July 4, 2024

*) Hezbollah says over 20 Israeli elite soldiers killed or injured in fighting Hezbollah has said it has killed or injured over 20 Israeli elite soldiers in southern Lebanon during intense fighting. The Lebanese group says it destroyed an Israeli Merkava tank near Malikiya with a guided missile, resulting in casualties. Hezbollah also launched rockets on areas near Haifa, Kiryat Shmona, and other border regions. Several Israeli military positions, including Nafah base and forces in northern Israel, were also hit. Hezbollah reported additional strikes on Israeli troops attempting to infiltrate Maroun al-Ras. *) Trump calls for Israel to target Iran's nuclear facilities first Former US president and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump believes Israel should take action against Iran's nuclear facilities. Speaking at a North Carolina campaign event, Trump responded to a recent question posed to President Joe Biden regarding Israel's possible response to Iran’s missile barrage. Trump criticised Biden’s stance, saying, "The answer should have been, hit the nuclear first, and worry about the rest later." Trump's comments come amid heightened tensions between Iran and Israel. *) Over 6% of Gaza’s population killed, injured in Israel's invasion — WHO The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 6 percent of Gaza’s population has been killed or injured as Israel's military invasion nears its one-year mark. Speaking in Geneva, Ayadil Saparbekov, WHO’s team lead for health emergencies in the region, highlighted that at least 10,000 people remain trapped under rubble. Gaza's healthcare system is in crisis, with over 500 attacks on health facilities recorded since October 2023, leaving 765 dead. *) US questions Israel's unpredictable actions in Lebanon — report Tensions between the Pentagon and Israel are rising as US officials express frustration over Israel's unpredictable actions in Lebanon, according to a report published in The New York Times. Israel's recent strikes and land incursions, often without prior US notice, have caught American forces off guard, including a high-stakes operation against Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. With a heavy US military presence in the region, Pentagon officials now question whether this show of force is containing the violence—or fueling it. The US military is also worried about being overextended, as they must also focus on other global threats like China and Russia. *) Floods in West, Central Africa claim over 1,000 lives and displace 740,000 Severe floods have claimed over 1,000 lives and displaced 740,000 across West and Central Africa, affecting 5 million people in 16 countries, the UN has said. Chad, Niger, and Nigeria are hardest hit, with homes, schools, and farmland destroyed. The UN warns of rising cholera risks, especially in Niger and Nigeria. A $35 million aid package has been allocated, but more funding is urgently needed. In Nigeria, $5 million will aid 280,000 people with food, water, and shelter.

*) Some 100 US doctors reject Israel’s claim of Hamas misusing Gaza hospitals A group of 99 American physicians and medical professionals have said they saw no signs of Hamas activity in hospitals, calling on the Biden administration to immediately cease support for Israel. In a letter sent to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris the group of doctors shared their firsthand experiences of the dire humanitarian conditions saying they had "witnessed crimes beyond comprehension." Doctors said in the letter that Israel's "continued, repeated" displacement of the malnourished and sick population of Gaza, half of whom are children, to areas without running water or even toilets available is "absolutely shocking." *) US backs Israel’s invasion of Lebanon as bombs rattle Beirut The Biden administration believes it is appropriate for Israel to continue with its ground and air attacks on Lebanon for now, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said. Miller said the nature of all conflicts was "fluid" and "unpredictable" and therefore it was impossible to say how long it would take Israel to achieve its stated goal of clearing Hezbollah infrastructure. *) Death toll from Helene that tore through southeast US tops 200 More than 210 people are now confirmed dead after Hurricane Helene carved a path of destruction through several US states, officials said, making it the second deadliest storm to hit the US mainland in more than half a century. The storm flooded towns and cities, made countless roads impassable, knocked out power and water service, and left communities shell-shocked as they grappled with the start of a years-long recovery effort. A compilation of official figures confirms 212 fatalities across North and South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee and Virginia. *) Arab Americans unimpressed by Harris' outreach Arab Americans from various walks of life have voiced their disapproval of US Vice President Kamala Harris' latest attempt to reconnect with the minority community ahead of the 2024 elections. TRT World spoke with more than a dozen community members who voiced their sentiment in clear terms — it's simply not enough. As the presidential race intensifies, Harris' campaign finds itself scrambling to repair damaged ties with Muslim and Arab American voters, many of whom feel deeply disappointed by the administration's support for Israel's war on Palestinians in besieged Gaza. *) Netanyahu bugged my private toilet — Boris Johnson Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has alleged that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has bugged his private living quarters on at least one occasion in 2017. Johnson shared excerpts of his forthcoming memoir, "Unleashed" , to daily Telegraph. In his book, which is set to be released on October 10, he writes, "Thither Bibi repaired for a while, and it may or may not be a coincidence but I am told that later, when they were doing a regular sweep for bugs, they found a listening device in the thunderbox." When pressed byTelegraph for more details on the alleged bugging, Johnson deflected, encouraging them to read his memoir upon its release for further revelations.

