ديجيتال فابلت

الوسم: Conflict

  • Gaza Partition Threat Grows Amid Trump Plan’s Collapse

    Gaza Partition Threat Grows Amid Trump Plan’s Collapse

    A de facto division of Gaza appears to be taking shape between an area under Israeli control and another increasingly isolated from the rest of the territory, with multiple sources indicating that efforts to push forward US President Donald Trump’s peace plan are stalling beyond a temporary ceasefire.

    Six European officials familiar with the implementation efforts told Reuters that progress has effectively come to a halt, suggesting that reconstruction might be confined solely to the part of Gaza under Israeli control, potentially resulting in decades-long separation.

    Since October 10, Israel has held control over roughly 53% of Gaza’s land, including most agricultural areas, Rafah in the south, parts of Gaza City, and other urban zones.

    The remaining Gaza Strip, housing nearly two million residents, remains largely crowded with people living in makeshift tents amid the debris of destroyed neighborhoods, seen in drone footage from November showing significant destruction in northeastern Gaza City — a result of Israel’s final assault prior to the ceasefire after months of bombardment. The area is now split between Israeli and Hamas authority.

    The upcoming phase of the plan envisages Israel withdrawing further from the “yellow line” agreed upon in Trump’s framework, establishing a transitional governing body for Gaza, deploying a multinational security force to replace Israeli troops, disarming Hamas, and initiating rebuilding efforts. However, no set timelines or detailed procedures for these actions have been provided. Meanwhile, disagreements persist: Hamas refuses to disarm, Israel opposes Palestinian Authority involvement, and the future size and role of the multinational force remain unclear.

    Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi stated at a Manama security conference that negotiations are ongoing, emphasizing a shared desire among all parties to conclude the conflict but questioning how to make that happen. Without strong U.S. intervention to break this deadlock, the “yellow line” may remain an enduring border, as per estimates from 18 sources, including the six European officials and a former U.S. diplomat familiar with the talks.

    The U.S. has drafted a United Nations Security Council resolution proposing a two-year mandate for the multinational force and transitional governance. Nonetheless, few governments are eager to commit troops, especially if responsibilities extend beyond peacekeeping and risk direct fights with Hamas or other Palestinian factions. European and Arab nations are particularly reluctant to participate under such conditions.

    Both Vice President JD Vance and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner have indicated that reconstruction aid could flow into the Israeli-controlled section despite stalled negotiations, with plans to set up model zones for some Gaza residents. This piecemeal approach suggests that the divisions on the ground might become more entrenched, according to Michael Wahid Hanna of the International Crisis Group.

    A State Department spokesperson acknowledged significant progress but declined to clarify whether reconstruction efforts would be limited geographically. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has committed not to re-occupy Gaza, even as some far-right members push for re-establishing settlements there–a move he opposes, preferring to maintain a border buffer zone to prevent Hamas attacks.

    Israeli forces have marked the withdrawal line with large yellow concrete blocks and are constructing infrastructure on Gaza’s side of this line, including fortified outposts like the one in Shejaiya neighborhood, where recent satellite images reveal bulldozed earth and fresh paving, forming strategic vantage points.

    Israel’s military spokesperson Nadav Shoshani expressed readiness to move further once Hamas disarms and an international security force is operational. Israel accuses Hamas of stalling the partial disarmament process, even as the group has released its last 20 living hostages and remains holds the bodies of four others.

    In Gaza, Hamas is reasserting control by providing local police and civil workers to administer security and civil functions, including guarding food stalls and clearing debris with heavy equipment. Hamas leader Hazem Qassem stated that the group is prepared to transfer authority to a technocratic Palestinian entity to enable reconstruction, emphasizing the need for equal development across all Gaza regions.

    Discussions are also ongoing about whether Hamas could decommission weapons under international supervision instead of surrendering them to Israel or a foreign peacekeeping force. Many European and Arab nations support the idea of the Palestinian Authority (PA), based in the West Bank, returning to Gaza alongside the multinational force to take over from Hamas. However, Israel opposes PA involvement, wary of strengthening the existing Palestinian government.

    Without significant shifts in Hamas’ or Israel’s positions or pressure from the U.S., most European officials believe Trump’s plan is unlikely to progress beyond its initial ceasefire phase. Britain’s Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper underscored that Gaza should not remain in limbo.

    Residents of Gaza City, like 62-year-old Salah Abu Amr, express concerns about the practicality of reconstruction within a divided territory, questioning whether Israel will permit movement into the area or if families will be split further.

    Funding remains uncertain for rebuilding Gaza under Israeli authority, as Gulf nations are reluctant to invest without political progress toward Palestinian statehood, which Israel resists. The total estimated cost to rebuild Gaza exceeds $70 billion. Such fragmentation could further undermine Palestinian aspirations and worsen the humanitarian crisis, leaving residents heavily dependent on aid and lacking adequate shelter.

    Jordan’s Safadi cautioned against Gaza’s division, emphasizing that the territory is indivisible and part of occupied Palestinian lands. Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin reiterated the Palestinian Authority’s readiness to assume full sovereignty and responsibilities over Gaza, asserting that sustainable stability and reconstruction require political independence and unified governance.

  • IDF Lawyers Alerted to Potential Gaza War Crimes, US Intel Finds

    IDF Lawyers Alerted to Potential Gaza War Crimes, US Intel Finds

    Palestinian children stand amidst the debris of destroyed structures in Jabalia, northern Gaza Strip, on November 6, 2025. — Reuters

    Last year, U.S. intelligence indicated that Israel’s military legal advisors warned there was evidence potentially supporting charges of war crimes linked to Israel’s military operations in Gaza. This intelligence, previously unreported, was among the most startling pieces of information shared with U.S. policymakers during the conflict. It revealed doubts within the Israeli military about the legality of their tactics, which sharply contrasted with Israel’s public defense of its actions.

    Two former U.S. officials stated that this intelligence was not widely circulated within the U.S. government until late in President Biden’s administration, when it was more broadly shared ahead of a congressional briefing in December 2024. The information heightened concerns in Washington about Israel’s conduct in a war that Israel claimed was necessary to eliminate Hamas fighters embedded in civilian infrastructure—the same group responsible for the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. There were worries that Israel was intentionally targeting civilians and aid workers, which could constitute war crimes, a claim Israel strongly denies.

    U.S. officials expressed alarm over these findings, especially as the rising civilian death toll in Gaza raised questions about whether Israel’s military operations might be violating international legal standards regarding collateral damage. The former officials did not specify what particular incidents or evidence prompted these legal concerns from Israel’s military.

