ARAB AND WORLD

Sat 20 Jun 2026 9:27 pm - Jerusalem Time

Escalating Financial and Security Repression Against Pro-Palestine Student Movement in French Universities

French academic circles are experiencing a state of escalating tension amid authorities' tightening punitive measures against student movements condemning the Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip. Student sources reported that the prestigious Sorbonne University has become an arena for legal and security confrontations aimed at undermining solidarity activities that began in October 2023.

Field data indicates that French authorities have moved to a new phase of restriction, including imposing exorbitant financial fines and intensive disciplinary referrals. This shift comes in the context of government attempts to impose what it calls 'public order' within university campuses, amidst accusations from student organizations of violating freedom of expression.

Rania, a student at Sorbonne University and a member of the Palestine Committee, stated that security policy has evolved from direct arrests to exercising suffocating economic pressure on activists. She explained that financial fines have become a means of intimidating students, with the total value of violations in one protest exceeding 35,000 euros.

The student affirmed that the student demands are clear and consist of the necessity to end all forms of cooperation between French universities and Israeli academic institutions. The movement also emphasizes the need to stop partnerships with arms manufacturing companies that contribute to supplying the occupation army with military equipment used in Gaza.

Activists accused the Sorbonne University administration of engaging in relations with Israeli institutions that incite its students to enlist in military service in the occupation army. Protesters demanded facilitating procedures for receiving Palestinian students displaced from the Gaza Strip to enable them to complete their education in France as an alternative to these partnerships.

For her part, Sofia, a member of the Student Union Federation, described the recent security interventions as a blatant assault on legally guaranteed public freedoms. She noted that police forces used excessive force to disperse a peaceful sit-in that lasted for hours, and photographed participants' IDs to threaten them with subsequent prosecution.

In an incident reflecting the extent of the repression, a student named 'Tiba' faces legal prosecution by her university on charges of 'anti-Semitism' based on a purely political stance. The case dates back to the student deleting accounts related to the occupation army from a student communication group, which the administration considered an overstep requiring prosecution.

In turn, Ibrahim, a member of the 'Communist Youth' organization, revealed that university administrations resort to disciplinary committees as a tool to suppress solidarity symbols. He explained that merely raising the Palestinian flag or posting solidarity flyers within university corridors has become sufficient reason to summon students and rigorously investigate them.

Sources reported that security violence was not limited to pushing and shoving but also included direct physical assaults during the dispersal of protests within the university campus. Observers believe that this close coordination between university administrations and police agencies aims to stifle dissenting voices against Israeli policies on the European continent.

Student protests in France continue despite these pressures, with participants asserting that their struggle will continue until full transparency regarding university investments is achieved. Students demand disclosure of contracts concluded with French defense companies that supply weapons to conflict zones, considering this an ethical responsibility.

Amidst this controversy, the French government defends its measures as a strict application of the law and a prevention of any disturbances that might affect the educational process. However, human rights circles warn that these measures could lead to the creation of a repressive educational environment lacking political pluralism and freedom of opinion.

In conclusion, the scene in French universities remains open to further escalation, with student movements insisting on continuing demonstrations and sit-ins. This wave of protests is the largest of its kind in France in years, putting authorities to a real test of democratic principles and human rights.

The state has begun targeting activists economically by imposing exorbitant fines exceeding 35,000 euros, instead of merely traditional arrests.

PALESTINE

Sat 20 Jun 2026 9:27 pm - Jerusalem Time

The Tragedy of Child Jamil Ghoneim: Two Years of Forced Separation Between Gaza and Hebron

The tragedy of forced displacement of Palestinians is embodied in the story of child Jamil Ghoneim, now 32 months old, who lives divided between two bitter realities: a cramped refugee tent in the Gaza Strip with his parents, and a hospital room in the city of Hebron in the occupied West Bank where he resides with his grandmother.

The chapters of this suffering began about two years and eight months ago, when infant Jamil was forced to leave the Gaza Strip at just ten months old, seeking treatment for a pulmonary artery obstruction in his heart, a medical journey that was supposed to last only a few weeks.

The ongoing war and the closure of crossings prevented the child from returning to his family's embrace, turning the short treatment journey into a long estrangement that severed the geographical and social arteries between Gaza and the West Bank, and forced the family to communicate only through phone screens.

In the displacement tent in Gaza, the father and mother observe the details of their child's growth, whom they left as an infant and who is now a child running and learning to speak. Their eyes overflow with anguish as they watch his movements and laughter from behind the rigid screen glass, unable to touch him.

Sources reported that child Jamil utters innocent cries with broken words, expressing his desire to return to Gaza, while his mother, stuck in the Strip, tries to calm him with promises of meeting and outings, which are killed by the reality of the imposed military siege.