*) Israel confirms damage to army bases in Iranian missile strikes The Israeli army has confirmed several of its air bases were struck during Iran's massive ballistic missile strikes on the US-backed country. According to Israeli media, authorities confirmed damages to office buildings and maintenance areas. In northern Tel Aviv, warheads reportedly fell close to Mossad headquarters, though they failed to cause significant damage. Iran's Revolutionary Guard claimed to have used its Fattah missiles, describing them as capable of reaching Mach 15 and posing a new challenge to Israeli missile defence systems. *) Bloodbath continues in Gaza as Israel kills dozens in overnight carnage Israeli military strikes across Gaza have killed at least 65 Palestinians overnight, including in a school sheltering displaced families One Israeli strike on a school sheltering displaced families in Gaza City killed 17 people, while another hit the Amal Orphan Society, killing at least five others. It comes after Iran launched a salvo of ballistic missiles at Israel on Tuesday in retaliation for Israel's offensives in Gaza, Lebanon and assassinations. *) Hundreds of churches, several mosques and two synagogues desecrated in India in one year — US agency The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has recommended that the US government designate India as a "country of particular concern" (CPC), arguing the religious freedom conditions in the country have continued to deteriorate under the Hindu nationalist government led by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The American federal government commission, citing local NGOs, said that in 2023 alone, 687 incidents of violence were reported targeting Christians, "who continued to be detained under various state-level anti-conversion laws”. The US agency also said Indian Muslims and their places of worship continued to face violations throughout 2023, arguing several mosques were destroyed under police presence and Hindu vigilantes attacked Muslims under the guise of protecting cows from slaughter. *) Lavrov says Russia stands alongside China on Taiwan, other issues Russia has said it stands alongside China on Asian issues, including the criticism of the US drive to extend its influence and "deliberate attempts" to inflame the situation around Taiwan. Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov praised Beijing's approach to the war in Ukraine and said both countries wanted to eliminate the problems that Moscow says lie behind the conflict. He said Moscow and Beijing held close positions "in assessing the risks associated with the advance of the West in the Asia-Pacific region". *)Türkiye's new TB3 armed drone makes public debut at Teknofest Turkish unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) producer Baykar's new combat drone Bayraktar TB3 has made its public debut in the country's premier technology event TEKNOFEST. TB3 is the first combat drone capable of taking off and landing from short-runway ships such as the TCG Anadolu. It is equipped with the PD-170 engine developed domestically by Turkish aerospace engine manufacturer Tusas Engine Industries (TEI), and it can fly for more than 24 hours.

*) Iran warns it will hit all Israeli infrastructure if attacked Iran’s top military boss is drawing a line in the sand. If Israel attacks, Tehran’s response will be devastating. After firing off a massive 200-missile barrage, General Mohammad Bagheri said that was just the start. Next time, he warned, the strikes will be even more intense, targeting all of Israel’s infrastructure. Bagheri explained that Iran had held back after the US and EU promised a ceasefire in Gaza following the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. But after Israel took out Hezbollah’s Hassan Nasrallah and Iran’s own General Abbas Nilforoushan, Bagheri made it clear that Tehran’s patience had run out. *) Israel launches new air strikes on Beirut Beirut is under fire once again. Israeli warplanes have unleashed a fresh round of air strikes on southern suburbs of the Lebanese capital, hitting several neighbourhoods as civilians scrambled to flee. No word yet on the damage or casualties, but the strikes come hot on the heels of an ultimatum from Israel, warning civilians to get out. The situation is tense, with no signs of letting up. *) Erdogan warns of consequences for Israel’s ground offensive in Lebanon Turkish President Erdogan isn’t holding back. He’s warning Israel that their current ground offensive in Lebanon won’t play out the way their past invasions have. Speaking to the Turkish parliament just as Israeli troops began rolling into Lebanon, Erdogan said this time, the fallout could be far worse. He slammed Israel’s actions in the region, accusing them of dragging countries into conflict, and called out the ongoing violence in Gaza, which he described as genocide. Erdogan made it clear that the stakes have never been higher. *) Vance and Walz face off in crucial vice presidential debate It’s a showdown in the race for vice president. Ohio Senator JD Vance, representing the GOP, and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, standing for the Democrats, went head-to-head in their only vice presidential debate. With the election just five weeks away, both men are under serious pressure to lock in support for their parties. *) Austria embraces far-right party with Nazi roots, anti-Muslim stance Austria’s far-right Freedom Party has pulled off a “historic win” in the country’s parliamentary elections. The party, which opposes immigration and takes anti-Muslim stance, is riding high on the wave of success seen by far-right groups across Europe. But what makes the Freedom Party stand out is its reluctance to cut ties with its Nazi past — a history other far-right European parties have distanced themselves from.