    According to Gaza health officials, Israel has killed over 68,000 Palestinians during a two-year campaign, with the military stating at least 20,000 of those killed were militants. Nine former U.S. officials who served during President Biden’s term, including six with direct knowledge of the intelligence and the internal debates, spoke anonymously due to sensitivity.

    Reports of internal dissent within the U.S. government over Israel’s Gaza campaign emerged during Biden’s presidency. This account, based on detailed recollections from those involved, provides a comprehensive picture of the intensity of the debate in the final weeks before the transition to President Trump’s term in January.

    The Israeli ambassador to the U.S., Yechiel Leiter, declined to comment on the intelligence or the internal discussions. Neither the Israeli Prime Minister’s office nor the military promptly responded to requests for comment.

    The intelligence prompted an interagency meeting at the National Security Council, where officials and legal experts discussed how to respond. Declaring that Israel committed war crimes would have meant halting future arms shipments and ceasing intelligence sharing, both of which are essential given Israel’s close cooperation with U.S. intelligence over decades, particularly regarding the Middle East.

    During December, officials from across the government, including State, Defense, intelligence agencies, and the White House, discussed the issue. President Biden was also briefed by national security advisors. The White House did not comment publicly; a State Department spokesperson simply stated, “We do not comment on intelligence matters.”

    Ultimately, the debate within the Biden administration concluded that supporting Israel with weapons and intelligence remained legal because the U.S. had not independently gathered evidence proving Israeli violations of the laws of armed conflict. The reasoning was that the intelligence did not demonstrate Israeli intent to deliberately kill civilians or block aid, which are critical elements for legal liability.

    Some senior officials hesitated, fearing that publicly labeling Israel’s actions as war crimes could force the U.S. to cut off military aid, potentially emboldening Hamas, delaying ceasefire talks, and shifting the political landscape in favor of the militant group. Hamas had launched a brutal attack on October 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people and kidnapping 251, prompting Israel’s military response.

    This decision to avoid a definitive stance frustrated some involved, who believed the Biden administration should have been more outspoken about alleged Israeli abuses and the U.S. role in enabling them. Former officials noted that President Trump and his officials, briefed on the intelligence, showed little interest after taking office in January and increasingly aligned with Israel.

    Concerns about potential war crimes predated the intelligence, with State Department lawyers regularly raising worries about Israel’s conduct in Gaza during meetings with Secretary of State Antony Blinken. They believed Israel’s military actions might violate international humanitarian law and possibly amount to war crimes. However, these lawyers avoided making conclusive assessments, a move criticized by others in the department, who saw it as a way of avoiding accountability.

    The lack of definitive conclusions was reflected in a 2024 State Department report suggesting Israel might have violated international law using U.S.-supplied weapons, though it acknowledged the complexities of the conflict. Secretary Blinken said the Biden administration continuously reviewed Israel’s compliance with laws of armed conflict but declined to discuss specific intelligence.

    Internationally, concerns about war crimes escalated when, last November, the International Criminal Court in The Hague issued warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his former defense chief, and Hamas leader Mohammed Deif—alleging crimes related to the Gaza conflict. Israel dismisses the ICC’s jurisdiction and denies any war crimes, as does Hamas regarding any allegations against them.

    Throughout the final weeks of Biden’s presidency, U.S. officials debated whether the U.S. could be considered complicit if Israeli officials faced international charges. While publicly supporting Israel, private discussions acknowledged the potential diplomatic and political vulnerabilities this issue posed for Democrats. Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaigns faced scrutiny over these debates.

    Biden has yet to comment on this matter. Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen from Maryland, a critic of Israel’s Gaza operations and U.S. support, accused the Biden administration of intentionally ignoring evidence of war crimes. He argued that the U.S. had “deliberately looked the other way” despite overwhelming evidence of the misuse of American weapons in Gaza.

    Israel maintains that its military operations are aimed at Hamas, not civilians, and claims to take measures to minimize civilian harm, including issuing warnings and using appropriate munitions to target militants embedded in civilian sites. The Israeli military stated it is investigating approximately 2,000 incidents of possible misconduct, including civilian casualties and infrastructure damage, some of which emerged during the Hague’s genocide case against Israel.

  • Eight planes shot down in Pakistan-India clash, confirms Trump

    Eight planes shot down in Pakistan-India clash, confirms Trump

    US President Donald Trump stated that eight planes were shot down during the May 2025 clash between Pakistan and India with nuclear capabilities.

    In a recent interview with a private TV station, Trump mentioned that some newspapers reported seven or eight aircraft were destroyed in the conflict. He noted that one outlet claimed seven planes were lost and another reported damage to additional aircraft.

    “I won’t specify any particular newspaper—most of them publish false information,” Trump remarked, asserting that a total of eight planes were shot down in the recent Indo-Pak fight.

    Last month, the US leader claimed that “seven brand-new and beautiful planes were shot down” during the conflict, highlighting India’s losses during the skirmish.

    Trump also took credit for helping broker the ceasefire, claiming he personally prevented a nuclear escalation. Speaking at a dinner with business executives in Japan, he suggested that many conflicts he de-escalated stemmed from tariffs he imposed on multiple nations, which he called a service to global peace.

    “India and Pakistan were on the verge of fighting,” he said. “I told Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, a very good man and a very nice person, along with Pakistan’s Field Marshal Asim Munir, that we wouldn’t engage in trade if they continued fighting.”

    He recounted telling them, “No trade deals if fighting persists,” and within 24 hours, the tensions ceased. He emphasized that trade accounts for about 70% of the reason wars are avoided.

    During a Diwali celebration at the White House on October 22, Trump mentioned he advised Modi that there should be no war with Pakistan, stressing his role in preventing multiple conflicts through diplomacy and economic pressure.

    He praised Modi, calling him a “great person” and a “friend,” and underscored that his efforts had kept the peace between India and Pakistan—two nuclear-armed neighbors who have fought three wars since gaining independence and are still divided over the Kashmir region.

    In May, tensions escalated into the most severe military clash between the two nations in decades, sparked by a terrorist attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Indian-occupied Kashmir, which India blamed on Pakistan. Pakistan denied involvement in the attack, which resulted in 26 fatalities. It was India’s deadliest attack on civilians since the 2008 Mumbai strikes.

