PALESTINE

Sun 31 May 2026 11:01 pm - Jerusalem Time

Resistance factions reject 'Mladenov's map' and warn of the collapse of truce understandings in Gaza

Palestinian resistance factions issued a strongly worded official statement addressing political and field developments related to the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip. The factions affirmed that the continuation of Israeli military operations represents a clear retreat from the international understandings recently reached, putting the entire agreement at risk.

The factions called on the international guarantor parties and mediators to intervene immediately and urgently to compel the Israeli side to implement the required obligations without procrastination. They stressed that the current phase requires a decisive stance to ensure the implementation of the field and humanitarian commitments stipulated in the truce provisions, to prevent the collapse of the political process.

The statement clarified that completing all provisions of the first phase of the agreement is a fundamental condition that cannot be bypassed before moving on to discussing any subsequent phases. The factions considered that the policy of procrastination pursued by the occupation aims to undermine the chances of truce stability and keep the Strip in a state of permanent tension.

In their assessment of the field conditions, the factions indicated that the continuation of assassinations and targeting of Palestinian police personnel falls within a systematic plan to destabilize internal security. They added that the restrictions imposed on food supplies and the tightening of the siege directly aim to pressure the population and push them towards forced migration options.

The factions expressed their categorical rejection of the so-called 'Mladenov's map' proposed for managing the Gaza Strip, describing it as a tool for political blackmail. They criticized linking reconstruction files and the entry of fuel and vital aid to conditions affecting the resistance's weapons, affirming that this path is rejected outright.

The statement warned against attempts to put the 'technocrat committee' in direct confrontation with the Palestinian street, considering that this step could deepen internal division and serve Israeli objectives. The factions called on the committee members to side with the supreme national interests and refuse to engage in schemes aimed at isolating Gaza administratively and politically.

The factions also demanded the necessity of rejecting subservience to the schemes proposed within the so-called 'Peace Council,' warning against its use as a legal cover to re-engineer the security reality in the Strip. They affirmed that any attempt to pass dependent formulas under the banner of reconstruction would be met with widespread popular and factional rejection.

The factions concluded their statement by emphasizing the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and to manage their internal affairs away from external interventions that impose humiliating conditions. They stressed that the resistance will remain vigilant against any attempts to circumvent citizens' rights or exploit their humanitarian needs to achieve political gains for the occupation.

Mladenov's map represents a mechanism for political and humanitarian blackmail by linking reconstruction to conditions of disarming the resistance.

ARAB AND WORLD

Sun 31 May 2026 11:17 am - Jerusalem Time

Threat to 'blow up' and talk of granite: Behind the scenes of a 'chaotic' Trump administration meeting

International press reports shed light on the behind-the-scenes of the recent US government meeting chaired by Donald Trump, describing the scene as closer to a chaotic show than a formal decision-making session. Sources stated that the meeting, which included senior officials, witnessed a strange overlap between serious military threats and unusual side jokes.\n\nWriter Holly Baxter, in an analysis published by The Independent, considered that the atmosphere in the room, with figures such as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Vice President J.D. Vance present, seemed like an out-of-control television episode. She noted that the tension was palpable in Trump's tone, despite his repeated attempts to show indifference to current political challenges.\n\nIn the context of discussing foreign policy, Trump made a shocking statement towards the Sultanate of Oman, threatening to 'blow it up' if it did not comply with his directives, a phrase that passed with frightening speed amidst the astonishment of those present. This fleeting threat reflects, according to observers, a new pattern of American diplomacy based on direct pressure and harsh military language.\n\nThe meeting was not limited to threats, but in parts, it turned into something resembling a discussion session for private construction projects, where Trump delved into explaining precise engineering details. The President spoke at length about the types of granite, colors, and rubber quality he wished to use in renovation and construction projects in Washington, including the idea of creating a 'Triumphal Arch'.\n\nBaxter sarcastically described this sudden shift in the meeting's agenda, likening it to a meeting of a retired community discussing a routine maintenance budget. The President seemed engrossed in construction details unrelated to the tasks of senior administration, while officials listened silently to these long and tedious explanations.\n\nRegarding internal relations, a strange dynamic emerged during the meeting between Trump and his new Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, as the President patted the Secretary's muscles in front of the cameras. Trump addressed the audience, saying: 'He loves war... I don't love it, but he loves it,' a remark reflecting the personal nature of their relationship.\n\nHegseth, for his part, tried to maintain his military composure, but he appeared in an awkward position as he received the President's playful remarks, which were described as resembling a grandfather's interaction with his grandson. When given the opportunity to speak, the Secretary launched into an enthusiastic speech focusing on destructive power and military might, detailing the 'Epic Fury' operation in Iran.\n\nTrump's reaction to his Defense Secretary's enthusiastic speech was brief and calm, merely saying 'good job,' in a manner that suggested dismissiveness or congratulating a child on an exaggerated display. This contrast in positions showed a gap in vision between the President, who tends towards personal showmanship, and his Secretary, who adopts an extreme offensive rhetoric.\n\nAs for Vice President J.D. Vance, he appeared during the meeting as the man tasked with saving morality and public order in the United States. Vance engaged with other officials in attacking protesters and immigrants, using language charged with anger and incitement, which gave the session a sharp ideological character.\n\nDuring the meeting, Trump touched upon his internal political situation, repeatedly emphasizing that he was not concerned about the upcoming midterm congressional elections. Analysts believe that this repeated insistence on disinterest hides a real concern about his declining popularity, especially after recent polls showed restlessness even within Republican bases.\n\nA striking aspect of the meeting was Trump's ability to reveal his political fears by constantly denying them, a style that has become known in his public speeches. While he spoke about the stability of his administration, reports indicated the existence of cracks resulting from his controversial policies on thorny international issues such as the Iranian file.\n\nThe analytical reading of the meeting concluded that the United States is now being managed according to the President's volatile personal rhythm, oscillating between following news broadcasts and focusing on construction sites. This pattern of administration raises widespread international concern, as it drags major powers towards unexpected paths characterized by impulsiveness and sudden hostility.\n\nThe transformation of these strange scenes into a daily routine within the White House is what causes real terror among political circles in Washington and beyond. The meeting, which was supposed to discuss major strategies, ended with a threat to a friendly country and talk about rubber quality, reflecting a state of confusion at the pinnacle of American power.\n\n"The Sultanate of Oman will act like everyone else, or we will have to blow it up."

ARAB AND WORLD

Sun 31 May 2026 11:17 am - Jerusalem Time

Israeli plan to empty southern Lebanon: Turning evacuation orders into permanent displacement

Day after day, the outlines of a systematic Israeli plan aimed at emptying the southern Lebanon region of its inhabitants are becoming clear, by transforming military evacuation orders from temporary measures into a reality of permanent displacement. This strategy relies on repeated warnings and expanding their geographical scope to include areas not previously targeted, reflecting the occupation's desire to create a buffer zone devoid of population.

In a new field development, the Israeli occupation army issued urgent warnings to residents of 13 villages and towns in southern Lebanon, demanding them to immediately leave their homes and head to areas north of the Zahrani River. These orders included the towns of Maroun al-Ras, Loubieh, Ansariyeh, Zifta, Tuffahta, and Maydoun, in addition to other villages including Zrarieh, Meifdoun, Choukine, and Zebdine, in a move that coincided with the Eid al-Adha holiday.

Informed sources reported that the occupation seeks to establish a state of permanent evacuation by preventing residents from returning to their homes even after the direct military operations end. These orders have gone beyond small villages to include major cities such as Tyre and Nabatieh, where comprehensive evacuation instructions were issued for entire cities without setting any timelines that would allow civilians to return to their neighborhoods.

Recently, the absence of focused warnings targeting specific buildings has been noted, replaced by general evacuation orders for residential blocks and major cities. This shift in military tactics indicates the occupation's intention to destroy the infrastructure and social fabric in those areas, under the guise of pursuing Hezbollah's military capabilities and preventing their use in combat operations.

These Israeli moves come at a time when the intensity of military escalation is increasing, as the occupation army uses the presence of military installations within civilian neighborhoods as a pretext for bombing and displacement operations. Field reports confirm that this policy aims to pressure the popular base and change the demographic composition in border areas and those close to the front line.

In a related context, leaks from Israeli security and political cabinet sessions revealed tendencies to adopt a more aggressive approach towards Lebanon. Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir called for the use of increased military force to deter drone attacks, emphasizing the need to escalate military operations inside Lebanese territory to impose new equations in the ongoing conflict.

Through this field escalation, the Israeli leadership seeks to impose facts on the ground that will be difficult to overcome in any future political negotiations. Observers believe that Tel Aviv is trying to improve its negotiating terms by gaining fire and human control over large areas in the south, exploiting the state of international anticipation and diplomatic initiatives led by the United States.

Despite the security justifications put forward by Israel, the reality on the ground indicates a process of spatial cleansing aimed at completely isolating southern Lebanon from its surroundings. Fears are growing that these areas will turn into scorched earth uninhabitable, complicating voluntary return efforts for hundreds of thousands of displaced people in the absence of international guarantees.

In conclusion, the scene in southern Lebanon remains hostage to rapid military developments and differing official positions regarding the course of escalation. As Israel continues to implement its displacement plan, the need for a firm Lebanese and international stance emerges to prevent the temporary displacement from turning into a new catastrophe added to the record of conflicts in the region.

Israel seeks to reshape the field reality in southern Lebanon and impose new facts before any potential settlement.

PALESTINE

Sun 31 May 2026 11:15 am - Jerusalem Time

Warnings of a plan to Judaize 'Solomon's Pools' in Bethlehem after an official raid by occupation ministers

The historical area of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent's Pools in the village of Artas, south of Bethlehem, witnessed a dangerous escalation on the ground, following a widespread raid carried out by Israeli occupation forces accompanied by groups of settlers. Prominent political officials participated in this raid, led by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Knesset member Zvi Sukkot, amidst strict military measures imposed around the three pools, which led to clashes with Palestinian citizens who tried to confront the raid.

Sources reported that the occupation forces prevented citizens from reaching the area and obstructed movement, to ensure that settlers desecrated the archaeological site by swimming in the pool waters and performing Talmudic rituals. This step comes in the context of a systematic policy aimed at controlling Palestinian historical landmarks and giving them a Jewish character, exploiting the political cover provided by far-right ministers in the Israeli government.

For his part, Minister Smotrich made statements that raised widespread fears about the future of the site, claiming that the pools date back to what he described as the 'Hasmonean era' two thousand years ago, asserting that their presence under full Palestinian control (Area A) is a historical mistake. Smotrich explicitly confirmed that work is currently underway to transfer the site's affiliation to Area C, which is under Israeli security and administrative control, in preparation for extending full sovereignty over it and facilitating settlement projects there.

In the face of these plans, popular activities and Palestinian families in Bethlehem launched calls for general mobilization and intensive presence in the vicinity of the historical pools to protect them from Judaization. Palestinians insist on adhering to the site's Arab and Islamic identity, stressing that permanent presence in the area is the only way to thwart the occupation's attempts to steal history and falsify geographical facts in the heart of the governorate.

It is worth noting that Sultan Suleiman's Pools are considered among the most important water and archaeological landmarks in Palestine, having been established by the Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in the year 943 AH to secure water for Jerusalem and Bethlehem. These pools can hold about 2.4 million cubic meters of water flowing from three main water springs, and for centuries they have constituted the water lifeline for the region and a tourist and historical destination embodying Islamic civilization in Palestine.

Including these pools within the areas under Palestinian control was an inaccurate decision, and the goal is to transfer their affiliation to Area C.

PALESTINE

Sun 31 May 2026 11:15 am - Jerusalem Time

Official Report Reveals Volume of Canadian Military Exports to the Occupation in 2025

Recent official data released by Global Affairs Canada has revealed new details about the extent of military and technological cooperation between Ottawa and Tel Aviv. The report, published on Saturday, indicated that the value of Canadian exports of military and technical equipment to the Israeli occupation amounted to approximately 14.7 million Canadian dollars during the past year 2025. This value is equivalent to nearly 10.7 million US dollars, raising questions about the nature of this equipment amidst ongoing regional tensions.

According to the official documents included in the report, the Canadian government relied on 50 military export permits to facilitate these shipments to Tel Aviv during the past year. These figures highlight the continuity of military-related trade flows despite popular and political pressures demanding a halt to military support for the occupation. The data shows that these exports included advanced technologies and equipment integral to defense and security industries.

In an attempt to clarify the official position, the report stressed that Canadian authorities have adhered to the decision not to approve the export of any lethal weapons that could be used in military operations within the Gaza Strip. This ban, according to official sources, has been in effect since January 8, 2024, with the government affirming that this approach remains in place to date. This measure aims to avoid direct involvement in the humanitarian violations witnessed in the besieged Strip.

Former Canadian Foreign Minister, Mélanie Joly, had previously announced in early 2024 a temporary suspension of all export permits for military and technological materials and equipment. This decision came in the wake of increasing international and human rights pressures calling on Ottawa to take a firm stance on the military escalation in the Palestinian territories. However, the announced figures for 2025 indicate that the suspension did not cover all forms of technological and military cooperation.

In a related context, current Foreign Minister Anita Anand affirmed in statements made in August 2025 that her country is committed to a policy of not selling weapons to the occupation. Anand clarified that this approach represents a consistent strategy for the Canadian state that began in early 2024 and will not change under current circumstances. These statements aim to reassure the international community and the Canadian public about the government's commitment to international laws governing arms trade.