*) Israel starts ‘limited, localised’ ground invasion in Lebanon The Israeli army has started a “limited” ground invasion as their attacks in several towns in southern Lebanon continue. According to the Israeli military, they carried out “focused and localised raids” aimed at Hezbollah targets and infrastructure in the south. Meanwhile, Lebanon’s official news agency NNA reported that the shelling hit areas like Wazzani, Marjeyoun and Khiyam, and went on for more than two hours. *) President Erdogan calls for global action on Gaza Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has made it clear that Türkiye won’t stand by as tensions in Gaza, the occupied West Bank and Lebanon continue to rise. Announcing the delivery of 30 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Lebanon, Erdogan stressed that more support will flow if security allows it. He also called for Muslim nations to step up, suggesting that it’s time for the Muslim world to take a leading role in opposing the violence and oppression in these conflict zones. *) Putin’s nuclear talk shouldn’t stop NATO backing Ukraine: Stoltenberg NATO’s outgoing Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg is urging allies not to be intimidated by Vladimir Putin’s nuclear threats when deciding on military aid for Ukraine. Stoltenberg’s remarks followed Putin’s recent declaration that Russia wouldn’t hesitate to use nuclear weapons if hit by conventional missiles. As the US and its partners weigh whether to allow Ukraine to launch deeper strikes into Russia, Stoltenberg is making it clear that NATO can’t afford to be swayed by what he sees as reckless rhetoric from Moscow. *) Japan’s Kishida steps down as PM, paving way for likely successor Ishiba Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has officially stepped down, clearing the path for Shigeru Ishiba to take over as the country’s new leader. Ishiba, who was chosen by the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, wasted no time, announcing plans for a snap election. But not everyone is happy. Opposition parties are already voicing concerns, saying Ishiba isn’t giving politicians enough time to properly evaluate his policies before the vote. *) Did The Jerusalem Post delete article claiming ‘God gave Israel Lebanon’? The Jerusalem Post sparked online outrage after publishing — and swiftly removing — an article that suggested Lebanon might be part of Israel’s “promised land”. The controversial piece, published late September, explored the idea of a “Greater Israel”, a concept linked to far-right Israeli politics. Social media erupted after the article disappeared, with critics accusing the newspaper of promoting expansionist views. Many believe the timing, given the ongoing air strikes in Lebanon, made the story even more inflammatory.

*) Israel kills over two dozen Palestinians across Gaza Israel’s latest air strikes on Gaza since Sunday morning have killed at least 25 Palestinians and left many others wounded, according to the Civil Defence. The attacks happened in Beit Lahia, Jabalia, Gaza City, Nuseirat camp and Deir al Balah. Israel’s war on Gaza has now entered its 360th day, and so far, it’s claimed the lives of at least 41,595 Palestinians. On top of that, over 800 people have been killed in Israel’s bombings across Lebanon since September 23. *) Israel bombs key ports, power plants in Yemen Israel has also stepped up its strikes in Yemen, targeting Houthi-controlled areas after the Houthi group fired missiles at Israel in the last two days. According to the group’s health ministry, four people were killed and 33 others wounded in the attacks. Israel’s military said dozens of aircraft, including fighter jets, hit power plants and seaports at Ras Issa and Hudaida on Sunday. *) Red Cross slams ‘those who lead military operations’ for ignoring international law The head of the International Committee of the Red Cross has issued a stern warning on how the Geneva Conventions are being blatantly ignored in conflicts around the world. In an interview with Swiss daily Le Temps, Mirjana Spoljaric urged countries to urgently recommit to international law. She said that international humanitarian law is being “systematically trampled” by military leaders and highlighted the unimaginable number of casualties in Gaza, Sudan and Ukraine. *) Austria’s far-right secures first win in national election since WWII Far-right parties across Europe are celebrating after Austria’s Freedom Party (FPO) won a significant parliamentary election. It’s the first far-right national victory in Austria since World War II. The FPO, led by Herbert Kickl, managed to win around 29 percent of the vote by tapping into concerns about the economy and immigration. However, Kickl still needs to find a coalition partner, and other party leaders, who aren’t keen on him, are already talking about forming an alternative government to block him. *) Germany to deny citizenship to those using pro-Palestine slogan online Germany is set to deny citizenship to anyone who uses, likes, or comments on the slogan “From the river to the sea” on social media, a phrase tied to support for Palestine, according to local media reports. North German Radio and Television (NDR) said the new rules come from the German Interior Ministry, and they specifically disqualify anyone using this slogan from becoming a citizen. This decision comes after Germany passed its dual citizenship law back in June. The phrase has roots going back to the 1960s, demanding the full liberation of Palestine.