    Following the assault, India launched unprovoked attacks on Pakistani targets for three days, prompting Pakistan’s armed forces to retaliate with Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos, successfully downing seven Indian Air Force fighters—including three Rafales—and numerous drones. After more than 87 hours, the conflict ended on May 10, with a ceasefire brokered by the United States.

  • Men shot and vanished after Sudan city falls to paramilitaries

    Men shot and vanished after Sudan city falls to paramilitaries

    Displaced residents of Sudan are gathering and resting in temporary tents after fleeing Al-Fashir city in Darfur, on October 29, 2025, in Tawila, Sudan, according to Reuters.

    – Witness recounts reports of summary executions near a reservoir.
    – The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) deny involvement in any summary killings.
    – The fall of Al-Fashir deepens the divide within Sudan.

    Over the weekend, camels were used to herd hundreds of men to a reservoir near Al-Fashir, where they were subjected to racial slurs before gunfire erupted, a man claiming to be present reported. Alkheir Ismail recognized one of the captors from school days, who then allowed him to escape. He shared his account via a video interview with a local journalist from Tawila.

    “Someone told them, ‘Don’t kill him,’” Ismail recounted. “Even after they shot my friends and the others.”

    He explained he was bringing food to relatives still inside the city when it was captured by RSF forces on Sunday and was unarmed. Reuters has not independently confirmed his story. Ismail is one of four witnesses and six aid workers who told Reuters that fleeing individuals from Al-Fashir had been gathered and separated by gender, with some men taken away. Gunfire incidents have also been reported earlier by witnesses.

    Long-standing concerns from activists and analysts warn that the RSF may commit revenge killings based on ethnicity if they seize control of Al-Fashir, Darfur’s last stronghold of the Sudanese military. The UN Human Rights Office estimates that hundreds of civilians and unarmed fighters may have been executed, actions considered war crimes. While the RSF has denied such abuses, alleging they are fabricated by enemies, they confirm ongoing investigations and have made arrests.

    The RSF claims that certain men were detained for interrogation, not execution, and states it has been aiding civilians and has called on humanitarian organizations to help those remaining in the city. Several visuals have emerged on social media showing RSF fighters shooting unarmed captives and clusters of bodies after an incident.

    A top RSF commander labeled reports of atrocities as propaganda by the army and its allies to cover their defeat and loss of Al-Fashir. The RSF leadership has ordered investigations into misconduct, with some arrests made, and has helped facilitate the departure of civilians from the city. The forces also claim to have taken some soldiers and fighters into custody for questioning, denying allegations of killing.

    Several eyewitnesses have described harrowing experiences attempting to escape. Medecins Sans Frontieres reports that around 500 civilians and soldiers from the armed forces, along with allied groups, attempted to flee on October 26 but most were either killed or captured. Survivors recount being separated by gender, age, or ethnicity, with many held for ransom—ransoms reaching up to 30 million Sudanese pounds ($50,000).

    The RSF’s seizure of Al-Fashir consolidates the territorial divisions of a country already reconfigured by South Sudan’s independence in 2011, following decades of conflict. In a speech, RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo urged his fighters to protect civilians and promised to hold violators accountable, while also acknowledging reports of detentions with orders for their release.

    Expert Alex de Waal observed that RSF behavior in Al-Fashir closely mirrors their actions in Geneina and elsewhere earlier in the conflict, indicating a pattern of conduct in Darfur’s ongoing turmoil.

    In Tawila, NGO protection adviser Mary Brace reports that displaced individuals are primarily women, children, and elderly men, often transported by RSF-organized trucks from Garney. The RSF has posted videos claiming to show aid being provided in Garney, possibly as a tactic to attract international assistance and retain control over towns.

    While approximately 260,000 people were in Al-Fashir at the time of the attack, only around 62,000 are currently accounted for elsewhere, mainly in Tawila, which is under neutral control. Additional testimonies include that of Tahani Hassan, a former hospital cleaner, who fled following her relatives’ death and was assaulted during her escape. She reports being beaten, searched, and having her belongings spilled, with her family separated and most presumed dead due to the treatment they endured.

  • Gaza Journalists Express Frustration Over Global Silence

    Gaza Journalists Express Frustration Over Global Silence

    During the Gaza conflict, journalists shared their painful stories of loss and survival, expressing deep frustration over the international community’s silence in response to the killing of media personnel by Israeli forces.

    At the 2025 International Press Institute (IPI) World Congress and Media Innovation Festival, a panel of journalists described the emotional toll and dangers they endured while reporting from Gaza, describing a sense of “abandonment” as they witnessed violence against the press firsthand.

    Wael Al-Dahdouh, an Al Jazeera journalist who lost five family members—including his wife—in Israeli strikes and found his daughter alive beneath the rubble, questioned, “What did my family do?” He described the harsh reality of covering the war, where journalists feel torn between their role as reporters and their humanity.

    Al-Dahdouh also criticized the international media’s inadequate response to the violence, stating, “We were left alone,” and emphasized that much more support was needed. Data from the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) revealed that at least 238 journalists and media workers have been killed by Israel since October 7, 2023.

    Rawan Damen, a senior journalist with Al Araby TV, commended Al-Dahdouh’s balanced coverage and contrasted it with the mainstream international media’s failure to address what some are calling a “genocide,” noting that independent outlets and organizations have been more vocal.

    French journalist Laurent Richard warned of the dangerous consequences of inaction, highlighting how the killing of journalists has become normalized and accountability is lacking.

    Basel Khalaf, another reporter on the ground, described Gaza’s transformation from a “large prison” to a “large cemetery,” urging the global media to go beyond statistics and focus on human stories. He emphasized the urgent needs of Gaza’s journalists, including vital equipment, medical treatment for the injured, and freedom for those detained by Israel, calling on the international press to keep the story alive.

  • Gaza Journalists Call Out Global Silence

    Gaza Journalists Call Out Global Silence

    Protesters displayed a memorial sign honoring slain Palestinian Al Jazeera journalist Anas al-Sharif during a demonstration organized by Spanish unions in Madrid, Spain, on October 15, 2025. — Reuters

    Journalists covering the Gaza conflict recounted harrowing tales of loss and survival, expressing deep frustration over the international community’s muted response to the targeting and killing of media personnel by Israeli forces.

    At the 2025 International Press Institute (IPI) World Congress and Media Innovation Festival, a panel of journalists shared the emotional and traumatic moments they endured amid the Gaza war, lamenting a pervasive sense of abandonment as they witnessed violence against the press.