The Canadian government faces widespread criticism from human rights organizations that view the continued export of military technological equipment as a loophole allowing indirect support for the occupation's war machine. These organizations consider the distinction between weapons used in Gaza and those not used there to be practically inaccurate. These bodies demand a comprehensive and complete halt to all forms of military exchange to ensure non-contribution to crimes committed against civilians.

The revelation of these exports comes at a sensitive time, as the occupation continues to launch widespread attacks on several regional fronts, further complicating the political landscape. This data coincides with field reports indicating repeated violations of ceasefire agreements in the Gaza Strip, resulting in daily civilian casualties. Observers believe that continued Canadian technological support could be understood as implicit support for these aggressive policies.

In conclusion, the report highlights the contradiction between official Canadian political rhetoric calling for de-escalation and trade figures reflecting continued security partnership. With 50 active permits remaining in 2025, it appears that there is still a long way to go before a complete severance of military ties. The question remains about the impact of these exports on the balance of power and the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the occupied Palestinian territories.

The Canadian government has not approved the export of any weapons that could be used in the Gaza Strip since early 2024, emphasizing the continuation of this restrictive stance.

PALESTINE

Sun 31 May 2026 11:15 am - Jerusalem Time

Field escalation in Lebanon: Hezbollah bombs Safed, Beirut condemns scorched-earth policy

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam affirmed that the Israeli occupation is pursuing a policy of comprehensive destruction targeting cities and towns in southern Lebanon, stressing that these practices aim to uproot national memory and erase the history of the population through mass displacement. Salam explained in press statements that Tel Aviv's scorched-earth policy will not bring it the desired security or stability.\n\nSalam pointed out that the Lebanese government is making every effort in the political track to achieve an immediate ceasefire and ensure the withdrawal of occupation forces and the return of displaced persons to their homes. He stressed Lebanon's categorical rejection of turning its lands into an arena for settling regional scores or a mailbox for messages from international powers, affirming that the state is currently leading negotiations on behalf of all Lebanese people.\n\nRegarding the negotiation track, the Lebanese Prime Minister considered that the ongoing negotiations are the least costly option at present, although they do not guarantee inevitable results and do not mean surrender. These political stances come amid an escalation in military operations on the Lebanese-Palestinian border and the expansion of mutual targeting between the two sides.\n\nOn the ground, medical and security sources reported the martyrdom of a Lebanese citizen and the injury of another as a result of an airstrike carried out by occupation aircraft on the town of Al-Loubieh in the Sidon district. The raids also targeted the towns of Al-Qleileh, Balat, and Machghara in the western Beqaa, causing widespread destruction to property and infrastructure in the targeted areas.\n\nIn a remarkable development, the Lebanese Army announced the injury of two of its members as a result of an Israeli drone targeting the Abba road in the Nabatieh district. This coincided with field reports of additional injuries in a similar raid that targeted the Qaaqaiyat al-Jisr area, raising the number of casualties among military personnel and civilians in recent hours.\n\nFor its part, Hezbollah carried out a wide military response targeting the occupied city of Safed with a rocket barrage, which is the first time the party's rockets have reached this city since last April. Media sources confirmed that the barrage targeted infrastructure belonging to the occupation army, as part of the response to the continuous aggressions against Lebanese villages.\n\nIsraeli media acknowledged detecting the launch of at least five rockets towards Safed, and air defense systems claimed to have intercepted one while the rest fell in different areas. This attack activated sirens in wide areas of the Upper Galilee, causing panic among settlers.\n\nHezbollah's response was not limited to Safed, but also included targeting the Shomera barracks using an attack drone that achieved a direct hit, according to a statement by the party. The party also announced targeting an Israeli military force that was stationed in a barracks in the border settlement of Liman, affirming the continuation of its operations as long as the aggression continues.\n\nField sources reported that sirens also sounded in Nahariya and its surroundings in the Western Galilee, in addition to the settlements of Misgav Am and Metula. This escalation came after detecting the launch of rockets and drones from Lebanese territory, where the occupation army claimed to have intercepted one drone and another exploded near the border.\n\nObservers believe that Hezbollah's shelling of Safed represents an attempt to impose a "cities for cities" equation in response to Israeli threats to shell the city of Tyre. This strategy aims to create a deterrent balance that prevents the occupation from going too far in targeting major urban centers deep inside Lebanon.\n\nAnalyzes indicate that the party's targeting of Israeli forces in the south comes as a direct response to the systematic demolition operations carried out by the occupation army in border villages. Through diversifying its targets between military sites and settlements, the party is trying to pressure the Israeli leadership to stop its ground advance.\n\nIn contrast, Israeli Security Minister Yisrael Katz insists that Tel Aviv will not submit to any equations imposed by Hezbollah, claiming that the era of implicit understandings has ended. However, the Israeli leadership faces sharp internal criticism due to what Hebrew media describes as succumbing to some rules of engagement imposed by the party on the ground.\n\nMilitary experts link Hezbollah's expansion of its operations deep inside Israel to the occupation's attempts to cross the Litani River. Ali Al-Sabaity, director of the Arab Center for Dialogue, considered that this escalation represents a "deterrence equation" aimed at curbing the momentum of the occupation army and preventing it from achieving additional ground gains in the southern arena.\n\nThe situation in southern Lebanon continues to worsen with the absence of any immediate prospect for a political solution, amid the insistence of each party on establishing new balances of power. The Lebanese front remains open to all possibilities with the continuation of intense airstrikes and missile responses that have begun to reach strategic cities in northern Israel.\n\nTel Aviv will not gain security or stability through the scorched-earth policy, and the Lebanese state will spare no effort to achieve a ceasefire.

PALESTINE

Sun 31 May 2026 11:15 am - Jerusalem Time

The Little Pilgrim: A Journey of Loyalty from the Alleys of Hebron to the Plains of Mecca

In a journey that was not part of her professional plans, Palestinian journalist Iman found herself among the convoy of pilgrims heading from Hebron to Mecca in the spring of 2026. Iman, who spent years of her life in Israeli prisons and was long prevented from traveling, undertook this journey in response to a spiritual calling after her professional travel plans were disrupted by regional tensions between Israel and Iran.

The story began when her mother, Hajjah Karima, submitted her daughter's name in the Hajj lottery, which was contested by some 30,000 Palestinians from the West Bank and Jerusalem. When the Ministry of Endowments announced the names of 6,600 winners in February, Iman's name appeared, prompting a search for a 'replacement' for her mother. However, new laws and restrictions prevented this, leading the daughter to realize that she was the one called to visit the Sacred House of God.

The journey was not merely a geographical transfer, but was laden with deep social symbolism for the people of Hebron; Iman carried bread, olive oil, and za'atar from the land of Palestine in her bag. This meal, which extended from her home in Hebron to the courtyard of the Grand Mosque, was shared by pilgrims of various nationalities, in a ritual that elderly Palestinian women are keen to observe, linking the land of the Isra' and Mi'raj to the Ancient House.

The title 'Little Pilgrim' has been associated with Iman's family since her grandfather Mohammed performed Hajj in 1958, a title that the granddaughter inherited today as she follows in his footsteps in the holy lands. Iman recalls how bidding farewell to pilgrims in Palestine used to turn into a national and religious celebration, where walls were painted, feasts were held, and women's voices rose in 'tahneen' (a traditional farewell song) longing for the Kaaba.

The hours of departure were not free from the annoyances of the occupation, as the occupation army stormed the city of Dura in Hebron just hours before the convoy set off. This raid forced some pilgrims, including Iman's aunt, to climb over house walls to reach the buses, a scene that encapsulates the challenges Palestinians face even in performing their religious rituals.

At the King Hussein Bridge, Palestinian pilgrims faced the arduous triple inspection system imposed by the political reality, where travelers pass through Palestinian, Israeli, and Jordanian checkpoints. Iman describes the sight of elderly people undergoing thorough and humiliating inspections by occupation soldiers as the height of human oppression, especially as they were on their way to perform a sacred religious duty.

While Iman was experiencing the joy of arrival, the pain of deprivation pursued thousands of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip who were prevented from performing Hajj for the third consecutive year. The closure of the Rafah crossing since October 2023 has deprived more than 10,000 Palestinians of their share in Hajj, and dozens have died while waiting for the road to Mecca to open.

The flying experience was the first in Iman's life, who is over thirty, after arrest and security bans prevented her from leaving the country for many years. From the airplane window, she compared civil aviation, which opens up the horizons of the world, with Israeli warplanes, which Palestinians only know as a means of death and destruction in the skies of their besieged cities.

At Jeddah Airport, Iman felt the narratives of isolation that the occupation tries to impose on Palestinians fade away, as she found great hospitality from staff and pilgrims once her identity was known. This ethnic and linguistic diversity in Hajj reshaped the concept of 'globalism' in her mind, affirming that the difference in languages is a strength that supports the Palestinian right and does not weaken it.

During her stroll on 'Ibrahim Al-Khalil' street in Mecca, the Al-Aqsa Mosque was not absent from the Palestinian journalist's imagination, who once lived in Abu Dis and saw it with her naked eye behind the wall. She spoke of the geographical gap created by the occupation, where reaching Jerusalem from the West Bank became more difficult than reaching distant international capitals due to checkpoints and the wall.

Iman contemplated the administrative and operational system of the Grand Mosque, from crowd management to cleanliness and expansions, wishing to transfer this expertise to the Al-Aqsa Mosque after its liberation. She compared the sovereignty enjoyed by the Grand Mosque in Mecca with the restrictions that prevent Palestinians from even renovating basic facilities in the Al-Aqsa Mosque under the weight of the occupation.

The side conversations among Palestinian pilgrims in the circumambulation area often revolved around 'Liberation Day' and how to manage the millions of Muslims who would flock to Jerusalem. This future vision reflects a deep belief that the Hajj experience is an organizational and spiritual school that Palestinians will need to manage their holy sites in the near future.

On the Day of Arafat, Iman recorded her wishes and the wishes of her neighbors in Hebron who entrusted her with their prayers before the Kaaba, carrying the concerns of a people suffering under siege and aggression. The journey that began with a professional setback ended with a spiritual certainty, linking the suffering of the companion Khabbab ibn al-Aratt in ancient Mecca with the contemporary suffering of Palestinians in seeking victory and freedom.

'The Little Pilgrim' will return to her city of Hebron, carrying with her images and memories documenting a journey of loyalty to the land and holy sites, affirming that the distance between Mecca and Jerusalem is not just kilometers. It is a journey of faith and steadfastness that begins from the besieged alleys of the West Bank to circumambulate the Kaaba, and returns laden with hope for a prayer soon in the liberated courtyards of the Al-Aqsa Mosque.

This place was the core of the Islamic call and the core of all history to which I belong as a Muslim woman and through which I try to build my life.

PALESTINE

Sun 31 May 2026 11:15 am - Jerusalem Time

Modified proposal in Cairo to save Gaza truce amid Hamas's adherence to its conditions and Israeli intransigence

The Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) has received an official invitation to participate in a new round of talks to be hosted by the Egyptian capital, Cairo, before the end of this week. This round is based on a modified proposal drafted by the Egyptian and Qatari mediators in a last-ditch effort to bridge the gap between the movement and the Israeli occupation authorities, with the aim of preventing the complete collapse of the ceasefire agreement, which has been stalled for weeks.

Hamas insists on the full implementation of the provisions of the first phase of the agreement as a fundamental basis that cannot be bypassed before moving to any subsequent phases. The movement's vision includes a comprehensive cessation of hostilities and the withdrawal of occupation forces beyond the 'Yellow Line', ensuring the return of calm and relative stability to the affected areas in the Strip.

On the humanitarian side, the movement demands an increase in the pace of aid to reach 600 trucks daily, distributed to all areas of the Gaza Strip without exception. The demands also include the full reopening of the Rafah border crossing for the movement of individuals and goods, and the entry of heavy machinery necessary for clearing rubble and beginning urgent relief operations.

On the political and field levels, the issue of managing the Strip stands out; Hamas demands that administrative tasks be handed over to an agreed-upon Palestinian national committee. In contrast, the occupation government continues to impose complex conditions, foremost among them 'disarming the factions', a clause on which Tel Aviv conditions any progress in the second phase of the agreement or the gradual withdrawal of its forces.

Field data indicates an Israeli reversal of previous understandings, especially after Benjamin Netanyahu's statements about controlling large areas of the Strip. These statements coincide with threats made by the occupation's Minister of War, Yoav Gallant, regarding plans to displace residents, which further complicates the diplomatic scene and puts negotiations on the brink.

For his part, a Hamas leader affirmed that the continuation of aggression and the war of extermination represents the biggest obstacle to any real progress, pointing to the martyrdom of 20 people during the past forty-eight hours. The movement criticized the absence of real pressure from the current US administration on the occupation government to force it to abide by what was previously agreed upon in Sharm El Sheikh.

The movement faces what it describes as a systematic 'starvation war' practiced by the occupation through closing crossings and rationing the entry of basic materials, amid complete international silence. Hamas considers that this policy aims to pressure the popular base of the resistance and extract political concessions under the weight of the escalating humanitarian suffering in all governorates of Gaza.

In a related context, new international accusations emerged from the 'Peace Council', where a report submitted to the Security Council indicated serious difficulties hindering reconstruction plans. International sources accused Hamas of obstructing these efforts due to its rejection of disarmament demands, which the movement considered a political cover to justify the occupation's continuous violations of the truce.

All eyes are now on Cairo, where mediators are exerting all their political weight to formulate a practical and mutually acceptable exchange formula. The coming days will determine the fate of this round, either reaching a sustainable calm that ends the suffering of the residents, or returning to the square of comprehensive field escalation that threatens the security of the entire region.

