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scalating Violence: Israeli Strikes Kill Dozens in Lebanon and Gaza

  Palestinian children amid the rubble of destroyed buildings, during a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, in Jabalia, northern Gaza Strip. Israeli air strikes have intensified across Lebanon and Gaza, leaving dozens dead and further destabilizing fragile ceasefires in the region. In southern Lebanon , an Israeli drone strike on the Ein el-Hilweh Palestinian refugee camp near Sidon killed at least 13 people and wounded several others. The attack targeted a car parked near a mosque, with Lebanese officials reporting that ambulances rushed victims to nearby hospitals. Hours later, another strike in the village of Tiri killed one person and injured 11, including students aboard a bus. Meanwhile, in Gaza , hospitals reported at least 25 Palestinians killed in multiple strikes across Gaza City, Khan Younis, and Rafah. Medics confirmed that casualties included families caught in residential areas, underscoring the human toll of the renewed bombardments. Israel’s military claimed...

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EU-Israel Relations Strain as Spain and Ireland Recognize Palestinian State

 

Relations between the European Union (EU) and Israel have taken a sharp downturn following the formal recognition of a Palestinian state by EU members Spain and Ireland. The situation escalated on the eve of this diplomatic recognition, with Madrid suggesting that sanctions should be considered against Israel due to its continued attacks in the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

Spain’s Decision and Israeli Response Spain’s Foreign Minister, Jose Manuel Albares Bueno, announced the recognition of a Palestinian state, a move that has drawn strong reactions from Israel. In response, Israeli Foreign Minister Katz informed Spain that its consulate in Jerusalem would no longer be allowed to assist Palestinians. The tension between the two nations reflects the broader complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

EU’s Stance and the International Criminal Court Adding to the strain, the EU’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell (a Spaniard), expressed support for the International Criminal Court (ICC). The ICC’s prosecutor is seeking an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other leaders, including those from Hamas. Borrell’s endorsement of the ICC’s actions further fueled the heated exchange between the EU and Israel.

The Weight of Antisemitism Accusations Borrell’s statement also touched on the sensitive issue of antisemitism. He acknowledged that the term “antisemitic” carries significant weight and emphasized the importance of using it judiciously. His remarks underscore the delicate balance between addressing legitimate concerns and avoiding inflammatory language.

Spain’s Move: Rewarding Terror or Diplomatic Gesture? Israeli Foreign Minister Katz accused Spain of “rewarding terror” by recognizing a Palestinian state. He invoked historical references, stating that “the days of the Inquisition are over.” The recognition decision has implications not only for bilateral relations but also for the broader dynamics in the Middle East.

As the situation unfolds, the EU-Israel relationship remains strained, and the impact of these diplomatic moves reverberates across the international stage. The recognition of a Palestinian state by Spain and Ireland has set the tone for further discussions and potential actions in response to the ongoing conflict in the region.

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