PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 8:53 pm - Jerusalem Time

European countries announce rejection of Israel's plan to occupy Gaza.

A number of European leaders and officials have warned of the catastrophic consequences of the planned Israeli military operation to occupy the city of Gaza, as the government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ignores the increasing international calls to stop the war. These warnings come at a sensitive time as international pressure on the occupation to halt the aggression is mounting.

French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed in a post on the 'X' platform that the anticipated Israeli attack, which involves calling up about 60,000 reservists, will only lead to a real disaster for both the Palestinian and Israeli peoples. Macron noted that this operation will drag the region into a permanent war, reflecting his deep concern over the military escalation.

In a related context, the Spanish Foreign Minister emphasized that the occupation of Gaza is not a path to peace, considering that what is happening represents a clear violation of international law. He called for an immediate ceasefire, reflecting Europe's solidarity with the rights of Palestinians amid the ongoing aggression.

In Italy, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani criticized Netanyahu's continuation of the war, pointing out that the Israeli government has crossed the red line of a proportional and legitimate response to the attacks. Tajani affirmed that his country rejects the occupation of Gaza or the expansion of settlements in the West Bank, demonstrating Italy's supportive stance for the Palestinian cause.

For its part, Germany expressed its reservations about Tel Aviv's decision to escalate in Gaza, with the German government spokesperson stating that Berlin rejects the escalation of the military campaign. He confirmed that his country finds it increasingly difficult to understand how these actions will lead to the release of all prisoners or to a ceasefire.

These European positions come at a time when Israel is preparing to expand its military operations within the city of Gaza, despite UN and international warnings that any large-scale attack will double the suffering of civilians and push the region into further chaos and violence. These warnings reflect the growing concern over the escalation of the situation.

At the same time, mediators such as Egypt, Qatar, and the United States continue their efforts to reach a ceasefire and a prisoner exchange in the Gaza Strip, where Hamas has proposed a new initiative that has not yet been responded to by the occupation. These efforts indicate the importance of dialogue amid the tense situation.

The Israeli army had announced the start of the preliminary phase of the occupation of the city of Gaza, with intensive operations in the Zeitoun neighborhood and Jabalia, after Defense Minister Israel Katz approved the 'Gideon II Vehicles' plan to control the city, increasing concerns about military escalation.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 8:53 pm - Jerusalem Time

International Red Cross: The anticipated Israeli operation in Gaza warns of a greater disaster.

The occupying state plans to launch a large-scale military operation in the city of Gaza, which threatens a more severe humanitarian disaster, as the occupation prevents medical teams from reaching those trapped during these operations. This was confirmed by the spokesperson for the International Committee of the Red Cross in the Gaza Strip, Hisham Mahna, in his statements.

Mahna explained that the restrictions imposed by the occupation significantly affect civilians, who are suffering from a severe shortage of food, clean water, and necessary healthcare. These conditions are worsening under the current situation, threatening the lives of many.

The humanitarian aid that has entered the Gaza Strip in the past few weeks has not been sufficient to resolve the crisis, as the majority of the population suffers from the chaos that prevents support from reaching them. Many rely entirely on external aid, which increases their suffering.

Hospitals in the Gaza Strip are in a tragic state, operating partially due to a lack of supplies and fuel. These hospitals are no longer able to handle patients and injured individuals facing multiple health issues as a result of their surrounding environment.

With the increasing destruction in the city of Gaza, residents are forced to sleep in the destroyed streets or tents after the occupying state has completely devastated their lives. This situation requires an urgent response from the international community.

The head of the International Committee in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories called for the necessity of providing safe access opportunities for people, as the occupation prevents medical teams from reaching the injured and trapped, forcing some people to bury their loved ones in their homes.

Earlier, the World Food Programme indicated that families in the Gaza Strip are not only facing hunger but also death by starvation, as malnutrition is alarmingly increasing. The programme described malnutrition as the 'silent killer' threatening the lives of many.

The civil defense in the Gaza Strip is also suffering from serious humanitarian repercussions in areas that the occupation is re-invading, as its teams are unable to respond to most of the distress calls in the neighborhoods of Zaytoun, Sabra, Khan Younis, and Jabalia.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 8:51 pm - Jerusalem Time

Hebrew media: Tel Aviv does not intend to send a delegation to continue ceasefire negotiations in Gaza at this stage.

A political source confirmed to the Hebrew channel 'Kan' that the occupation does not intend at this stage to send a delegation to continue negotiations regarding the prisoner exchange deal and the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. This decision comes amid escalating tensions in the region and stalled negotiations.

According to officials in the occupation government, negotiations will take place under fire, meaning that any progress in the negotiations will be conditional on developments on the ground. This indicates that the occupation may take new military steps if no progress is achieved.

In this context, reports indicate that the occupation's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu intends to initiate a new military operation in the city of Gaza, which has been named 'Gideon's Chariots 2'. This operation aims to exert additional pressure on Hamas, in an attempt to achieve the occupation's objectives.

Netanyahu is scheduled to hold a security meeting tomorrow at the southern command headquarters to discuss plans for the new military operation. This meeting comes at a sensitive time as the occupation seeks to define its next strategy amid changing circumstances.

The occupation is also expected to present its official response to the mediators regarding the deal after the meeting, reflecting the instability in the negotiations and the ongoing pressure on the parties involved. This situation reflects the complexities facing peace efforts in the region.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 8:37 pm - Jerusalem Time

Netanyahu's office: An order to expedite control over areas where Hamas is located in Gaza City.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued directives to shorten timelines for controlling the recent strongholds of Hamas in the besieged Gaza Strip, as part of his efforts to achieve a military resolution against the movement. These directives come at a sensitive time as the Israeli army continues its military operations in the area.

Netanyahu expressed his great appreciation for the reserve soldiers who have been called up and their families, praising their efforts in supporting military operations. He emphasized the importance of their role in achieving the specified military objectives.

The spokesperson for the Israeli army announced the start of the first phase of the military operation aimed at occupying Gaza, noting that the second phase of Operation "Gideon's Chariots" has begun under orders from the political level. These operations come in the context of the ongoing military escalation in the region.

In a related context, the Hebrew broadcasting authority reported that fighters in the Givati Brigade urged their leaders not to enter the Gaza Strip during daylight hours and in unprotected vehicles, reflecting the increasing fears among soldiers of potential dangers during military operations.

The Israeli army claimed that it has achieved operational control over about 75% of the Gaza Strip since the resumption of aggression, indicating a significant escalation in military operations against Hamas.

The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip continues to deteriorate due to the ongoing aggression, as the population suffers from severe shortages of essential supplies and health services, exacerbating their suffering under the current conditions.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 8:35 pm - Jerusalem Time

Slovenian aid arrives in Jordan to be delivered to Gaza.