    Wael Al-Dahdouh, an Al Jazeera reporter who lost five family members—including his wife—in Israeli strikes, and who found his daughter alive under rubble, questioned: “What did my family do?”

    He described reporting in such conditions as a “unique and agonizing reality,” where journalists face the heartbreaking choice between fulfilling their duties or protecting their humanity. Al-Dahdouh criticized the international media’s inadequate response to the violence, stating, “We were left alone,” and emphasized the need for greater action.

    Data from the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) indicated that at least 238 journalists and media workers had been killed by Israel since October 7, 2023.

    Senior journalist Rawan Damen from Al Araby TV commended Al-Dahdouh’s balanced coverage, contrasting his approach with mainstream international outlets, which largely failed to address what she called “genocide,” leaving the spotlight to independent organizations and some brave broadcasters.

    French journalist Laurent Richard warned about the dangerous consequences of inaction, pointing out the normalization of journalist murders and widespread impunity.

    Basel Khalaf, also a journalist covering Gaza, described the territory as having shifted from “a large prison” before the conflict to “a large cemetery” today. He called on the global media to go beyond mere statistics and humanize the stories of Gazan reporters, highlighting the urgent needs of his colleagues—including essential equipment, medical aid for the injured, and the release of detainees held by Israel—urging international press to keep the narrative alive.

  • Trump claims resolving Pakistan-Afghanistan conflict is ‘very easy’

    Trump claims resolving Pakistan-Afghanistan conflict is ‘very easy’

    During a meeting at the White House on October 17, U.S. President Donald Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Cabinet Room. Trump claimed to have helped resolve eight international conflicts over the past eight months, citing the Pakistan-India border dispute and Gaza peace accords as examples. He recently described the Ukraine-Russia conflict as “number nine” on his list of conflicts he’s worked to settle.

    Trump expressed confidence that he had successfully addressed conflicts he considered straightforward, including those involving Armenia, and commended Russian President Vladimir Putin for being surprised by the Middle East peace efforts. Zelensky criticized Russian aggression and sought military aid to strengthen Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.

    While discussing his recent diplomatic efforts, Trump highlighted his summit with Putin and emphasized his belief that his peace initiatives are deserving of the Nobel Peace Prize. He recounted his involvement in resolving long-standing wars between India and Pakistan, and in various Balkan conflicts, asserting that he often completes these resolutions quickly and effectively.

    Last week, Trump mentioned the rising tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan and said he would tackle the issue once he returned from a trip to the Middle East, asserting his skill at “solving wars.” He cited his ability to bring peace to countries engaged in decades-long conflicts and claimed to have mostly succeeded within a day.

    Meanwhile, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised Trump as a “genuine man of peace” during a news conference in Egypt, following the signing of the Gaza peace agreement. The prime minister credited Trump with efforts that contributed to peace initiatives in South Asia and the Middle East, calling his leadership crucial in preventing a potential nuclear war and describing him as a leader who “stopped seven, now eight wars.” Shehbaz predicted that history would remember Trump for his diplomatic achievements and expressed hope that his leadership would be remembered fondly as a symbol of peace.

  • Trump Promises to ‘Resolve’ Pakistan-Afghanistan Tensions Post-Middle East Visit

    Trump Promises to ‘Resolve’ Pakistan-Afghanistan Tensions Post-Middle East Visit

    President Donald Trump boarded Air Force One heading to Israel, signaling with a thumbs-up as he departed from Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on October 12, 2025—the day he claimed to have helped resolve eight major conflicts worldwide. During a press briefing onboard, he asserted that he often intervenes to bring peace, emphasizing that his motives are driven by a desire to save lives, not for awards like the Nobel Peace Prize.

    He shared that he is aware of rising tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan and plans to address the issue upon his return from the Middle East. Trump highlighted his record of swiftly ending prolonged conflicts, citing wars between India and Pakistan lasting decades that he claims he resolved in a day through strategic tariffs. “This will be my eighth war I’ve solved, and there’s a new one between Pakistan and Afghanistan now. I’ll handle that when I get back—I’m good at solving wars,” he said.

    Reflecting on past successes, Trump recalled, “Think about India and Pakistan—wars that lasted 31, 32, or even 37 years, with millions killed. I managed to settle all of them in about a day. Pretty impressive, right?”

    He also mentioned that the Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to him in 2024 for his role in ending conflicts, though he clarified he wasn’t motivated by the prize. “I saved millions of lives, and the Nobel committee recognized that, but I didn’t do it for the award—I did it to save lives.”

    Trump credited economic measures such as tariffs for mediating conflicts. “In the case of India and Pakistan, I threatened massive tariffs—100%, 150%, even 200%. With those tariffs, I resolved that conflict in 24 hours. Without tariffs, there’s no way that would have happened,” he claimed.

    Looking ahead, Trump will speak to the Israeli Knesset before traveling to Egypt’s Sharm El Sheikh for a summit with world leaders aimed at ending the Gaza conflict. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas is expected to be part of the discussions, according to a senior Palestinian official.

    In recent days, US envoy Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff addressed a rally in Tel Aviv, urging the release of hostages and an end to hostilities—a move that many Israelis viewed as hopeful. The US, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey have been mediating a temporary ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, including the release of hostages and prisoners.

    A rally participant, Dalia Yosef, expressed hope and gratitude, saying, “After two years of waiting, we finally see progress. We’re happy for the families and hostages—they’re finally going home.”

  • Gaza Palestinians Celebrate Ceasefire Deal with Love

    Gaza Palestinians Celebrate Ceasefire Deal with Love

    Palestinians in southern Gaza erupted into applause, cheers, and dance in the early morning hours Thursday after Israel and Hamas reached a ceasefire agreement to bring an end to the two-year-long conflict in the region. A group of around a dozen young men chanted joyful slogans of “Allahu akbar” outside Khan Yunis’s Nasser Hospital, with one individual hoisting another onto his shoulders. An individual wearing a press vest, clearly a journalist, was also seen carried above the crowd, speaking into a microphone.

    Abdelmajid Abedrabbo, a resident of southern Gaza, expressed gratitude, saying, “Thank God for this ceasefire. Thankful for the end of bloodshed and killing.” He added, “I’m not alone in feeling happy; the entire Gaza Strip is celebrating. All of the Arab world is rejoicing over this ceasefire.”

    “Thanks and love to everyone who stood with us and contributed to ending this violence. Sending you love from Gaza,” he concluded.