*) Erdogan blasts Israel for extending its 'genocidal policy' to Lebanon Turkish President Erdogan slammed Israel’s military actions in Lebanon, accusing it of extending "genocidal, occupation, and invasion policies." Erdogan condemned the killing of Lebanese civilians, including children, and said Israel is emboldened by international support, challenging humanitarian values and international law. "No one with a conscience can justify this massacre," Erdogan wrote on X. *) Türkiye criticises US decision to lift arms embargo on Greek Cypriot Türkiye’s Foreign Ministry warned that the US decision to extend the arms embargo lift on the Greek Cypriot side will spark an arms race on the island and destabilise the region. The island is divided between the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and the Greek Cypriot administration in the south. The US imposed the arms embargo on Cyprus in 1987 to prevent escalation. It lifted the embargo on the Greek Cypriot side in 2020, expanded it in 2022, and extended it again in 2023. *) Deadly bomb blasts hit Somalia's Mogadishu At least six people were killed and 10 injured in bomb blasts in Somalia's capital, Mogadishu, and the Middle Shabelle region. One blast came from a car rigged with explosives near the National Theatre, close to the president's office, killing five and injuring seven. While no group has claimed responsibility, al Shabaab frequently carries out such attacks. *) Flooding, landslides kill scores in Nepal's capital Floods and landslides in Nepal, triggered by heavy rains, have killed at least 59 people, with 44 still missing, police said. Over 200 incidents were reported, and the toll is expected to rise. Rivers near Kathmandu have overflowed, flooding nearby homes. *) Thousands in Japan bid farewell to pandas returning to China Thousands of emotional fans flocked to a Tokyo zoo to say goodbye to beloved pandas Ri Ri and Shin Shin before their return to China. Wearing panda-themed gear, visitors shed tears and took selfies as they waved at the couple. Over 2,000 fans lined up outside Ueno Zoo, with some camping out overnight.

*) Israel launches fierce new wave of airstrikes on Beirut Israel conducted its most intense bombardment on Beirut's southern suburbs, following a massive strike on Hezbollah's command centre. Reuters reported over 20 air strikes, as thousands of Lebanese fled their homes and gathered in downtown Beirut. "They want to destroy Dahiye, destroy all of us," said Sari, a displaced resident. Many sought refuge in parks and sidewalks, some trying to sleep on rolled-out mats in Martyrs Square. *) Netanyahu's attacks threaten regional stability — Hakan Fidan Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan condemned Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's attacks on Palestine and Lebanon, saying, "With Israeli aggression unbounded, we're in uncharted waters." Speaking at a UN Security Council meeting, Fidan urged, "Stop this war and Israeli aggression." His remarks followed intense Israeli air strikes on Beirut’s southern suburbs. *) Coming days will decide future path of the Middle East — Blinken US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged diplomacy as Israel ramped up strikes in Lebanon, calling on both Israel and Hezbollah to "stop firing." He warned the region faces a "precarious moment" and stressed that choices made now will have lasting consequences. Blinken emphasised the need for a ceasefire to pave the way for broader diplomatic talks. *) In rare rebuke, Belgian leaders blast Pope for church sex abuse cover-up Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo slammed Pope Francis over the Catholic Church's handling of clerical sex abuse, demanding “concrete steps” to prioritise victims over the institution. His sharp remarks came during the pope’s visit on Friday, breaking usual diplomatic protocol. The harsh tone reflects Belgium's ongoing outrage over decades of abuse and cover-ups that have eroded the Church's credibility and influence. And finally… *) Award-winning iconic British actress Maggie Smith dies at 89 Dame Maggie Smith, the Oscar-winning star of "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie," has died at 89. Her sons said she passed away Friday morning in a London hospital, leaving behind two sons and five heartbroken grandchildren.