Slovenia has sent humanitarian aid to Jordan, in preparation for its delivery to the besieged Gaza Strip. This aid comes at a time when Palestinians are suffering from harsh conditions due to the ongoing aggression.

The humanitarian aid, which includes food supplies and blankets, arrived in Jordan via a military transport aircraft. The Slovenian government confirmed in its statement that this aid was prepared using resources from the Slovenian army.

Slovenian Defense Minister, Marjan Šarec, emphasized the importance of this aid, pointing to the necessity of supporting people living under war conditions. He confirmed that the aid will be transported in batches to Jordan, and then sent to Gaza.

Since October 7, 2023, Gaza has been subjected to comprehensive Israeli aggression, leading to a genocide that includes killing, starvation, and destruction. These actions disregard international calls and orders from the International Court of Justice to stop the aggression.

Statistics indicate that the Israeli aggression has resulted in the martyrdom of 62,122 Palestinians, and the injury of 156,758 others, most of whom are children and women. There are also more than 9,000 missing persons and hundreds of thousands displaced.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza is worsening, as the region suffers from famine that has claimed the lives of 269 people, including 112 children. These figures reflect the magnitude of the humanitarian disaster that Palestinians are experiencing under occupation.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 8:31 pm - Jerusalem Time

Urgent | Occupation Army: We will head to the largest Jewish communities in the diaspora to encourage recruitment.

The occupying army announced its intention to reach out to the largest Jewish communities in the diaspora to encourage recruitment, amid a severe shortage of soldiers. This decision comes as a result of the increasing need to bolster the ranks of the army in light of growing security challenges.

The occupying army is facing a shortage of soldiers ranging between 10,000 and 12,000, which has prompted military leadership to exhaust all available means to address this need. This shortage is attributed to several factors, including the low recruitment of Haredim, who represent a significant portion of the Jewish community.

The call issued by the occupying army to Jewish communities abroad reflects the growing concern over the inability to meet military needs. This comes at a time when tensions in the region are escalating, making the need to reinforce the forces more urgent.

The military leadership is seeking innovative solutions to tackle this challenge, with recruitment from Jewish communities in the diaspora being one of the proposed options. The army hopes that this call will contribute to increasing the number of recruits and improving the current situation.

This development shows how the occupying army is striving to expand its recruitment base, especially under the current circumstances. It also reflects the challenges the army faces in maintaining a high level of readiness to confront any potential threats.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 8:13 pm - Jerusalem Time

The occupation army announces the start of the second phase of "Gideon's Chariots."

The spokesperson for the occupying army announced the start of the second phase of Operation "Gideon's Chariots," indicating that this came by orders from the political level. He clarified in a press conference that the occupying forces are attacking on the outskirts of Gaza City, and that operations will deepen through elite forces.

The spokesperson added that the occupying army has almost complete control over the sector, reflecting an escalation of military operations in the area. These operations began at a time when international efforts to achieve a ceasefire are ongoing.

In a provocative step, the Israeli occupying army began sending call-up orders to 60,000 reservists, following the approval of Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on a plan to occupy Gaza City.

According to the Hebrew broadcasting authority, the army decided to call up 60,000 reservists and has already started sending recruitment orders known as "Order 8," in preparation for implementing the military plan.

In an official statement, the occupying army mentioned that approximately 60,000 call-up orders have been issued for reservists, in addition to extending service orders for 20,000 soldiers who were previously recruited. This decision came after in-depth discussions about the size of the forces required to continue fighting in Gaza.

The "i24" Hebrew channel also reported that Gallant approved a new military operation under the name "Gideon's Chariots 2," which involves occupying and attacking Gaza City, despite international efforts to reach a ceasefire.

It is worth noting that the Israeli security cabinet "the Cabinet" had previously approved a plan proposed by the occupying government head, Benjamin Netanyahu, to gradually reoccupy Gaza entirely, reflecting the occupying forces' intention to escalate aggression against the besieged sector.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 7:49 pm - Jerusalem Time

Ma'ariv: The Al-Qassam attack in Khan Younis is a major failure for the Shin

The Hebrew newspaper Ma'ariv described the operation carried out by the Al-Qassam Brigades this morning in Khan Younis as a dramatic failure for the Shin Bet and military intelligence. The newspaper noted that an investigation will be opened to understand the reasons for the 'intelligence oversight' that led to this failure.

The newspaper mentioned that the fighters of the Khan Younis Brigade in the Al-Qassam Brigades are conducting a guerrilla war with organized planning and close monitoring of the movements of the occupation army. There is still an infrastructure for elite forces that poses a significant challenge to the army, making combat against them complex and difficult.

The operation was described as 'very dangerous,' revealing the weakness of the Shin Bet and military intelligence in the area. It also pointed out that storming a military site with a large wave of armed men raises concerns about the army's readiness to manage the operation to control the city of Gaza.

The newspaper added that the militants exploited an infrastructure of undiscovered tunnels, even though the area was supposed to be cleared and scanned. This reflects the intelligence failure suffered by the occupation army.

Ma'ariv confirmed that the army is preparing to invade the city of Gaza, but the complexity there is many times greater than that in Khan Younis. The army is not going for a stroll in Gaza, but to confront two brigades of fully equipped and trained militants.

The newspaper predicted that the Al-Qassam Brigades would challenge the Israeli forces with attempts to encircle and capture, embarrassing the army with attacks similar to the recent operation. This indicates a new strategy that Hamas may adopt in its confrontation with the occupation.

For its part, the Walla Hebrew site revealed that a group from Al-Qassam carried out an operation in Beit Hanoun two days ago, in the northern Gaza Strip, aimed at capturing occupation soldiers. The site noted that the Beit Hanoun operation resembles the Khan Younis operation, confirming Hamas's intention to capture occupation soldiers.

LATEST NEWS

Wed 20 Aug 2025 7:25 pm - Jerusalem Time

Areej Institute: The Israeli occupation classifies more than 2400 Palestinian archaeological sites as

The Applied Research Institute - Jerusalem (ARIJ) confirmed that the Israeli occupation has classified more than 2,400 Palestinian archaeological sites in the West Bank as 'Israeli archaeological sites.' This classification comes as part of the occupation's policy aimed at controlling Palestinian lands under the pretext of protecting heritage.

The institute clarified that the occupation claims these sites 'must be protected and maintained,' but in reality, they are used to control vast areas of Palestinian land, with many of these sites being transformed into Israeli settlements, colonial outposts, and military and tourist sites that benefit only Israeli settlers.

In Nablus Governorate, 63 archaeological sites have been classified as 'Israeli historical and archaeological sites,' with 59 of them located in Nablus alone. This indicates that the occupation specifically targets archaeological sites in this governorate as part of its colonial plans.