The mother expresses her burning heart despite her joy at hearing his voice, emphasizing that virtual communication does not compensate for his presence in her embrace, especially since he is the family's first male child whose childhood was stolen away from his parents' care.

For his part, the father describes the psychological pain he experiences seeing his son grow up in pictures, pointing to the emergence of a frightening psychological barrier as the child has begun to shy away from them and does not recognize their true features due to their forced absence from his daily life.

Their sorrow intensifies during holidays and special occasions, as the mother sees displaced children with their mothers while her son remains alone in Hebron, raising her fears that he might not recognize her if their first future meeting ever happens.

On the other side in Hebron, the grandmother lives a double suffering. She bears the responsibility of raising a young child in difficult circumstances, while missing her sick husband in Gaza who needs her constant care due to his repeated comatose episodes.

The grandmother explained that child Jamil lived long periods of the war without communicating with his parents due to internet outages, which increased the child's psychological detachment and confusion, as he does not understand why he is away from his home.

Field sources revealed the presence of about 42 individuals stranded in the hospital accommodation in Hebron, living in similar conditions and demanding to return to the Gaza Strip, describing their stay there as akin to imprisonment despite the relative safety.

The father confirms that the tragic situation cannot be described in words, as the child becomes more aware day by day and discovers the absence of his parents, making his life in the hospital accommodation lack the family warmth and natural affection that any child his age needs.

Humanitarian appeals continue to end the suffering of Jamil and dozens of similar cases, amidst the occupation's intransigence and the closure of crossings that tear apart the Palestinian social fabric and prevent family reunification between parents and their children.

The story of the Ghoneim family remains a living testament to the brutality of policies that separate families, where video remains the only link for a family separated by a suffocating siege that disregards the sanctity of childhood and does not heal the wounds of hearts burning with longing.

I saw my son's childhood from behind the screen, I see him growing up before me in pictures and videos while the siege deprives us of embracing him.

LATEST NEWS

Sat 20 Jun 2026 9:26 pm - Jerusalem Time

Trump boasts of superiority over Hitler and Stalin in 'global influence'

US President Donald Trump sparked a wave of controversy after showing remarkable enthusiasm for being evaluated on par with historical figures associated with dictatorship and power. According to press reports, Trump agreed with an analysis that sees the fundamental difference between him and leaders like Hitler, Stalin, and Mao Zedong as lying in his possession of power and influence that surpasses what they achieved in their eras.

The story began when Trump reposted a short text praising his leadership abilities, in which the author considered that history has known strong men distinguished by conquest and intimidation, but they lacked the comprehensive global impact that Trump enjoys today. The US President commented on this proposition by saying: 'Sounds good to me,' a clear indication of his acceptance of this bold historical comparison.

Trump introduced the author of this analysis, named Dave King, as a 'presidential historian,' but journalistic investigations revealed the man's true identity. It turned out that King is not a historian at all, but a Scottish-born businessman residing in South Africa, who previously served as chairman of Rangers Football Club, which raises questions about the accuracy of Trump's classifications of his sources.

The first meeting between Trump and King occurred in a sporting context far from historical research centers, specifically during a golf match in Florida. It appears that King seized the opportunity to convey his vision of Trump's 'greatness' compared to ancient conquerors like Attila the Hun, Genghis Khan, and Napoleon, which was immediately well-received by the president aspiring to return to the White House.

These details were included in a new book titled 'Change of System,' authored by journalists Maggie Haberman and Jonathan Swan, scheduled for release next week. The book recounts the behind-the-scenes of the first months of Trump's ambitions for a second term, relying on hundreds of interviews conducted with his aides and inner circle over three continuous years.

Press sources reported that Trump boasted about these comparisons to New York Times reporters during an interview in March. When asked about his place in history, he asked his aides to bring a two-page document he received from the alleged 'historian,' and began reciting the names of historical leaders, explaining how their authority did not match that of the President of the United States.

During that interview, Trump claimed that historical leaders maintained their influence by instilling fear in the hearts of their people, asking indignantly who would dare to do that in the modern era. However, his admiration for the document reflected a deep desire to be seen as a pivotal figure whose power transcends the traditional recognized boundaries of democracy.

The new book does not stop at historical comparisons but also reveals political behind-the-scenes related to Trump's potential administration and his thinking about major appointments. Among the surprises reported by the authors is that Trump seriously considered appointing his Republican rival and Florida Governor, Ron DeSantis, to the position of Secretary of Defense, despite their public rivalry.

Regarding foreign policy, the book quoted shocking statements by Trump about the Ukrainian crisis, where he expressed his dislike for the Ukrainian state as a political entity. Trump merely praised Ukrainian women, referring in his usual manner to their repeated success in Miss Universe pageants, which he previously owned the rights to.

