West Bank olives and Russian drone attacks: photos of the day – Thursday

Tensions between Israel and the United States have escalated as President Donald Trump publicly warned Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu against annexing the West Bank. This warning comes as Secretary of State Marco Rubio visits Israel to support a truce in Gaza. The situation is significant as it highlights the shifting dynamics in U.S.-Israel relations and the potential impact on peace efforts in the region.

The inquiry into grooming gangs led by Keir Starmer is facing significant backlash as survivors express frustration over the recruitment of chairs from professions that previously failed to protect them. This division highlights the ongoing struggle for justice and accountability, raising concerns about whether the inquiry will effectively address the issues at hand. The situation is critical as it affects the trust of survivors in the system meant to support them.

US Vice President Vance has criticized the recent vote by the Israeli parliament regarding the annexation of the West Bank, labeling it a 'political stunt.' He emphasized that former President Trump would not support such actions, highlighting the contentious nature of the issue. This matters because it reflects ongoing tensions in the region and the complexities of US-Israel relations, especially as political dynamics shift.

The Guardian's editorial critiques the Conservative Party's immigration policy, particularly its plans to revoke indefinite leave to remain, which echoes far-right ideologies. The piece highlights the troubling implications of such policies, suggesting they threaten the rights of individuals and promote a culture of fear. It also questions the effectiveness of the recent migration deal with France, indicating that the government's claims of success are premature. This discussion is crucial as it raises awareness about the potential human rights violations and societal impacts of stringent immigration measures.

During a recent two-day visit to Israel, US Vice President JD Vance firmly opposed any plans for Israel to annex the occupied West Bank. This stance is significant as it reflects the ongoing tensions in the region and the complexities of US foreign policy regarding Israel and Palestine. Vance's rejection of annexation could influence future diplomatic discussions and the peace process.

US Vice President JD Vance has criticized recent votes in the Knesset regarding the annexation of the West Bank, calling them an 'insult' and a 'stupid political stunt.' In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has paused the advancement of these controversial bills. This development is significant as it highlights the tensions between US and Israeli policies on Palestinian territories, raising concerns about the future of peace negotiations and the rights of Palestinians.

Conservative MP Katie Lam has sparked controversy within her party after suggesting that many legally settled individuals should be deported to enhance the UK's cultural coherence. This statement has led to complaints from fellow MPs to party whips, highlighting a growing confusion regarding the party's stance on indefinite leave to remain. Lam's comments not only raise questions about the party's immigration policy but also reflect a deeper divide within the Conservatives as they navigate complex issues surrounding cultural identity and immigration.

Vice-President Vance and Secretary of State Rubio have expressed strong criticism of the Israeli parliament's recent vote to annex parts of the West Bank. Vance labeled the decision as 'stupid,' highlighting concerns over its implications for regional stability. Rubio warned that this move could jeopardize ongoing efforts for peace in Gaza, emphasizing the delicate balance needed in Middle Eastern politics. Their remarks underscore the potential fallout from such legislative actions, which could further complicate an already tense situation.

The Quebec government has announced plans to ban religious symbols in daycares, a move that Secularism Minister Jean-François Roberge claims reflects a broad consensus among Quebecers for strengthening secularism. This decision is significant as it highlights ongoing debates about the role of religion in public spaces and the balance between individual rights and collective values in Quebec society.

The Europa League matches are heating up with Nottingham Forest facing Porto and Celtic taking on Sturm Graz. Fans are eagerly following the live updates as teams push for crucial goals. Notably, manager Emery has made strategic substitutions, bringing in key players like Rogers and McGinn to turn the tide in their favor. This tournament is significant as it showcases the competitive spirit of European football and the potential for underdog teams to shine on a larger stage.

The search for a new chair to lead the grooming inquiry is expected to take months, following the unexpected withdrawal of two prominent candidates. This delay raises concerns about the inquiry's progress and the impact it may have on addressing critical issues related to grooming. The situation highlights the challenges faced in appointing leadership for such significant investigations.

In a surprising move, President Donald Trump has granted a pardon to Canadian cryptocurrency billionaire Changpeng Zhao, who was serving a sentence for money laundering after pleading guilty. This decision not only highlights the complexities of the legal landscape surrounding cryptocurrency but also raises questions about the implications for the industry as a whole. Zhao, the founder of Binance, is a significant figure in the crypto world, and this pardon could influence future regulatory discussions and the perception of cryptocurrency entrepreneurs.

In a significant crackdown, the FBI has arrested over 30 individuals linked to illegal gambling activities associated with the NBA. These charges involve insider sports betting and rigged poker games, raising serious concerns about the integrity of sports and the influence of organized crime. This situation highlights the ongoing battle against corruption in sports and the need for stricter regulations to protect the integrity of games that fans love.

In a significant ruling, a UK tribunal has determined that Apple abused its dominant position in the market by excluding competition and imposing excessive commissions on its App Store. This decision is crucial as it could pave the way for increased scrutiny of Apple's business practices and potentially lead to changes in how app developers are charged, fostering a more competitive environment.