The distribution of targeted sites includes many areas, such as Khan al-Lubban, the site of al-Awf, and Shiloh, where these sites are located near Israeli settlements, reflecting the occupation's intention to control Palestinian heritage.

The institute confirmed that classifying these sites as 'Israeli' represents a clear violation of international law, including the Hague Convention of 1954, which protects cultural property during armed conflicts.

The occupation's practices towards Palestinian heritage are a blatant violation of international obligations, posing a direct threat to Palestinian national identity. Instead of protecting cultural property, the occupation classifies it as Israeli property.

The occupation authorities use military decrees to justify their control over these sites and legalize their confiscation, further complicating the cultural and heritage situation in the Palestinian territories.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 7:23 pm - Jerusalem Time

Smotrich warns Netanyahu: Our party will leave the government coalition if a partial agreement is signed with Hamas.

The right-wing finance minister in the Israeli occupation government, Bezalel Smotrich, stated that he informed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that his party would not remain in the government coalition if he decided to proceed with a partial agreement with Hamas. These statements come at a sensitive time as tensions in the region are escalating.

Smotrich, who is considered one of the prominent figures in the right-wing government, indicated that the security incident that occurred today in Khan Younis is a direct result of policies that encourage Hamas to carry out kidnappings against occupation soldiers and settlers.

In his comments on the incident, Smotrich warned of the significant risks that may arise from continuing to succumb to the blackmail practiced by Hamas. He emphasized the need for strict measures to eliminate the threat posed by the movement to the occupation entity.

Smotrich's statements come at a critical time, as the occupation seeks to achieve security stability amid increasing tensions. These statements have sparked varied reactions within Israeli political circles.

It is noteworthy that Smotrich is not the only one expressing concern over any agreement with Hamas, as voices within the Israeli government are increasingly calling for a more hardline stance towards the movement.

All eyes are now on Netanyahu, who will face significant challenges in making decisions that could affect the stability of his government, especially amid internal and external pressures.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 7:09 pm - Jerusalem Time

American Center: Trump is capable of ending the war in Gaza but he is not doing so.

Since the beginning of the Israeli aggression on Gaza about 22 months ago, the urgent need for effective American intervention to stop this aggression has been increasing. The United States is considered the most capable party of influencing the war and peace decisions of the occupying state, as analysts believe that any strong American move could change the rules of the game.

An analytical study by the Atlantic Council in Washington, prepared by expert Daniel B. Shapiro, indicates that Trump has the ability to stop the aggression on Gaza, but he has not acted so far. Trump's personal influence over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gives him an exceptional ability to affect the Israeli decision.

Analyst Ahmed Al-Hila confirms that Trump is capable of exerting enough pressure on the occupying state to stop the aggression, as Israel is currently operating under a political cover provided by the Trump administration, which gives the American president the necessary tools to rein in the occupation if he wishes.

Despite the escalating international calls to end the war, Trump has maintained a position close to silence or laxity, raising questions about his motives. The report indicates that Trump may be encouraging hardline Israeli policies, especially after announcing what he called the 'Riviera of the Middle East' in Gaza.

Al-Hila explains that the lack of American pressure is due to Trump's desire to avoid confrontation with Israel's friends in Congress, in addition to an ideological dimension that connects some members of his administration to Israel, which hinders the implementation of international decisions.

Expert Mohannad Mustafa agrees that Trump can stop or calm the war by pressuring Netanyahu, but he does not exert this pressure and instead fully supports Netanyahu, reflecting his bias towards Israeli policies.

At the same time, the occupying army is preparing to launch a large-scale military operation in Gaza, complicating the situation further. There is confusion in official Israeli statements regarding the objectives of the operation, reflecting divisions within the government.

Warnings that the option of complete occupation of Gaza is unrealistic are increasing, as it may lead to long-term resistance. Analysts see that Trump is the party most capable of exerting the appropriate pressure to change the course of the war, but he remains committed to strategic silence.

LATEST NEWS

Wed 20 Aug 2025 6:57 pm - Jerusalem Time

Israeli special forces abduct a young man from Ramallah.

On the evening of Wednesday, August 20, 2025, special forces from the Israeli occupation army stormed several neighborhoods in the city of Ramallah, causing panic among the residents.

According to security sources, the special forces kidnapped a young man from the Al-Masyoun neighborhood, whose identity has not yet been identified.

This incursion comes as part of a series of violations perpetrated by the occupation forces against Palestinians, which include arrests and daily assaults.

The city of Ramallah, like many Palestinian cities, is witnessing an escalation in incursions and arrests, increasing the suffering of citizens and reflecting the repressive policies of the occupation.

The occupation authorities aim through these operations to intimidate Palestinians and weaken their resistance to the occupation, at a time when international calls to end the occupation are increasing.

LATEST NEWS

Wed 20 Aug 2025 6:39 pm - Jerusalem Time

A citizen injured by rubber bullets in Qusra, south of Nablus.

On the evening of Wednesday, August 20, 2025, the town of Qusra, located south of Nablus, witnessed an escalation in confrontations between Palestinian youth and the Israeli occupation forces. The occupation forces stormed the town, leading to the outbreak of violent clashes.

During these confrontations, the occupation forces used rubber-coated metal bullets and tear gas canisters, resulting in injuries to a Palestinian youth. The injured person was transferred to the hospital for treatment.

These events come in the context of ongoing violations faced by Palestinians in various areas, as the occupation seeks to suppress any form of resistance or protest.

This incident once again highlights the nature of the assaults faced by Palestinians, especially in areas experiencing continuous tension. The citizens of Qusra suffer from repeated assaults by the occupation army.

These violations continue to impact the daily lives of Palestinians, as citizens feel fear and anxiety from the recurring assaults, contributing to the worsening humanitarian situation in the region.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 6:39 pm - Jerusalem Time

UN condemns Israel's continued prevention of the entry of tents into Gaza despite the evacuation.

The United Nations stated that the occupying state has been preventing the entry of tents into the besieged Gaza Strip for months, despite orders issued to evacuate civilians, especially in the city of Gaza. Jens Laerke, spokesperson for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, explained that this ban has been ongoing for five months, resulting in the displacement of more than 700,000 people multiple times.

Laerke pointed out that the displaced often have to leave their tents during repeated movements, exposing them to repeated displacement. He confirmed that Israeli measures have prevented any change to this reality, as the authorities refuse to allow the entry of tents, justifying this by claiming that tents could be used for military purposes.

In a related context, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights stated that the occupying state is sending Palestinians to areas that are under bombardment and airstrikes. The spokesperson for the office, Thameen Al-Khaitan, explained that orders have been issued for hundreds of thousands of Gaza residents to head south to the Mawasi area, which is also under bombardment.