    The deal, which is set to be signed later Thursday, aims to facilitate the release of the remaining hostages and is a significant step toward ending a conflict that has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and caused a severe humanitarian crisis. The agreement also involves the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and the prompt delivery of humanitarian aid into Gaza after more than two years of devastating war initiated in October 2023 with an attack on Israel.

    Ayman al-Najjar, speaking from Khan Yunis, shared a sentiment of cautious happiness: “Despite all the wounds and loss of loved ones, today we are happy because of the ceasefire.” He recounted personal losses, including the death of his grandfather last week, but noted that, nonetheless, “We are happy today.”

    Among the celebrations were children, who cheered at Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza Strip, following the announcement of the ceasefire.

    The war, which started on October 7, 2023, has resulted in 1,219 deaths, primarily civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures. Gaza’s health ministry reports that Israel’s military operations have caused at least 67,183 fatalities in the territory, figures considered credible by the United Nations. Militants also took 251 people hostage into Gaza, with 47 still held—including 25 believed to be dead, as per Israeli military reports.

    The ceasefire follows a 20-point peace plan for Gaza recently announced by then-U.S. President Donald Trump. Wael Radwan expressed relief, saying, “Thank God, President Trump declared the war is over; we are extremely happy. We thank our brothers and everyone who contributed, even just with words, to stopping this war and bloodshed.”

    Khaled Al-Namnam, 26, who is displaced in Al-Maghzai, central Gaza Strip, admitted he didn’t expect to hear such good news. “I woke up this morning to incredible news… everyone talking about ending the war, aid arriving, and crossings opening. I felt immense happiness,” he told AFP. “It’s a strange, indescribable feeling—after two years of bombing, fear, terror, and hunger. It’s like we’re being born again.”

  • Key Highlights of the Israel-Hamas Conflict

    Key Highlights of the Israel-Hamas Conflict

    A U.S. president announced that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the initial phase of a peace plan for Gaza after over two years of conflict that has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and a severe humanitarian crisis.

    Key moments in the ongoing conflict include:

    Hamas Attacks
    On October 7, 2023, hundreds of Hamas militants infiltrated southern Israel at dawn, launching an assault on Israeli towns and a desert music festival with gunfire, rockets, and grenades. The attack led to the deaths of 1,219 Israelis, primarily civilians, according to official Israeli data compiled by AFP. The militants also took 251 hostages back to Gaza, with Israeli forces reporting that 47 remain, many of whom are believed to be deceased.

    Ground Offensive
    Following the attack, Israel began intensive bombing and a blockade of Gaza. On October 13, the Israeli military urged civilians in northern Gaza to relocate to the south. Nearly all residents have been displaced during the escalation, as per United Nations estimates. Israel launched a ground invasion on October 27, leading to a devastating toll: more than two years later, the death toll in Gaza has reached at least 67,183, according to the Hamas-controlled health ministry, a figure supported by credible UN sources. The death count includes a majority of women and children, though distinctions between civilians and combatants are unclear.

    Truce and Hostage Negotiations
    A week-long ceasefire began on November 24, during which Hamas released 105 hostages—mostly Israelis, with some Thai workers—in exchange for 240 Palestinians imprisoned in Israel. When hostilities recommenced, Israel intensified military operations in southern Gaza.

    Regional Impacts and Escalations
    On April 13, 2024, Iran launched drones and missile attacks against Israel for the first time on its soil, retaliating for an assault on its Damascus consulate, which Israel is accused of orchestrating. Subsequently, Israel bombed a Yemeni port on July 20, following a drone strike targeting Tel Aviv, claimed by Iran-backed Huthi rebels in solidarity with Gaza. In September, an Israeli operation caused explosions among hundreds of pagers and walkie-talkies used by Hezbollah in Lebanon, resulting in 39 deaths and thousands wounded. Israel also intensified its aerial campaign in Lebanon and, on September 27, killed Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in southern Beirut. A few days later, Israel launched a ground attack in southern Lebanon. On October 1, Iran responded by firing 200 missiles at Israel, in retaliation for Nasrallah’s killing and the July assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh on Iranian soil.

    International Legal Actions and Ceasefires
    On November 14, a UN special committee characterized Israel’s actions in Gaza as “consistent with genocide,” a claim Israel disputes as biased. The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants on November 21 for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas military commander Mohammed Deif—Iraqi sources later confirm Deif’s death in subsequent months.

    On January 19, 2025, a prolonged ceasefire commenced, allowing hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians to return home. By March 1, 33 Israeli hostages were freed in exchange for approximately 1,800 Palestinians. Humanitarian aid was temporarily permitted into Gaza but was halted after a day amid ongoing conflict.

    Conflict with Iran and Further Clashes
    In June, Israel launched strikes against Iranian nuclear and military sites, igniting a 12-day war. The United States entered the conflict, attacking three Iranian nuclear facilities, before a fragile ceasefire was brokered. Later in September, Israel targeted Hamas figures in Qatar, prompting international condemnation following strikes in Doha. Israel’s military then launched a major ground assault on Gaza City.

    Peace Initiatives and Future Prospects
    On October 8, President Trump announced a deal between Israel and Hamas, marking the first step toward peace. The agreement involves the release of all hostages, redeployment of Israeli troops to a designated boundary, and the reopening of aid to Gaza, which faces imminent famine according to the UN.

  • Neighboring Countries Show Opposition to US Reclaiming Bagram Base

    Neighboring Countries Show Opposition to US Reclaiming Bagram Base

    Vehicles are parked at Bagram Airfield following the withdrawal of American forces, in Parwan province, Afghanistan, July 5, 2021. — Reuters

    – Countries including India, Pakistan, and China signed a joint statement.
    – The statement condemns efforts to establish military infrastructure.
    – The Taliban oppose any foreign military presence in Afghanistan.

    Afghanistan’s neighboring countries seem to have unified against U.S. President Donald Trump’s announced intentions to take control of the Bagram military base near Kabul, according to a statement issued after a meeting in Moscow.

    The “Moscow Format” gathering on Afghanistan — the seventh such meeting hosted by Russia but the first with the Taliban’s foreign minister in attendance — included India and Pakistan.

    Participating nations also included Russia, China, Iran, and Central Asian countries.

    In a joint statement released by Russia’s foreign ministry on Tuesday evening, these nations did not directly mention the U.S. or Bagram but appeared to criticize Trump’s plans for the base, aligning with the Taliban’s stance.

    “They (the countries) find unacceptable the attempts by other nations to deploy military infrastructure within Afghanistan and neighboring states, as such actions do not contribute to regional peace and stability,” the statement read.

