X, said he will remain in his role as president and commander-in-chief until his term ends in January 2025 and will address the nation this week. *) Israel demolishes Palestinian shops, excavate land amid Gaza war The Israeli army has demolished two commercial establishments and excavated land belonging to Palestinians in Beit Hanina in occupied East Jerusalem. The Israeli army raided the town of Beit Hanina, demolishing a commercial shop and a car showroom, and excavating land, according to the official Palestinian news agency Wafa. The agency did not mention the reason for the Israeli army taking this measure, but it usually uses “construction without a permit” as an excuse for demolishing Palestinians’ homes in occupied Palestinian territories. *) Protestors ready for massive rally in US heartland during Netanyahu’s visit Activists opposing Israel’s war on Gaza and Washington’s continuous support for its Middle Eastern ally plan protests at the US Capitol on Wednesday to coincide with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s US visit this week. Police expect a “large number of demonstrators” and were making additional security arrangements but said there were no known threats. Netanyahu will be in Washington this week for a July 24 address to a joint session of the US Congress. He is also expected to meet US President Joe Biden. *) Bangladesh’s top court scales back job quotas Bangladesh’s Supreme Court has scrapped most of the quotas on government jobs that have sparked student-led protests in the South Asian country. The court’s Appellate Division dismissed a lower court order that had reinstated the quotas, directing that 93% of government jobs will be open to candidates on merit, without quotas. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government had scrapped the quota system in 2018, but the lower court reinstated it last month, sparking protests and an ensuing government crackdown. *) Indian Muslim group condemns ‘discriminatory’ eateries order An Indian Muslim group has raised concern about the Uttar Pradesh state’s government “discriminatory” order for eateries to identify their owners. The UP state government earlier asked eateries — including roadside carts — to display the names of their owners to “avoid confusion” during a Hindu holy pilgrimage when thousands of worshippers will make the journey on foot. Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, India’s largest socio-religious Muslim organisation, expressed concern about the order, calling it “completely discriminatory” and a “communal decision.” The group said there is “fear of serious damage to communal harmony.”

*) Israeli air strikes kill ten Palestinians in central Gaza homes At least ten Palestinians were killed in Israeli air strikes that targeted two houses in central Gaza. The Al Awda Hospital said in a statement that it received four bodies and several victims who were injured as a result of an Israeli aircraft targeting a house in the Nuseirat refugee camp. Gaza’s Civil Defence also reported via Telegram that six Palestinians were killed and others injured in an Israeli shelling of a house in the Bureij camp. *) Israelis demand swap deal, early elections amid Netanyahu’s Gaza invasion Demonstrations were held in several cities in Israel to demand a prisoner swap deal with Palestinian factions in Gaza and early elections, according to media reports. Thousands protested across the nation, including in Tel Aviv, Haifa and Caesarea to insist on a deal that would lead to the release of hostages in Gaza, an Israeli daily reported. In Tel Aviv, demonstrators held banners accusing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of “not caring about the lives of hostages held in Gaza.” *) Shoot-on-sight orders in Bangladesh as army patrols Dhaka streets Police imposed a strict curfew with a “shoot-on-sight” order across Bangladesh as military forces patrolled parts of the capital after scores were killed and hundreds injured in clashes over the allocation of civil service jobs. The curfew began at midnight and was relaxed from noon for people to run essential errands, and is expected to last until Sunday morning, allowing officers to fire on mobs in extreme cases. The demonstrations called for mainly by student groups started weeks ago to protest a quota system that reserves up to 30 percent of government jobs for relatives of veterans who fought in Bangladesh’s War of Independence in 1971. *) French police fire tear gas at protesters to clear port blockade French police have removed demonstrators from the western port of La Rochelle with tear gas, as environmentalists and small farmers mobilised against massive irrigation reservoirs under construction. Around 200 people had entered the La Pallice port terminal, including farmers with old tractors, setting up a street party with music and drinks outside a major grain trader’s facility. More than a dozen police vans and an armoured vehicle pushed them out during the morning in a cloud of tear gas, while other police vehicles blocked off access to the port. *) Greece decides to close several Turkish minority schools: report Greece will close four Turkish minority primary schools in Western Thrace, where Turks are densely populated, local media reported. The affected schools are the Hacioren, Keziren and Payamlar primary schools in Rhodope and the Karakoy primary school in Xanthi (Iskece) in northern Greece. Authorities claim the closures are suspensions due to a “lack of students”, but the Turkish minority sees it as an attempt to send students to Greek public schools.