Al-Khaitan added that Palestinians in those areas receive very little in terms of basic services, including food, water, electricity, and tents, which exacerbates their suffering. The office indicated that the threat of famine looms over all of the Gaza Strip, as a direct result of the Israeli government's policy of preventing the entry of humanitarian aid.

It also clarified that the aid entering in recent weeks remains far below the level required to avoid widespread famine. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, supported by the occupying state and the United States, has begun distributing aid in the sector, further worsening the shortage of food supplies.

Al-Khaitan noted that obtaining the scant supplies available can be a deadly endeavor, as the United Nations documented the deaths of 1,857 Palestinians while attempting to obtain food from May 27 to August 17, including 1,021 who were martyred near the distribution sites of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation and 836 who were killed on supply truck routes.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 6:37 pm - Jerusalem Time

Israel insists on its five conditions, and the White House is considering Hamas's response.

Media reports indicate that Benjamin Netanyahu's government continues to adhere to its five conditions for ending the war in the besieged Gaza Strip, despite not closing the door on a partial deal. The conditions include disarming Hamas, the return of hostages, Israeli security control, a civilian governance alternative to Hamas and the Palestinian Authority.

Netanyahu's office confirmed that the government demands the release of all fifty detainees in the Gaza Strip, without clarifying whether this means their release all at once. Israeli media described these statements as ambiguous, noting that Israel may provide its official response by next Friday.

Local press analyses suggest that this ambiguity may be a negotiating tactic. Yedioth Ahronoth reported that the statements do not completely close the door on a partial deal, but they imply that the occupation rejects the new proposal from the mediators.

On another note, an Israeli Broadcasting Authority correspondent reported that Netanyahu is convinced of the necessity to begin the military operation in Gaza City, where the Israeli Ministry of Defense has approved plans to occupy the city and has begun concentrated operations in the Zeitoun neighborhood and the Jabalia area.

The Israeli families of the captives accused Netanyahu of sabotaging the deal and moving towards the occupation of Gaza City, while U.S. envoy Steve Wietkoff confirmed that President Trump wants to end the conflict in Gaza immediately.

The White House spokesperson confirmed that the United States continues to discuss the ceasefire proposal accepted by Hamas, which has communicated its approval of the proposal put forth by the mediators Qatar and Egypt.

The spokesperson for the Qatari Foreign Ministry indicated that the proposal includes a pathway to a permanent ceasefire, which is the best that can currently be offered to preserve civilian lives in Gaza.

Hamas confirmed its readiness to release Israeli prisoners in exchange for ending the war, but Netanyahu has set new conditions, including the disarmament of Palestinian resistance.

Since the onset of the aggression in October 2023, more than 62,000 Palestinians have been martyred and over 156,000 injured, while the residents of the Strip are suffering from catastrophic humanitarian conditions.

The Israeli occupation continues its aggression against the Gaza Strip, leading to the displacement of its residents and unprecedented destruction since World War II.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 6:20 pm - Jerusalem Time

Washington announces new sanctions against judges at the International Criminal Court.

In a new step reflecting the tensions between the United States and the international community, Washington announced on Wednesday the imposition of sanctions on four judges or prosecutors at the International Criminal Court. These sanctions are part of the United States' efforts to disrupt the court's work, which it considers a threat to its national security.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who announced these sanctions, described the International Criminal Court as a tool for legal warfare against the United States and its close ally 'Israel'. These statements reflect the American stance that rejects any legal accountability related to the Israeli occupation.

The sanctions include figures from allied countries such as France and Canada, raising questions about the impact of this move on international relations. These measures come at a sensitive time as pressure on the International Criminal Court increases to investigate crimes of the Israeli occupation against Palestinians.

The International Criminal Court had initiated proceedings against Israeli officials over allegations of committing war crimes in Palestinian territories. This has angered the United States, which views these investigations as a threat to its interests and those of its allies.

The American move comes at a sensitive time, as many countries seek to strengthen their position in support of Palestinian rights. The sanctions may exacerbate tensions between the United States and the international community, especially amid growing support for the Palestinian cause.

Through these sanctions, the United States aims to protect its strategic interests in the region, but it may face negative reactions from countries that support the International Criminal Court and human rights.

LATEST NEWS

Wed 20 Aug 2025 5:39 pm - Jerusalem Time

Israeli special forces arrest journalist Muath Ammarne near Bethlehem.

On the evening of Wednesday, August 20, 2025, special occupation forces arrested the injured journalist Muath Ammarne during his passage through the street connecting the cities of Bethlehem and Hebron. His vehicle was intercepted by a special force, which proceeded to arrest him and transfer him to an unknown location.

It is noteworthy that journalist Muath Ammarne sustained a serious injury on November 15, 2019, when the occupation army fired rubber-coated metal bullets at him while he was covering clashes in the town of Surif, northwest of Hebron. The injury resulted in the loss of his left eye and the shrapnel settling in the wall of his brain, despite the fact that he was wearing press attire.

On October 16, 2023, the occupation forces arrested Ammarne again, and he was transferred to administrative detention on the 29th of the same month. During his detention, he suffered from complete medical neglect of his health condition, as he was suffering from diabetes, which exacerbated his health situation.

After spending 9 months in detention, Ammarne was released on July 9, 2024, but his health had significantly deteriorated due to the medical neglect he experienced during his detention.

Violations of the occupation against Palestinian journalists continue, as Ammarne is considered one of many journalists who face arrest and injury while performing their professional duty in covering events in the Palestinian territories.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 4:13 pm - Jerusalem Time

Palestinian Human Rights Report: Gaza Detainees Face Hell in Israeli Prisons

A Palestinian human rights report was issued on Wednesday, revealing the tragic conditions faced by detainees in the Gaza Strip in Israeli prisons, noting that the "Rakefet" section and the "Sde Teyman" camp represent the most prominent examples of systematic torture crimes against them.

The report, prepared by the Palestinian Prisoners' Club and the Commission of Detainees' Affairs, highlights continuous testimonies from detainees, which demonstrate the severity of the violations committed against them, especially after two years since the beginning of the genocide.

The report stated that detainees in the "Rakefet" section of Ramla prison and the "Sde Teyman" camp are subjected to harsh torture methods, as human rights teams conducted several visits to them, but the testimonies they obtained were under strict constraints.

Detainees in the "Rakefet" section described their situation as hell, as they left the visit in tears due to the threats and beatings they endured before the visit, which forced them to state that the living conditions in the section were excellent.

The report confirmed that the occupation authorities prevent lawyers from conveying any information about families or the external situation, which increases the suffering of detainees and their families.

The report also pointed out the continuation of the policy of beating and finger-breaking, and the complete isolation of detainees, as they are deprived of sunlight and allowed to go out for fresh air for only 20 minutes a day.

