Who are the armed groups contesting Hamas's authority in Gaza?

At least 13 people were killed in an Israeli airstrike on a Palestinian refugee camp in southern Lebanon, according to Lebanese sources. The Israeli army stated that the strike targeted a 'Hamas training compound' in the region. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions and violence in the area, as Israel continues its military operations against Hamas, which it designates as a terrorist organization. The situation remains critical as the conflict escalates, affecting civilians in the region.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman stated that Saudi Arabia will not normalize relations with Israel without a clear path to Palestinian statehood. He expressed interest in joining the Abraham Accords initiated by former President Trump, which aimed to establish diplomatic relations between Israel and several Arab nations. The Crown Prince emphasized the importance of addressing Palestinian rights as a prerequisite for any normalization efforts.

As the Middle East experiences significant political shifts, US-Saudi relations are influenced by a complex mix of security ties, regional diplomacy, and personal interests. The Trump family's longstanding connections to Saudi Arabia raise questions about potential financial gains for the US president. The evolving dynamics could impact peace and stability in the region, with implications for relations with other nations like Syria and Israel.

Hamas and other factions in Gaza have condemned a recent UN resolution, stating that it undermines the Palestinian right to self-determination. The groups argue that the resolution reinforces a reality that restricts their national will and autonomy. This sentiment reflects ongoing tensions regarding international interventions in the region and the Palestinian struggle for sovereignty.

The UN Security Council adopted a US-backed resolution on Gaza with 13 votes in favor and two abstentions. This resolution is largely based on President Donald Trump's 20-point peace plan for the Palestinian enclave. The plan aims to address the ongoing conflict and establish a framework for future governance and stability in the region.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has consistently opposed Palestinian independence and the two-state solution. However, with the U.S. pushing for a ceasefire in Gaza that could open the door to Palestinian statehood, Netanyahu is facing significant international pressure. Long-term peace remains elusive, as highlighted by the insights of Itamar Avneri, a founding member of the grassroots peace movement, Standing Together.

Donald Trump has reversed his long-standing opposition to the release of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, stating he will sign a Congressional bill that mandates disclosure. This shift comes after months of Trump labeling the investigation a 'Democratic hoax.' The change raises questions about political dynamics as Trump faces little resistance from his party. Douglas Herbert from France24 provides insights into this significant development.

Six protesters from Palestine Action caused significant damage to a UK site of Elbit Systems, an Israel-based defense firm. The incident involved an activist striking an officer with a hammer during the protest, which has been characterized as a serious escalation in the ongoing tensions surrounding pro-Palestinian activism. The protest highlights the contentious relationship between activists and defense contractors linked to Israel.