Who was Yasser Abu Shabab, Israel-backed militia leader killed in Gaza?

The New York Times has initiated a lawsuit against the Pentagon and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, challenging new rules that grant significant discretion to the Pentagon chief in removing journalists based on their coverage. This legal action highlights concerns over press freedom and the implications of government control over media access.

Ireland, Spain, Slovenia, and the Netherlands have announced a boycott of the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 following the European Broadcasting Union's decision to allow Israel to compete without a vote on its participation. This decision comes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and calls for Israel's exclusion due to the conflict in Gaza.

Yasser Abu Shabab, a prominent leader of the anti-Hamas militia group Popular Forces, was killed in Gaza while reportedly trying to mediate a family dispute. His group asserts that his death was not a result of Hamas's actions, which adds complexity to the ongoing conflict in the region.

The body of Ran Gvili, a 24-year-old Israeli police officer, has been confirmed as the last hostage not yet returned by Hamas from Gaza, as reported by his parents in an interview with the BBC. This development follows a series of hostage negotiations and ceasefire agreements that have characterized the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

At least four countries, including Spain and the Netherlands, have announced their withdrawal from the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest due to the decision to allow Israel to participate. This boycott reflects rising tensions surrounding Israel's involvement amid ongoing geopolitical conflicts, particularly related to the situation in Gaza.

Palestinians with disabilities gathered to commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, highlighting their resilience and solidarity in the face of adversity. This event serves as a platform for raising awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, particularly in conflict zones like Gaza.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 draw is set to take place in Washington, D.C., coinciding with the arrival of the prestigious trophy, which has been on display in the city. This event marks a significant milestone as teams prepare for the upcoming tournament.

French President Emmanuel Macron is visiting China for discussions with President Xi Jinping, focusing on trade imbalances and China's support for Russia amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The talks are part of Macron's efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and address significant economic challenges, including a projected €400 billion trade deficit for the European Union with China this year.