Detainees reported that the guards distribute sleeping mats in the evening and take them away in the morning, forcing them to sit on metal all day, while being subjected to humiliation and insults.

The report showed that detainees suffer from severe hunger, as they are only provided with small amounts of food, often inedible, which one of them described as "famine."

The report also noted that 76 detainees have died inside Israeli prisons since the beginning of the genocide on October 7, 2023, including 46 from the Gaza Strip.

According to data from the Prisoners' Club, the number of Palestinian prisoners in occupation prisons reached 10,800 by early August, including 49 female prisoners and 450 children.

The report concluded by stating that the genocide being perpetrated by Israel since October 7 includes killing, starvation, and destruction, ignoring international calls to stop these violations.

Wed 20 Aug 2025 1:00 pm - Jerusalem Time

Another Bad Deal

Gershon Baskin

Hamas accepted another partial deal which as I understand it, they were forced into by the Qatari and Egyptian mediators, which very strong backwinds coming from Washington that were generated in Jerusalem. Hamas wanted an “end of war deal” in which they were prepared to release all of the 50 Israeli hostages in 24-48 hours, in exchange for ending the war, full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and the release of Palestinian prisoners and Palestinian hostages, and a very large increase of humanitarian aid.

 

I have been in daily communication over the past couple of weeks with the mediators and the Hamas negotiating time, pushing hard for a deal to end the war.  I learned that Hamas was very intent on reaching a comprehensive deal and that they rejected the idea of another partial deal – mainly because they do not trust that Israel will comply with continuing to negotiate beyond the 60 days and to enter into real negotiations to end the war. This is what happened with the previous ceasefire that went into force when Trump entered the Oval Office. According to that deal, the parties were supposed enter into negotiations for a sustained ceasefire by day 15 and to conclude those negotiations by day 30.  But those negotiations never started and it was clear that Netanyahu never had any intention to continue the ceasefire.  The war resumed one week following the end of the ceasefire.  That was way back in March of this year.

 

In my talks with Hamas I told them what I heard from the American side – that the United States would support the end of the war if Hamas released all of the hostages, if they agreed to some form of de-militarization (which the American side said can be defined in a way that Hamas could accept), and that a new non-Hamas Palestinian government be up and running before Israel withdraws completely from Gaza.  Hamas seemed prepared to accept those conditions as well as a no-entry perimeter zone along the Gaza-Israel border with Israeli troops on the Israeli side of the border with orders to shoot anyone who enters the zone. Hamas also said that they would be more flexible on the issue of Palestinian prisoners.

 

Throughout the last two weeks I have been pushing Hamas to submit to the Qatari Prime Minister (Sheikh Mohammed) the Hamas proposal for the “end of war deal”.  They did not do that. Yesterday morning I received the following message from Hamas: “Until now there is no sign of acceptance of the Americans or the Israelis or the mediators for the comprehensive deal”.   My response to that was: “you are not negotiating with Israel, nor the Americans - you have been negotiating with yourselves (thinking about what the response of Israel will be). It is clear that Israel does not want an “end of war deal” and Trump won’t get serious until he sees that Hamas is serious - they are waiting for a serious Hamas proposal to be delivered to Sheikh Mohammed.  I am not making this up - this is what they told me several times in phone calls and told me this. Please take my advice.  I know what is going on behind the scenes.  I know what are the chances of reaching an agreement with Israel.   Really Trump is the only person who can force Israel to end the war. Remember the window of opportunity is open only until the tanks start moving into Gaza city.”  In my phone conversations with Hamas,  I tried to explain that what prompted Trump to give Netanyahu the greenlight to escalate (as Trump put it: Israel will do what Israel needs to do) was seeing the two videos of the two Israeli hostages being starved to death. My message to Hamas was: feed the hostages, not once for the video, but from now until they are released. Many times, during the last days, I kept telling them: Feed the hostages – if one of them dies from starvation, you lose any chance of getting Trump to pressure Israel to end the war.  Trump feels personal responsibility and a personal connection to the hostages and their families.   Hamas tried to say we take good care of the hostages, which I said is an outrageous claim – seeing those videos and seeing the condition of the released hostages. Then they said that this is what Israel is doing to the Palestinian prisoners inside of Israeli prisons – which is correct.  We saw how emaciated and weak Marwan Barghouthi looked standing in front of Ben Gvir. And we have seen videos of Palestinian prisoners who were released in the previous deal. Hamas also said that the people of Gaza are starving, which is also correct, but I said once again, that they lost the support of Trump when he saw those videos and the Americans told me that if the Israeli hostages die in captivity they can forget about American support.

 

After the deal was announced last night, I contacted Hamas and asked them why they did not present their proposal to end the war.  Why did they give Netanyahu the victory that will allow him to continue the war?  The response that I received this morning was: “we found that the position of the Egyptians and the Qataris, and even Sheikh Mohammed, is with the partial deal, and they even consulted the Americans and said that they are with the partial deal, and that the comprehensive deal will now be almost impossible because Israel is imposing very difficult conditions that cannot be accepted, so we no longer have any choice but to continue with the partial deal.” Hamas was strong-armed into this deal, by the mediators and even by the other Palestinian factions. In Cairo Hamas held a meetings with representatives of other Palestinian factions who all supported the partial deal. They also met with the people from the Palestinian Reform Stream – the group supported by Mohammed Dahlan. The head of this group was recorded saying that Hamas should accept the deal on the table, even without reading it because the people of Gaza need this to end.

 

My response to Hamas this afternoon was: “Without firm US guarantees for ending the war Netanyahu will renew it after the 60 days ceasefire.  If you want it to end, Hamas has to do two main things:  feed the remaining hostages and give them medical treatment / don’t let them die, and make sure that there is a new Palestinian government in Gaza - not on paper but actually working.”

 

It seems that Israel will accept the deal.  Israel will have to release 140 Palestinian prisoners serving life-sentences for killing Israelis.  Israel will release another 60 Palestinian prisoners sentenced to more than 15 years. Israel will release about 190 bodies of Palestinians being held by Israel in return for 19 bodies of Israeli hostages. And Israel will release about another 1000 prisoners from Gaza (I assume that these will not include members of the Hamas Nukhba force). Humanitarian aid will be increased to 600 trucks a day including fuel, water, generators, and medical supplies. The Rafah crossing is supposed to be opened for two-way movement. It is not clear what kind of inspections will be at the crossing. I assume that Israel will totally reject that the crossing will be open without some form of reliable security checks. Maybe it will all go via the Kerem Shalom crossing point for Israeli security to do the checking. 