The book also highlights Trump's personal and behavioral aspects within the Oval Office, describing unusual scenes of the leader of the superpower. In one account, Trump was seen manually attempting to affix gold ornaments to a marble fireplace mantel using 'super glue,' a scene reflecting his excessive attention to aesthetic details and visual delight.

Trump's comments about his constant winning and his complaints about press coverage were also present in the recorded interviews for the book, where he said: 'Basically I was winning every time, and I'm tired of winning and getting bad press.' These statements reinforce the narcissistic image that his political opponents try to establish about him in election campaigns.

Observers believe that Trump's pleasure in being compared to authoritarian rulers is not new, but rather an extension of years of statements in which he expressed admiration for leaders like Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un. This tendency towards the 'strong man' raises concerns among democratic circles in the United States about the form of a potential second Trump term.

The book, based on more than 1000 interviews, paints a complex picture of a president who sees himself in a constant struggle with the 'deep state' and the media, while seeking historical legitimacy that places him above everyone. These leaks come at a sensitive time with the approaching heated presidential race, increasing the intensity of political polarization in the American street.

In conclusion, these narratives remain rich material for discussion about Trump's leadership psychology and how he sees himself as a unique phenomenon in human history. While his supporters see it as evidence of confidence and strength, his opponents see it as a dangerous indicator of authoritarian tendencies that could threaten American constitutional institutions if he returns to power.

The vast difference between these historical leaders and President Trump is their lack of the global influence he enjoys.

ARAB AND WORLD

Sat 20 Jun 2026 9:26 pm - Jerusalem Time

UN criticism and French-Spanish opposition to EU plans to establish 'return centers' for migrants

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has sharply criticized the new rules approved by the European Union regarding the deportation of migrants. Türk warned that these measures could lead to serious human rights violations, especially concerning the transfer of migrants to third countries that do not guarantee their protection.

The UN official expressed deep regret over the adoption of this law, emphasizing that European countries are legally and morally obligated to protect human rights within their territories. He affirmed in his statements that states' obligations towards migrants and refugees cannot be delegated or transferred to other parties outside the continent's borders.

The European Parliament had previously approved a package of stricter laws last week aimed at accelerating deportation processes. These rules include the possibility of concluding agreements with countries outside the bloc to establish so-called 'return centers,' where migrants whose applications have been rejected are detained pending their deportation.

Türk clarified in an official statement that the detention of vulnerable groups, including children, and their transfer to third countries represents a highly sensitive exercise of state power. He noted that this approach entails significant risks that could affect human dignity and violate applicable international conventions.

The High Commissioner stressed the necessity of keeping the protection of human rights and human dignity at the heart of any legislation or practical application of migration policies. He called on European authorities to review these texts to ensure they do not conflict with the fundamental principles upon which the international human rights system was founded.

Current data indicates that the European Union only succeeds in implementing about 20% of deportation orders issued against irregular foreign residents. This low percentage creates widespread political pressure from currents advocating for stricter and more decisive migration policies.

In this context, Türk affirmed that international law and refugee law categorically prohibit the return of any person to a place where they may face persecution or violations. He described the principle of 'non-refoulement' as a cornerstone that all states must respect under all circumstances.

The UN official also pointed out that deportation decisions should not be collective but must be based on a careful individual assessment of each case. He demanded that all legal appeal procedures be completed before any actual step is taken to remove migrants from European territory.

For his part, French President Emmanuel Macron entered the crisis, announcing Paris's opposition to the establishment of 'return centers' in third countries. Macron questioned the effectiveness of these centers, noting that he has not yet seen a successful model for them in practice.

The French President questioned the extent to which these policies align with the core values that Europe believes in and defends in international forums. He affirmed that France prefers more effective return policies but within a framework that respects the fundamental principles of the European Union and does not deviate from its humanitarian context.

In the same vein, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez joined the front of opponents, describing the plan as potentially leading to the waste of huge economic resources. Sánchez explained that Europe needs to utilize its limited resources for more sustainable solutions instead of spending them on external detention centers.

These divergent positions reflect a state of deep division within the European Union on how to deal with irregular migration. While some countries push for more strictness, human rights organizations and international parties warn against sliding towards policies that undermine fundamental human rights.

EU countries cannot simply delegate their human rights obligations to third countries.

PALESTINE

Sat 20 Jun 2026 9:26 pm - Jerusalem Time

5 Palestinians martyred in Gaza as occupation continues to violate ceasefire agreement

Five Palestinian citizens were martyred early Saturday morning in a series of airstrikes carried out by Israeli occupation aircraft targeting a home and civilian gatherings in various areas of Gaza City. Medical sources at Al-Shifa Hospital confirmed the arrival of the bodies of two young girls and their parents, due to a direct targeting of their home located near the Aviation intersection in the city center, which led to the destruction of the house on its inhabitants.

