#Gaza truce agreed; #Palestinian prisoners to be freed

#Israel and #Hamas agree on #Qatar-mediated deal for a four-day truce in Gaza and release of 50 captives held in the enclave. About 150 Palestinian women and children held in Israeli jails to be freed as part of the deal.

PM Netanyahu says agreement does not mean war will stop, vows Israeli military will press on after the pause in fighting.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has commended the efforts of Qatar and #Egypt in helping secure the pause in fighting, while renewing calls for a “comprehensive cessation of the Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people”.

More than 14,100 people killed in Gaza since 7 October. In Israel, the official death toll from Hamas’s attacks stands at about 1,200.

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2023/11/22/israel-hamas-war-live-israeli-government-to-vote-on-gaza-truce-deal

#Israel-#Hamas war: Mixed feelings for #Gaza residents as truce starts

#Key_updates:

*Much-needed humanitarian aid begins entering Gaza from #Egypt

*Truce brings relief for families of 13 women, children to be freed from Gaza

*After seven weeks of war, Palestinians in bombarded Gaza welcome first truce agreed by Hamas and Israel with mixed feelings.

*Under the #Qatar-mediated deal for a four-day pause, 39 Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails and 13 captives in Gaza expected to be released in the coming hours, with aid trucks also crossing into Gaza.

*Gaza endures another night of heavy bombardment from air, land, and sea ahead of the start of the truce, while Israeli military raids continue across the occupied West Bank.

*More than 14,800 people killed in Gaza since October 7. In Israel, the official death toll from Hamas’s attacks stands at about 1,200. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2023/11/24/israel-hamas-war-live-israel-continues-gaza-attacks-ahead-of-truce

Long Island Republicans Tap #Ethiopian-Born Mazi Melesa Pilip for NY House Seat Amidst #Israel-#Hamas Tensions

In a bold move, Long Island Republicans have selected Mazi Melesa Pilip, a 44-year-old Ethiopian-born legislator, to run for the vacant #New_York House seat. Pilip, a mother of seven, served as a paratrooper in the Israel Defense Forces and has a compelling biography, vowing to combat antisemitism.

While lacking traditional political credentials, Republicans believe Pilip's diverse background and advocacy for Israel make her a potential breakout star, especially amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The special election is set for 13 February, with analysts labeling it a tossup.

Pilip's nomination contrasts with her Democratic opponent, Tom Suozzi, a former congressman with a lengthy political history. Notably, both candidates are registered Democrats. Pilip's relative anonymity prompts questions, but Republicans emphasize her unique life story and commitment to service.

The race unfolds against the backdrop of national issues, with Pilip criticizing President Biden's policies on immigration and foreign affairs. Republicans endorse Pilip, highlighting her life of service, while Democrats label her a "MAGA extremist."

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/14/nyregion/pilip-santos-special-election.html

Shipping firms pause #Red_Sea journeys over attacks

Danish shipping giant #Maersk announces the suspension of all Red Sea journeys following a series of attacks on vessels originating from #Houthi-controlled #Yemen. The #Iran-backed rebels, expressing support for #Hamas, are targeting ships bound for #Israel.

#German company #Hapag_Lloyd follows suit after one of its vessels was attacked. The Bab al-Mandab Strait, a critical passage for oil and fuel shipments, sees about 17,000 ships and 10% of global trade annually.

The perilous strait, located between Yemen and #Djibouti/#Eritrea, is vital for ships reaching the #Suez_Canal from the south. The suspensions impact global trade, complicating the supply chain, potentially affecting Christmas deliveries. At least two other cargo ships in the strait were attacked on Friday, with the #US blaming the Houthis and warning of threats to navigation freedom. The situation escalates tensions in the region as the Houthis control parts of Yemen, triggering a civil war since 2014.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-67731853

#Ethiopia: “Those who are pressuring Israel for a ceasefire are asking for #Hamas to win” – #Israel diplomat

The Israel-#Gaza conflict has captivated global attention since Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel on 07 October, 2023, resulting in 1,200 deaths and the capture of 240 hostages, some of whom have since been released. The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza reports that, as of 21 October, 2021, over 20,000 Palestinians, including more than 7,000 children, have been killed by Israeli actions.

