This is the second night of relative quiet along the southern border since the war broke out on 2 March. The 14 June massacre of civilians has slowed down the return of the population. Some residents told AsiaNews that they hope for a return to "normal life”, amid uncertainty and fears about the future. A new round of talks between Lebanon and Israel is set for tomorrow in Washington.
Almost a year on from their previous visit in July 2025, the cardinal and the Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem arrived in the Gaza Strip this morning to express the Christian community’s solidarity and concern for the entire population of Gaza. They were accompanied by a delegation from the Sovereign Order of Malta, which is working to provide humanitarian aid.
Israel's Higher Planning Council has unilaterally assumed authority over construction, approving a new dormitory. The World Council of Churches condemns the expropriation of land adjacent to the Orthodox monastery of Saint Onuphrius in Silwan. Eight Arab and Muslim countries slam the burning of two mosques in the West Bank. Bedouin herding communities are also targeted.
Attieh Fard, a politician and lawyer who has been in the United Kingdom for years, spoke to AsiaNews about the signing of an agreement that leaves international tensions and critical issues in the country unresolved. Iran’s hardliners could block signing, while the regime could use the moment to strengthen stability and its grip on power. The call for a "free" Iran may still lead to fresh street protests.
In the last few hours, a few displaced people have started to go home, but the situation in the south remains critical. The Jewish state has no intention to relinquish the territories it has occupied. Furthermore, the plan leaves the issue of Hezbollah's disarmament open and unresolved. Uncertainty and unresolved issues surround the future of direct talks between Israel and Lebanon.
Three Indian nationals died in a US attack on a tanker carrying Iranian oil. Despite the public outrage, New Delhi is keeping a low profile to avoid angering Washington: in the background, a possible meeting between Trump and Modi on the sidelines of the G7. Meanwhile, the White House announced a deal with Tehran. Saudi Arabia reboots trade with Lebanon.