*) Israel hits Gaza school, killing 11 people in devastating strike An Israeli air strike has hit a school in northern Gaza, where thousands of displaced Palestinians were taking shelter. At least 11 people were killed, with 22 others wounded, including women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The Israeli military confirmed the strike, which took place at the Al Falouja School in the Jabalia refugee camp. Footage from the scene showed rescue workers pulling victims from the debris as crowds gathered in shock. *) Netanyahu’s attendance at the UN General Assembly is a shame: Erdogan Turkish President Erdogan didn’t hold back, calling Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s presence at the UN General Assembly “a shame” for the global community. Speaking to reporters at the end of his diplomatic visit to New York, Erdogan said it was a betrayal to the memories of those killed — from babies to UN officials — in Gaza. He also pointed out the strange behaviour of the Israeli delegation after his speech, saying, “They can’t defend themselves. Their stance says it all.” *) World can’t wait for Israel’s nod to implement two-state solution: Fidan Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan criticised Israel for dragging its feet on the two-state solution, warning it could destabilise the entire region. Speaking at a meeting on Gaza at the UN, Fidan made it clear — the world can’t wait for Israel’s approval. He highlighted a recent Israeli parliament decision that rejected the idea of a Palestinian state, calling it “pure greed” and urging action. *) Africa unites at UNGA to demand permanent UNSC seats ‘with veto power’ At the UN General Assembly, African leaders stood united in their long-standing demand for permanent seats on the UN Security Council — and they want veto power too. Charles Milupi, a Zambian minister, told TRT World that Africa’s message is getting louder, with leaders saying it’s time for better representation at the United Nations. Milupi also called on the current permanent members — the US, UK, China, Russia and France — to listen and reform the Security Council. *) Zelenskyy presents ‘victory plan’ to Biden In a high-stakes meeting at the White House, US President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy discussed the ongoing conflict with Russia. The US had just announced nearly $8 billion in new aid for Ukraine. Biden laid out plans to ramp up security assistance, while Zelenskyy presented his strategy for achieving victory over Russia.

*) US, EU, Arab states call for Lebanon ‘temporary ceasefire’ The United States, the European Union and several Arab countries have come together to call for a temporary ceasefire in Lebanon. This comes after Israeli strikes raised fears of a wider conflict in the Middle East. In a joint statement, President Biden and President Macron emphasised that they have been collaborating to create this ceasefire to give diplomacy a chance and prevent further escalation. This effort is supported by nations like Australia, Canada, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar. *) Hezbollah attack on Tel Aviv ‘deeply concerning’ — White House The US is worried about a missile that Hezbollah fired from Lebanon towards Tel Aviv in Israel. John Kirby, a spokesperson for the White House National Security Council, mentioned that it’s concerning not just for Israel but for the US too. However, he also noted that there’s still an opportunity for diplomacy to help calm things down and prevent a larger conflict. *) Trump says Ukraine is ‘demolished’ at North Carolina speech Former President Donald Trump painted a pretty grim picture of Ukraine, calling it “demolished”. During a speech in North Carolina, he suggested that Ukraine should have made some deals with Russian President Vladimir Putin before the invasion in February 2022. He argued that even a bad deal would have been better than the current situation. Trump, who has often criticised US support for Ukraine, insists that Russia would not have invaded if he were still in office, claiming he could end the war if he returned to the White House. *) Russia, US violated international laws in Ukraine, Iraq — Slovakia Slovakia’s Foreign Minister, Juraj Blanar, recently spoke out about how world powers have violated international law by invading other countries. He pointed to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and the US invasion of Iraq in 2003 as clear breaches. Speaking to the media during the UN General Assembly, he emphasised that Slovakia’s stance is straightforward: both actions were wrong under international law. He added that we cannot just excuse violations depending on who’s involved; it’s not okay for anyone to break the rules. *) Beijing ‘firmly opposes’ US ban of Chinese tech from connected vehicles China’s commerce ministry has come out strongly against the US plans to ban the sale of connected vehicles that use Chinese and Russian technology, saying it poses national security risks. A spokesperson for the ministry stated that this move has no real basis and goes against fair competition and market principles, labelling it as protectionist. This proposed rule is part of President Biden’s tougher stance on China and follows a February announcement about looking into security concerns linked to Chinese tech in cars.