Israel faces accusations of "indiscriminate bombing" and utilizing "starvation as a weapon" in Gaza. In an exclusive interview with Addis Standard, Ambassador Aleligne Admasu, Israel's Ambassador to Ethiopia, and Tomer Bar-Lavi, the Deputy Chief of Mission, stated that “international law recognizes Israel's right to self-defense.” Emphasizing that Israel remains committed to its principles, they strongly refute allegations of intentional destruction and indiscriminate harm to civilians.

Ambassador Aleligne detailed that the Israeli military has employed various strategies "to reduce civilian harm throughout the conflict." “These measures include broadcasting informational messages and distributing flyers to Gaza Strip residents.” Nonetheless, the Ambassador highlighted that “Hamas strategically employs educational institutions, places of worship, international organizations’ premises, and other sanctuaries to shield itself from Israeli military assaults.”

Bar-Lavi, articulating the guiding principles of military necessity, distinction, and proportionality in Israel's operations in Gaza, acknowledged the extreme difficulty in avoiding civilian casualties "when Hamas intentionally places women and children in harm's way as human shields."

"In any armed conflict, collateral damage is unfortunately inevitable," Bar-Lavi said.

https://addisstandard.com/the-interview-those-who-are-pressuring-israel-for-a-ceasefire-are-asking-for-hamas-to-win-israel-ambassador/

Former MK Neguise’s candidacy as ambassador to #Ethiopia stirs up his ‘missionary’ past

Avraham Neguise, once an Ethiopian immigrant to #Israel, has been nominated to serve as Israel's ambassador to Ethiopia, a testament to his remarkable journey and the evolving narrative of Ethiopian-Israelis. Neguise, a respected former lawmaker and a symbol of excellence within his community, has been a pivotal figure in the immigration of tens of thousands of Falash Mura, Ethiopian Jews who converted to Christianity, to Israel.

Despite his significant contributions, Neguise's past work for Christian organizations and his own previous identification as a Christian have resurfaced, sparking debate among Ethiopian-Israelis. This community of about 100,000 is divided between the Beta Israel, who have remained Jewish, and the Falash Mura, who had converted to Christianity. Neguise, identifying as Beta Israel, has faced criticism from some community leaders for his past, while others defend his commitment to Judaism and his advocacy for Ethiopian Jewry.

Neguise's political acumen has been recognized as an asset to the Likud party, earning him the support of influential figures like Regional Cooperation Minister David Amsalem. His nomination awaits ratification by Ethiopia's foreign ministry, amidst a time when his history is being scrutinized by both supporters and critics.

https://www.timesofisrael.com/former-mk-neguises-candidacy-as-ambassador-to-ethiopia-stirs-up-his-missionary-past/

#South_Africa present a case against Israel at the #ICJ

South Africa has brought forth allegations against #Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), claiming that plans to "destroy" #Gaza have been endorsed at the highest levels of the Israeli government. During the court proceedings, South African lawyers accused Israel of genocide and called on the ICJ to demand an immediate cessation of Israeli military operations in the region.

The claims, which Israel has vehemently denied as "baseless," were made as part of South Africa's case that accuses Israel of intentionally aiming to decimate a significant portion of the #Palestinian population in Gaza. Israel, which will present its defense later, has previously stated that its actions are a response to deadly attacks by #Hamas on October 7.

The court's role in this matter is to provide an advisory opinion on the genocide allegation, a decision that is being closely monitored by the international community. South African representatives at the ICJ have argued that the evidence of Israel's "genocidal intent" is clear from the conduct of its military attacks.

South Africa's involvement in this case is driven by its history of opposing what it views as the "ongoing slaughter of the people of Gaza," drawing parallels to its own past struggles against apartheid. The final ruling on whether Israel is committing genocide could take years, but the ICJ may rule more swiftly on South Africa's request to suspend Israel's military campaign.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-67942983

Ocean shipping rates surge as #Red_Sea attacks continue

#Houthi rebels' attacks on cargo vessels in the Red Sea are driving global shipping costs to new heights, causing disruptions at the #Suez_Canal. The average worldwide shipping cost for a 40-foot container surged by 23% in the week through 18 January, 2023, to a staggering $3,777, doubling in just one month.