*) ICJ’s landmark ruling declares Israeli occupation of Palestine illegal The International Court of Justice has ruled that the occupied Palestinian territories constitute a “single territorial unity,” which will be protected and respected. Stressing that The Hague regulations have become part of customary international law, and are thus binding on Israel, the court said, “Protection offered by the Human Rights Convention does not cease in case of armed conflict or occupation.” In reference to Israel’s occupation of the Palestinian territories, the court noted that Israel’s “exploitation of natural resources” in occupied Palestinian territory is “inconsistent with its obligation” to respect Palestinians’ right to sovereignty. *) Biden and Netanyahu to discuss Gaza ceasefire, hostage deal White House National Security Council Adviser Jake Sullivan has said President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will discuss ways to reach a deal on a ceasefire in besieged Gaza and the return of hostages during their meeting. Sullivan told Aspen Security Forum in Colorado that the “overriding focus of the meeting between President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu is going to be about the ceasefire and hostage deal.” He said Biden will focus his energy with Netanyahu to “get this deal done in the coming weeks.” *) Democrats struggle to unite behind candidate as Biden vows to stay in race The Democratic National Committee’s rulemaking arm has held a meeting, pressing ahead with plans for a virtual roll call before August 7 to nominate the presidential pick, ahead of the party’s convention later in the month in Chicago. However, Democrats struggled to unite behind a candidate as President Joe Biden insisted he would stay in the election race against Donald Trump. It’s a pivotal few days for the President and his party. And Democrats, racing time, are considering the extraordinary possibility of Biden stepping aside for a new presidential nominee before their own convention. *) Tunisia’s Saied announces reelection bid in October Tunisian President Kais Saied has said he will run for a second term in the October 6 presidential election. Saied, who first won in 2019, officially announced his candidacy in a televised speech published on his Facebook page. Speaking in the southern region of Tatouine, the 66-year-old said he was answering the “country’s sacred call” which left him no choice but to run for a second term. *) France bans hijab for French athletes at Paris 2024 French athletes have been barred from wearing the hijab, or Muslim headscarf, at the Paris Olympic Games. France imposed the ban on its national team players as it prepares to host the Games from July 26 to August 11 and the Paralympics from August 28 to September 8. French Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera initially announced the ban on September 24, 2023.

*) Israelis march to Netanyahu's residence, urge him to strike deal with Hamas According to local media, hundreds of Israelis gathered in West Jerusalem and marched towards Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's residence to pressure the government into finalising a prisoner exchange deal with Hamas. "Netanyahu is responsible for bringing them back alive," the demonstrators chanted, referring to the Israeli captives in Gaza. Families of the hostages and the Israeli public, along with the political system, blame Netanyahu for failing to reach a deal, citing additional conditions and obstacles he has imposed. *) Trump declares 'incredible victory', vows his return will restore democracy In his first speech since being shot at by a 20-year-old man, Donald Trump predicts an "incredible victory" while accepting the Republican presidential nomination. The attack, which wounded Trump's ear and killed a bystander, has left the party euphoric over his survival and buoyed by Joe Biden's struggling reelection campaign. "We will have an incredible victory, and we will begin the four greatest years in the history of our country," Trump said at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. *) Protesters in Bangladesh torch headquarters of state broadcaster BTV Protesters set fire to the headquarters of Bangladesh's main state broadcaster BTV with "many people" trapped inside its offices. An official at the station says hundreds of protesters stormed the premises, setting ablaze at least 60 vehicles and an office building. This incident follows weeks-long student protests in the country, demanding reforms to civil service hiring rules. At least 32 people have been killed in the clashes between police and students this week. *) Ursula von der Leyen re-elected as EU Commission head for second term Members of the European Parliament elect Ursula von der Leyen as European Commission President for a second term after she pledges to create a continental "defence union" and continue Europe's green transition. The Parliament backed her bid with 401 votes in favour and 284 against in a secret ballot. In her address to Parliament, von der Leyen focused on prosperity and security, addressing the challenges of Russia’s war with Ukraine, global economic competition, and the climate crisis. With the opening ceremony just eight days away, Paris is transforming as it prepares to welcome nearly nine million Olympics ticketholders. Thousands of French security forces have locked down a six-kilometre stretch of central Paris ahead of the complex Olympics opening ceremony next week. The opening parade on July 26 will see athletes sail down the river Seine, leading to the closure of central water-side residential districts to most vehicles from 5:00 AM on Thursday.