Eyewitnesses reported that the Israeli raid unexpectedly targeted the Safadi family home, resulting in the martyrdom of the couple Hussein and Rana Safadi, and their two daughters Zeina, 6 years old, and Lana, 13 years old. The shelling also caused varying injuries among family members and neighbors, all of whom were transferred to medical centers for treatment amidst a state of panic in the residential neighborhood.

In a related context, an Israeli drone targeted a group of passersby near the Safawi roundabout north of Gaza City, leading to the martyrdom of citizen Ahmed Munir Al-Zaza (38 years old). Medical sources clarified that the shelling also resulted in a woman sustaining moderate injuries, amid the continued intensive flight of drones in the sector's airspace despite existing truce agreements.

For its part, the government media office in Gaza issued a detailed report revealing that the Israeli occupation committed 3338 violations of the ceasefire agreement since its entry into force on October 10, 2025. The report indicated that these violations led to the martyrdom of 1012 people and the injury of more than 3200 others, in addition to the arrest of about 100 citizens during the past months.

On the humanitarian front, the government office noted a severe deterioration in aid flow, as only 54,000 trucks entered the sector out of 150,000 that were supposed to arrive under the agreement. Sources stated that the Israeli commitment to allowing aid and fuel entry did not exceed 36%, which exacerbated the living and health crises for the besieged population in various governorates.

Regarding freedom of movement through crossings, the report clarified that the occupation allowed only 7417 people to travel out of more than 20,000 humanitarian cases that were scheduled to depart via the Rafah land crossing. These strict restrictions come despite the reopening of the Palestinian side of the crossing last February, with thousands of wounded and sick still awaiting their turn to travel abroad for treatment.

On the ground, local sources monitored movements of occupation vehicles and what are known as 'yellow cubes' in the Tuffah, Shuja'iyya, and Beit Lahia areas, in an attempt to narrow the residential spaces available to Palestinians. These developments come amidst a heavy toll from the ongoing war of annihilation since October 2023, which has left more than 73,000 martyrs and destruction affecting 90% of the infrastructure and civilian facilities in the sector.

Israel committed 3338 violations of the ceasefire agreement since its implementation, killing 1012 Palestinians during that period.

PALESTINE

Sat 20 Jun 2026 9:26 pm - Jerusalem Time

6 Martyrs in Raids and Intense Artillery Shelling on Gaza Strip Since Dawn

Palestinian medical sources reported on Saturday morning an increase in the number of casualties from military attacks on the Gaza Strip to 6 martyrs and a number of injured. These injuries and deaths were distributed across different geographical areas as a result of intensified airstrikes and artillery shelling that has not stopped since the early hours of dawn, amid ongoing field operations in various axes.

In details of the targeting in Gaza City, 4 citizens were martyred and others were seriously injured as a result of a direct aerial bombardment that targeted a residential apartment in the densely populated Thalatheeni Street in the city center. The northern area of the Strip was also attacked by a drone belonging to the occupation forces near the Safatawi intersection, leading to additional injuries among civilians who were transferred to nearby hospitals for treatment.

In the southern part of the Strip, the Mawasi Rafah area witnessed a field escalation, represented by tanks firing their artillery and heavy machine guns towards displaced persons' tents and residential areas. This coincided with intensive movements of warships offshore, which fired indiscriminately and heavily, increasing the state of panic among citizens in those coastal areas.

In Khan Yunis city, military vehicles stationed in the southern areas continued intensive shelling operations, with attacks focused on the eastern neighborhoods of the city. The forces carried out widespread demolition operations of residential blocks and homes belonging to citizens, leading to massive material destruction and rising columns of smoke that covered the sky of the area, in a step aimed at changing the geographical features of the place.

These rapid field developments come at a time when international warnings are escalating about the collapse of the health and service systems within the Strip. Hospitals suffer from a severe shortage of medical equipment and necessary medicines to treat the wounded, threatening an increase in the number of deaths among the injured who do not receive adequate healthcare due to the ongoing siege and targeting of vital facilities.

Medical sources recorded the martyrdom of 6 Palestinians and the injury of others with varying degrees of wounds as a result of a series of aerial and artillery targetings since the early hours of dawn.

OPINIONS

Sat 20 Jun 2026 9:26 pm - Jerusalem Time

Trump Rages in Private Meetings at Israel for Trying to Drag Him Back into His War with Iran

Washington Message

Washington - Said Arikat - 20/6/2026

Amidst the accelerating field and diplomatic developments on the Middle East front, informed sources revealed to "Zaytou" website on Saturday a state of intense anger experienced by US President Donald Trump behind the scenes of the White House, due to what he considers deliberate Israeli attempts to drag him back into the quagmire of his war on Iran. According to the report, Trump, who has become desperate to exit a war his advisors describe as "catastrophic and unpopular," appears ready to grant Tehran a stunning diplomatic victory as the price for ending US military involvement.

