‘Collective punishment’: Family home of suspect demolished in West Bank

An Israeli missile strike in Khan Younis has resulted in the deaths of five individuals, including two children, according to Gaza's civil defense agency. This incident highlights the ongoing violence in the region, with reports indicating that the strike was part of Israel's operations against Hamas militants following clashes. The situation remains dire as civilian casualties continue to rise amidst military actions.

Lebanon and Israel have engaged in their first direct talks in 40 years amid rising fears of war, with the Lebanese Prime Minister clarifying that these discussions are not peace talks and that normalization is contingent upon a halt to hostilities and the withdrawal of Israeli troops.

The Eurovision Song Contest is facing a critical decision as its organizing body may vote on Israel's participation in the 2026 competition, amid threats from several nations to withdraw if Israel is not excluded due to the ongoing Gaza conflict. This situation marks a significant moment for the contest, as it navigates political tensions while aiming to maintain its cultural integrity.

Israel has announced that the Rafah crossing with Egypt will soon open, allowing Palestinians to exit Gaza. This decision comes amid ongoing humanitarian concerns and is seen as a unilateral move, as it does not permit entry into Gaza, raising questions about Israel's intentions.

The Red Cross has handed over presumed remains from Gaza to Israel, which Hamas claims belong to one of the last two hostages held in the region. Israeli forensic experts will conduct examinations to confirm the identity of the remains. This transfer follows a ceasefire agreement that has been in place since October 10, during which Hamas has released several bodies of hostages.

Israel has received the remains of a deceased hostage, identified as Dror Or, from Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ). The remains were reportedly found in northern Gaza and will undergo forensic tests in Tel Aviv. This transfer follows a ceasefire that began on October 10, during which Hamas has released several bodies of hostages.

Israel has announced plans to open the Rafah crossing soon, allowing Palestinians to leave Gaza and cross into Egypt. This decision comes amid ongoing humanitarian concerns and discussions regarding the situation in Gaza, where safe passage for civilians has become increasingly urgent.

An investigation has revealed that Israel conducted 248 strikes using white phosphorus in southern Lebanon between October 2023 and November 2024, raising serious concerns about the substance's long-term impact on health, agriculture, and the environment, according to researcher Ahmad Baydoun.