 

In my opinion this is not a good deal -not for Israel and not for Gaza. But it is the deal that Hamas has approved and now it is in the hands of Netanyahu to accept it. Since Netanyahu wants to have the ability to continue the war beyond the 60 days, it is incumbent on the mediators (Qatar, Egypt and the USA) to ensure that the conditions are created for ending the war completely before the 60 days of ceasefire end. Hamas must feed the remaining hostages and give them proper medical attention – it can be done by the International Committee of the Red Cross which Hamas should be forced to accept.   Hamas and the other Palestinian factions have to ensure that there is a new non-Hamas Palestinian government up and running before the end of 60 days. If these conditions are met, President Trump must then instruct Netanyahu to end the war. This seems to be the only way that all of the hostages will be returned home to Israel and that the war will finally end.  Have no doubts, both sides will claim victory which is totally absurd because it is so clear that both sides have lost. 

 

 

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 12:37 pm - Jerusalem Time

Netanyahu attacks France over Palestine.. and the Élysée responds: Despicable statement

In a move that sparked widespread controversy, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized French President Emmanuel Macron's call to recognize Palestine as a state, considering that this call fuels the "fire of anti-Semitism" in France. This came in a message Netanyahu sent to Macron, where he noted that anti-Semitism has risen significantly in France following Macron's announcement.

Netanyahu argued that Macron's call for the recognition of a Palestinian state pours fuel on the fire of anti-Semitism, describing this step as not diplomatic but rather appeasement of terrorism. He added that this call strengthens Hamas's insistence on not releasing hostages and feeds hatred against Jews in France.

In response, the French presidency condemned Netanyahu's statements, emphasizing that linking France's decision to recognize the state of Palestine with anti-Semitic violence is "based on fallacies." The Élysée statement confirmed that this remark is "despicable and will not go unanswered," noting that Macron will respond to Netanyahu's message.

The statement also indicated that violence against the Jewish community is unacceptable, and that Macron has urged all his governments since 2017 to take the utmost firmness against perpetrators of anti-Semitic acts, especially following the terrorist attacks that occurred on October 7, 2023.

In a related context, the Minister Delegate for European Affairs, Benjamin Haddad, affirmed that France does not need lessons in combating anti-Semitism, stressing that this issue cannot be exploited or manipulated. He clarified that French authorities have always been highly mobilized against anti-Semitism.

It is worth noting that President Macron had previously announced Paris's intention to recognize the state of Palestine next September, which angered the occupying state. Several other countries, such as Canada and Australia, have also announced their intention to recognize Palestine, reflecting a growing international support for the Palestinian cause.

These developments are part of an increasing wave of international recognition of Palestine, with 145 countries out of 193 UN member states recognizing or announcing their intention to recognize a Palestinian state. This recognition comes at a very sensitive time, as tensions in the region are escalating.

Netanyahu also launched sharp criticisms at his Australian counterpart, Anthony Albanese, describing him as a "weak politician who betrayed Israel," following his criticism of Tel Aviv's decision to revoke the visas of its diplomatic representatives to the Palestinian Authority.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 12:15 pm - Jerusalem Time

Israeli sites: Armed men from Hamas attempted to capture Israeli soldiers during the attack on the Kfir Brigade site in Rafah.

In a new security development, armed members of Hamas attacked a position of the Kfir Brigade in the city of Rafah, where they attempted to capture Israeli soldiers. This attack comes as part of the ongoing operations carried out by the Palestinian resistance against the occupation.

According to Israeli sources, a command point of the Kfir Brigade was targeted, resulting in injuries among the soldiers. This attack indicates a rise in tensions in the region, as Hamas continues to carry out its operations against the occupation.

After the attack, occupation army helicopters transported three injured soldiers to hospitals for treatment. This incident reflects the dangers faced by occupation soldiers in border areas.

These events occur amid the ongoing Israeli aggression against the besieged Gaza Strip, which has exacerbated the humanitarian situation in the region. The attack on the Kfir Brigade position reflects the Palestinian resistance's response to the continuous aggression.

Reactions to this attack are pouring in, with some considering it evidence of the resistance's ability to carry out qualitative operations against the occupation, while others see it as a reflection of a serious escalation in the conflict.

Developments are expected to continue in the coming hours, as Israeli military circles closely monitor the situation. There are also concerns about retaliatory reactions from the occupation army.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 12:13 pm - Jerusalem Time

"Girls of the Hills".. An Israeli women's group promoting "soft" settlement in the West Bank.

The stories of settlement in the West Bank continue in renewed forms, with the emergence in recent years of the group 'Girls of the Hills', which presents settlement in a quiet manner, yet carries significant risks. This group, founded by extremist settlers, invites girls to leave education and civil life to live in tents and primitive dwellings, reflecting a new strategy of occupation aimed at seizing Palestinian land.

The 'Girls of the Hills' group was established as a female version of the 'Boys of the Hills' group, promoting settlement as a 'soft' option, even though the goal remains the control of Palestinian territories. These girls live in harsh conditions, relying on herding and mobility, which reflects a picture of sacrifice for what they call the 'promised land'.

The outposts 'Ma'oz Esther' and 'Or Hohavia' are among the most prominent examples illustrating the role of 'Girls of the Hills' in expanding settlement. The outpost 'Ma'oz Esther', established 17 years ago, has transformed into a fully integrated settlement inhabited by 17 families, reflecting the rapid expansion of these settlement projects.

In 2023, the 'Girls of the Hills' established a new outpost named 'Or Hohavia', where settlers aim to turn it into a large settlement. These activities come amid governmental and legal support seeking to legitimize settlement, reflecting the complicity of the occupation in implementing these projects.

The 'Girls of the Hills' use social media platforms to promote their projects, where they post videos and photos reflecting their achievements in expanding settlement outposts. This digital activity reflects a calculated strategy to attract more girls and families to settle in Palestinian territories.

Statements from the settlers reveal the settlement mentality that prevails among them, as they consider the West Bank to be just a small part of a larger project aimed at swallowing the entire region. This discourse reflects the Zionist ideology that seeks to expand control over the land.

The visit of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the settlement 'Ofra' comes in the context of entrenching settlement, where Palestinians condemned this visit and considered it a provocation. This governmental approach reflects the occupation's support for settlement as part of its strategy to impose control over Palestinian territories.

The occupation government seeks to provide legal cover for settlement outposts, as Israeli lawmakers propose bills aimed at legitimizing settlement, posing a direct challenge to international law. These laws aim to entrench settlement as an irreversible reality.

Despite attempts by the Israeli police to dismantle some settlement outposts, these operations are often described as mere 'agreed-upon theatrics'. The establishment of outposts and the funding of their infrastructure are supported, revealing organized complicity between the government and the police.