Details conveyed by four individuals with direct knowledge of the President's mood show that Trump is leveling sharp accusations against the Israeli government and its Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing them of trying to thwart his endeavor to withdraw from "a war they chose together." The source of presidential anger, according to these accounts, is focused on Israel's continued launching of deadly raids on Lebanon, despite the existence of a fragile US-Iranian memorandum of understanding (MOU) calling for a ceasefire there. Trump believes that Tel Aviv is deliberately undermining this understanding to push Washington back into a comprehensive confrontation with Iran, a scenario the US President categorically rejects at this stage.

A close advisor to Trump quoted the President as saying, charged with anger: "He curses a lot about this." An administration official was more explicit when he told "Zaytou": "At least for now, the President is angrier at the Israelis than he is at the Iranians." This presidential mood is no longer just a fleeting annoyance; it has, according to the same sources, transformed into a firm conviction that Israel is seeking to "deceive" him in order to reignite a regional war that Trump considers an existential threat to his political legacy and future ambitions.

"Zaytou" sources indicate that the continuous pressure from Israeli leaders on the Americans to abandon the MOU with Iran, along with the continuation of military operations in Lebanon, has led to a completely opposite result than what Tel Aviv had hoped for. Instead of pushing Trump towards adopting a tougher stance, these practices have made him more determined to move in the opposite direction, drawing closer to the option of a settlement with Tehran and ending the war. The scene reveals one of the deepest undeclared crises in the history of the US-Israeli alliance, where narrow national interests intersect with the personal calculations of a president who places "big deals" above all else.

Trump's state of anger towards Israeli behavior reveals a fundamental shift in the concept of the "strategic alliance" that previous US administrations have always revered. The current President, immersed in the "America First" doctrine, views the Iranian war as an electoral and political burden that threatens his image as a peacemaker. Analytically, this position reflects a transactional understanding of international relations; as long as Israel obstructs the MOU and provokes Tehran, in Trump's view, it transforms from an ally into an adversary that hinders the implementation of his vision based on a rapid withdrawal from the quagmires of the Middle East, even if it costs the undermining of Washington's regional influence.

There is another equally important dimension, related to Israel's own calculations, which seem to be betting on Trump overcoming his objections under pressure from lobbies and the security establishment. But this bet carries a major risk, as the man who did not hesitate to dismiss defense ministers and advisors for personal reasons may take confusing diplomatic retaliatory steps against Tel Aviv. From an analytical perspective, the continuation of raids on Lebanon despite the US-Iranian understanding places Israel in the position of openly challenging presidential will, which opens the door to the possibility of Washington reducing its military involvement in the Eastern Mediterranean, leaving Israel to face alone the repercussions of any potential regional explosion.

As for the MOU, the story highlights the fragility of agreements sponsored by conflicting interests. Iran sees in the moment of American hesitation an opportunity to extract strategic gains without a long-term war, while Trump transforms into a pragmatic player who wants a "deal" that withdraws his troops and returns him to the American public as a victor. The profound comment here is that Trump's shift away from the Israeli position is not a fleeting tactic, but the beginning of redrawing the map of alliances in the region, where Washington is looking for quick exits, and may find in coordination with Tehran, not with Netanyahu, a forced passage, casting thick shadows on the future of stability in Lebanon, Iraq, and Syria.

PALESTINE

Sat 20 Jun 2026 9:25 pm - Jerusalem Time

Palestinian Prime Minister: Occupation Seeks to Turn Its Aggression in West Bank into Ethnic Cleansing Project

Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Mustafa affirmed that the practices carried out by the Israeli occupation authorities in the West Bank have exceeded the limits of traditional military control. He explained during a field tour that these aggressions fall within accelerated plans aimed at transforming the occupation into a comprehensive ethnic cleansing project targeting the Palestinian presence.

These statements came during an official visit by Mustafa to the ancient town of Sebastia, affiliated with the Nablus Governorate, with the aim of strengthening the steadfastness of citizens in the face of repeated attacks by the occupation army and settlers. The Prime Minister stressed that these attempts to uproot Palestinians from their land will not succeed, no matter how intense the pressures.

Mustafa indicated that the occupation government deluded itself into thinking that the world's preoccupation with the war of extermination in the Gaza Strip would open the door for it to impose new settlement realities in the West Bank and Jerusalem. He added that the steadfastness of the Palestinian people in Gaza, despite the killing, starvation, and displacement, has thwarted these bets and proven the Palestinians' adherence to their historical and national rights.