The disruptions impact supply chains in #Europe and the #US, leading to delayed shipments and increased transportation expenses. Houthi rebels, responding to #Israel's conflict with #Hamas, are targeting vessels with alleged links to Israel, affecting trade routes. Despite U.S.-led coalition efforts and airstrikes in #Yemen, attacks persist, with maritime traffic through the Suez Canal dropping by 37% in 2024.

Major companies with long-term contracts are facing surcharges of 20% or more due to rising shipping costs, impacting manufacturers globally. #Tesla and #Volvo temporarily halted production, while European retailers like #IKEA manage delays with existing inventory. The Suez Canal issues coincide with restrictions at the Panama Canal and contribute to delays and extra charges for shipping routes from Asia to U.S. ports.

https://www.wsj.com/articles/ocean-shipping-rates-surge-as-red-sea-attacks-continue-2c21beeb

Houthis say they attacked #US warship, but American official rejects their claim

#Yemen's #Houthi rebels claim to have targeted a U.S. Navy mobile base at sea, alleging a missile strike on the USS Lewis B. Puller in the #Gulf_of_Aden, a claim refuted by American defense officials. Houthi spokesperson Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree stated the attacks will persist until the siege on #Gaza is lifted. However, a U.S. defense official denied any reported attack on the Puller, noting previous Houthi missile failures.

The Puller, a floating landing base, served as a platform for U.S. Navy SEALs involved in a 11 January operation seizing Iranian-made missile components bound for Yemen, resulting in two missing SEALs presumed dead.

Since November, Houthi rebels have targeted Red Sea ships over #Israel's Gaza offensive, jeopardizing global trade routes between #Asia, the Middle East, and #Europe. However, these attacks often target vessels with unclear ties to Israel.

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/houthis-say-they-attacked-u-s-warship-but-american-official-rejects-claim

Coups, conflicts and crises confront #African summit

The #AU Summit convened in #Addis_Abeba to address the continent's multifaceted challenges, including coups, conflicts, and political crises. Moussa Faki Mahamat, head of the African Union Commission, expressed grave concerns over escalating violence in #Sudan, #Somalia, the #DRC, the #Sahel, and #Libya. Despite efforts, the AU's efficacy has been questioned due to its perceived inaction in resolving conflicts and curbing power grabs.

Notably absent from the summit are #Gabon, #Niger, #Mali, #Guinea, #Sudan, and #Burkina_Faso, suspended due to coups. The crisis in #Senegal, triggered by election postponements, is also on the agenda. Discussions extend beyond Africa, encompassing the #Israel_Hamas conflict, with Israel not invited. The AU averted a crisis over the rotating chairmanship, with #Mauritania set to succeed #Comoros. While the AU seeks a stronger global voice, internal conflicts, and disputes pose significant hurdles. The AU must address myriad security crises amid 19 scheduled elections this year.

Key discussions include transitioning to self-funding and maximizing AU-led peace missions' effectiveness. The #UN Security Council capped its financing of AU missions at 75%, prompting dialogue on financial sustainability.

https://www.digitaljournal.com/world/coups-conflicts-and-crises-confront-african-summit/article

#Ethiopia refutes #Somalia’s accusations of ‘blocking its president from AU Summit’

The Ethiopian government dismissed accusations by Somalia that its president, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, was blocked by Ethiopian security from attending #AU Summit meetings. In a press briefing, State Minister Selamawit Kassa remarked that the accusations seem intended “to garner attention from specific media platforms.”

Somalia alleged President Mohamud had to cut short his summit participation when “armed Ethiopian security prevented him from leaving his hotel” on Saturday. However, the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, Ambassador Meles Alem, said Mohamud "refused to accept the security personnel deployed for him by the government of Ethiopia.”

Ambassador Meles further explained that providing security details for visiting dignitaries is standard protocol for high-level events. He stated that armed guards in Mohamud’s delegation were denied entry to AU headquarters, as is policy.