*) US restricts visas of Israelis accused of West Bank ‘violence’ The United States has announced new visa restrictions against Israelis who have committed “violent” acts against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. It called on Israel to hold those individuals accountable. The measures bar certain Israelis and their loved ones from entering the United States. *) Israeli Knesset rejects Palestinian statehood in controversial vote In a controversial move, Israel’s Knesset has approved a resolution that overwhelmingly rejects the establishment of a Palestinian state, passing with a vote of 68-9. Even though Palestine is recognised by 147 of the 193 UN member states already, the matter was brought to the Israeli Knesset to discuss the recognition of its statehood. The resolution raised doubt on whether Tel Aviv is in a position to grant independence to occupied Palestinians. *) Hezbollah warns Israel over strikes targeting civilians in Lebanon Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah has warned that his group would hit new targets in Israel if more civilians were killed in Israeli strikes on Lebanon. Nasrallah said “if the enemy continues to target civilians as it has done in recent days,” then this will push Hezbollah to target localities that it has not targeted until now. The Lebanese movement has exchanged almost daily fire with Israeli troops in support of Palestinian resistance group Hamas following Israel’s war on Gaza. *) Biden tests positive for Covid-19, halts campaign trail US President Joe Biden has tested positive for Covid-19 while on a campaign trip to Las Vegas and is experiencing mild symptoms, the White House said. White House said Biden would not be able to speak at scheduled events due to the diagnosis. The White House said it will provide regular updates on the president’s status as “he continues to carry out the full duties of the office while in isolation.” *) FIFA opens probe into Argentina players’ racist chants FIFA said it was opening an investigation into racist chants by Argentina players after they won the Copa America. The chants were heard during a live video posted on social media by Chelsea and Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez from the team bus in the wake of the Copa victory over Colombia in Miami. Some players, including Fernandez, sang a chant dating back to the 2022 World Cup final in which Argentina beat France, targeting France’s star striker Kylian Mbappe and included insults.

*) Israel kills 48 Palestinians in Gaza in less than an hour The civil defence agency in Gaza said three air strikes in less than one hour — including on a school — killed at least 48 people. Israel said it carried out two of the strikes that the civil defence agency said also left dozens more wounded. According to an updated toll, 25 people were killed at the UN-run Al Razi School in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, 18 people were killed at Al Mawasi in Khan Younis and five more were killed in a strike at Beit Lahia in northern Gaza. *) Türkiye’s Fidan discusses Gaza crisis, ceasefire negotiations with Haniyeh Turkish Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan has held a telephone conversation with Hamas Political Bureau Chief Ismail Haniyeh to discuss the situation in besieged Gaza. The two sides discussed the humanitarian situation in Gaza, which has reached catastrophic levels due to Tel Aviv’s ongoing war on the besieged enclave. They also discussed the worrying developments resulting from increasing hunger and diseases, especially in the north of Gaza. *) Ukraine joining NATO would mean declaration of war: Medvedev Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev has said the accession of Ukraine to NATO would be a declaration of war against Moscow. He said only “prudence” on behalf of the alliance could prevent the planet from being shattered into pieces. The leaders of the NATO pledged at their summit last week to support Ukraine on an “irreversible path to full Euro-Atlantic integration, including NATO membership,” but left open when that membership could happen. *) Harris extends debate challenge to Vance as Trump VP pick US Vice President Kamala Harris and Republican JD Vance had their first chat since the Ohio senator became the GOP vice presidential nominee. But the two sides are still working on terms for participating in a debate, according to three people familiar with the matter. The people, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal conversations about the debate, said there had been no progress at bridging the disagreements on the network partner and format. *) Deadly heatwave grips Southern Europe and Balkans Record-breaking heat wave has swept across Europe. The Italian health ministry placed 12 cities under the most severe heat warning as a wave of hot air from Africa baked southern Europe and the Balkans and sent temperatures over 40 degrees Celsius. Municipal authorities in several southern European and Balkan cities took measures to look after elderly people in particular as civil protection crews fielded calls for water-dropping aircraft to douse wildfires.