    ### Taliban Oppose Foreign Military Presence

    At a press conference concluding the Moscow event, Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi reaffirmed his country’s stance:

    “Afghanistan is a sovereign and independent nation, and throughout its history, it has rejected outside military presence. Our policies remain unchanged in keeping Afghanistan autonomous and free.”

    The U.S. State Department did not immediately comment.

    The Taliban first governed Afghanistan until 2001, when they were ousted during a U.S.-led invasion. Their return to power in 2021 followed a chaotic withdrawal of U.S. troops.

    Bagram, located just outside Kabul, was once the largest and most well-known U.S. base in Afghanistan, until the U.S. military’s hasty exit last year, as the Taliban regained control.

    Recently, Trump warned of repercussions if Afghanistan does not return Bagram, citing its strategic proximity to China.

    Current and former U.S. officials doubt Trump’s intentions, suggesting re-occupying Bagram could resemble a re-invasion, potentially requiring thousands of troops and advanced air defense systems.

  • Putin Claims Russia Seized 5,000 sq km of Ukraine, Secures Strategic Control

    Putin Claims Russia Seized 5,000 sq km of Ukraine, Secures Strategic Control

    Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on Tuesday that Russian forces have captured nearly 5,000 square kilometers (around 1,930 square miles) of Ukrainian territory this year, asserting that Moscow maintains overall strategic control on the battlefield. Addressing top military officials via video conference from the Novo-Ogaryovo residence outside Moscow, Putin claimed Ukrainian troops are retreating across all sectors of the front line. He added that Kyiv continues to attempt deep strikes into Russian territory, but he believes these efforts will not alter the course of the more than three-and-a-half-year-long conflict.

    “Currently, the Russian armed forces hold the full strategic advantage,” Putin stated during the meeting, according to a transcript from the Kremlin. “This year alone, we’ve liberated nearly 5,000 square kilometers — that’s about 4,900 — along with 212 localities.”

    He further claimed that Ukrainian forces are pulling back along the entire contact line, despite fierce resistance. The Russian Defense Ministry reported yesterday the seizure of two additional villages along the front, which now stretches over 1,250 kilometers (about 775 miles), according to Ukraine’s top commander.

    Ukrainian officials dispute Putin’s account, noting recent gains in Donetsk and Sumy regions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has acknowledged regaining territory near Dobropillia in Donetsk and also highlighted advancements in the Sumy border region, where Russia has established a foothold.

    Russia’s Chief of General Staff, Army General Valery Gerasimov, stated at the meeting that Russian forces are advancing in “almost all directions,” while Ukrainian troops are focusing on slowing the Russian march forward. Gerasimov also said Russian units are approaching key cities such as Siversk and Kostiantynivka in Donetsk, and are working to clear Ukrainian forces from Kupiansk in the northeast—focused on gaining ground in Zaporizhzhia and Dnipropetrovsk regions further south. Russian forces are also establishing buffer zones in Sumy and Kharkiv areas to the north.

    In his remarks, Putin reiterated that Russia’s aims remain unchanged since the start of what Moscow calls a “special military operation” in February 2022. The official objective, he claimed, continues to be the “demilitarization and denazification” of Ukraine.

  • Gaza commemorates two years of conflict amid loss and devastation

    Gaza commemorates two years of conflict amid loss and devastation

    Palestinians observed the second anniversary of Israel’s devastating assault on Gaza, a conflict that has scarred the region permanently. As Israeli airstrikes persist across the strip, the UN continues to describe the situation as one of the most severe humanitarian crises worldwide.

    Since Hamas initiated an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, sparking a full-scale war, Gaza has faced nonstop bombing campaigns, ground invasions, and an oppressive blockade. The Gaza health ministry reports over 67,000 Palestinians have been killed, with the majority being women and children. Countless others remain unaccounted for beneath the rubble of destroyed neighborhoods.

    The ongoing offensive has displaced most of Gaza’s 2.2 million residents, forcing families into overcrowded shelters and tents amid critical shortages of food, clean water, and medical supplies. A famine declared on August 22 has exacerbated the suffering, with aid shipments only partially alleviating the crisis.

    Despite the staggering death toll, shelling continues in Gaza, even as mediators from Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S. push for a ceasefire. The anniversary coincides with the recent international effort called the Global Sumud Flotilla, which set out to break the Israeli blockade. All ships participating were intercepted by the Israeli navy, and activists onboard were detained, sparking protests across Europe and elsewhere condemning Israel’s actions.

    In the meantime, indirect negotiations between Israeli and Hamas representatives are underway in Egypt, under a U.S.-backed initiative aimed at ending the fighting and arranging prisoner exchanges.

    The scope of destruction in Gaza is profound. Satellite images reveal widespread devastation in areas like Beit Hanoun, Deir El Balah, Jabaliya, and Rafah, showcasing the extensive damage caused by the Israeli military campaign. The ground situation remains dire, with numerous displaced families seeking refuge in tents and battling severe shortages of essentials. Many children have been forced to search for makeshift fuel sources amid the rubble.

    Amid the turmoil, international activists’ efforts to deliver aid continue to face obstacles. The Global Sumud Flotilla, seeking to transport supplies into Gaza, was thwarted by Israeli interception, leading to arrests of participants, including prominent figures like Greta Thunberg. These actions prompted widespread protests and outrage worldwide.

    Currently, negotiations mediated by Egypt involve representatives from Israel and Hamas working towards a potential ceasefire and a prisoner swap, although no clear resolution has yet been reached. The resilience of the Gaza population persists despite relentless hardship, with hopes sustaining amid an environment marked by destruction and deep despair.

  • Gaza Woman’s Struggle Continues Two Years After Heartbreaking Photo

    Gaza Woman’s Struggle Continues Two Years After Heartbreaking Photo

    A year of relentless Israeli airstrikes and tank shellings has compounded the heartbreak for displaced Palestinian Inas Abu Maamar.

    In the initial days of the conflict, a Reuters photo captured Abu Maamar devastated in a hospital morgue, clutching the body of her five-year-old niece Saly, who had been killed in an Israeli missile attack on their home in Khan Younis, southern Gaza. Since then, Israeli strikes have claimed many of her loved ones, leaving her grieving, hungry, and homeless, while she cares for her orphaned young nephew.

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has supported a plan proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump for Gaza, and Hamas has shown partial acceptance, but there’s no clear timeline for when or if the war will end. Despite multiple ceasefire efforts since Israel launched its offensive on October 7, 2023, the violence persists.