The Prime Minister addressed the humanitarian catastrophe in the Gaza Strip, where the ongoing war since October 2023 has resulted in more than 73,000 martyrs and over 173,000 injured. He also drew attention to the massive destruction that affected about 90% of the civilian infrastructure, amid UN estimates indicating that reconstruction will cost about 70 billion dollars.

Regarding the town of Sebastia, Mustafa explained that his visit carries a political and national message par excellence, emphasizing adherence to the authentic Palestinian identity and heritage. He described the town as a living model of steadfastness, work, and construction in the face of challenges, noting that it represents a bridge connecting the history of the Palestinian people with their future on their land.

The Prime Minister stressed the strategic importance of protecting the civilizational and historical legacy in Palestine from attempts of falsification and Judaization. He announced the government's full support for national efforts to register the town of Sebastia on the UNESCO World Heritage List, to ensure its international protection from Israeli aggressions.

Mustafa extended an open invitation to national institutions, the local community, and all Palestinians at home and in the diaspora to intensify their visits to historical and archaeological sites. He considered that the popular presence in these sites, especially Sebastia, is direct support for the steadfastness of the residents and a reinforcement of the Palestinian narrative in the face of attempts at isolation and Judaization.

The town of Sebastia is one of the most important archaeological sites in Palestine, with its ancient history extending for more than five thousand years, witnessing the succession of multiple human civilizations. The Prime Minister affirmed that preserving this cultural heritage is an integral part of the battle for national independence and the preservation of the collective memory of the Palestinian people.

It is worth noting that the Israeli escalation in the West Bank and Jerusalem since October 2023 has led to the martyrdom of 1,169 Palestinians and the injury of thousands of others with varying degrees of wounds. Arrest campaigns have also affected about 23,000 citizens, while demolition and displacement policies have resulted in the displacement of about 33,000 Palestinians from their homes and lands.

What is happening is not limited to controlling the land, but rather comes within accelerated attempts to transform the occupation into an ethnic cleansing project, exploiting current circumstances and developments.

PALESTINE

Sat 20 Jun 2026 9:25 pm - Jerusalem Time

Photojournalist Ahmed Wshah martyred in Israeli shelling targeting Al-Bureij camp

Palestinian photojournalist Ahmed Samir Wshah was martyred on Saturday evening, after being targeted by Israeli occupation aircraft in the central Gaza Strip. This crime comes in the context of a series of continuous violations committed by the occupation army of the ceasefire agreement in effect since last October, which exacerbates the already critical humanitarian and field conditions in the Strip.

Medical sources confirmed the arrival of the bodies of two martyrs and a third injured to the hospital, as a result of a raid carried out by an Israeli drone that directly targeted the courtyard of a house in Al-Bureij camp. Eyewitnesses stated that photojournalist Ahmed Wshah was among the victims, and he is the brother of the martyred journalist Mohammed Wshah, who was killed in a previous raid that targeted his vehicle south of Gaza City last April.

With Wshah's martyrdom, the government media office in Gaza announced that the number of martyrs from media personnel has risen to 262 martyrs since the outbreak of the genocide war in October 2023. These figures reflect the systematic targeting of media crews in an attempt to obscure the truth and hinder the reporting of details of crimes committed against civilians.

Official data indicates that early 2026 witnessed a bloody escalation against journalists, with five of them martyred by occupation fire since the beginning of the year. The list of new martyrs includes Abdul Raouf Samir Shaat, Mohammed Salah Qashta, Anas Abdullah Ghoneim, Amal Shamali, in addition to the brothers Mohammed and Ahmed Wshah, highlighting the serious risks facing journalistic work.

Regarding field violations, local sources reported that the occupation's violations of the ceasefire agreement have resulted, as of Saturday, in the martyrdom of 1012 Palestinians and the injury of 3208 others with varying degrees of wounds. These attacks continue despite international understandings, putting the fragile agreement to difficult tests in light of the Israeli insistence on continuing limited and systematic military operations.

The ceasefire agreement came into effect after two years of a comprehensive war of annihilation that left unprecedented destruction in the modern history of the Strip. According to official statistics, the number of martyrs exceeded 73,000, while the number of injured surpassed 173,000, amid a near-complete collapse of the health and service systems due to the repeated targeting of vital facilities.

Regarding infrastructure, reports indicate that Israeli shelling targeted about 90% of civilian facilities in the Gaza Strip, causing a complete paralysis of daily life. The United Nations estimates the cost of rebuilding what the occupation destroyed at about $70 billion, amid enormous challenges facing relief and reconstruction operations due to the continued blockade and restrictions imposed on the entry of basic materials.