Following the dispute, Somalia called for an AU investigation into the incident - questioning if Ethiopia should host the body given the alleged breaches of diplomatic norms. The 37th AU Summit concluded today under a cloud of controversy sparked by a speech from #Brazilian President Lula that drew condemnation from #Israel for "trivializing the Holocaust."

https://addisstandard.com/news-analysis-ethiopia-refutes-somalias-accusations-of-blocking-its-president-from-au-summit/

#Brazil refuses to retract Lula's controversial #Israel-#Gaza analogy

Brazil does not plan to retract controversial comments made by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva comparing Israel's military actions in Gaza to the Holocaust, according to government sources. Brazil's foreign ministry has already summoned the Israeli ambassador for talks and recalled its own ambassador to Israel after the remarks sparked a diplomatic rift.

Lula sparked tensions after stating at an African Union summit that Israel's wars in Gaza had "no parallel in history" except for Hitler's persecution of Jews. Israeli leaders condemned the analogy as antisemitic and "unforgivable." In response, Israel's foreign minister said Lula would be considered persona non grata until an apology.

Yet despite the escalating row, Brazilian authorities indicate Lula stands by his criticism of Israeli military tactics in Gaza. The president maintains any further dialogue will occur strictly through diplomatic channels, sources said.

The rift stems from the ongoing violent conflict in Gaza between Israel and the Palestinian militant group #Hamas. A Hamas raid in October killed over 1,200 Israelis, prompting a heavy Israeli air and ground offensive in Gaza that has left over 29,000 Palestinians dead.

https://www.reuters.com/world/brazil-president-recalls-ambassador-israel-talks-local-media-2024-02-19/

Blinken tells Lula that #US disagrees with his #Israel remarks

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on Wednesday that the United States disagrees with Lula's recent controversial remarks comparing the conflict in Gaza to the Nazi genocide, according to a senior State Department official.

The two leaders had what officials described as a "frank exchange" on the topic during a nearly two-hour meeting in Brasilia.

Lula sparked tensions after stating at an African Union summit that Israel's wars in Gaza had "no parallel in history" except for Hitler's persecution of Jews. Israeli leaders condemned the analogy as antisemitic and "unforgivable." In response, Israel's foreign minister said Lula would be considered persona non grata until an apology.

According to the State Department, Blinken emphasized current U.S. efforts to broker a ceasefire in Gaza, free hostages still held by Hamas, and increase delivery of humanitarian assistance. The leaders also discussed possible paths to peace in Ukraine.

A statement from Brazil's presidential office said Lula and Blinken agreed on the necessity of an independent Palestinian state coexisting with Israel. As Brazil hosts the G20 summit of foreign ministers this week, the two countries continue an open policy dialogue on the Middle East conflicts central to global security.

https://www.reuters.com/world/lula-meets-blinken-after-gaza-comments-spark-diplomatic-rift-2024-02-21/

#UK-owned ship damaged in #Houthi missile attack off #Yemen, US says

A Palau-flagged, #British-owned cargo ship, Islander, was hit by two missiles launched by #Yemen's Houthis in the Gulf of Aden, causing a fire on board and a minor injury. The ship is continuing its voyage after the attack near the Yemeni port city of #Aden. The Houthis confirmed targeting the Islander and launching drones at a #US warship.

The Houthis, backed by #Iran, have been attacking merchant vessels in the region since November, claiming to support Palestinians in the #Israel-#Hamas conflict. US and British warships are deployed to protect commercial shipping in the area.

In response to Houthi attacks, US forces have been targeting military sites in Yemen. Recently, US aircraft and coalition forces shot down six Houthi drones and intercepted two anti-ship missiles in the #Red_Sea. The attacks have disrupted critical humanitarian aid deliveries to Yemen, #Sudan, and #Ethiopia.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-68367495

#Houthi #Red_Sea attacks are boon for pirates as ships reroute

#Yemen's Houthi rebels are intensifying attacks on cargo ships in the #Bab_al_Mandab strait, affecting routes and costs. Since November, vessels linked to #Israel and Western nations have been targeted, compelling shipping companies to take a costly detour around #Africa.