    Saly’s death came when an Israeli missile hit their house. Along with Saly, Abu Maamar lost her aunt, uncle, sister-in-law, and cousins, including Saly’s baby sister Seba. Earlier that summer, her father and brother Ramez, Saly’s father, were killed while bringing food back to the family.

    According to local health authorities, more than 67,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israel’s military operations in Gaza. Many more are believed to be buried beneath the rubble, uncounted in official figures.

    “The war has destroyed everything. It tore apart our family and our homes. It has left us with endless pain and loss,” says the 38-year-old Abu Maamar.

    This offensive marks two years since Hamas fighters stormed across the Gaza border, killing around 1,200 people and taking about 250 hostages back into Gaza. Netanyahu vows to continue until Hamas is eradicated, and the Israeli military has intensified its operations by pushing deeper into Gaza City in the north. Israel claims it aims to avoid civilian casualties, striking only when Hamas members are seen emerging among civilians. Hamas denies using civilians as shields.

    Abu Maamar and her remaining relatives have had to flee repeatedly over the past two years, seeking refuge in a crowded tent encampment on bare sand near the coast. Conditions are dire—diseases spread, clean water and food are scarce, and the constant threat of bombs keeps the community traumatized.

    Her greatest concern is for her nephew Ahmed, Ramez’s son and Saly’s brother. He lost his family—his mother, both sisters, and maternal grandparents—within ten days of the conflict’s outbreak. Tragically, he also lost his father and paternal grandfather in June when they were killed while gathering food after supplies ran out.

    “His father used to take him to the beach, play with him, visit his aunts,” Abu Maamar says. “Now, he spends all day in the tent.” Ahmed once found comfort in a cat they named Loz, but the cat died in August.

    When Reuters last spoke to Abu Maamar a year ago, she said she was waiting for the cycle of bloodshed to stop. Now, she remains hopeful but fears the conflict will only end if more pressure is applied to Israel.

    “We’ve lost so much—our loved ones, our homes. We left with them, but we want to return without them,” she states. “My biggest fear is that the war continues. We want this to end—once and for all.”

  • Hamas Reaction vs. Trump’s Gaza Strategy: A Comparison

    Hamas Reaction vs. Trump’s Gaza Strategy: A Comparison

    Hamas responded on Friday to President Donald Trump’s proposal for Gaza’s future, including steps to end Israel’s conflict in the region.

    The militant group, advocating for Palestinian independence, expressed willingness to accept several key elements of Trump’s plan. These included ceasing hostilities, Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza, the release of both Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners, increased aid and rebuilding efforts, and opposition to Palestinian displacement from the area.

    However, there appeared to be differences between Hamas’ stance and Trump’s blueprint regarding Gaza’s governance and Hamas’ future role in the territory. Hamas indicated it seeks further discussions.

    Here is a comparison of Hamas’ statements alongside Trump’s plan:

    What parts of Trump’s proposal does Hamas seem open to?

    • Releasing Israeli hostages and Palestinian detainees:
      Hamas stated it would release Israeli captives in Gaza—both living and deceased—”according to the exchange formula in President Trump’s proposal, contingent on the necessary on-the-ground conditions for the exchange.”
      The group did not clarify what is meant by “necessary on-the-ground conditions.” Hamas also expressed readiness to begin immediate negotiations via mediators to iron out details.

    Trump’s plan stipulates all hostages would be returned within 72 hours of Israel’s public acceptance. Following that, Israel would free 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences, along with 1,700 Gazans detained since October 7, 2023, including women and children. For each Israeli hostage’s remains released, Israel would free the remains of 15 deceased Gazans.

    • Ceasefire, ending the war, and Israeli withdrawal:
      Hamas indicated it accepts the framework of an end to hostilities and Israel’s “full withdrawal” from Gaza. Their statement did not specify any phased Israeli withdrawal, reaffirming rejection of Israeli occupation.

    Trump’s plan states that “Israeli forces will withdraw to the agreed upon line to facilitate hostage exchanges.” It also mentions a suspension of military actions—including aerial and artillery strikes—during this period, with “front lines remaining static until conditions permit full, staged withdrawal.”

    • Increased aid, reconstruction, and no Palestinian displacement:
      Hamas welcomed Trump’s call for increased humanitarian aid to Gaza, emphasizing it does not endorse forcing Palestinians to leave their homes.
      Trump’s plan commits to providing immediate aid in quantities matching a January 19 agreement. It also aims to rebuild infrastructure, hospitals, bakeries, and facilitate the entry of equipment to clear rubble and restore roads, with aid channeled through the UN, Red Crescent, and other international bodies.

    Hamas explicitly rejected Palestinian displacement. The Trump plan assures that “no one will be forced to leave” and those wishing to do so can return freely. It encourages Palestinians to remain in Gaza.

    Where does Hamas diverge from Trump’s plan?

    • Foreign supervision of Gaza’s transitional governance:
      Trump’s proposal envisions Gaza being governed temporarily by a “technocratic, apolitical Palestinian committee,” overseen by an international transitional body led by Trump, including figures like former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair.
      Hamas responded that it is willing to transfer Gaza’s administration to a “Palestinian body of independents (technocrats) based on Palestinian national consensus, supported by Arab and Islamic backing,” indicating willingness to share power through different arrangements.

    • Hamas’ role in future governance:
      While Trump’s plan states Hamas would “not have any role in Gaza’s governance, directly or indirectly,” Hamas maintains it sees itself as part of a broader Palestinian national framework. Its statement did not mention demilitarization, which it has previously rejected, asserting that its role is tied to Palestinian collective leadership and relevant international laws.

    • Amnesty and safe passage for Hamas members:
      The Trump blueprint proposes amnesty and safe passage for Hamas members who decommission their weapons, a point not addressed in Hamas’ response.

  • A Gaza Mother’s Courage to Survive

    A Gaza Mother’s Courage to Survive

    A Palestinian woman named Samah Abu Latifa, who escaped her home amid Israeli bombardments, is sheltering with her family in a kindergarten in Khan Younis, located in the southern Gaza Strip, on October 10, 2023. — Reuters

    After two years of conflict, numerous displacements, and the loss of her husband and father, Lamis Dib’s life in Gaza revolves around a constant struggle for survival.

    “The situation is beyond words,” said the 31-year-old mother of two, describing the ongoing devastation in Palestinian territories.

    “Friday, October 6, 2023, was a beautiful day before the war started,” she reminisced.