Hamas insists on implementing all provisions of the first phase of the agreement as a prerequisite that cannot be discussed before moving to the second phase.

PALESTINE

Sun 31 May 2026 11:15 am - Jerusalem Time

Violent Dutch Police Assault on Palestinian Family Sparks Widespread Outrage

Social media platforms were flooded with a massive wave of anger and condemnation following the circulation of a video documenting brutal treatment by Dutch police officers towards a Palestinian refugee family. The shocking scenes showed officers violently throwing a pregnant woman to the ground and using excessive force against her and her husband, raising major human rights questions about the standards of dealing with asylum seekers on the European continent.

The tragic incident occurred inside an asylum seekers' center in the 'Campweg' area of the town of Zevenaar, near the capital Amsterdam, where security forces initially intervened to arrest a young Palestinian man. When his pregnant wife tried to inquire about his condition and the possibility of staying by his side, a police officer attacked her and forcefully threw her to the ground, ignoring her clearly visible health condition, which dramatically escalated the situation.

The police did not stop at throwing the woman down; they escalated their repressive measures by using fierce police dogs against the husband who tried to protect his partner from the assault. Sources reported that the arrested young man is Wissam Reda Fathi Miqdad, 30 years old, a refugee from the Gaza Strip who was suffering from severe psychological pressure due to the forced deportation procedures pursued by the Dutch authorities.

Available information indicates that the Dutch authorities classify Miqdad as a 'threat to public security' and seek to deport him to Egypt, at a time when he was expressing deep concern for the fate of his family members trapped in the Gaza Strip. In contrast, the police tried to justify their violent behavior by claiming they responded to reports that the young man was committing acts of sabotage and making threats using a sharp object inside the shelter center.

Despite the harsh scene and the physical assault the mother endured, the victim's family later delivered reassuring news, confirming that the woman was able to give birth to her baby safely after the incident. This happy ending was widely welcomed by sympathizers who followed the case with concern, considering the baby's survival a miracle given the violence her mother was subjected to shortly before birth.

In the face of increasing media and human rights pressure, the Dutch authorities were forced to officially announce the opening of a comprehensive and extensive investigation to determine the circumstances of the incident and evaluate the officers' conduct. The investigation aims to determine the legality of using excessive force and police dogs against an unarmed family, especially in the presence of a pregnant woman, which legal experts considered a blatant violation of international human rights conventions.

Opinions were divided in the Dutch street and among social media users, with the vast majority condemning this behavior, which they described as 'barbaric,' while some tried to defend the official police narrative. This incident once again highlights the suffering of Palestinian refugees in exile and the complex conditions they face in European detention and asylum centers.

One of the officers violently grabbed the pregnant woman and threw her to the ground, even though she only approached to ask about the fate of her arrested husband.

PALESTINE

Sun 31 May 2026 11:14 am - Jerusalem Time

'Shami Neighborhood' Plan.. A New Israeli Attempt to Uproot Khan al-Ahmar and Determine the Fate of East Jerusalem

The Israeli occupation's attempts to empty the Khan al-Ahmar area, east of occupied Jerusalem, were not merely administrative procedures; they reached the point of offering huge financial incentives and offers of foreign nationalities to the residents. Citizen Eid Khamis Jahalin, one of the dignitaries of the area, recounts the details of his summons to meet Israeli officers who offered him millions of dollars in exchange for signing an evacuation of the Bedouin communities, which was met with a categorical refusal based on the legacy of five generations who have inhabited this land.

In a serious legal development, sources in the Jerusalem Governorate revealed that the occupation authorities had deposited a new settlement plan known as the 'Shami Neighborhood'. This project, deposited in late March 2026, aims to transform about 170 dunams of Abu Dis town lands from their agricultural and pastoral character into a crowded urban residential neighborhood, in preparation for the forced transfer of Bedouin community residents to it and the dismantling of their social structure.

The Israeli plan aims to impose an urban density of up to 12 housing units per dunam, with buildings reaching six stories high. Local sources confirm that this urban pattern is completely incompatible with the nature of Bedouin life based on grazing and open spaces, describing the proposed units as 'cement boxes' aimed at killing their cultural and economic identity.

The 'Shami Neighborhood' project is organically linked to the larger settlement plan known as (E1), through which the occupation seeks to connect the 'Ma'ale Adumim' settlement with the city of Jerusalem. This geographical link will practically separate the central and northern West Bank from its south, undermining any future opportunity for a geographically contiguous Palestinian state, and making Khan al-Ahmar the last stumbling block before this project.

In the context of political escalation, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich issued a decision this May to uproot 26 Bedouin communities inhabited by about 4856 Palestinians. The decision includes the forced transfer of these residents to specific areas in Al-Eizariya or Nuweima near Jericho, in a systematic ethnic cleansing campaign aimed at full control over the Jerusalem wilderness and expanding settlement influence.

Amidst this siege, daily stories of resilience led by women and youth in Khan al-Ahmar emerge to preserve their survival. Nisreen Jahalin, a university student from the village, transformed her modest home into a classroom to provide free lessons for children, in an attempt to compensate for the severe shortage of educational services and the psychological pressures imposed by the occupation and settlers on the younger generation in the area.

The 'Tire School', built in 2009 from mud and car tires, is a symbol of Palestinian defiance in the face of continuous demolition orders. Today, about 170 students in this school cautiously watch the horizon, fearing the arrival of occupation bulldozers that threaten to turn their only educational edifice into rubble, as part of the policy of ignorance and displacement pursued by the Civil Administration of the occupation army.

Residents describe the living reality in Khan al-Ahmar as 'clinical death', as the area lacks the most basic health and essential services. The only health clinic lacks medicines and equipment, and the doctor only visits twice a week, making emergencies and births risky ventures, especially in light of military checkpoints and repeated settler attacks.

Since 2018, the occupation has classified the Khan al-Ahmar area as a closed military zone, tightening the noose on the movement of residents and their livestock, which represent their only source of livelihood. These measures coincide with the escalation of attacks by settler 'hilltop youth' groups, who practice daily terror including stealing sheep, shooting, and physical assault on shepherds under the protection of occupation soldiers.

In the face of this existential threat, the twenty-six Bedouin communities have developed an internal solidarity system and an early warning network to alert each other to any suspicious movements by the occupation or settlers. This social cohesion has become the only safety valve for residents who feel let down by international institutions, whose actions they describe as 'symbolic' and not commensurate with the crime committed against them.

Hajj Muhammad Ibrahim, a resident of the area whose ancestors were displaced from the Negev in 1948, confirms that the idea of leaving again is not in the residents' dictionary. He says that staying under the sun and in the open is easier for them than moving to 'cement cemeteries' next to landfills, emphasizing that Khan al-Ahmar is the first line of defense for the Arab identity of Jerusalem.

Technical reports indicate that the residents of Khan, through specialized engineers, submitted more than 17 organizational plans to develop their village in its current locations since 2013. However, the occupation authorities rejected all these plans without discussion, proving that the primary goal is not 'urban development' as the occupation claims, but rather control over the land and emptying it of its original owners.

The battle in Khan al-Ahmar goes beyond housing; it is a struggle over narrative, history, and the Bedouin identity that the occupation is trying to erase. Residents believe that their forced transformation from Bedouin life to an urban lifestyle is an attempt to kill their spirit of resistance and resilience, and to turn them into cheap labor in settlements after losing their livestock and pastoral lands.

In conclusion of their message to the world, the residents of Khan emphasize that the will to survive is stronger than political decisions written on paper. They affirm that the fall of Khan al-Ahmar necessarily means the fall of the eastern gate of Jerusalem and the liquidation of the Palestinian cause in its cradle, which drives them to cling to every stone and tent in the face of the Israeli war and displacement machine.

A Bedouin in the desert is like a fish in water; if you take it out, it dies. Our displacement attempts are an execution of a way of life and an identity deeply rooted in history.

PALESTINE

Sun 31 May 2026 11:14 am - Jerusalem Time

The occupation controls Beaufort Castle and crosses the Litani River amidst fierce battles

The Israeli occupation army escalated its military operations in southern Lebanon, launching a wide-ranging ground and air operation targeting the heights of Shqif and the Wadi al-Salouqi area. These movements come as the occupation seeks to deepen its penetration into Lebanese territory and impose a new reality on the northern border.

The occupation army officially announced its control over the historic Beaufort Castle, indicating that its forces succeeded in crossing the Litani River and deploying in areas north of it. This step is considered a strategic shift in the current confrontation, as Israeli forces have bypassed the defensive lines that were in place in recent weeks.

In contrast, field sources confirmed that Hezbollah continues to confront Israeli advance attempts, with the party broadcasting footage documenting the destruction of a 'Merkava' tank in the vicinity of the town of Zawtar al-Sharqiya. The Lebanese resistance stressed that it is fighting fierce battles to prevent the occupation forces from stabilizing in the areas they recently reached.

Regarding human casualties, the occupation army admitted the killing of one of its soldiers and the injury of four others with varying degrees of wounds following an attack carried out by a drone targeting a gathering of forces in the south. This coincided with the activation of sirens in several border settlements due to intense rocket barrages launched from Lebanon.

Military sources reported that the Israeli incursion reached the outskirts of the city of Nabatieh, after controlling the towns of Shqif Arnoun and Zawtar al-Sharqiya located north of the Litani. This ground advance was accompanied by heavy air and artillery cover targeting surrounding villages and towns to pave the way for military vehicles.

For its part, Hezbollah announced the execution of more than 20 military operations in recent hours, including targeting eight settlements and military bases in occupied northern Palestine. The party's fighters also set up tight ambushes for the invading forces, confirming the use of qualitative and composite weapons in the confrontation operations.

On the ground, Israeli artillery shelling did not stop targeting the towns of Baraachit, Al-Ghandouriya, and Al-Sultaniya in the Bint Jbeil district, in addition to the Sayyad houses in Tyre. Warplanes also launched violent raids targeting the vicinity of the Nabih Berri Governmental Hospital, causing extensive material damage and a state of panic among civilians.

In the political context, Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir called for intensifying military strikes and demanding the 'crushing' of the southern suburb of Beirut. Ben-Gvir considered that the destruction of the suburb is the only way to pressure Hezbollah and stop its rocket attacks that paralyze life in the north.

Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett joined the chorus of inciters, criticizing the Netanyahu government's performance in managing the conflict, and demanding that the suburb 'tremble' to restore security. These statements reflect a state of confusion and internal pressure in Israel as a result of the continued rocket barrages despite the ground operations.

Internally, the occupation authorities imposed strict security measures, including suspending educational activities and closing beaches in areas near the Lebanese border. These decisions came after intelligence reports warned of an imminent escalation in Hezbollah attacks in response to crossing the Litani River.

Despite an announced ceasefire agreement since last April, the field reality indicates a collapse of understandings with the expansion of the war. Confrontations continue on several fronts amidst international fears of the region sliding into a comprehensive war whose consequences cannot be controlled.

The Dahiyeh must tremble until security returns to the north.

PALESTINE

Sun 31 May 2026 11:14 am - Jerusalem Time

Occupation Soldiers' Testimonies: 'The Yellow Line' in Gaza a Death Trap and the Truce Just a Joke

Rare testimonies from Israeli occupation army reservists have unveiled a horrific reality on the ground in the Gaza Strip, where they confirmed the continuation of systematic killings despite the ceasefire agreement being in effect. One soldier described the current situation as 'a joke,' indicating that military instructions permit targeting any Palestinian approaching what is known as the Yellow Line, which has turned the buffer zone into an execution ground.

A soldier in his twenties recounted shocking details about his comrades' celebration after targeting a civilian vehicle carrying Palestinians near an army-controlled area, which led to the death of all its occupants. The soldier explained that such incidents have become routine and common since the fragile truce came into effect last October, confirming that the field has turned into something like a 'jungle' governed by no laws.

According to statements from three soldiers reported by journalistic sources, a state of severe confusion prevails among the forces deployed in the Strip due to the lack of clarity regarding the actual boundaries of the Yellow Line. The soldiers indicated that the ambiguity surrounding this imaginary line made it easy for field commanders to justify killings under the pretext of security threats, despite the absence of clear markers defining prohibited areas.

The testimonies revealed a double standard among military commanders, who showed formal commitment to the agreement in front of the media, while in closed sessions they expressed their fervent desire for combat operations to continue. The soldiers pointed out that the rapid pace of operations and long distances prevented the identification of targeted individuals, leading to civilian casualties without any scrutiny.

Regarding military positioning, the occupation army redeployed within a buffer zone defined by the Yellow Line, which gave it effective control over more than half of the Gaza Strip's area. Despite promises of subsequent withdrawals according to the agreement, the reality on the ground indicates a reinforcement of military presence and the construction of permanent fortifications suggesting long-term intentions to stay.

The soldiers confirmed that the Yellow Line was not visible in most areas, while it was marked in limited spots with barrels and yellow signs that civilians could not clearly see from a distance. This deliberate ambiguity made any Palestinian movement in those areas a legitimate target for snipers and combat units that treat every approach as a threat requiring physical elimination.

Statistics related to Israeli violations since the announcement of the ceasefire on October 10, 2025, indicate the martyrdom of 929 people and the injury of 2811 others. The largest percentage of these casualties occurred in areas near the Yellow Line, confirming that the policy of shooting to kill has never stopped despite the declared truce.

In another testimony from a soldier who participated in a second combat tour, he explained that the information on which military strikes are based lacks accuracy and often relies on 'intuition and guesswork.' He added that coordinates were determined based on the last place a person was seen, without confirming their identity or the nature of their activity, which significantly increased the chances of targeting innocent people.