*) Gaza sees over 320 casualties in past 2 days due to Israel's use of banned weapons: Officials Local authorities in Gaza report over 320 Palestinians admitted to hospitals with severe burns from internationally prohibited weapons used by the Israeli army in the past two days. Gaza's Government Media Office states that doctors believe third-degree burns on many patients, including those who died, were caused by these weapons. The arms, primarily US-made chemical or thermal weapons, "are internationally prohibited from being used against humans," according to the statement. *) Clashes over government job quota injure over 100 students in Bangladesh According to police and witnesses, more than 100 students are injured in Bangladesh, as those protesting to end a quota system for government jobs clash with ruling party supporters. These protests are the first major challenge for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina since her fourth consecutive election win in January, boycotted by the main opposition. Thousands of anti-quota protesters and Awami League student wing members hurl rocks and fight with sticks and iron rods at universities nationwide, including in Dhaka. *) Kenyan suspect 'confesses' to murdering 42 women Kenyan police arrest a suspected serial killer who confessed to murdering 42 women, including his wife, and dumping their dismembered bodies in a Nairobi rubbish tip. Since Friday, authorities have pulled nine mutilated bodies, trussed up in plastic bags, from a garbage site in the Mukuru slum area in southern Nairobi, a gruesome discovery that has horrified the nation. *) Far-right seeks more power in EU parliament as lawmakers meet EU leaders' fate will be in lawmakers' hands starting today as the European Parliament convenes for the first time since the June elections. The bolstered far-right demands more influence in the assembly while tensions run high in Europe as the 720 lawmakers begin their five-year term. MEPs will vote on Tuesday for the parliament president based in Strasbourg, France. The current speaker, 45-year-old Maltese conservative Roberta Metsola, is expected to win another two-and-a-half-year mandate. But all eyes will be on Thursday's vote when lawmakers decide whether to give Von der Leyen another five years as commission chief. *) Türkiye’s first indigenous satellite completes third ignition into orbit Turksat 6A, Türkiye’s first homegrown communications satellite, completes the third ignition process on its journey to a stable orbit. "Today, we successfully completed the 3rd ignition process, which lasted 7 minutes. TURKSAT 6A continues its historic journey and progresses towards its orbit, "Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu said on X. According to the Industry and Technology Minister, the satellite will undergo its fourth ignition process on Tuesday.

NEWSREADER INTRO: This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Monday, July, 15th. *) Gaza truce talks haven’t paused, military chief survived — Hamas https://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-gaza-truce-talks-havent-paused-military-chief-survived-hamas-18183820 Hamas says that Gaza ceasefire talks continue and the group’s military commander is in good health, a day after the Israeli military targeted Mohammed Deif. Hamas’ spokesperson Jihad Taha said, “There is no doubt that the horrific massacres will impact any efforts in the negotiations” but added that “efforts and endeavours of the mediators remain ongoing.” Hamas political officials also insisted that communication channels remained functional between the leadership inside and outside Gaza after the strike in the enclave's south. *) Türkiye continues to fight global injustices: Altun https://www.trtworld.com/turkiye/turkiye-continues-to-fight-global-injustices-altun-18183797 Türkiye marks the eighth anniversary of the July 15 coup attempt, which killed 253 people and wounded over 2,700. On the eve of July 15 this year, Türkiye’s Communications Directorate arranged a concert to commemorate July 15 Democracy and National Unity Day. Türkiye’s Communications Director, Fahrettin Altun, stressed Türkiye’s resilience against the efforts to undermine its sovereignty, denouncing the 2016 coup as a scheme by a terrorist group serving global exploitation interests. *) World leaders react in ‘shock’ to Trump rally shooting https://www.trtworld.com/us-and-canada/world-leaders-react-in-shock-to-trump-rally-shooting-18183592 From Asia to Europe, world leaders around the globe reacted with shock to the wounding of former US president Donald Trump in an assassination attempt at an election rally. "Once again, we are witnessing unacceptable acts of violence against political representatives," European Union’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell said. Regarding the attack, Turkish President Erdogan said, "I strongly condemn the assassination attempt against the 45th President of the United States and presidential candidate, Mr. Donald Trump." *) ‘Smell of blood’ fills Gaza hospital after deadly Israeli strike: UN https://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/smell-of-blood-fills-gaza-hospital-after-deadly-israeli-strike-un-18183786 The UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees reported "horrific scenes" at a hospital in southern Gaza following a deadly Israeli strike on a "humanitarian zone" for displaced Palestinians. At least 90 people have been killed and nearly 300 others injured in a strike that targeted the Al Mawasi area of Khan Younis in southern Gaza. The Israeli army claimed the attack targeted Hamas’ military commander, Mohamed Deif, and his deputy, which Hamas rejected and called it a "cover-up of a horrible massacre." *) Algeria suspends art festivals in solidarity with war-torn Gaza https://www.trtworld.com/arts-and-culture/algeria-suspends-art-festivals-in-solidarity-with-war-torn-gaza-18183695 Algeria's Culture Ministry announced that it is suspending all major art festivals this summer in solidarity with Gaza, which has been under a devastating Israeli onslaught since last October. Culture Minister Soraya Mouloudji said in a statement that the ministry will instead intensify activities that express the country's solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Mouloudji said the decision comes from Algeria's supportive, fixed position toward "the Palestinian cause and its brave legitimate struggle against Zionist brutality."

