Gaza Humanitarian Crisis and Conflict Escalation
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached a critical point, with reports indicating that ten Palestinians, including two children, have starved to death in the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of starvation-related deaths in the besieged strip to 313, with 119 being children. Officials in Gaza report that only 14% of essential food items were permitted into the enclave last month. In addition to the famine, at least 76 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks in Gaza since dawn, with 18 of them reportedly seeking food. Al Jazeera has reported that Israeli forces are leveling entire blocks of Gaza City.
The Israeli government has claimed that Monday's deadly strike on Nasser Hospital, which killed 21 people including five journalists, targeted a camera used by Hamas for surveillance, though no evidence was provided to support this assertion. In response to the killing of journalists, a Reuters photojournalist has resigned, criticizing the outlet's handling of the situation. Human Rights Watch has stated that U.S. forces and personnel could be held liable for Israeli war crimes due to their involvement in providing intelligence and coordination for Israeli strikes. Furthermore, Pope Leo XIV has demanded an end to "collective punishment" and forced displacement of Palestinians in Gaza. Israeli military operations also extended to the West Bank, with raids conducted in the cities of Nablus and Ramallah.
European Leaders Bolster Moldova Against Russian Influence
In a significant show of support, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk are currently in Chisinau, Moldova. Their visit is intended to demonstrate solidarity with the Republic of Moldova and its pro-European president, Maia Sandu, amidst what they describe as Russian 'threats' and 'interference'. The leaders aim to reaffirm their commitment to Moldova's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. They also expressed strong support for Moldova's 'European course' as the country continues its EU accession negotiations, which began in June 2024.
Meanwhile, Russia continues to face internal challenges, with frustrated Russians grappling with a fuel crisis exacerbated by Ukrainian attacks on oil refineries. Russia has also publicly rejected the idea of EU troops being deployed in Ukraine.
Denmark Summons US Diplomat Over Greenland Allegations
A diplomatic incident has arisen between Denmark and the United States, with Denmark summoning a U.S. diplomat over an alleged influence campaign in Greenland. Danish broadcaster DR reported that at least three Americans have been involved in operations aimed at weakening relations with Denmark from within Greenlandic society. The Associated Press noted that it could not independently confirm the report.
Tragic School Shooting in Minneapolis
In the United States, a devastating school shooting occurred in Minneapolis, where two children were killed and 17 people were injured at a Catholic school. The incident has prompted widespread concern and a manhunt for the suspect.