For its part, human rights sources quoted the 'Breaking the Silence' organization as saying that the rules of engagement currently applied in Gaza are extremely loose and give soldiers a green light to kill. The organization documented explicit instructions issued to fighters in the field to 'kill anyone who crosses the line, whatever the cost,' which explains the significant increase in the number of casualties during the truce period.

One soldier expressed his feeling of psychological burden as a result of his service in Gaza, confirming that the main message he received from his commanders was that 'human life has no value.' He explained that the army placed the responsibility of knowing the boundaries of the Yellow Line on the Palestinians themselves, despite the impossibility of this amidst the rubble and destruction that completely changed the features of the Strip.

The testimonies mentioned that snipers initially fired warning shots, but orders quickly evolved to direct and immediate use of lethal force. Commanders justified this shift by the need to protect forces from any potential threat, even if this threat was merely a guess not based on any material evidence of a weapon or hostile intent.

A firm belief prevails among occupation soldiers that Israel does not plan an imminent withdrawal from Gaza but seeks to establish a new reality that guarantees it permanent control. These convictions align with statements by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who explicitly announced that the army currently controls 60% of the Strip, with plans to raise this percentage to 70%.

Images from the field show small yellow cubes placed amidst tons of rubble, which are the only markers separating the areas of occupation deployment and the places where residents are allowed to be present. This fragile and ambiguous demarcation reflects the occupation's strategy of creating 'death zones' that lack the minimum standards for distinguishing between civilians and combatants.

These leaked testimonies place the international community before its responsibilities regarding the occupation's continuous violations of ceasefire agreements and international humanitarian law. While political leaders speak of de-escalation, the soldiers' confessions reveal an unstoppable killing machine, relying on guesswork and intuition to harvest the lives of unarmed Palestinians.

It was a jungle... The orders were clear after the ceasefire: If anyone crosses the line, shoot them immediately.

OPINIONS

Sun 31 May 2026 11:14 am - Jerusalem Time

The impending Iran deal reveals the limits of American power and the decline of Trump's bets

Washington's Message

Washington – Said Arikat – 31/5/2026

News Analysis

As Washington and Tehran approach a new understanding aimed at solidifying a ceasefire and reopening the Strait of Hormuz to international navigation, the gap between the ambitious goals announced by US President Donald Trump at the start of the confrontation with Iran and the results his administration now appears willing to accept is increasingly evident. After months of military and political escalation, the crisis is not heading towards an Iranian surrender or regime change, but rather towards a negotiated settlement primarily seeking to contain tension and prevent a wider regional explosion.

When Trump chose direct confrontation with Iran, it was accompanied by high-pitched rhetoric about eliminating the Iranian threat, definitively ending its nuclear program, and even opening the door to the possibility of regime change in Tehran. However, the course of events quickly revealed that the stated goals were far grander than the practical ability to achieve them. Iran did not collapse politically, nor did its security and military institutions disintegrate, nor did military and economic pressures succeed in forcing it to accept unconditional surrender.

Today, American priorities appear distinctly different. Instead of talking about overthrowing the regime or politically restructuring Iran, Washington is focusing on ensuring the stability of global energy markets, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and securing freedom of maritime navigation. This shift not only reflects a reprioritization but also represents an implicit acknowledgment that the war did not achieve the strategic goals promoted at its outset, and that the cost of its continuation now outweighs the expected gains.

During the crisis, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz contributed to widespread disruptions in international energy markets, which impacted fuel prices, supply chains, and inflation in the United States and around the world. Therefore, reopening the Strait has become an urgent American goal, even though freedom of navigation existed before the confrontation began. This paradox leads many to question whether the war achieved actual strategic gains, or if it ended by bringing the parties back to a point close to where they started.

This paradox is even more pronounced in the nuclear file. Trump, who built a significant part of his political discourse on attacking and withdrawing from the 2015 nuclear deal during his first term, arguing it was a weak agreement, now finds himself facing the possibility of accepting a new understanding that may not differ significantly in essence from the previous agreement. Some observers even believe that current circumstances may grant Tehran a better negotiating position than it had years ago, after it managed to expand its nuclear program and enhance its technical capabilities during the escalation phase.

Furthermore, the military strikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities did not resolve the debate about the future of the nuclear program. Current estimates indicate that Iran still retains technical capabilities and significant stockpiles of highly enriched uranium, meaning that the military option has not succeeded in ending the problem at its roots, and that a political solution remains the only available path to manage this complex issue.

Conversely, the Iranian leadership emerged from the confrontation seeking to present itself internally and externally as a party that withstood American and Israeli pressures. Instead of showing signs of regime collapse or institutional disintegration, the Iranian state demonstrated a significant ability to absorb blows and reorganize its political and military tools. Therefore, Tehran today seems convinced that it entered any upcoming negotiations from a better negotiating position than it had at the beginning of the crisis.

The challenge for Trump is not limited to negotiating with Iran but extends to the American domestic front. The president, who promised a decisive victory, faces increasing criticism from Republican and conservative figures who believe that any agreement allowing Iran to retain enrichment capabilities, however limited, represents a retreat from previous commitments. His critics also fear that his administration might end up adopting an approach similar to that pursued by former President Barack Obama, an approach that has been a constant target of Republican attacks for years.

These developments once again reveal the limits of military power in achieving major political goals. From Iraq to Afghanistan, American experiences have shown that military superiority does not necessarily translate into lasting political success. In the Iranian case, Washington's bets clashed with the reality of a state possessing entrenched institutions, considerable military capabilities, and extensive regional influence networks, which made the cost of confrontation high while its political results remained limited.

The repercussions of this review are not confined to the American-Iranian relationship. The setback faced by the project to contain Iran also reflects on a broader vision that Washington sought to establish in recent years, based on reshaping regional balances and expanding the circle of Arab-Israeli normalization through the Abraham Accords. However, the continuation of the Israeli war on Gaza and the escalation of popular Arab anger towards Israeli policies have made achieving new breakthroughs more difficult and weakened the bets on re-engineering the region according to the visions promoted by successive US administrations.

Ultimately, the anticipated agreement may succeed in reducing tension and preventing a wider regional war, but it simultaneously reveals a political reality that is difficult to ignore: after months of escalation, threats, and military operations, Washington has not achieved the maximum goals it announced at the beginning of the confrontation. Instead of imposing its conditions on Tehran, it finds itself returning to the negotiating table in search of a politically manageable settlement. Therefore, the potential deal appears, more than an American victory, an expression of the limits of military power when it clashes with the realities of politics, geography, and regional power balances.

ARAB AND WORLD

Sun 31 May 2026 11:13 am - Jerusalem Time

Trump tightens conditions on Tehran, sends new proposal to end war

American media sources reported that President Donald Trump took a surprising step by sending a new and stricter proposal to the Iranian leadership, aiming to set final conditions to end the current state of tension and war. This move comes at a time when indicators suggested the imminent conclusion of a final agreement between Washington and Tehran after intensive rounds of negotiations.

Reports clarified that the amendments introduced by Trump included a significant tightening of the basic terms of the agreement, as he returned the revised framework to the Iranian side for review and study. According to informed officials, this step reflects the White House's desire to extract additional concessions before the official signing of any binding document.

Although the full details of the amendments have not been officially disclosed, informed sources confirmed that the US President requested a review of specific clauses in the draft that had received initial consensus between the two delegations. This decision came after a high-level meeting held in the White House Situation Room to discuss the diplomatic path with Iran.

Sources stated that Trump expressed a desire to conclude the agreement soon, but stipulated that the clauses related to Iran's nuclear program be more firm and clear. The new American approach focuses on ensuring that Tehran cannot return to enriching uranium at levels that threaten regional or international security.

Trump's new demands have launched an additional round of technical and political negotiations that are expected to last for several days between mediators. The American side seeks to obtain precise and comprehensive details regarding the mechanisms of monitoring and control over the enriched uranium stockpiles currently held by Iran.

In addition to the nuclear file, the US President demanded an amendment to the legal and political formulations related to reopening the Strait of Hormuz and ensuring navigation security there. This waterway is a vital artery for the global economy, through which about a fifth of the world's daily oil supplies flow.

Intelligence and political assessments in Washington indicate that Iran's response to these tightened proposals may arrive within the next three days. The question remains about Tehran's willingness to accept these additional conditions, which may be considered a retreat from what was previously agreed upon.

Trump was awaiting a final signature on the original proposal, but he preferred to wait and conduct in-depth consultations with his security team before making the final decision. This hesitation reflects internal pressures or a desire to improve negotiation terms at the last minute to ensure a long-term agreement.

Trump stressed in his statements that no agreement would pass without firm guarantees preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons definitively. The White House also places the issue of freedom of navigation in international waterways as a top priority that cannot be compromised in any comprehensive political settlement.

Amid these developments, international capitals are awaiting the results of this new round of American pressure, and whether it will lead to a breakthrough or complicate the scene. The region remains in anticipation, awaiting Iran's official stance, which will determine the course of events in the next phase.

Our priorities for any agreement include Iran's agreement not to develop nuclear weapons and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately 20% of global oil supplies pass.

OPINIONS

Sun 31 May 2026 11:13 am - Jerusalem Time

How Israeli Prisons Became a Stage for War Crimes Against Palestinians

Discussions about Israeli violations against Palestinian prisoners and detainees are no longer mere individual testimonies or scattered human rights accounts; they have become documented in official international reports issued by the United Nations itself. The latest report by UN Secretary-General António Guterres did not merely point to abuses or “isolated incidents,” but placed Israeli security forces on the “blacklist” of entities responsible for sexual violence in conflicts and committing war crimes.This is not just a symbolic or political issue, but a serious legal and moral condemnation of a state that claims to be the “only democracy in the Middle East,” while facts reveal that torture, humiliation, and sexual assaults have become systematic tools against Palestinians, especially after October 7.The UN report clearly explained the types of crimes documented, such as rape, gang rape, sexual assaults, forced nudity, threats of rape, and the filming of some assaults. These are not individual transgressions by rogue soldiers, but recurring patterns that occurred within known detention camps, prisons, and interrogation centers, such as “Sde Teiman,” “Megiddo,” “Ofer,” and “Nafeha,” meaning that the issue is linked to an entire institutional structure that allowed these crimes to happen, and perhaps encouraged them through silence, protection, and lack of accountability.This system was not limited to security agencies alone but extended to include clear complicity by Israeli medical personnel within these facilities and camps, who contributed either by remaining silent and covering up the effects of torture, or by refraining from providing necessary humanitarian care, which proves full partnership in the crime.Therefore, the most dangerous aspect of the report is not just the scale of the crimes, but the explicit reference to a “culture of impunity.” When a criminal case against soldiers accused of brutally assaulting a Palestinian detainee is dismissed despite the existence of recordings and medical reports, the message sent to soldiers and security agencies is clear: you can do anything to Palestinians without fear of punishment.The filming of these assaults is no longer just blind internal documentation; through deliberate leaks to the media, it has become a tool for psychological warfare and to break Palestinian morale, and to satisfy an extremist Israeli public that now sees the torture of Palestinians as a source of schadenfreude and entertainment, reflecting a comprehensive societal moral collapse.The report directly held the Israeli Prison Service, the Israeli army, and the “Yamam” unit responsible for committing sexual crimes and torture against Palestinians, particularly within detention centers and prisons. The report documented dozens of cases of conflict-related sexual violence in 2025, involving men, women, and children from Gaza and the West Bank, confirming that the violations included rape, gang rape, sexual torture, forced nudity, assault on genitals, and threats of rape against detainees.Here, the official political and legislative patronage of these crimes is clearly evident, openly led by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. Under his direct supervision, prisons have become a declared tool of abuse and revenge, including reducing food quantities to the point of starvation, banning visits, severe deprivation of medical treatment, and even pushing for legislation aimed at executing prisoners, thereby granting torturers official legal and political cover from the highest echelons of power.The data in the report reveals that a number of victims suffered repeated assaults that caused injuries and severe bleeding, while some were deprived of medical treatment, reflecting the extent of brutality practiced within Israeli detention centers. The report also warned that the absence of accountability and the dismissal of charges against soldiers involved in assaulting Palestinian detainees, despite the existence of recordings and medical reports, deepens the “culture of impunity” and encourages the repetition of these crimes.Thus, Israeli prisons are no longer just places of detention; according to international reports, they have transformed into organized spaces for torture, humiliation, and physical and psychological abuse against Palestinian prisoners.Since the beginning of the war on Gaza, the rhetoric of revenge and incitement within Israel has escalated unprecedentedly. Politicians, media figures, rabbis, and soldiers have openly spoken of Palestinians as “human animals” or “enemies that must be crushed.” In this climate, violations against prisoners are no longer merely acts of torture aimed at extracting information, but have become part of a doctrine of collective humiliation, collective punishment, and the dehumanization of Palestinians.The report also reveals another extremely dangerous aspect: the targeting of journalists and human rights defenders, reflecting Israel’s attempt to impose a blackout on what is happening inside detention centers. Israel has prevented investigation committees and international observers from accessing detention centers and has threatened detainees to prevent them from testifying, which confirms that the occupation realizes the seriousness of its actions and is trying to prevent their documentation.Despite the gravity of what was stated in the report, the most important question remains: what next? Experience with Israel over the past decades confirms that international condemnations often remain without real enforcement tools or accountability, especially given continuous American and Western protection. Therefore, the danger lies not only in the continuation of crimes but in the transformation of international silence into an actual partner in their production.What is happening to Palestinian prisoners and detainees is not a marginal human rights issue, but part of a comprehensive war against Palestinians, which includes killing, starvation, destruction, displacement, and torture. Sexual assault here is not an isolated incident but a tool of war, humiliation, and psychological and physical breaking, falling within the crimes unequivocally prohibited by international law.The inclusion of Israel on the UN blacklist constitutes a major political and moral blow to its international image, but at the same time, it reveals the extent of the tragedy experienced by thousands of Palestinian detainees away from the cameras. Unless these reports are translated into real legal actions and international prosecutions, Israeli prisons will remain open places for torture and abuse, and Palestinians will continue to pay the price for the absence of international justice. In the absence of real accountability, Israeli prisons become a permanent part of the war machine against Palestinians; delayed justice here means nothing but more victims.