*) Scores killed as Israel bombs Al Mawasi 'safe zone' in southern Gaza An Israeli strike on a displacement camp in the south of Gaza has killed at least 90 people, the Health Ministry in the Palestinian territory said. More than 300 others were wounded in the strike on Al Mawasi camp, the ministry said, condemning a "brutal massacre." It came as the Israeli military pursued attacks in central Gaza with artillery fire and drone strikes, while Palestinian medics said one bombing killed a father and his three daughters. *) Trump 'fine' after being rushed from rally stage as shots heard Former US President Donald Trump was the target of an apparent assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally. A barrage of gunfire set off panic, and a bloodied Trump, who said he was shot in the ear, was surrounded by Secret Service and hurried to his SUV. Trump’s campaign said he was doing “fine” after the shooting, which he said pierced the upper part of his right ear. At least one attendee died and two spectators were critically injured, authorities said. *) Israeli protesters march to demand prisoner swap deal, early election Hundreds of Israelis have demonstrated in the city of Rehovot, near Tel Aviv, demanding a prisoner swap deal with Palestinian factions in Gaza. According to Israeli media, the demonstrators also called on the government to return authority to the people and hold early elections. Egypt, Qatar, and the US have been trying for months to secure a truce and the release of 120 remaining hostages in Gaza, but to no avail. *) Death toll from Nigeria school collapse rises to 22: officials A two-story school has collapsed in north-central Nigeria, killing 22 students and sending rescuers on a search for more than 100 people trapped in the rubble. The Saints Academy college in Plateau state collapsed shortly after students, many of whom were 15 years old or younger, arrived for classes. A total of 154 students were initially trapped in the rubble, but a police spokesperson later said 132 of them had been rescued and were being treated for injuries in various hospitals. He said 22 students died. *) US judge tosses Alec Baldwin manslaughter case over withheld evidence Alec Baldwin's trial for involuntary manslaughter has collapsed as a judge found key evidence over the fatal shooting on set of "Rust" had been withheld from the defence. The judge said bullets potentially linked to the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins had not been shared with his lawyers by police and prosecutors. The Hollywood star immediately burst into tears, as the case —which could have seen him sentenced to 18 months in prison if found guilty — was abruptly tossed out.

*) Netanyahu reportedly going solo on Gaza talks, defying Mossad Local media has revealed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is almost alone in steering negotiations on a hostage-prisoner swap deal with Palestinian resistance groups. An Israeli public broadcaster quoting unidentified sources said Netanyahu is alone in conducting the talks and has decided to harden his position related to the discussions. One of the main differences between Mossad and Netanyahu is that the security agencies do not agree on a return to fighting unless Hamas breaches any of the deal terms – contrary to Netanyahu who wants to return to fighting in any case. *) Pakistan secures $7B aid deal with IMF The International Monetary Fund has reached a three-year $7 billion aid package deal with Pakistan. The new programme still needs to be validated by the Fund's Executive Board. But it should enable Pakistan to "cement macroeconomic stability and create conditions for stronger, more inclusive and resilient growth," according to a statement. *) Hamas proposes independent Palestinian government in post-war Gaza Hamas is suggesting that an independent government of non-partisan figures run post-war Gaza and the occupied West Bank, a top member of the Palestinian resistance group has said. Hossam Badran said in a statement that Hamas “proposed that a non-partisan national competency government manage Gaza and the West Bank after the war," Badran added that “the administration of Gaza after the war is a Palestinian internal matter without any external interference.” *) Trump to be anointed at Republican party convention in Wisconsin Donald Trump will receive the Republicans' official blessing to run for president next week. He will become the first ever convicted felon to be a nominee for one of the two major US parties. The 78-year-old billionaire will be the show's star at the Republican National Convention, transforming the Wisconsin city into a fortress to welcome 50,000 attendees. *) X charged with deceiving users via blue checkmark, risks fine: EU Elon Musk's social media company X has breached EU online content rules and its blue checkmark deceives users. This is according to EU tech regulators in a finding that could lead to a hefty fine and significant changes in how it operates The EU executive's preliminary findings or charges sent to X targeted the company's so-called dark patterns that shape user behaviour, its advertising transparency and data access for researchers.