Testimonies from within the outposts 'Ma'oz Esther' and 'Or Hohavia' show how the 'Girls of the Hills' have become no longer just a marginal group, but have transformed into an integral arm of the occupation, combining artificial simplicity in the field with soft propaganda through digital platforms.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 11:53 am - Jerusalem Time

Israel begins the preliminary phase of occupying the city of Gaza with Operation "Gideon's Chariots 2"

The occupying army announced today, Wednesday, the start of the preliminary phase of the occupation of Gaza City, with intensive operations beginning in the Zaitoun neighborhood and Jabalia. This step comes after Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz approved the "Gideon II Vehicles" plan, aimed at controlling the city, which has sparked internal criticism in Israel.

The occupying army's radio reported that the army will begin in the coming days to push the residents of Gaza towards the southern part of the sector as part of the preliminary operations for the occupation of the city. An Israeli military official indicated that the attack plan on Gaza City is expected to be completed in the coming days.

In a related context, the official confirmed that the occupying army will call up up to 50,000 reservists before the operation begins, noting that most of the forces participating will be active-duty soldiers. He explained that the reservists who will be called up may perform tasks in the air force or intelligence.

On another note, the Israeli Ministry of Defense approved the plan to occupy Gaza City, which was presented by Israeli Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir. This plan has been named "Gideon II Vehicles," continuing the previous operation launched by the army last May.

The Israeli Defense Minister claimed that this plan aims to end the war by releasing all Israeli prisoners in the sector, in addition to disarming Hamas and exiling its leaders. He also claimed that "humanitarian preparations" have been approved to accommodate the Palestinians who will be forced to flee by the army.

On the other hand, former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak described the plan as a "deadly trap," emphasizing that the occupation of Gaza will serve Hamas and grant it a political victory, and that the operation will not return the Israeli captives but will lead to their deaths.

At the same time, families of Israeli prisoners considered that the plan that should have been approved is a prisoner exchange deal that returns all captives, not a plan to occupy Gaza City. These developments come at a time when mediators such as Egypt, Qatar, and the United States continue their efforts to reach a ceasefire and a prisoner exchange in the Gaza Strip.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 11:47 am - Jerusalem Time

The wave of protests has escalated in Western capitals against the war on Gaza.

Several cities around the world witnessed a series of popular and official protests in recent hours condemning the ongoing Israeli war on the Gaza Strip, and expressing solidarity with the victims and humanitarian workers. In New York, dozens of United Nations employees organized a protest inside the headquarters of the international organization, affirming their solidarity with their colleagues working in humanitarian and relief efforts in Gaza.

The protesters remembered those who lost their lives among international organization workers as a result of Israeli military operations, emphasizing the need to protect humanitarian teams working in extremely dangerous conditions to save civilians. In the U.S. capital, Washington, current and former employees of Microsoft set up a protest camp outside the company's headquarters to express their rejection of what they described as "the company's complicity in the genocide being committed against Palestinians in Gaza."

The protesters named the sit-in location "Palestinian Martyrs' Square," and demanded that Microsoft management stop its technological and military cooperation and partnerships with Israel, considering that the continuation of these contracts contributes to prolonging the war and the suffering of civilians. In the French capital, Paris, a demonstration was held called by what is known as "the Coalition for a Just and Lasting Peace between Palestinians and Israelis."

The demonstrators raised banners condemning the "starvation" policy imposed on Palestinians, calling for an immediate halt to the war and the imposition of international sanctions on Israel. The organizers of the movement confirmed that this demonstration is part of a series of ongoing events taking place in European and global cities since the outbreak of the war, in an effort to pressure governments to take a firmer stance against Israeli violations.

These international movements come at a time when the Gaza Health Ministry announced that the death toll from starvation and malnutrition has risen to 266, including 112 children. With U.S. support, Israel has been committing genocide in Gaza since October 7, 2023, involving killing, starvation, destruction, and forced displacement, ignoring international calls and orders from the International Court of Justice to stop.

The Israeli genocide has resulted in 62,064 martyrs and 156,573 injured Palestinians - most of whom are children and women - and more than 10,000 missing and hundreds of thousands displaced, along with a continuing famine that has claimed many lives.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 11:39 am - Jerusalem Time

The occupation arrests a child from Kafr Ra'i south of Jenin.

In the early hours of Wednesday, Israeli occupation forces arrested 15-year-old Omar Ibrahim Murshid from the town of Kafr Ra'i, located south of Jenin. This incident comes as part of the ongoing violations faced by Palestinian children.

According to the Palestinian Prisoners' Club, the occupation forces stormed Omar's family home and conducted a brutal search, causing a state of terror and anxiety among family members and neighbors.

Such arrests are considered part of the occupation's policy targeting Palestinian children, as they are detained without any legal justification, reflecting a blatant violation of human rights and international laws.

The cases of child arrests in the occupied Palestinian territories are increasing, where they are held in harsh conditions, negatively impacting their mental and physical health.

Local and international human rights organizations are calling for urgent pressure on the occupation to stop these violations and to provide protection for Palestinian children who are in dire need of safety and stability.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 11:21 am - Jerusalem Time

31 dead in Gaza since dawn, and the occupation kills a child every 40 minutes.

Sources in Gaza hospitals confirmed the death of 31 Palestinians, including children, due to the occupation's fire in several areas of the strip since the dawn of Wednesday. This comes as part of the ongoing genocide since October 7, 2023, where the Palestinian people are suffering from harsh humanitarian conditions.

Among the dead, 8 were waiting for aid who were injured by the occupation's fire near the Netzarim axis in central Gaza. Two children were also martyred and others were injured in an Israeli airstrike that targeted a house in the Al-Samer area of Gaza City, resulting in the complete destruction of the house and severe damage to neighboring homes.

Five Palestinians from one family were martyred, including a couple and their children, as a result of an airstrike that targeted a tent for displaced persons in the Al-Shati camp west of Gaza City. In another airstrike, 4 Palestinians, including children, were killed near the Islamic University in the city.

The Ministry of Health in the Gaza Strip announced the death of more Palestinians due to starvation, with the total number of martyrs from starvation and malnutrition rising to 266, including 112 children. This catastrophic situation reflects the extent of suffering experienced by Palestinians in the besieged strip.

The occupation army continues its intensive attack on the Al-Zeitoun neighborhood in Gaza City for the tenth consecutive day, resulting in the martyrdom of 4 Palestinians from one family and injuries to others. The forces have also destroyed more than 400 homes and civilian facilities, amid ongoing targeting of citizens with airstrikes and artillery shelling.

The Director-General of the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza, Munir Al-Bursh, stated that the Israeli occupation kills a child every 40 minutes in Gaza, noting that 28 children are martyred daily. More than one million children in Gaza suffer from psychological trauma, with 50% of them recorded as having post-traumatic stress disorders.

In a related context, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) stated that more than 540 children have been killed each month over the past five months, reflecting the scale of the humanitarian disaster faced by children in Gaza.