ARAB AND WORLD

Sun 31 May 2026 11:13 am - Jerusalem Time

US moves to involve Gulf states in funding Iran's reconstruction

International press reports have revealed quiet diplomatic moves led by the administration of US President Donald Trump, aimed at involving Arab Gulf states in funding Iran's reconstruction. This step comes as part of efforts to reach a final agreement that ends the state of military conflict that erupted last February between Tehran on one side, and Washington and Tel Aviv on the other.

Press sources stated that the Iranian side has set clear financial conditions within the draft preliminary agreement, with Tehran demanding the return of approximately $24 billion of its frozen assets abroad. The Iranian proposal stipulates that half of this amount be transferred immediately upon the signing of the official memorandum of understanding between the concerned parties.

Given President Trump's hardline stance on direct financial transfers from the US Treasury to Tehran, his presidential team is looking for innovative funding alternatives. Attention is turning to regional countries, including Qatar, to play a mediating role in transferring these funds and ensuring their arrival within the agreed frameworks.

Leaked information indicates that current discussions between Washington and Gulf capitals revolve around the possibility of establishing a massive investment fund dedicated to reconstruction. The proposed value of this fund is estimated at approximately $300 billion, with regional countries contributing to compensate for the structural damage caused by recent military operations.

For its part, the White House affirmed that the US approach to the agreement does not mean compromising Washington's strategic interests in the region. US officials clarified that any understandings reached will be conditional on achieving clear gains for the United States and ensuring that pre-established red lines are not crossed.

The decision-making circles in Washington had witnessed a lengthy National Security Council meeting that lasted for about two hours to discuss developments in the Iranian file. Participants in the meeting stressed that President Trump is focused on drafting an agreement that ensures regional stability without incurring direct financial burdens from the US budget.

The roots of the current crisis date back to February 28th, when a widespread military confrontation began, including reciprocal strikes on several fronts. Tehran then responded by targeting sites belonging to the Israeli occupation and American interests in the region, leading to an unprecedented escalation in the pace of tension.

In an attempt at economic pressure, Iranian authorities announced last March the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to international navigation, stipulating prior coordination for the passage of ships. Tehran considered this measure a natural response to what it described as joint aggression, directly threatening global energy supplies.

On the ground, the United States has imposed a strict naval blockade on vital Iranian ports since mid-April. This blockade aims to dry up Iranian income sources and pressure the political leadership to accept the negotiation terms put forward by the US administration.

Despite the intensity of the escalation, international efforts succeeded in reaching a temporary ceasefire agreement on April 8th, opening the door for the diplomatic path. Since then, intensive negotiations have been taking place behind the scenes to solidify this calm and transform it into a sustainable agreement that includes all outstanding issues.

President Trump recently announced significant progress in drafting most of the provisions of the anticipated agreement with the Iranian side. He indicated that final arrangements are currently being completed in coordination with Washington's allies in the Middle East to ensure the comprehensiveness of the proposed solution.

The agreement currently being finalized includes a fundamental clause related to the full and unrestricted reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to international navigation. This point is a priority for the US administration to ensure the flow of oil and gas to global markets and alleviate the severity of the economic crisis resulting from the war.

The issue of financial compensation and reconstruction remains the most prominent obstacle to final signing, as Tehran insists on obtaining major financial guarantees. American diplomacy is now seeking to balance these demands with internal rejection in Washington of funding adversaries, by shifting the financial burden to regional investment funds.

President Trump will conclude an agreement that is only good for the United States and respects its red lines.

PALESTINE

Sun 31 May 2026 11:13 am - Jerusalem Time

National Committee for Gaza Administration Warns Against Plans to Divide the Strip and Adheres to Geographical Unity

The National Committee for the Administration of the Gaza Strip issued a decisive official statement, unequivocally denying all circulating media reports regarding the administration of the Strip. The committee warned against attempts to legitimize the geographical separation between Gaza's areas, emphasizing that these rumors aim to undermine the unity of the Palestinian position under the current circumstances.

The committee stressed in its statement its complete rejection of what is being circulated regarding the approval of dividing the Strip into eastern and western areas, describing those reports as completely unfounded. It affirmed that its executive tasks and powers are designed to include all areas of the Strip without exception, to ensure a dignified and stable life for the residents, away from fragmentation projects.

In a related context, the committee reiterated its rejection of subordination to any external parties or projects aimed at dismantling the unity of the Strip, declaring its categorical refusal to deal with armed militias stationed in the eastern areas. It clarified that the exercise of its field duties is directly linked to ending the security clearance file by the occupation authorities, to ensure a safe and stable working environment.

On the diplomatic front, the committee expressed its aspiration for more serious international action to save the political process, which is suffering from severe stagnation due to what it described as the intransigence of the operations room in Washington. The committee called on mediators and the American administration to exert real pressure on all concerned parties, with the aim of reaching the second phase of a comprehensive ceasefire agreement.

The committee concluded its statement by emphasizing that any attempt to impose a new military reality, such as the 'Yellow Line' operations revealed by international press reports, will not deter it from adhering to the geographical unity of the Strip. It indicated that the stability of the region depends on ending the occupation and stopping interventions that seek to divide Palestinian land and scatter the efforts of the national administration.

We will never accept being a tool in a project to divide the Strip or dismantle its geographical and political unity.

PALESTINE

Sun 31 May 2026 11:13 am - Jerusalem Time

Testimonies from Occupation Soldiers Reveal the Falsity of Calm: Orders for Direct Killing and Land Grabbing in Gaza

International press reports have conveyed shocking testimonies from soldiers who served in the ranks of the occupation army within the Gaza Strip, revealing that killings and targeting of Palestinians never ceased. These testimonies confirmed that official announcements about political agreements coming into effect were merely a cover for the continued military operations on the ground at the same pace.

In their statements, the soldiers described what is rumored about a ceasefire as 'just a joke' that finds no resonance on the ground, as the war continues under different names and with violent combat tactics. The report indicated that the situation on the ground reflects a determination by the fighting units to continue military escalation, far from the political statements issued by the leadership.

Testimonies focused on the military's mechanism for dealing with Palestinians near what is known as the 'Yellow Line,' which is the dividing line between areas under occupation control and populated Palestinian areas. Soldiers explained that strict instructions mandated automatic and direct firing at anyone crossing this line or even approaching it, regardless of their identity or gender.

The report revealed behaviors described as brutal by some elements within the combat units, where some soldiers would celebrate hysterically after successful sniping operations. These targets included civilian vehicles or individuals passing near military areas, reflecting a lack of ethical and legal oversight within the field barracks.

Sources indicated a blatant state of ambiguity and contradiction regarding the rules of engagement on the ground, where soldiers live in a state of disconnect between what they hear in the media and what they are ordered to do. While some military commanders publicly express support for political agreements, in their private conversations with soldiers, they reflect an intense desire to prolong the war and expand its scope.

Soldiers participating in the testimonies admitted that identifying targets was often impossible due to long distances and the speed of the decision to kill by field commanders. This admission reinforces international concerns about the deliberate targeting of unarmed civilians who pose no direct military threat to the stationed forces.

In an attempt to defend its position, the occupation army claimed that the area adjacent to the Yellow Line is a 'sensitive operational zone' requiring strict security measures to protect forces. Army spokespersons claimed that rules require prior warnings, but the testimonies of field soldiers refuted these claims entirely and confirmed the absence of warnings.

Field data and reports showed a sharp increase in the number of Palestinian martyrs near this line in recent months, indicating a systematic policy of physical liquidation. This rise in casualties coincided with the expansion of the occupation's field control and the grabbing of more areas and lands deep within the Gaza Strip to create buffer zones.

Testimonies concluded that the political terms used in international forums do not apply to the tragic reality experienced by the residents of the Strip under continuous fire. One soldier concluded his statement by emphasizing the need to stop misleading public opinion with terms like 'truce' or 'ceasefire' as long as the killing machine continues to operate without stopping.

We must completely stop using the term 'ceasefire' because it never reflects what is actually happening on the ground.

ARAB AND WORLD

Sun 31 May 2026 11:13 am - Jerusalem Time

Washington threatens to resume war against Tehran, Trump sets strict conditions for agreement

The American administration officially announced that it possesses all the necessary military means and capabilities to resume war with Iran if diplomatic efforts fail. The White House clarified that President Donald Trump will not sign any agreement with Tehran unless it meets all American conditions and red lines set by Washington, amidst unprecedented regional tensions that have shaken the global economy.

These stances came after a lengthy meeting held by Trump with his senior aides in the White House Situation Room, which lasted for two hours to discuss a draft of a potential agreement mediated by Pakistan and Qatar. A senior American official affirmed that the administration will not accept any concessions that allow Iran to possess nuclear weapons, emphasizing that the interest of the United States is the first and last criterion in any ongoing negotiations.

For his part, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated, during his participation in the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, that the US armed forces are on high alert. Hegseth indicated that his country is fully capable of returning to direct combat operations if necessary, which was reinforced by the US Central Command (CENTCOM) by confirming its presence and vigilance in the region.

In a related context, President Trump, via his 'Truth Social' platform, outlined clear demands including an absolute Iranian commitment not to possess nuclear weapons, and the immediate opening of the Strait of Hormuz to international navigation without imposing any fees. Trump also indicated that the United States would work to extract and destroy enriched materials in coordination with the International Atomic Energy Agency, confirming the freezing of any financial exchange for the time being.

On the Iranian side, informed sources described Trump's statements as a mixture of facts and lies, noting that Tehran will not relinquish its sovereign rights. The spokesman for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, Ismail Baqaei, clarified that the exchange of messages is still ongoing through mediators, but he stressed that no final agreement has been reached yet, especially regarding the status of the Strait of Hormuz.

Tehran adheres to its legal position regarding the Strait of Hormuz, where members of the Iranian Shura Council affirmed that the management of the strait is an exclusive right of Iran and the Sultanate of Oman only. Iranian parliamentarians indicated that there are legislative moves to ratify a text that establishes full Iranian sovereignty over the strategic waterway, which could further complicate the international scene.

In a notable field development, the US Army announced the targeting of a cargo ship flying the flag of Gambia that was on its way to an Iranian port, where it was disabled by a missile that targeted the engine room. This incident comes at a time when Iranian sources accuse the US Navy of continuing to intercept Iranian commercial vessels and preventing them from sailing freely, despite talk of de-escalation understandings.

Tehran stipulates, for any progress in negotiations, the immediate release of $12 billion of its frozen assets held by the United States and its allies. According to official media reports in Tehran, any delay in paying these amounts will mean the suspension of negotiations, emphasizing that the issue of destroying nuclear materials or canceling transit fees in Hormuz was not included in the unofficial drafts.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan entered the crisis, warning that closing the Strait of Hormuz represents immense pressure that is more dangerous than the nuclear file itself. Fidan indicated that the repercussions of closing the waterway would be catastrophic for global energy security and food security, leading to sharp price increases affecting all countries of the world without exception.

Coinciding with the tension with Iran, the Lebanese front is witnessing a dangerous military escalation despite an earlier ceasefire announcement. Sources reported that Israeli forces continued their ground and air operations, issuing warnings to evacuate Lebanese towns located up to 40 kilometers north of the border, indicating an expansion of the field confrontation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu explicitly announced that his army had crossed the Litani River, which represents a major violation of previous international understandings. This announcement coincided with military talks held at the Pentagon between American and Israeli delegations, which Washington described as constructive, despite the continued raids targeting Lebanese villages and towns.

For his part, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati accused the Israeli authorities of implementing a 'scorched earth' policy in southern Lebanon and its Bekaa Valley. Mikati affirmed that the Lebanese state is facing an unprecedented escalation that threatens infrastructure and civilian lives, calling on the international community to intervene to stop the ongoing Israeli violations of Lebanese sovereignty and international laws.

Statistics issued by the Lebanese Ministry of Health indicate that more than 3355 martyrs have fallen since the start of the widespread aggression, amidst massive destruction of property. This wave of escalation began after the assassination of the Iranian Supreme Leader, which prompted Hezbollah to respond with intensive missiles targeting objectives within the Hebrew state, plunging the region into a spiral of mutual violence.

Amidst these complexities, the scene in the Middle East remains suspended between the options of comprehensive war or reaching a major deal that resolves outstanding issues. With the continued military build-ups and mutual threats, international capitals await the outcomes of the coming days from secret and public negotiations led by regional and international parties to defuse the explosion.

The United States is fully capable of resuming operations if necessary against Iran, and we will not accept an agreement that does not serve our interests.

ARAB AND WORLD

Sun 31 May 2026 11:13 am - Jerusalem Time

Bloody escalation in southern Lebanon: Martyrs and wounded in intense raids, and the occupation halts education on the border

Southern Lebanon witnessed a dangerous military escalation on Saturday, as Israeli occupation aircraft and a series of drones launched intense airstrikes targeting populated towns and villages. These attacks, accompanied by heavy artillery shelling, resulted in the martyrdom of eight people and the injury of eighteen others with varying degrees of severity, in an initial toll of the ongoing aggression.