    Her eldest daughter, Suwar, who was just five and had recently begun kindergarten, would come home each afternoon, and Dib would watch her from their apartment window in Sheikh Radwan, a middle-class neighborhood in northern Gaza City.

    Her three-year-old son Amin kept her busy, according to Dib, who often took him to the nearby seaside.

    Although Dib studied social work, she couldn’t find employment in Gaza’s struggling economy, which has been hampered by a strict Israeli blockade since 2007.

    Nonetheless, she had built a joyful family life with her husband, an accountant who ensured she “never wanted for anything.”

    Their neighborhood was among the first targeted by Israeli strikes in October 2023.

    Since then, Israel’s military campaign has resulted in the deaths of at least 66,225 Palestinians in Gaza—mostly civilians, according to the health ministry, which is recognized as reliable by the United Nations.

    The destruction across Gaza is extensive, with neighborhoods leveled and millions of tons of debris covering former homes.

    Critical infrastructure such as buildings, hospitals, schools, and water and sanitation systems has suffered severe damage, leaving the territory’s more than two million residents in dire conditions.

    Hundreds of thousands of Gazans have become homeless, seeking refuge in shelters, makeshift camps, or outdoor spaces, often without adequate protection.

    Race Against Death

    When Dib’s area came under attack, she and her family fled to a nearby district, marking the first of multiple displacements, before eventually relocating south to Khan Yunis.

    “One of the hardest days of our lives,” Dib recalled, describing the arduous journey over damaged roads and past military checkpoints.

    She and her children have been displaced 11 times amidst ongoing clashes between Israel and Hamas.

    “Every move felt like a race to stay alive, under constant airstrikes. I was on autopilot, carrying my kids, holding them close, running without looking back or knowing where we were going,” she explained.

    During their time in Rafah in the south, scarcity and overcrowding were commonplace.

    Her family endured six months in a cramped shelter, with 30 people crammed into a single room, lacking toilets and basic hygiene. Dib described the experience as suffocating: confinement, relentless airstrikes, hunger, thirst, and total privacy loss.

    By August 2024, Dib’s life took another tragic turn while living in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza. Her husband and father were atop a rooftop with five other family members when they heard the sound of a missile and saw smoke.

    “I ran towards the roof, and it was unthinkable—everyone was dead,” she said.

    “My husband’s body seemed intact, and I thought he was still alive. I tried to wake him, but he had been hit in the head. Then I saw my father’s body… his hand had been blown off.”

    From that point, Dib became the sole caregiver for her children during the darkest period Gaza had seen.

    She moved into a tent in Al-Zawayda, a camp where thousands of Palestinians live under tarps flapping in the wind, exposed to summer heat and winter rains.

    “Every day is hard,” she said from within her shelter.

    While others can lean on family members for support, Dib faces constant financial hardship on her own.

    Although Israel eased a full blockade on supplies in May 2025, humanitarian aid remains insufficient, according to the UN.

    “Our children have lost their right to education, proper nutrition, and a normal childhood,” she said, with Suwar and Amin studying on her knees nearby.

    They sometimes glance at pictures of their father and relatives killed during the war on Dib’s phone.

    “We will return home and rebuild,” she promised. “All we want is a little peace.”

    Like their mother, Suwar and Amin focus on survival, helping fill water containers at a makeshift station near the tent.

    For them, the war’s trauma and loss might linger longer than the airstrikes themselves.

    In 2024, UNICEF estimated that every child in Gaza needed psychological support, underlining the deep emotional scars inflicted by ongoing conflict.

  • Zelensky Warns Russia Aiming to Extend War into Europe

    Zelensky Warns Russia Aiming to Extend War into Europe

    Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a warning to European leaders, alerting them that Russia is gearing up to intensify the conflict. During a summit in Copenhagen involving nearly 50 nations, he highlighted recent drone flights over Denmark and other countries as evidence that Moscow aims to expand the war beyond Ukraine’s borders.

    He called for Europe to take this threat seriously and expressed Ukraine’s willingness to share its battlefield expertise to support allies in defending themselves. The gathering took place amid heightened security following mysterious drone incursions in Denmark last month, along with notable aerial interventions by Russia in Estonia and Poland, fueling fears of the conflict spilling into other parts of Europe.

    “Recent drone incidents across Europe clearly indicate that Russia still feels confident enough to escalate this war,” Zelensky said. “This isn’t solely about Ukraine; Russia has always sought to undermine the West and Europe.”

    Russian President Vladimir Putin dismissed the accusations but noted that Russia is “closely monitoring the increasing militarization of Europe,” promising a timely and “significant” response. He accused Europe of fueling “hysteria” to justify rising military expenditures, maintaining that Russia does not pose a threat. “Everyone should just calm down,” Putin advised.

    European leaders are eager to leverage Ukraine’s military experience to strengthen their defenses, discussing initiatives like a “drone wall” aimed at countering Moscow’s threats. Zelensky emphasized, “If Russia dares to send drones into Poland or violate the airspace of Northern European countries, it could happen anywhere. We’re prepared to share what we’ve learned.”

    French President Emmanuel Macron suggested that Western nations should adopt a firmer stance against Russian drones to send a clear message to the Kremlin. “Violations of our territories carry serious risks — they can be destroyed without hesitation,” he said. Romanian Prime Minister Nicolae Ciucă, whose country has experienced Russian drones crossing from Ukraine, warned that his forces would shoot down any future intrusions into their airspace.

    As the conflict enters its fourth year, Europe is actively working to maintain pressure on Moscow and secure financial aid for Kyiv. Macron emphasized the importance of dismantling Russia’s “shadow fleet” of aging oil tankers, which is a key method for Russia to bypass export restrictions and fund its war efforts. France recently targeted a tanker linked to Russia in this effort.

    To ensure Ukraine continues to receive necessary funding, the European Union is exploring a plan to use frozen Russian assets for a new 140-billion-euro ($165 billion) loan. Advocates argue this is crucial for filling Kyiv’s budget gaps, asserting that Russia, rather than European taxpayers, should bear the cost. However, Belgium, which holds most of the frozen assets, has expressed concerns about the plan’s risks, fearing retaliation from Russia or potential discouragement of investors.

    Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever warned, “We’re venturing into uncharted territory — this is very risky.” He stressed the need for clear commitments from all EU members that Belgium wouldn’t be left to shoulder the liabilities alone. EU President Ursula von der Leyen affirmed that discussions are ongoing and that the risks should not be solely borne by Belgium.