The number of martyred journalists has risen to 262 martyrs since the beginning of the genocide war on the Gaza Strip in October 2023.

ARAB AND WORLD

Sat 20 Jun 2026 9:25 pm - Jerusalem Time

Netanyahu orders halt to operations in Lebanon, Hezbollah documents 300 Israeli violations

Hezbollah held the Israeli occupation fully responsible for the continuous series of violations of the ceasefire agreement, stressing that the field practices reflect the Israeli side's non-compliance with the truce. In a statement, the party clarified that the documented Israeli attacks since dawn on Friday amounted to about 300 violations, including air raids and artillery shelling targeting various areas.

The party considered that the claims promoted by the occupation leaders regarding the resistance's violation of the agreement are nothing but lies aimed at justifying the continuation of aggression on Lebanese territories. The statement emphasized that these Israeli attempts aim to evade international obligations and commitments reached under American and international sponsorship to stop the bloodshed.

In contrast, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in cooperation with his security minister, Yisrael Katz, issued instructions to the army to temporarily halt military operations in southern Lebanon. Despite this directive, Israeli sources confirmed that the decision does not include withdrawal from the positions controlled by the army during the recent ground incursion, which keeps tension high in the border areas.

Hebrew media sources reported that Netanyahu's decision came after intensive security consultations held on Saturday, coinciding with rapid regional developments including Iran's announcement of closing the Strait of Hormuz. This decision appears to reflect an Israeli desire to contain the situation and avoid an open confrontation with the American administration, especially with Donald Trump's approaching assumption of power.

For its part, the Israeli Broadcasting Corporation stated that Netanyahu insists on the military forces remaining in the so-called 'security zone' within Lebanese territory to ensure that Hezbollah fighters do not return. Officials in the Prime Minister's office claimed that the army managed to attack 300 targets belonging to the party in the past two days, resulting in the killing of dozens of its elements according to their claims.

The term 'halt to operations' reported by Hebrew reports remains ambiguous, as it is not yet clear whether it includes the demolition of homes and villages carried out by the occupation in the 'Yellow Line'. The Israeli security minister had previously stated that the destruction of infrastructure in those areas does not contradict the terms of the ceasefire agreement, which Beirut completely rejects.

On the ground, the Lebanese Civil Defense reported the martyrdom of at least 16 people due to Israeli raids targeting southern and Bekaa towns a few hours after the truce came into effect. Sources confirmed that drones and warplanes did not leave Lebanese airspace and continued to carry out what were described as retaliatory strikes against civilian and military targets.

In a notable escalation, an Israeli raid targeted a Lebanese army soldier on the Kfar Remman-Nabatieh road, leading to his immediate martyrdom while performing his national duty. The Lebanese army condemned these brutal attacks, considering them directly aimed at obstructing any international or local efforts to restore stability and security to the country.

The National News Agency reported that one of the Israeli strikes destroyed a three-story residential building in the Tyre governorate, resulting in a horrific massacre that claimed the lives of an entire family. Sources clarified that the martyrs were a father, mother, and their two children, in a scene that embodies the extent of blatant Israeli violations of humanitarian and international laws during the supposed truce period.

Regarding official statistics, the Lebanese Ministry of Health announced that the death toll from Israeli attacks on Friday alone reached 83 martyrs and 141 injured. Most of these casualties were concentrated in the southern and Bekaa regions, where villages and towns were subjected to intense shelling that indiscriminately targeted residential areas and public facilities.

In its periodic report, the ministry revealed that the total number of martyrs since the beginning of last March until Saturday has exceeded 4057 martyrs, including a large number of women and children. The report also noted the martyrdom of 135 paramedics and health sector workers, a clear indication of the occupation's systematic targeting of relief and rescue teams.

In light of these developments, the Lebanese and international public are awaiting the resilience of the ceasefire agreement in the face of these repeated violations and Israeli intransigence in remaining within Lebanese territory. Diplomatic contacts between Washington and Tel Aviv continue in an attempt to stabilize the truce, amid fears of the agreement collapsing and a return to full-scale confrontation.

The enemy's violations since dawn on Friday amounted to 300 documented breaches and attacks, and its claims of our violation of the agreement are an attempt to justify its continuous attacks.

ARAB AND WORLD

Sat 20 Jun 2026 9:25 pm - Jerusalem Time

Switzerland hosts crucial Iranian-American talks amid threats to close the Strait of Hormuz

International attention is turning to the Swiss city of Bürgenstock, which is preparing to host a new round of technical talks between the United States and Iran on Sunday. These meetings aim to establish executive mechanisms for the recently signed memorandum of understanding in Islamabad, which seeks to end the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that these discussions will take place with the presence of mediators from Pakistan and Qatar, to ensure a convergence of views between the American and Iranian delegations. This step comes at a sensitive time witnessing military escalation and mutual warnings that could jeopardize the fragile stability achieved.