Field sources reported that an Israeli drone targeted the town of Jibshit, affiliated with the Nabatieh district, leading to the immediate martyrdom of a young man, while another raid targeted a water fountain in the town of Ansar. The latter attack resulted in the martyrdom of a paramedic belonging to the Islamic Message Scouts Association, in addition to the injury of four citizens who were in the vicinity of the targeted site.

In a related context, medical reports confirmed the retrieval of two martyrs from under the rubble of a residential building in the Burj Al-Shamali area of the Tyre district, after it was subjected to direct shelling by warplanes. The town of Loubieh in the Sidon district also recorded one martyr and one injured person due to a similar airstrike, as part of the systematic targeting policy of residential areas and infrastructure.

The occupation forces committed a massacre in the town of Ansar in the Nabatieh governorate, where a drone targeted a house in the Al-Marj neighborhood, leading to the martyrdom of a citizen and his son and the injury of seven members of his family. This coincided with the complete destruction of the 'Al-Khalil' commercial center in the middle of the town, following a violent raid carried out by warplanes that turned the building into rubble.

The attacks were not limited to homes and commercial centers but also targeted vital roads, as a drone targeted a vehicle on the Sharifah-Haboush road, leading to the martyrdom of one person and the critical injury of another. The road leading to the Nabih Berri Governmental Hospital in Nabatieh was also subjected to an airstrike, resulting in three injuries among passersby.

In a remarkable field development, the occupation army carried out extensive demolition operations in the Arid Marjayoun area, followed by a series of airstrikes and heavy artillery shelling that targeted the vicinity of the main power station. These operations, according to observers, aim to create a buffer zone and destroy the elements of life in the Lebanese border villages.

The Lebanese Ministry of Health revealed horrific details of a massacre that occurred in the town of Adloun, where it confirmed the martyrdom of nine people, including six children, in an Israeli raid that targeted the town last night. These numbers show the extent of the deliberate targeting of civilians and children amid international silence regarding the continuous violations of ceasefire agreements.

On the opposite front, the Israeli occupation army announced exceptional security measures, including halting all educational activities and closing beaches in areas near the Lebanese border. This decision came after a security assessment indicated an escalation in confrontations with Hezbollah and the possibility of intense missile strikes on Israeli territory.

The occupation army called on residents of the Upper Galilee and the occupied Syrian Golan to remain near shelters and fortified areas during the upcoming Sunday and Monday. The military statement clarified that educational activities in those areas should be limited to buildings with protected spaces that can be quickly accessed when sirens sound.

These Israeli measures coincide with Hebrew media reports talking about the army's intention to expand its ground incursion into Lebanese territory. Sources indicated that the occupation has already begun installing military bridges over the Litani River, which portends a new phase of military escalation that may exceed the established rules of engagement.

For its part, Hezbollah continued to carry out qualitative military operations targeting gatherings and positions of the occupation forces with missiles and attack drones. The party affirmed in its statements that this escalation is a natural response to daily Israeli violations of the ceasefire agreement and a rejection of the occupation's attempts to impose a new field reality on the border.

Israeli raids also included the towns of Kfardounin, Frun, and Gandourieh in the Bint Jbeil district, where warplanes carried out more than six consecutive raids. The towns of Jmaijmeh, Kharbet Selem, Haris, and Yater were also subjected to concentrated aerial and artillery shelling, causing severe material damage to private property and public facilities.

In the Nabatieh district, the town of Zibdin and the vicinity of the historic Beaufort Castle were subjected to intense shelling and successive airstrikes, while the town of Abba recorded two injuries due to a drone raid. These widespread attacks reflect the occupation's desire to paralyze movement in all districts of southern Lebanon and empty them of their residents through brutal military force.

The field situation in southern Lebanon remains open to all possibilities, amid continued Israeli raids and missile responses from the resistance. Fears are growing of a complete collapse of the ceasefire agreement, which was supposed to last until early July, amid international calls for restraint and avoiding a slide into an all-out war.

The Israeli army conducted a security assessment and decided to halt educational activities and close beaches in areas adjacent to the border with Lebanon.

PALESTINE

Sat 30 May 2026 6:51 pm - Jerusalem Time

Widespread Israeli escalation in Lebanon: Warnings to evacuate entire cities and Hezbollah ambushes invading forces

The Israeli occupation army escalated its aggression on Lebanese territories today, Saturday, issuing immediate warnings to evacuate 13 towns and villages in the southern and western Bekaa regions. Military orders demanded residents immediately move north of the Zahrani River, in a preparatory step to carry out widespread bombing operations in those areas.

Field sources reported that evacuation orders are no longer limited to specific buildings or small villages but have expanded to include entire cities, as happened in Nabatieh and Tyre. This shift indicates the occupation's desire to empty population centers in southern Lebanon, reflecting an unprecedented escalation in the level of ground and air military operations.

Since talks began about ceasefire paths, the occupation authorities have issued evacuation orders covering more than a hundred Lebanese towns so far. Observers believe that this policy aims to exert maximum pressure on the popular base and the Lebanese negotiating side by turning major cities into uninhabitable areas.

On the ground, Israeli warplanes launched a series of intense raids and formed fierce fire belts targeting the town of Kafr Tibnit, part of the Nabatieh district. These attacks come as part of the occupation army's attempts to encircle and gain fire control over the town of Yahmar al-Shaqif after previous attempts to advance in its strategic vicinity failed.

The scope of aerial bombardment expanded to include the towns of Ansar, Jumayjimah, and Mayfadoun, while an Israeli drone targeted the vicinity of the government hospital in Nabatieh city. Violent raids also hit the town of Mashghara in the western Bekaa, and the towns of Toulain and Qabrikha in the Marjayoun district, amidst a state of panic among the remaining civilians.

In an initial count of today's casualties, 5 people were martyred and others injured as a result of continuous raids on various Lebanese regions. Official sources stated that 3 martyrs fell in the town of Ansar and Nabatieh villages, while rescue teams managed to recover two martyrs from under the rubble of a destroyed building in the Burj al-Shamali area of Tyre district.

Even the Lebanese army was not spared from Israeli attacks, as the army command announced that two soldiers were injured to varying degrees after an Israeli drone targeted their vehicle. The attack occurred on the public road of Abba in the Nabatieh district while the soldiers were performing their field duties, raising the intensity of direct targeting of the Lebanese military institution.

Returning to yesterday's statistics, the Lebanese Ministry of Health revealed the martyrdom of 11 people, including a paramedic who was performing his humanitarian duty, and the injury of 8 others in Tyre city. These figures confirm the occupation's deliberate targeting of medical and relief teams to obstruct rescue operations for the wounded and the recovery of missing persons from under the rubble.

On the front of the field confrontation, Hezbollah announced the execution of a well-planned ambush at dawn today targeting an Israeli force that attempted to advance towards the town of Ghunduriya. Hezbollah clarified in a military statement that it detonated explosive devices on the invading force and showered it with a barrage of rockets and machine guns, resulting in confirmed casualties among the occupation soldiers.

The statement indicated that the occupation forces were forced to withdraw the injured under heavy smoke cover, coinciding with intense aerial and artillery bombardment of the area to secure the withdrawal operation. This operation is a new blow to the attempts of ground incursions through which the Israeli army seeks to establish strongholds within the border villages.

In the context of air defense, Hezbollah confirmed its confrontation with an Israeli drone of the 'Hermes 450' type in the airspace of the eastern Zawtar town, forcing it to leave Lebanese airspace. The party's missile force also continued to pound northern settlements, targeting Kiryat Shmona and the strategic Meron base with intense rocket barrages.

For its part, the Israeli army radio acknowledged detecting the launch of about 15 rockets from Lebanese territory towards towns in the Upper Galilee since last night. Sirens sounded in several border settlements, prompting settlers to take refuge in shelters, coinciding with the continued rocket volleys launched from the south.

Field data indicate that Israel is adopting a 'negotiation under fire' strategy, increasing the pace of infrastructure and city destruction in parallel with political activity. This military behavior aims to extract political concessions in indirect negotiations conducted through international mediation, by increasing the human and material cost for Lebanon.

The scene in southern Lebanon and the Bekaa remains open to all possibilities, given the occupation's insistence on expanding the geographical scope of targeting to include the depths of cities. With the resistance continuing to carry out qualitative operations and border ambushes, the complexities of the field situation increase, casting a shadow over any potential political understandings in the near future.

The current escalation reflects the negotiation under fire policy adopted by Israel through intensifying airstrikes and military pressure in parallel with ongoing discussions.

PALESTINE

Sat 30 May 2026 6:51 pm - Jerusalem Time

7 Martyrs in Gaza in Two Days, Netanyahu Reveals Plan to Expand Occupation to 70% of the Strip

A Palestinian citizen was martyred and three others, including a child, were injured as a result of an Israeli drone targeting a gathering of civilians near Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah. Medical sources confirmed the arrival of the body of the martyr Jamal Abu Aoun to the hospital, noting that the raid occurred in a vital area with movement of citizens and displaced persons.

In a simultaneous escalation on the ground, Israeli occupation artillery launched a series of attacks targeting the eastern and southern areas of Khan Yunis city in the southern Gaza Strip. The artillery shelling also targeted the northeastern outskirts of Al-Bureij refugee camp in the central Strip, causing panic among residents and material damage to properties.

The Ministry of Health in the Gaza Strip announced the martyrdom of 7 Palestinians and the injury of 25 others during the past forty-eight hours as a result of continuous aggressions. The ministry clarified that this statistic raises the total death toll of the genocide war since October 2023 to more than 72,000 martyrs.

Medical reports indicated that ambulance and civil defense crews are still facing extreme difficulties in reaching a number of victims trapped under the rubble and on the roads. Repeated targeting and complex field conditions prevent the recovery of missing persons in several hot areas of the Strip.

Regarding the ceasefire agreement announced since October 2025, the ministry revealed an increase in the number of victims of Israeli violations of this agreement. Documented figures reached 929 martyrs and 2811 injured, in addition to hundreds of cases recovered from under the rubble during the supposed truce period.

On the political front, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sparked a wave of international condemnation after his recent statements about the future of military control in Gaza. Netanyahu acknowledged that his army currently occupies 60% of the Strip's area, announcing his government's intention to expand this area to 70%.

The United Nations responded firmly to these statements, with the spokesperson for the Secretary-General, Stéphane Dujarric, affirming that Gaza must remain entirely for Palestinians. Dujarric stressed in his press briefing the necessity of the withdrawal of Israeli forces from all areas they have controlled, including what is known as the Yellow Line.

The UN spokesperson clarified that the international position is based on Gaza belonging 100% to the Palestinian people, a goal that the international organization seeks to achieve. He called for an end to any moves aimed at seizing more land or changing the demographic and geographical reality of the Strip.

These developments come after the Israeli army announced last October its control over 53% of Gaza's area before retreating to the Yellow Line. This retreat was part of the implementation of the first phase of the US administration's plan to end the war, which assumed additional withdrawals.

The 'Yellow Line' is known as a hypothetical strip within the Gaza Strip to which the occupation army temporarily withdrew under recent ceasefire agreements. This line separates areas of Israeli military control from areas where Palestinians are allowed to be present and move, pending subsequent withdrawal phases that have not been realized.

Cumulative statistics indicate the scale of the humanitarian catastrophe, with the number of injured since the beginning of the aggression in October 2023 reaching approximately 172,919. The health system is suffering from severe deterioration and a shortage of basic resources due to the long siege and direct targeting of medical facilities.

It is worth noting that the genocide war waged by Israel with American support has entered its second year, leaving massive destruction affecting about 90% of the infrastructure. Human suffering continues in the absence of a comprehensive political solution that guarantees full withdrawal and an end to the bloodshed in the Palestinian territories.

Gaza must be 100% owned by the Palestinian people, and this is what we want to see, and Israel must withdraw its forces from the Yellow Line.

PALESTINE

Sat 30 May 2026 6:50 pm - Jerusalem Time

Injuries in a widespread settler attack south of Nablus, and the occupation forces compel a Jerusalemite family to demolish 7 homes

The village of Madama, located south of Nablus city, witnessed a violent attack by dozens of extremist settlers, resulting in seven injuries among Palestinian citizens. Medical sources confirmed that the injuries varied between live ammunition and direct severe beating, with the attacks affecting elderly individuals, men, and shrapnel hitting the faces of others.

Local sources explained that the attack began when groups of settlers launched from a newly established outpost on the northern lands of the village, targeting unarmed shepherds with live fire. Occupation forces intervened to provide protection for the attackers, closing the main entrances to the earth mounds and iron gates to prevent the arrival of medical supplies.

In a related context, the Palestinian Red Crescent reported that occupation soldiers deliberately obstructed the access of ambulances to the injured in Madama, exacerbating the suffering of the wounded. The list of injured included a 72-year-old man who was shot in the foot, another 53-year-old man who was shot in the thigh, in addition to two women who were severely beaten.

Settler attacks were not limited to Madama but extended to the town of Beita, south of Nablus, where citizens' homes were pelted with stones in the early hours of dawn. The attack resulted in the smashing of windows of several vehicles parked in front of homes, before the town's residents confronted the settlers and forced them to retreat amidst the occupation forces firing flare bombs.

In the southern West Bank, settlers targeted agricultural lands in Khirbet al-Markaz in Masafer Yatta, Hebron Governorate, where they damaged and uprooted a number of fruit trees. These attacks come within the framework of a systematic policy aimed at restricting Palestinian farmers and preventing them from accessing their historical lands.