Piracy concerns escalate as attacks surge in piracy hotspots like the Gulf of Guinea and #Somalia. Arsenio Dominguez of the International Maritime Organization urges heightened security reminiscent of past piracy crises. Vessel hijackings and missile attacks highlight the risks faced by crews.

Despite efforts by navies, Houthi attacks persist, threatening maritime security. The situation remains volatile, with premiums for ships linked to the #US, #UK, and Israel skyrocketing by 50% in the Red Sea due to the persistent threat.

https://oilprice.com/Energy/Energy-General/Houthi-Red-Sea-Attacks-Are-Boon-for-Pirates-as-Ships-Reroute.html

#Sudan, #Iran deny alleged plan for #Red_Sea naval base

Sudan and Iran have denied recent reports that Iran sought to establish a naval base on Sudan's Red Sea coast in exchange for providing weapons and drones. The initial claim, published by The Wall Street Journal, cited an unnamed Sudanese intelligence advisor alleging that Sudan rejected such a proposal over concerns about straining ties with #US and #Israel.

However, Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Al-Sadiq categorically refuted the report, stating, "Sudan has received no requests from Iran regarding a Red Sea naval base." He stressed that "the report is false" and "Iran never proposed a base" during his recent visit. Iran's Foreign Ministry echoed this stance, dismissing the claim as "politically motivated" and asserting that no such request was ever made.

Adding to the denial, Sudanese military spokesman Brigadier General Nabil Abdullah highlighted factual inaccuracies in the report, calling it "absolutely untrue" and based on false information. These denials come as Sudan and Iran work to repair diplomatic relations after a seven-year rift, recently agreeing to accelerate the process of reopening embassies.

https://sudantribune.com/article282884/

#EU leaders ink €7.4B economic aid, migration deal with #Egypt

The European Union (EU) has signed a significant €7.4 billion aid deal with Egypt aimed at curbing irregular migration to #Europe's shores and boosting the North #African country's economy. The agreement was signed on Sunday, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Egyptian President Abdel Fatah el-Sisi in attendance, along with several EU national leaders.

The deal will be distributed over four years and is intended to enhance border controls as part of the EU's efforts to manage migration ahead of the upcoming pan-EU election in June. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, a driving force behind such deals, welcomed the agreement as an opportunity to provide "residents of Africa" with a chance to not emigrate to Europe.

The EU leaders and el-Sisi also emphasized the need for a ceasefire in the #Israel-#Hamas war, with von der Leyen warning that the inhabitants of the war-torn #Gaza Strip "face famine" and that this situation cannot be accepted.

The EU's so-called externalization strategy for handling migration has faced criticism from advocacy groups, who argue that the deals lack safeguards on human rights and expose migrants to brutal conditions in camps, while also funneling money into the hands of autocratic leaders. However, the strategy has gained broad support from governments in the 27-member bloc following a surge in migration in the mid-2010s.

https://www.politico.eu/article/eu-leaders-egypt-e7-4b-economic-aid-migration-deal-italy-greece-belgium-austria-cyprus/

Ebrahim Raisi, #Iran’s president, dies in helicopter crash aged 63

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, 63, has tragically died in a helicopter crash in a mountainous area amid poor weather. Raisi, a prominent conservative figure, served as Iran’s president for nearly three years and was anticipated to run for re-election next year.

Born in Mashhad, Raisi was a significant religious and political figure, educated in Qom. He held various influential roles, including attorney general and head of the Astan Quds Razavi charitable trust.

Raisi’s tenure as president was marked by his staunch positions against #Israel and the #US, aligning closely with Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. He condemned #Israeli actions in #Gaza and supported Iran’s retaliatory strikes.

Raisi’s presidency was also noted for his harsh rhetoric and firm stance on the 2015 nuclear deal, advocating for "resistance" against international sanctions. His death marks a significant moment in Iranian politics as the nation mourns the loss of a key leader.

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/5/20/ebrahim-raisi-irans-president-dies-in-helicopter-crash-aged-63