Prof. Schlevogt’s Compass No. 29: Peace on powder kegs – Balm and bluff in Gaza

Israel and Hamas are gearing up for indirect negotiations in Egypt, raising questions about the potential end of the Gaza war. Analyst Oliver McTernan from Forward Thinking highlights the ongoing blame game between the parties, suggesting that the situation remains precarious. This development is crucial as it could signal a shift in the long-standing conflict, but the uncertainty surrounding the negotiations leaves many wondering if this time will be different from past ceasefire attempts.

The Wayne National Forest in Ohio, the state's only national forest, is facing potential devastation as over 80% of its land has been classified as suitable for logging under Trump's administration. This move has raised significant concerns among locals who remember the historical destruction of the area due to coal mining in the early 20th century. The forest, which has been a vital ecological and recreational resource, could be irreparably harmed, impacting wildlife and the community's connection to nature.

A recent poll reveals that 57% of Australians support imposing sanctions on Israel due to its ongoing military actions in Gaza, similar to those placed on Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. This significant public sentiment highlights a growing concern among Australians regarding international human rights and the need for accountability in global conflicts. The results of this survey could influence government policy and reflect a shift in public opinion towards more assertive foreign policy measures.

The UK government is set to grant police enhanced powers to limit protests, allowing them to assess the 'cumulative impact' of repeated demonstrations. This move comes as organizers of protests against the ban on Palestine Action have vowed to escalate their efforts, citing significant public fear stemming from ongoing large-scale demonstrations related to Gaza. This development raises concerns about the balance between maintaining public order and the right to protest, highlighting the tensions surrounding activism in the current political climate.

Negotiators are heading to Egypt as Hamas shows willingness to agree to parts of Trump's plan for Gaza. The world is closely watching these developments, as a ceasefire deal could significantly impact the ongoing conflict. The discussions aim to bridge the gaps between the two sides, and the outcome could lead to a more stable situation in the region.

This weekend, stunning photographs captured the beauty of desert blooms alongside poignant moments in Gaza, showcasing the resilience and spirit of its people. The Guardian's selection highlights the contrast between nature's vibrancy and the ongoing struggles faced by communities, reminding us of the power of imagery to evoke empathy and awareness. These visuals not only celebrate the natural world but also draw attention to important social issues, making them significant in today's context.

Despite former President Donald Trump's call for Israel to cease its bombardment, the conflict in Gaza escalated with airstrikes resulting in numerous casualties. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and raises questions about international influence on military actions, making it a critical moment for both humanitarian concerns and geopolitical dynamics.

Diana Buttu highlights the ongoing violence in the Gaza Strip, where Israel's actions have led to the deaths of tens of thousands of Palestinians and the destruction of essential infrastructure. This situation underscores a troubling pattern of neglect from the international community, which seems to overlook the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region. Buttu's call to action emphasizes the need for a renewed focus on Palestinian interests and a genuine commitment to peace.

Italian journalist Saverio Tommasi has returned to Rome, sharing alarming accounts of his time in Israeli custody during the Gaza flotilla incident. He reported that Israeli soldiers withheld necessary medications and subjected prisoners to degrading treatment. This revelation raises serious concerns about human rights and the treatment of detainees, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the region and the need for accountability.

Activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla, who aimed to reach Gaza, have been deported after facing interception and detention by Israeli authorities. Their experiences highlight ongoing tensions in the region and raise concerns about the treatment of activists advocating for Palestinian rights. This incident underscores the challenges faced by those attempting to bring attention to humanitarian issues in Gaza.

The Sunrise Movement, known for advocating the Green New Deal, is expanding its mission to combat authoritarianism, particularly in response to the Trump administration's crackdown on environmental policies and progressive activism. This shift is significant as it highlights the intersection of climate justice and democratic values, emphasizing the importance of protecting both the planet and the institutions that support free expression and education.

Alon Pinkas discusses the critical decision facing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the Trump administration's ceasefire proposal for Gaza. As Netanyahu weighs the potential benefits of accepting the plan against the pressures from his far-right coalition, the outcome could significantly impact the region's stability and Israel's political landscape. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions in Israeli politics and the complexities of international diplomacy.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has expressed a desire for police to gain more powers to impose restrictions on repeated protests. While this initiative is not intended to ban protests outright, it aims to introduce conditions that could help manage public demonstrations more effectively. This move is significant as it reflects ongoing discussions about balancing the right to protest with public order, a topic that resonates deeply in today's political climate.

At the Tory conference, Kemi Badenoch criticized pro-Palestine marches, labeling them as 'carnivals of hatred' and highlighting concerns about unchecked extremism in Britain. This statement reflects a growing tension in UK politics, where public sentiment is increasingly polarized. Additionally, recent polling by Opinium indicates that while some Conservative policies may initially seem popular, their appeal diminishes when linked to Badenoch, similar to the effect seen with Keir Starmer. This situation underscores the challenges both parties face in navigating public perception and the implications for future elections.

In an exhilarating finish at Longchamp, Daryz triumphed over the heavily favored Minnie Hauk to clinch the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe 2025. This thrilling race not only showcased the incredible talent of Daryz but also highlighted the unpredictability of horse racing, where favorites can be upended in the blink of an eye. Fans and bettors alike are buzzing with excitement, as this victory could reshape the landscape of future races and betting odds.

The Premier League match between Brentford and Manchester City is set to kick off at 4.30pm BST at Gtech. This matchup is significant as it showcases two competitive teams in the league, with Brentford looking to make a statement against the reigning champions, Manchester City. Fans are eager to see how the teams perform and what strategies they employ, making it a highly anticipated event in the football calendar.

Israel and Hamas are gearing up for indirect negotiations in Egypt, raising questions about the potential end of the Gaza war. Analyst Oliver McTernan from Forward Thinking highlights the ongoing blame game between the parties, suggesting that the situation remains precarious. This development is crucial as it could signal a shift in the long-standing conflict, but the uncertainty surrounding the negotiations leaves many wondering if this time will be different from past ceasefire attempts.

The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) has announced that every police force in the UK will now have dedicated journalist safety officers. This significant move is expected to enhance the safety and security of journalists while they carry out their vital work. By having these officers in place, journalists can feel more protected, which is crucial in today's challenging media landscape. This initiative not only supports the rights of journalists but also reinforces the importance of a free press in society.