In occupied Jerusalem, the occupation authorities committed a new demolition crime after forcing a Palestinian family to self-demolish seven of their homes in the eastern area of Qalandia village. The forced demolition operation came under the pretext of building without a license, leading to the displacement of family members who had been living in these inhabited homes for years.

Regarding arrests, occupation forces launched a wide-ranging raid campaign targeting Qalandia refugee camp, Qalqilya city, and Mithalun town south of Jenin. This campaign resulted in the arrest of a number of citizens, including leaders of the Fatah movement in Qalqilya city, in addition to two young men from Shweika suburb north of Tulkarm after raiding and searching their relatives' homes.

Human rights reports indicate an unprecedented escalation in the pace of settler attacks since October 2023, with attacks becoming more organized and deadly. According to official data from the Wall and Settlement Resistance Commission, more than 540 attacks were recorded in April alone, including physical assaults, burning of crops, and seizure of property.

These field developments come amid the continued policy of closure and siege imposed by the occupation forces on cities and villages in the West Bank. Observers warn that giving settlers free rein in areas classified as 'C' aims to accelerate de facto annexation operations and displace Palestinian residents from their lands for the sake of settlement expansion.

Israeli occupation forces obstructed the access of ambulance crews to the injured in Madama village, preventing them from providing necessary treatment to those targeted by settler bullets.

OPINIONS

Sat 30 May 2026 2:50 pm - Jerusalem Time

When Israel Loses the Street and Wins the Institutions

For many decades, the relationship between the United States and Israel seemed to be one of the rare constants in international politics. American support for Israel was not merely a fleeting government policy; it became part of the prevailing political culture in Washington and an issue enjoying broad bipartisan consensus between the Republican and Democratic parties. But the question that is now forcefully asserting itself is: Can the current course of events lead to an outcome Israel never imagined, namely the erosion of American sympathy for it, and perhaps even the escalation of manifestations of antisemitism within American society itself?

This question may seem shocking, but it is no longer a political taboo as it once was. The American scene is witnessing profound changes that extend beyond foreign policy to the very structure of society. Millions of young Americans who did not experience the Cold War or the memory of the European Holocaust view the conflict in the Middle East from a completely different perspective than previous generations. For them, Israel is no longer always seen as the "small besieged state"; rather, it is often presented in many discussions as a military and regional power with overwhelming superiority.

With the expansion of social media and the flow of images and information outside traditional channels, Israel has begun to face an increasing challenge in the arena of global public opinion. The narrative that enjoyed a strong presence in Western media for decades no longer receives the same acceptance among broad segments of the public, especially among younger generations. It has become clear that the battle is no longer just about facts on the ground, but about the ability to convince public opinion of the legitimacy of positions and policies.

Some observers believe that this relative decline in the power of the Israeli narrative has contributed to pushing Israel and its supporting organizations to focus more on official and institutional levels. The more difficult the battle for public opinion becomes, the greater the reliance on political, legal, and diplomatic tools of influence to maintain traditional support within Western countries.

In this context, intensive efforts have emerged in recent years to expand the adoption of official definitions, legislation, and policies related to antisemitism within parliaments, universities, and government institutions in a number of influential countries. Supporters of these efforts consider them a necessary response to the increasing incidents of anti-Jewish sentiment and the emergence of new forms of hatred that sometimes hide behind political discourse.

However, critics of this approach believe that the problem begins when the line between antisemitism and criticism of Israel becomes less clear. The more the scope of official definitions is expanded to include certain forms of criticism directed at Israel, the more segments of public opinion feel that political debate is subject to exceptional restrictions not imposed on other international issues.

A striking paradox emerges here; while these policies aim to protect Jews from hatred, some researchers fear that linking Israel to legal and political systems that regulate freedom of expression could lead to counterproductive results. This is because some circles might get the impression that Israel, having lost part of the battle for popular persuasion, is increasingly relying on institutional and legal power to compensate for the decline of its influence in public opinion.

This debate cannot be separated from the internal American dimension. For decades, pro-Israel lobbying groups have played an influential role in American political life, foremost among them AIPAC, which has succeeded in building a wide network of relationships within Congress and decision-making centers. While its supporters see it as playing a legitimate role within the American democratic system, its critics consider it an example of the influence of lobbying groups capable of affecting public policies.

The issue becomes more sensitive when the discussion extends to American Jews themselves. Jews have achieved remarkable successes in the fields of economics, finance, technology, science, and culture, and have made a significant contribution to building the economic and intellectual power of the United States. However, periods of political polarization often push some populist voices to turn this success into material for generalizations and collective accusations, a path that many societies have known throughout history and whose results have always been dangerous.

Here lies the greatest paradox. The more intense the debate about Israel, the influence of lobbying groups, and legislation related to antisemitism, the greater the likelihood that the discussion will shift from criticizing a state and its policies to targeting Jews as a religious or cultural group. At this point, the danger is directed not only at Israel but at the very social fabric of American society.

But the question that arises today is not whether Israel can still maintain the support of Western governments, but whether it can maintain the support of Western societies themselves. There is a fundamental difference between influence within institutions and acceptance within public opinion, and between winning in the corridors of politics and winning hearts and minds.

For decades, Israel succeeded in combining both: official support and popular sympathy. Today, however, the equation seems to be changing. The more its ability to convince broad segments of public opinion declines, the more it relies on political allies, lobbying groups, legislation, and official institutions to maintain its traditional position in the West.

However, political history teaches us that sustainable legitimacy is not built by laws alone, nor is it preserved by government decisions only. When the gap begins to widen between what institutions support and what people believe, any political power becomes susceptible to a gradual loss of its moral capital, no matter how great its official influence.

Hence the paradox that Israel may face in the coming years. While efforts to expand definitions of antisemitism and surround Israel with more political and legal protection aim to fortify its position in the West, they may be viewed by some segments of public opinion as evidence that the Israeli narrative is no longer able to assert itself with the power of persuasion it once possessed.

And the greatest danger may be that this path, over time, leads to results completely contrary to its stated goal. The more a part of public opinion feels that a particular political issue enjoys exceptional protection or different treatment, the greater the likelihood of angry reactions arising that go beyond criticizing policies to turn into hostile attitudes towards the groups associated with them. At this point, the danger is no longer limited to Israel's image but extends to Jews in the West and to social cohesion within democratic societies themselves.

Therefore, the real question is not whether Israel is losing the battle for public opinion today, but whether it realizes that increasing reliance on institutional influence to compensate for popular decline may carry within it the seeds of a greater crisis in the future. History has often shown that winning over governments is easier than winning over people, but losing the people is the loss that is difficult to compensate for.

ARAB AND WORLD

Sat 30 May 2026 2:23 pm - Jerusalem Time

Trump Conditions Agreement with Iran on 'Red Lines' and Postpones Final Decision After Situation Room Meeting

Sources from within the White House reported that US President Donald Trump is adopting a firm stance on ongoing negotiations with Tehran, emphasizing that he will not sign any agreement that does not directly serve the strategic interests of the United States. The sources clarified that any final document must meet the 'red lines' set by Trump to ensure regional stability and the security of allies.

The White House 'Situation Room' hosted a high-level meeting that lasted for about two hours, including the President and the national security team, to discuss the final draft of the potential agreement. Despite expectations of a decisive decision, deliberations concluded without a final position being announced, indicating that there are technical or political details that still require further scrutiny before official adoption.

In statements preceding the meeting, Trump set clear parameters for the Iranian side, affirming that the complete and permanent abandonment of nuclear ambitions is a non-negotiable condition. The US President indicated that Washington will not allow Tehran to possess an atomic bomb under any circumstances, considering this a fundamental pillar for any future understanding.

American demands were not limited to the nuclear file alone but also included freedom of international navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, which is considered the world's energy lifeline. Trump demanded the immediate opening of the strait to ships in both directions, with the cancellation of all transit fees that Iran had attempted to impose during the past period, and ensuring the smooth flow of commercial traffic without obstacles.

On his 'Truth Social' platform, Trump stressed the need for immediate commencement of naval mine clearance operations that were planted in the strait during months of past tension. He considered securing waterways an integral part of Iran's commitments to demonstrate its good intentions, warning that the persistence of navigational threats would impede any progress in the diplomatic track.

The leaked draft agreement indicates a major trade-off that includes lifting the US naval blockade imposed on Iranian ports in exchange for tangible nuclear concessions. Among the most prominent of these provisions is Tehran's delivery of what Trump described as 'nuclear dust' and sensitive materials to the United States, to ensure they are not used in future weapons programs.

Despite the intense atmosphere in Washington, press sources quoted high-ranking officials as saying that the President is still carefully considering the available options. It appears that Trump prefers to wait to ensure the best possible terms, especially given the complex field realities left by recent military confrontations in the region.

These developments come after a series of military escalations that began in late February, when the United States and Israel engaged in a direct confrontation with Iran. Tehran responded at the time by targeting American interests in several Arab countries, which exacerbated the security crisis in the Middle East before reaching a temporary truce in April.

Iran had taken an escalatory step last March by closing the Strait of Hormuz and conditioning prior coordination for the passage of ships, which Washington considered a direct threat to national security. In response, the US administration imposed a comprehensive blockade on Iranian ports since mid-April, which led to the near-complete strangulation of Iranian oil exports.

In a related context, Trump indicated that negotiators have already succeeded in reaching common understandings on most of the outstanding issues between the two parties. However, there are still final arrangements that require coordination with regional countries in the Middle East to ensure the comprehensiveness and durability of the agreement, especially regarding border security arrangements.

Anticipation remains the order of the day in international circles, as Trump's anticipated decision represents a pivotal turning point in the course of the conflict with Iran. Either diplomacy succeeds in defusing the explosion through a 'red lines' agreement, or the region returns to military escalation and a tightened naval blockade if negotiations fail.

Iran must accept that it will never possess a nuclear weapon or a nuclear bomb, and the Strait of Hormuz should be immediately opened to global navigation.

PALESTINE

Sat 30 May 2026 2:23 pm - Jerusalem Time

Netanyahu claims crossing the Litani, Israeli massacres leave martyrs in southern Lebanon

Israeli warplanes committed a series of bloody massacres in various areas of southern Lebanon, resulting in a large number of martyrs and wounded, and widespread destruction of property. Local sources reported the martyrdom of eight Syrian nationals due to a raid targeting the Al-Hartiya area on the outskirts of Adloun town, while rescue teams continue search operations under the rubble.

Also in Adloun town, civil defense teams managed to retrieve the bodies of four martyrs, including children, from under the rubble of a house targeted by direct aerial bombardment. These attacks coincide with ongoing intense raids that targeted the towns of Burj Al-Shamali, Al-Baysariyeh, Al-Zarariyeh, and Arid Debbin, in addition to the vicinity of Al-Sreireh and Zifta towns in an unprecedented escalation.

Regarding field operations, Hezbollah announced the execution of eight qualitative military operations against gatherings and vehicles of the occupation army in the border areas. In its statements, the party confirmed targeting six Merkava tanks, achieving direct hits that led to some of them catching fire and being completely or partially destroyed.

Hezbollah clarified that its fighters detonated an explosive device on an Israeli military vehicle in the town of Yahmar Al-Shaqif, where flames were seen erupting from the vehicle after the explosion. The party also used 'Ababil' kamikaze drones to strike three Merkava tanks in the same town, reflecting a development in the offensive tactics used against the invading forces.

For his part, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that his forces had achieved strategic progress by reaching positions north of the Litani River deep in southern Lebanon. Netanyahu claimed during an inspection visit to the northern border that the army had already 'crossed the river' and now controls advanced points that were considered red lines in previous confrontations.

Netanyahu indicated in a video clip published by his office that the current military operations are not limited to the border edge but extend to include strikes in Beirut, the Beqaa, and all Lebanese fronts. He considered that these moves aim to deliver direct and painful blows to Hezbollah's military infrastructure to force it to retreat.

Military reports indicate that the occupation army has expanded the scope of its ground operations outside the security zone it tried to establish since last April. This expansion comes amid intensified artillery and aerial bombardment that paves the way for ground forces, amidst fierce resistance from fighters in border villages and towns.

In a related context, the occupation authorities imposed forced evacuation orders on thousands of residents in southern Lebanese villages, leading to new waves of displacement towards northern areas. Israel is using a scorched-earth policy by completely destroying residential blocks in areas it attempts to advance into, exacerbating the suffering of civilians.

On the political track, the US Department of Defense (Pentagon) hosted a meeting including officials from the Lebanese Ministry of Defense and the Israeli Ministry of Security to discuss proposals for de-escalation. This American mediation aims to try to defuse a full-scale explosion and reach a security formula that ensures border stability and the disarmament of disputed areas.

A US official stated that the ongoing talks in Washington are proceeding according to their scheduled timeline, considering direct negotiation as the only way to achieve lasting peace. Both parties agreed to divide the discussions into two separate tracks, one technical security and the other diplomatic political, which will begin next week.

New rounds of diplomatic meetings are expected at the US State Department to discuss the details of the proposed agreement, at a time when observers believe the gap remains wide. Israel insists on strict security conditions, while Lebanon adheres to its full sovereignty and an end to continuous aggressions against its territories and people.

The Israeli army crossed the Litani River and controlled advanced positions, and operations extend to Beirut, the Beqaa, and the entire Lebanese front.

ARAB AND WORLD

Sat 30 May 2026 2:23 pm - Jerusalem Time

Economist warns Trump against military intervention in Cuba and calls for a gradual deal

The British magazine The Economist published an analytical editorial warning US President Donald Trump against sliding into a military confrontation with the communist regime in Cuba. The magazine indicated that any decision to use military force would be a grave mistake, expressing hope that Trump had learned lessons from previous experiences, particularly in Iran and Venezuela.