*) Palestinians risk lives for survival as hunger crisis deepens in Gaza In Gaza, Palestinians brave ongoing bombings to gather mulberry leaves for food, highlighting the severe hunger crisis. On July 9th, UN human rights experts reported that famine has spread throughout Gaza. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) noted last month that over 495,000 people face "catastrophic" levels of food insecurity. *) Erdogan urges NATO to convince Netanyahu for Gaza truce Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has urged NATO allies to pressure Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for a ceasefire and uninterrupted humanitarian aid to Gaza. At the NATO summit, Erdogan said “until comprehensive, sustainable peace is established in Palestine, attempts at cooperation with Israel within NATO will not be approved by Türkiye." Erdogan also accused Netanyahu of endangering Israelis and the region with his expansionist policies. *) US announces new $225M weapons package for Ukraine, including Patriots US President Joe Biden has announced a new $225 million aid package for Ukraine, including a Patriot missile system. Biden made the announcement during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who also pressed for US permission to fire long-range missiles deeper inside Russia. The aid package includes Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) and other munitions. *) Sudan's warring parties meet in Geneva for UN-brokered ceasefire talks Sudan's warring parties have arrived in Geneva for UN-brokered talks on "possible local ceasefires" to facilitate humanitarian aid. This is according to a UN spokesperson. US Special Envoy for Sudan Tom Perriello is involved, focusing on humanitarian aid and a political solution, according to US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield. Thomas-Greenfield said the Sudanese army and RSF will negotiate via mediators in "proximity talks." *) China building more wind, solar capacity than entire world combined: report China is building nearly twice as much wind and solar energy capacity as the rest of the world combined, according to new research. The world's largest greenhouse gas emitter has 339 gigawatts (GW) under construction, including 159 GW of wind and 180 GW of solar. That is "nearly twice as much as the rest of the world combined", according to the new study by Global Energy Monitor.

*) Israeli military orders evacuation of Gaza City The Israeli military has ordered all Palestinians to leave Gaza City and head south, pressing ahead with a fresh offensive across the north, south and centre of the war-stricken territory that has killed dozens of people over the past 48 hours. The stepped-up military activity came as US, Egyptian and Qatari mediators were meeting with Israeli officials in the Qatari capital, Doha, for talks trying to push through a long-elusive ceasefire deal between Israel and Palestinian resistance group Hamas. *) Spain slams 'double standards' on Gaza during NATO summit Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has urged the West to reject "double standards" regarding Israel’s genocidal war in Gaza as he joined NATO leaders in supporting Ukraine. "If we are telling our people that we are supporting Ukraine because we are defending the international law, this is the same as what we have to do towards Gaza," he said at NATO's 75th anniversary summit in Washington *) Israel's Gaza war producing alarming carbon emissions: study Israeli strikes on Gaza have generated more carbon emissions in the first 120 days than the annual output of 26 countries combined, according to a new study. The study by Queen Mary University in London found that the carbon emissions resulting from Israeli attacks on Gaza have been significantly detrimental to the environment. The study underscores the critical intersection of military conflict and environmental degradation, calling for global attention to mitigate the impact of such crises on climate change. *) Samsung union in South Korea declares ‘indefinite’ strike A union representing tens of thousands of workers at Samsung Electronics in South Korea said it would extend a three-day strike indefinitely to force management to negotiate. The strike is the biggest labour action in the tech giant's history and steps up pressure on the chipmaker's management, who last week predicted a huge second-quarter operating profit increase. *) Hollywood star George Clooney urges Biden to end 2024 presidential bid US President Joe Biden suffered a stunning blow when actor and Democratic supporter George Clooney urged him to drop his re-election bid. "I love Joe Biden," Clooney, wrote in the New York Times. "But the one battle he cannot win is the fight against time. It's devastating, but the Joe Biden I was with three weeks ago at the fundraiser was not the Joe Biden of 2010. He wasn’t even the Joe Biden of 2020.”

*) At least 29 dead after Israel bombs Gaza school used as shelter At least 29 people have been killed and dozens wounded in the fourth Israeli strike in four days on a school used to shelter displaced Palestinians. The strike hit the entrance to al-Awda school in Abasan, near the southern city of Khan Younis. Gaza media office said that the "majority" of the victims were women and children — in what it called a "terrible massacre" by Israel. *) High-stakes NATO summit kicks off in US capital NATO summit has commenced in Washington, DC, against the backdrop of ongoing wars in Ukraine and besieged Gaza, with leaders focusing on strategic responses and reinforcing alliances amidst these pressing global crises. Over the next two days, a series of high-profile events are set to unfold, including a bilateral meeting between President Joe Biden and newly elected UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. *) Zelenskyy slams Modi's Russia visit, calls it 'huge disappointment' Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has slammed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Russia, which coincided with a reported deadly Russian strike on a children's hospital in Kiev. "It is a huge disappointment and a devastating blow to peace efforts to see the leader of the world's largest democracy hug the world's most bloody criminal in Moscow on such a day," Zelenskyy wrote in a message on social media. *) Türkiye says NATO members 'cannot turn a blind eye' to Gaza Türkiye has urged NATO allies to take a stance against Israel's aggression against Gaza, said Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmus. "We, members of the world's most powerful defence organisation, cannot turn a blind eye to one of the most pressing global issues, to the immense human catastrophe unfolding in Gaza. "This bloodshed and Israel's massacres must stop," Kurtulmus told a NATO parliamentary summit in the US. *) Turkish chess prodigy defeats ‘greatest player of all time’ in 41 seconds The world's youngest chess grandmaster, 13-year-old Turkish player Yagiz Kaan Erdogmus, has achieved a stunning victory by checkmating Magnus Carlsen, the 'greatest of all time’ player. Erdogmus defeated the chess legend in an online 'blitz' tournament where each player had only one minute, with a checkmate in just 41.2 seconds.

