Gaza: Macron strongly criticises Israel’s military offensive

Peter Prinsley, a British MP and doctor, faced a troubling denial of entry into Israel while on a humanitarian mission with the Council for the Advancement of Arab-British Understanding. This incident raises significant concerns about the current state of Israel's policies and their implications for international relations and humanitarian efforts. It highlights the challenges faced by those seeking to engage in constructive dialogue and support in the region.

The ongoing assault by Israeli forces on Gaza City has escalated, resulting in the tragic deaths of two children due to a strike on a school. This situation is critical as it highlights the severe humanitarian crisis in the region, drawing international attention and concern over the impact of military actions on civilians, especially children.

The Israeli military has issued a stark warning to aid workers in northern Gaza, stating that only hospitals will be protected sites, leaving other humanitarian infrastructure vulnerable to potential targeting. This development raises serious concerns about the safety of aid operations and the well-being of civilians in the region, as the ongoing conflict intensifies. The implications of this warning could severely impact the delivery of essential services and aid to those in desperate need, highlighting the urgent need for international attention and intervention.

In Gaza City, many Christians are choosing to remain in their churches despite the ongoing Israeli military operations. This decision highlights their resilience and faith during a challenging time, showcasing how communities can find strength in their beliefs even amidst conflict. Their commitment to staying in their places of worship serves as a powerful symbol of hope and defiance.

Portugal's decision to recognize a Palestinian state is a significant step in international diplomacy, reflecting a growing trend among countries to support Palestinian statehood. With nine other nations, including France and the UK, planning similar actions next week, this move could enhance the legitimacy of Palestine on the global stage and potentially influence future negotiations in the region.

The situation in Gaza has escalated dramatically as Israeli forces have launched strikes with unprecedented force, resulting in the deaths of at least 43 people since dawn. This comes amid a growing humanitarian crisis, with the death toll from a man-made famine now reaching 441. The ongoing conflict has forced many Palestinians to flee their homes, highlighting the urgent need for international attention and intervention to address the dire conditions faced by civilians.

This week's photo gallery showcases significant global events, including Israeli strikes on Gaza, a funeral in Kyiv, riots in Paris, and the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. These images, captured by leading photojournalists, highlight the diverse and often distressing realities faced around the world, reminding us of the importance of visual storytelling in understanding current affairs.

The Labour Party has decided to exclude around 30 motions related to Palestine from being debated at its upcoming party conference, leading to criticism that the party is suppressing important discussions. This decision is significant as it reflects ongoing tensions within the party regarding its stance on Israel and Palestine, and raises concerns about the party's commitment to open dialogue on international issues.

The recent arrest of Hicham Harb, a suspect in a decades-old deadly attack on a Paris restaurant, marks a significant development in international justice. French officials attribute this breakthrough to the anticipated recognition of a Palestinian state, highlighting how diplomatic progress can aid in addressing past grievances. This case not only brings closure to victims' families but also underscores the importance of international cooperation in tackling long-standing issues.

Israel's ongoing ground offensive in Gaza is intensifying pressure on Hamas, but the repercussions are significant. While the military might seem to be gaining ground, the cost is high, as the conflict is isolating Israel internationally and causing deep divisions within its own society. This situation raises important questions about the long-term implications of such a strategy and the potential for lasting peace in the region.

Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair is reportedly developing a plan for post-war Gaza, as indicated by British and Israeli media. While there has been no official response from Israel, the situation could become complicated if US President Donald Trump endorses the initiative, making it difficult for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to decline. This development is significant as it highlights international involvement in the region's recovery efforts and the potential for diplomatic negotiations.

The United States has exercised its veto power for the sixth time to block UN Security Council resolutions concerning Gaza, a move that has drawn significant criticism. This action highlights the ongoing tensions between the US and other nations regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. By protecting Israel from international scrutiny, the US is not only influencing global diplomatic relations but also impacting the humanitarian situation in Gaza, making this a crucial issue for international peace efforts.

Estonia has called for consultations with NATO following reports of Russian jets allegedly violating its airspace. This incident comes amid heightened tensions, as Russia also faced accusations of drone incursions into the airspace of two other NATO member countries. The situation underscores the ongoing challenges in regional security and the importance of NATO's collective defense commitments.

Tony Abbott is calling on conservative voters to rally behind the Liberals, urging them to give the party 'one last chance' amidst internal conflicts. This appeal comes as key figures like Jacinta Nampijinpa Price and Warren Mundine emphasize the importance of unity within the conservative movement. Abbott's message is significant as it highlights the challenges the Liberals face and the need for a cohesive front to regain support, especially in light of factional disputes that threaten their stability.

DUP leader Gavin Robinson has pointed out that while the Northern Ireland Assembly has its flaws, the idea that people would be better off under Keir Starmer's leadership is misguided. This statement highlights the ongoing debate about the effectiveness of unionism in Northern Ireland and the challenges faced by political leaders in addressing public concerns.

Poland has taken proactive measures to secure its airspace by deploying aircraft in response to recent Russian strikes on western Ukraine. This move highlights Poland's commitment to national security and its readiness to protect its borders, especially given the escalating tensions in the region. The Polish military's swift action demonstrates a strong defense posture, reassuring citizens and allies alike.

The recent Optus network outage has raised serious concerns after it was revealed that the disruption lasted eight hours longer than initially reported, impacting 600 customers' ability to call emergency services. Tragically, this outage is linked to three incidents involving fatalities, highlighting the critical importance of reliable communication networks. This situation not only affects those directly involved but also raises questions about the accountability and preparedness of telecommunications providers in emergencies.

This week, Cillian Murphy delivers a standout performance in a gripping high school drama that balances brutality with hope, while Joy Crookes, the talented singer-songwriter from south London, makes a vibrant return with her unique style. These highlights from the Guardian's top reviews showcase the exciting developments in culture, reflecting the dynamic creativity in the arts that resonates with audiences.