These warnings come after statements made by Trump in early January, in which he hinted that Cuba is the next stop after the overthrow of Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela. The current US strategy relies on drying up the island's energy sources by pressuring the new leadership in Caracas to cut off cheap fuel supplies, which has put the Cuban regime in a severe economic predicament.

Journalistic sources explained that the oil embargo imposed by Washington has made the lives of Cuban citizens more miserable, as residents suffer from continuous power outages and a severe shortage of basic goods. Although the magazine described the island's rulers as 'evil' due to their record of suppressing dissidents, it questioned the effectiveness of violent military solutions.

Cuba constitutes what is described as a 'mild threat' to US national security, given its allowance for both China and Russia to operate intelligence listening stations close to the US coast. This foreign military presence increases the anger of the Trump administration, which seeks to definitively end communist influence in the Western Hemisphere.

In an indication of military escalation, the aircraft carrier 'USS Nimitz' arrived in the Caribbean on March 20, carrying nuclear warheads and advanced aircraft. This military movement coincided with intensive flights of American reconnaissance drones over Cuban airspace, suggesting that the military option is now seriously on the White House's table.

For his part, Secretary of State Marco Rubio affirmed that the prospects for reaching a peaceful settlement with the current regime are not high, stressing that Cuba cannot be reformed under its current political structure. Rubio added in press statements that President Trump is prepared to do 'whatever it takes' to ensure change, which observers see as a prelude to a broader operation.

On the legal front, the US Department of Justice took an escalatory step by formally indicting Raul Castro, who is still considered the de facto and influential ruler on the island. This step aims to tighten the noose on the historical leadership of the Communist Party and remove its legitimate cover before the international community and regional powers.

The Economist believes that the threat of force may give Washington leverage at the negotiating table, but a full-scale invasion remains an unattractive option given America's poor record in nation-building. Cuba has a deeply rooted ideology and an army that could wage a long-term guerrilla war, making the imposition of democracy by force a slow process fraught with risks of abject failure.

In the absence of an organized political opposition within Cuba, due to youth emigration and the transformation of society into one of the oldest in the region, alternative options to invasion emerge. The magazine suggests focusing on a 'gradual transition' by offering economic incentives in exchange for tangible political concessions from the regime in Havana.

The potential agreement proposed by the analyses includes allowing oil to flow again in exchange for the regime releasing political prisoners and easing security repression. The proposal also includes providing humanitarian aid worth $100 million to be distributed through the church and non-governmental organizations to ensure it reaches the people away from military institutions.

Among the ideas also proposed is providing free and comprehensive internet service to Cubans via satellites, a step that could contribute to breaking media blackout and creating an environment for the emergence of civil opposition. Analysts believe that digital openness could be the most effective weapon in undermining the pillars of the communist regime in the long run without the need for a single shot.

Despite the Cuban regime's announcement of economic reforms, such as allowing expatriates to own businesses, Washington still doubts the seriousness of these steps. Cuban-American investors condition their return on the departure of the regime that seized their families' properties decades ago, and demand the rule of law as a fundamental condition.

The magazine concludes its analysis by pointing out that Cuba's tourism and agriculture sectors have enormous potential for rapid growth if US restrictions are lifted and a real opening is achieved. However, this recovery requires negotiating shrewdness from the Trump administration, far from military recklessness that could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis and turn the island into a permanent hotbed of conflict.

Lessons learned from previous confrontations with Iran are that maximum pressure may not always lead to the collapse of regimes, but may push them to further extremism. Therefore, the ball is now in the White House's court to choose whether to pursue a path of tough diplomacy or risk a war with uncertain outcomes in the United States' backyard.

An actual military operation in Cuba would be fraught with risks, and it is unlikely to improve conditions, as Cuba is not Venezuela and its dictatorship is more entrenched.

PALESTINE

Sat 30 May 2026 2:23 pm - Jerusalem Time

For the first time.. UN lists Israeli forces among perpetrators of sexual violence

In an unprecedented international move, the UN Secretary-General has included Israeli armed forces and security agencies on the blacklist of parties involved in conflict-related sexual violence. This announcement came during the seventeenth annual report presented by Pramila Patten, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, confirming the existence of credible patterns of systematic violations.

The official listing included several Israeli security arms, primarily the Israeli army and the prison service, in addition to elite units such as the special 'Keter' unit and the 'Yamam' unit of the police. The decision was based on intelligence and human rights information indicating continued patterns of rape and other forms of sexual violence as a tool for torture and humiliation against Palestinians.

UN sources clarified that these entities were under monitoring in the previous report, but the continuation of violations and the prevention of access for international monitoring teams accelerated the decision for official inclusion this year. Patten affirmed that the absence of Israeli cooperation did not prevent the organization from reaching shocking facts about what is happening behind the walls of detention centers and military checkpoints.

During 2025, UN teams were able to verify 31 direct cases of sexual violence attributed to Israeli forces, targeting diverse groups including 14 men, 7 women, and 10 children from the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. These figures reveal the broad scope of targeting, including minors and men, as part of a policy aimed at breaking popular will.

Documented violations included brutal crimes such as gang rape, the use of sharp objects in physical assaults, as well as direct shooting targeting the genitals of detainees. The report also recorded cases of forced naked searches and illegal touching without any security justifications, classifying them as war crimes under international law.

The UN representative indicated that most of these crimes occurred inside secret and declared detention centers, where detainees are isolated from the outside world and prevented from communicating with lawyers or international organizations. She added that these practices are not isolated incidents but fall within a broader pattern of sexual violence used as a form of physical and psychological torture.

Regarding the Israeli position, the report confirmed that authorities in Tel Aviv continue to deny the existence of any organized pattern of sexual violence, claiming that these reports stem from 'institutional bias' against them. However, the Israeli government has not provided any evidence of transparent investigations or prosecutions against soldiers involved in these documented crimes.

The report touched upon the famous 'Sde Teiman' detention center case, noting that the Israeli military prosecutor dropped sexual violence charges from the final indictment despite the seriousness of the evidence. The United Nations considered that the political protests in which Knesset members participated to support the accused soldiers reflect the culture of impunity prevalent in the Israeli establishment.

On another note, Pramila Patten justified her not visiting the Gaza Strip so far by the strict security assessments issued by the United Nations Department of Safety and Security, despite receiving official invitations from the Palestinian side. She affirmed that access to Gaza was a fundamental condition in her negotiations, but field conditions prevented the completion of the mission at present.

In response to questions about the delay in documenting Palestinian cases compared to others, Patten explained that her office adheres to the mandates set by the UN Security Council, and that field restrictions hinder immediate documentation. She indicated that many victims are unable to give their testimonies until after their release and their exit from the grip of the occupation.

The report was not limited to Israel but also included the Russian armed forces and their security agencies, where 310 cases of sexual violence committed against prisoners of war and Ukrainian civilians were documented. Russian violations included electric shocks and sexual mutilation, reflecting the increasing use of these crimes in major international conflicts.

The report revealed alarming figures at the global level, with 2025 recording more than 9,000 cases of conflict-related sexual violence in 21 different countries. This figure represents a 100% increase from the previous year, raising alarm bells about the collapse of humanitarian standards in conflict zones around the world.

At the conclusion of the conference, Patten stressed that the inclusion of any party on this list aims to exert international pressure for corrective actions and an immediate halt to violations. She affirmed that the United Nations will continue to monitor the situation in the occupied Palestinian territories despite attempts at intimidation or prevention practiced by the occupation authorities against its staff.

Israel currently faces increasing legal and diplomatic pressure, as this report places it among the countries and organizations most violating human rights in the world. This inclusion opens the door for new international legal prosecutions that may affect military and political leaders responsible for providing cover for these practices.

Restrictions on the access of UN staff and human rights observers still significantly impede the process of documenting and verifying violations.

OPINIONS

Sat 30 May 2026 2:23 pm - Jerusalem Time

The Legacy of Edward Bernays: How Modern Algorithms Manipulate the Human Mind?

Ramallah - “Alquds ” dot com

Ramallah - “Alquds ” dot com

Opinion Writer

Social media users often believe they are in control of their decisions, whether in choosing content or adopting political stances. However, reality indicates the existence of a complex system for understanding and directing human behavior, rooted in Edward Bernays, the founding father of modern public relations. In his 1928 book 'Propaganda,' Bernays laid terrifying foundations for mind manipulation, foundations that today's digital algorithms have drawn upon to enhance their influence on the masses.

Bernays based his theories on crowd psychology, influenced by his uncle Sigmund Freud's ideas about unconscious human drives. Bernays believed that persuading people was not achieved through facts and logic, but by linking products and ideas to deep emotions such as belonging, power, and freedom. This principle is the actual driver of platforms like TikTok and Facebook today, where content that provokes anger or fear is prioritized to ensure the user stays on screen for as long as possible.

The 'Torches of Freedom' campaign is a striking example of Bernays' success, where he managed to transform cigarette smoking into a symbol of American women's independence at the time. Today, companies and influencers replicate this approach by selling 'lifestyles' instead of mere goods, creating a constant state of comparison and a feeling of inadequacy among users. The only difference is that modern technology possesses accurate data that enables it to treat each individual as an independent psychological case susceptible to penetration.

In the political sphere, the concept of 'engineering consent' coined by Bernays has evolved to become more complex and dangerous in the digital age. Propaganda no longer relies on traditional posters but has shifted to analyzing big data to target voters with personalized messages that touch upon their personal fears. Previous international scandals, such as the Cambridge Analytica case, revealed how this data can be used to direct political behavior and falsify public awareness without the targeted individuals feeling any external guidance.

The abundance of information in the current era does not necessarily mean increased awareness or freedom of thought; rather, it can lead to trapping the user within an intellectual bubble. Algorithms design a filtered world that shows humans only what confirms their beliefs, making them more susceptible to being led by directed agendas. The fundamental question remains whether we are the ones controlling these digital tools, or if they have begun to reshape our consciousness and identity according to Bernays' philosophy, which did not die with him.

Humans do not act logically as they believe, but rather by unconscious desires, emotions, and social symbols.

ARAB AND WORLD

Sat 30 May 2026 2:22 pm - Jerusalem Time

Tension in Washington Negotiations: Israel Refuses Withdrawal from Southern Lebanon and US Conditions for Disarmament

An atmosphere of severe tension overshadowed the military meeting hosted by the American capital, Washington, which included delegations from the Lebanese and Israeli armies. This escalation came amid the Lebanese side's insistence on the necessity of a complete Israeli withdrawal from the southern regions, which was met with an outright rejection from the Israeli side.

Informed sources reported that the Israeli delegation justified its refusal to withdraw by the continued existence of what it described as ongoing field threats on the border. The sources indicated that Tel Aviv links any military retreat to security guarantees related to Hezbollah's military capabilities in the border region.

This round of negotiations comes at a sensitive time, as the Israeli army continues to carry out sporadic attacks within Lebanese territory. These attacks are considered violations of the ceasefire agreement in effect since mid-April, which is supposed to expire next July.

In the context of diplomatic moves, media sources revealed that the United States is currently working on formulating a new proposal aimed at stabilizing the calm. This proposal includes a controversial clause related to the disarmament of Hezbollah, as part of broader security arrangements in the region.

Sources clarified that Washington is not proposing disarmament as part of a political normalization agreement, but rather as an implicit condition to ensure the sustainability of the ceasefire. This American approach aims to reduce the military influence of the party in areas that pose a direct threat to the security of Israel's northern border.

For his part, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a phone call with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to discuss the repercussions of these talks. During the call, Rubio affirmed the US administration's commitment to supporting Lebanon's sovereignty and independence over all its national territories.

The US Secretary emphasized the need to consolidate the outcomes reached in previous Washington meetings. He considered that reaching a final agreement represents a historic opportunity for Lebanon to achieve stability and begin necessary reconstruction operations.

In contrast, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun affirmed that the highest priority must be given to reaching a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire. Aoun considered that calm is the mandatory path that will later allow for addressing all thorny issues and outstanding matters between the two parties.

The US State Department, through a statement from its embassy in Beirut, held Hezbollah fully responsible for the continued state of fighting and field tension. The statement accused the party of attempting to obstruct the negotiation process led by the Lebanese government to achieve peace, considering that this harms the interests of the Lebanese people.

Rubio praised what he described as the courage of the Lebanese President in moving forward with direct negotiations aimed at ending the conflict. The US Secretary called for the necessity of stopping what he called the provocations carried out by the party to enable de-escalation efforts to succeed.

On the media front, Israeli reports indicated that the talks have not achieved any tangible breakthrough so far. Uncertainty prevails regarding the possibility of holding additional rounds of talks before the deadline for the ceasefire expires at the beginning of next month.

Observers believe that the general atmosphere does not inspire optimism given the wide divergence in positions between Beirut and Tel Aviv. However, the possibility of extending the ceasefire agreement remains, even if the agreement remains fragile and subject to daily field violations.

The American mediation seeks to bridge viewpoints through legal and security formulations that guarantee the minimum demands of both parties. However, Israel's insistence on remaining in certain geographical points represents the biggest obstacle to achieving any real progress in the military file.

The field situation in southern Lebanon remains dependent on what the coming days will bring in terms of international pressure on the warring parties. While Lebanon demands full sovereignty, Israel insists on imposing a new security reality that changes the rules of engagement that prevailed before the outbreak of the recent confrontations.

A ceasefire is the essential entry point for moving to any other step, and the necessary passage to create the conditions for addressing the various files and issues at hand.