*) Just bury us alive and make this end': Israeli attack sparks Gaza exodus Civilians have been forced out of the majority of Gaza's largest city, where thousands of families had sought shelter from Israeli attacks elsewhere. Backed by fighter jets and drone strikes, Israeli tanks entered the city centre on Monday. An army spokesperson warned residents of the Sabra, Rimal, Tal Al-Hawa and Al-Daraj districts to flee to so-called "humanitarian zones". *) Brazil adopts free trade with Palestine in snub to occupier Israel Brazil has put into effect a free trade agreement with the Palestinian Authority that has been waiting for ratification for more than a decade. Brazil's Foreign Ministry said the agreement is a concrete contribution to an economically viable Palestinian state, which can live peacefully and harmoniously with its neighbours. Palestinian ambassador in Brasilia, Ibrahim Al Zeben, called Brazil's decision "courageous, supportive and timely." *) US reveals NATO summit plans to provide Ukraine with 'bridge to membership' A senior US official has said NATO allies will announce, at the Washington DC summit, new security pledges to Ukraine. This will include a new military command in Germany to help develop Ukraine's future force before joining the alliance. Ambassador Michael Carpenter revealed that the new NATO military command will coordinate training and equipping efforts to support Ukraine's military development. The United States is hosting the 2024 NATO Summit in Washington, DC, from July 9 to 11. *) Boeing agrees to plead guilty to criminal fraud charge over 737 Max crashes Boeing will plead guilty to a criminal fraud charge stemming from two crashes of 737 Max jetliners that killed 346 people, the Justice Department has said. Federal prosecutors gave Boeing the choice of pleading guilty and paying a new $243.6 million fine or facing trial for conspiracy to defraud the United States. Prosecutors accused the American aerospace giant of deceiving regulators who approved the aeroplane and pilot-training requirements for it. *) SpaceX launches Türkiye's first indigenous comms satellite into orbit Turksat 6A, Türkiye's first indigenous communications satellite has been successfully launched into orbit from SpaceX's Kennedy facility in Florida. The 4.25-tonne satellite will operate at the 42 degrees East orbital position and its service life will be 15 years in orbit. It will cover Türkiye, Europe, North Africa, the Middle East and Asia and will serve 4.5 billion people for TV, radio and emergency communications.

Leftist coalition wins most seats in France's snap election — pollsters An alliance of French left-wing is on course to become the biggest parliamentary bloc and beat the far right, according to shocking projected results. The New Popular Front brings together socialists, greens, communists and the hard-left into one camp and was formed last month after President Emmanuel Macron called snap elections. Marine Le Pen's National Rally party led the race after the first round on June 30 but projections for round two on Sunday showed no group on course for an absolute majority. Polls show the left-wing NFP ahead of both Macron's Ensemble and Le Pen's RN. *) Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital evacuated after Israeli army’s warning Medical teams in Gaza have evacuated wounded Palestinians from al Ahli Baptist Hospital after the Israeli military issued a warning to leave some neighbourhoods of Gaza City. A medical source at the hospital said the teams transferred the wounded and other patients from the hospital to medical facilities in northern Gaza. The source said Israeli quadcopter drones were heavily present around the hospital, firing at civilians and prompting the medical teams to evacuate the hospital. *) Gaza war death toll could exceed 186,000: The Lancet Indirect deaths from disease and lack of resources in Gaza are projected to increase the total death toll to up to 186,000, or 7.9 percent of the population. This is according to a report by the medical journal The Lancet. The destruction of infrastructure in Gaza by Israeli attacks has made data collection increasingly difficult, forcing the Palestinian Health Ministry to rely on information from media sources and first responders. *) Democrats suggest VP Harris as potential alternative to Biden against Trump An embattled US President Joe Biden has faced escalating pressure from fellow Democrats worried about his candidacy. Biden has faced growing calls to end his re-election campaign after a halting performance in a June debate with Republican candidate Donald Trump, which raised questions about his ability to do the job for another four years. Democrats suggest that Vice President Kamala Harris, seen as the likeliest candidate to replace Biden in the November 5 election, could perform well. And finally… *) Flash floods and landslides lash Nepal, leaving thousands affected Lashing rains in Nepal, causing flash floods and landslides have killed at least 14 people across the country, according to police. Police are working with other agencies and locals to find nine missing people, according to a police spokesman. Those killed and missing are in multiple locations.