On another note, Israeli media reported that the Israeli Defense Minister and the Chief of Staff approved a plan to occupy Gaza City, as the army began calling up 60,000 reservists as part of military preparations for the occupation of the city.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 11:13 am - Jerusalem Time

What’s new in the proposal that Hamas approved for the truce in Gaza?

The international and regional circles are awaiting the occupation's response to the latest proposal presented by mediators to cease fire in the besieged Gaza Strip for 60 days. This comes after Hamas and other Palestinian factions provided a positive response to the proposal, placing the ball now in the court of the occupation government.

The spokesperson for the Qatari Foreign Ministry, Majid Al-Ansari, described the proposal as "the best possible option" to stem the bloodshed. Although the new proposal does not differ significantly from a previous version put forth by the American envoy, it includes substantial amendments that respond to previous demands from both parties.

Al-Ansari confirmed that Hamas's response was "very positive," increasing the pressure on Tel Aviv to accept the deal. The new proposal carries key amendments that represent previous points of contention, most notably guarantees for the continuation of the truce.

The proposal clearly states that the ceasefire for 60 days will be guaranteed by the mediators, including the United States. More importantly, it stipulates the continuation of the ceasefire as long as negotiations for the second phase are ongoing, which is a fundamental amendment not present in the original proposal.

The proposal also includes a mechanism for prisoner exchange, involving the release of 10 living detainees in two batches, in exchange for the release of about 140 Palestinian prisoners with long and life sentences, in addition to women, minors, and detainees from Gaza after October 7.

The bodies of 18 hostages will be handed over to the occupation in two phases, in exchange for a specified number of Palestinian corpses, which closely resembles what was included in the original proposal. The proposal also stipulates the withdrawal of occupation forces to their previous positions before the ceasefire was breached last March.

The deal also includes an agreement to discuss critical issues within the negotiations for the second phase, including the administration of the Gaza Strip, the day after the war, and the future of the weapons of Palestinian factions, as part of a comprehensive and final deal.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 10:11 am - Jerusalem Time

Colonizers break olive trees and steal agricultural equipment in Attara, northwest of Ramallah.

In a new attack on Palestinian lands, settlers on Tuesday evening broke olive trees and stole agricultural equipment in the village of Attara, northwest of Ramallah. This attack is part of a colonial policy aimed at displacing Palestinians from their lands.

The affected individuals, brothers Mahmoud and Mohammed Abdullah Hamad, reported that the settlers prevented them from entering their land and broke the surveillance and lighting cameras. This behavior reflects the escalation of attacks by settlers on Palestinian property.

The land that was attacked covers an area of 6 dunams and is adjacent to a colonial outpost established by the settlers about a week ago. This outpost was set up after being demolished by the occupation army four times, indicating a determination to seize Palestinian lands.

The settlers released their livestock onto the land, which led to the destruction of crops and damage to trees. This act represents part of a systematic policy aimed at destroying Palestinian agriculture and displacing the population.

The Al-Kharba area, which spans 2000 dunams, is considered an archaeological site, and settlers continue to frequent it with the aim of seizing it. This area witnesses repeated attacks as part of a colonial policy aimed at threatening security and stability in the region.

Since the beginning of July, settlers have attempted to establish 15 new colonial outposts, predominantly agricultural and pastoral in nature, reflecting the increasing challenges faced by Palestinian communities in preserving their lands.

These outposts are distributed across the Hebron Governorate, in addition to two outposts in Salfit, Bethlehem, Ramallah, and Jericho, and one outpost in Tubas and another in Jenin, indicating the expansion of settlement in Palestinian territories.

PALESTINE

Wed 20 Aug 2025 10:09 am - Jerusalem Time

Families of the detainees to Netanyahu: The approval of the plans to occupy Gaza is a stab in our hearts, and the deal is in your hands

The Families of Hostages in Gaza launched a sharp and direct attack on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of sabotaging a prisoner exchange deal that was on the verge of being finalized. This came after the approval of military plans to occupy Gaza, which angered the families who believe that these plans contradict efforts to recover their loved ones.

The families directed an angry message to Netanyahu, asserting that discussing plans to occupy Gaza and sabotaging the potential deal is like a stab in their hearts. They expressed their dissatisfaction with the lack of focus on completing the deal, emphasizing that the current circumstances are perfectly suited for achieving that.

In their statement, the organization confirmed that everyone knows the conditions are ripe for the deal, and that it is in Netanyahu's hands. They expressed their firm rejection of the continuation of military options at the expense of their children's lives, stressing that the top priority for Tel Aviv should be the recovery of the hostages.

The families added: "Tel Aviv wants the return of the 50 hostages, no more news of our soldiers' deaths." This statement reflects the feelings of anxiety and anger among the families who are eagerly awaiting the return of their loved ones.

The families also criticized the decisions made by the government yesterday, considering that the focus should have been on completing a comprehensive deal. They pointed out that what should have been approved is the return of the last hostage, not military plans that increase the suffering of families.

These statements come at a sensitive time as tensions in the region escalate, with many expressing concern over the repercussions of any military escalation on the lives of the hostages and their families.

ANALYSIS

Wed 20 Aug 2025 9:49 am - Jerusalem Time

Global newspapers: Netanyahu is an unethical politician and his army is being drained in Gaza.

Many global newspapers have addressed the developments of the war in the Gaza Strip, with some indicating that the occupying army is suffering from significant depletion within its ranks. This depletion comes at a time when pressure is increasing on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is facing growing calls for his removal from office.

In an article published in Yedioth Ahronoth, writer Sefer Bloker described Netanyahu as having become a symbol of corrupt politics, noting that hundreds of thousands of Israelis are protesting in the streets demanding his ousting. This situation reflects a state of public dissatisfaction with his leadership.

As for The Times, it discussed the crisis of depletion in the occupying army, pointing to the heavy reliance on reserve soldiers. This crisis has been exacerbated by the refusal of ultra-Orthodox Jews to join military service, prompting the army to seek volunteers from Jewish communities abroad.

In a related context, the Jerusalem Post published an article by Osnat Korach, the CEO of the "Shamir" Medical Center, where she described the situation as a "pandemic of national trauma." She explained that the effects of wars impact returning soldiers, who suffer from psychological trauma despite returning with intact bodies.

In another article, Ahmed Kamal Janina, head of the English Department at Al-Aqsa University in Gaza, wrote about his personal suffering amid the difficult conditions faced by Palestinians. He noted that hunger, sadness, and homelessness affect his ability to think and create.

On another note, The Wall Street Journal addressed former U.S. President Donald Trump's efforts to end the war in Ukraine, considering that this could prevent Russia from reigniting the conflict in the future. This reflects an increasing American interest in European security.

In conclusion, The Washington Post viewed that any peace agreement in Ukraine must be fair, warning that inaction could lead to an inappropriate normalization with Russia, which could spark a new war in the future.