*) Hamas condemns targeting of school sheltering Palestinians The Palestinian resistance group Hamas has condemned Israel’s targeting of a UN agency school which shelters displaced residents in central Gaza. Palestine’s Health Ministry in Gaza stated that Israeli forces committed a “massacre” at the school in the Nuseirat refugee camp in the besieged enclave, killing 16 Palestinians and injuring 50 others. Hamas demanded the international community and the UN take immediate action to stop the ongoing war crimes committed by Israel in Gaza. The attack comes as Israel’s war on the territory enters its ninth month. *) Israeli delegation heads to Qatar for Gaza ceasefire talks An Israeli negotiating team will leave on Monday for Qatar to continue talks on a hostage swap deal and ceasefire in Gaza with Palestinian factions, according to Israeli media, citing informed sources. Israeli media reported that CIA Director William Burns, Mossad Chief David Barnea, Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, and Egyptian Intelligence Chief Abbas Kamel will participate in these discussions. *) Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger sign 'confederation' treaty The military leaders ruling Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger entered a new "confederation" as they signed a treaty during their first summit in Niamey, after having severed ties with an existing West African bloc. The heads of the three countries, who took power through coups in recent years, "decided to take a step further towards greater integration between the member states" and "adopted a treaty establishing a confederation". The "Confederation of Sahel States", which will use the acronym AES, will group some 72 million people. *) Ethnic fighters advance into key north Myanmar town Myanmar ethnic minority fighters were battling their way into a town housing a regional military command. Soldiers were "surrounding" the northern Shan state town of Lashio, home to the junta's northeastern command, an official of the National Liberation Army (TNLA) said. A member of a local group of volunteers said that at least 16 civilians had been killed since fighting broke out in Lashio. *) Oscar-winning producer, Jon Landau dies at 63 Jon Landau, an Oscar-winning producer who worked closely with director James Cameron on three of the biggest blockbusters of all time, “Titanic” and two “Avatar” films, has died. He was 63. Landau's partnership with Cameron led to three Oscar nominations and a best picture win for 1997's “Titanic.”

*) Israeli shelling, raids leave Gaza reeling with multiple deaths Several Palestinians, including women, have been killed and many others wounded in a series of Israeli raids across the besieged Gaza. According to a medical source, seven bodies were brought to al-Awda Hospital in Nuseirat camp, central Gaza, following an Israeli bombing that targeted a family. Separately, the Israeli army continued shelling the Shujaiah neighbourhood in eastern Gaza City, causing extensive damage to residential areas. *) Gaza ceasefire negotiations to continue next week — Israel The head of Israel's Mossad has returned from Doha after an initial meeting with mediators to negotiate a Gaza ceasefire and prisoner swap deal. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office announced that negotiations will resume next week but noted that gaps remain between the sides. *) Masoud Pezeshkian wins Iran's presidential election Masoud Pezeshkian has won the presidential run-off, defeating his rival Saeed Jalili, as confirmed by the Interior Ministry of Iran. Early vote counts on Saturday showed Pezeshkian securing 16.3 million votes, while Jalili received 13.5 million in Friday's election. Over 61 million Iranians were eligible to vote, including about 18 million aged 18 to 30. *) 4.5M people internally displaced in Ethiopia as of June: UN report Ethiopia is facing a severe internal displacement crisis, with an estimated 4.5 million people forced from their homes primarily due to conflict as of June, according to a UN report. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) highlighted that the Somali, Oromia, and Tigray regions are the most affected. Over half of the internally displaced persons (IDPs) have been displaced for more than a year, while 23 percent have been displaced for two to four years, and 11 percent for five years or more. *) Palestine plans to play World Cup qualifiers in occupied West Bank After advancing further than ever in World Cup qualifying, Palestine is determined to host a game on home soil. The Palestinian Football Association has proposed playing matches in the third stage of its Asian qualification campaign in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. They have already garnered support from several opponents, starting with Jordan on September 10. The Palestinian team made history by progressing through the second round of continental qualifying in June.