For his part, US Vice President J.D. Vance revealed the possibility of his heading to Switzerland in the coming days to join the negotiating team. Vance indicated that envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are currently in Switzerland managing the complex technical files related to the agreement.

In press statements, Vance explained that things are going well so far, but they require precise and careful coordination to ensure the success of the diplomatic path. He stressed that the US administration attaches great importance to implementing the provisions of the memorandum to ensure the interests of all parties concerned with regional stability.

In contrast, Tehran officially announced the departure of its technical delegation to Switzerland, carrying strict demands related to the necessity of Washington's adherence to its prior commitments. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Ismail Baqaei warned that any American procrastination would put the entire understanding in real danger.

The Iranian diplomatic move coincided with serious military threats to re-close the Strait of Hormuz to international navigation, in response to what Tehran described as continuous violations. The Iranian leadership considered the continuation of Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon a blatant violation of the spirit of the memorandum of understanding concluded with Washington.

Media sources quoted the Iranian military leadership as saying that closing the strait represents 'the first step' in a series of potential escalatory measures. Tehran confirmed that the negotiating delegation in Switzerland will demand clear guarantees to stop military operations targeting the Lebanese front as an integral part of the agreement.

On the other hand, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced raising the level of alert and vigilance among its forces stationed in the region. US military sources confirmed that they are closely monitoring movements in the Strait of Hormuz to ensure that the international waterway remains open and safe for global trade.

A statement issued by CENTCOM reported that about 55 commercial vessels crossed the strait safely in the past hours, confirming that navigation has not faced any actual obstacles so far. The statement stressed the commitment of US forces to monitor the implementation of all provisions of the agreement concluded with the Iranian side and ensure its effectiveness.

The diplomatic path in Switzerland remains suspended between the parties' desire to contain the escalation and the increasing field pressures in Lebanon and the Gulf. Sunday will be a real test of the ability of mediators in Qatar and Pakistan to bridge the gap between Iranian demands and American commitments amid an atmosphere charged with military threats.

The agreement is at risk if the United States does not adhere to its commitments, and the other party must take the necessary measures as soon as possible.

PALESTINE

Sat 20 Jun 2026 9:25 pm - Jerusalem Time

Prisoner's Club: Occupation Deprives 65 Students in its Prisons of High School Exams

Palestinian human rights sources announced today, Saturday, that the Israeli occupation authorities continue to detain 65 high school students in their prisons, which directly led to their deprivation of taking the final exams for this year. These figures coincide with thousands of students in the West Bank and Gaza Strip heading to examination halls as part of a unified program implemented for the first time since the outbreak of the war of extermination in October 2023.

The Palestinian Prisoner's Club confirmed in an official statement that these numbers are based on data from the Palestinian Ministry of Education, indicating that the absence of these students comes in the context of a systematic targeting of the Palestinian educational process. The statement clarified that the occupation seeks through these arrests to break the will of the young generation and prevent them from completing their academic achievement, which is a fundamental weapon in facing current challenges.

The sources stressed that the occupying state has significantly escalated its arrest campaigns targeting students from various educational stages since the beginning of the comprehensive aggression on the Gaza Strip. These campaigns were not limited to arrest only, but also included repressive practices aimed at obstructing students' access to their schools and universities in various governorates of the homeland, creating a complex and difficult educational reality.

Student prisoners inside prisons face extremely harsh detention conditions, where they are subjected to various types of torture, abuse, and ill-treatment by the prison administration. Human rights reports stated that deprivation of education is accompanied by deprivation of communication with families, which doubles the psychological and physical suffering of detained students in the absence of real international oversight of these violations.

The Prisoner's Club considered this escalation a radical and dangerous shift in the reality of the prisoner movement, as the occupation authorities targeted the historical achievements made by prisoners over decades of struggle. The right to education is at the forefront of these achievements that the occupation is trying to undermine as part of the collective punishment policy imposed on the Palestinian people for many months.

Human rights organizations issued an urgent appeal to international and UN organizations to assume their legal and moral responsibilities towards the escalating crimes against detained students. These bodies demanded real pressure on the occupation government to stop the policy of targeting educational institutions and ensure the right of prisoners to continue their education in accordance with international laws and conventions.

Current statistics indicate that there are about 9,500 Palestinian prisoners in occupation prisons, including women, children, and hundreds of administrative detainees who are held without clear charges. International and local accusations against the occupation are escalating for practicing policies of starvation and deliberate medical neglect, which has led to the deterioration of the health of a large number of prisoners recently.

Amidst the ongoing war, human rights organizations confirm that the Israeli prison service has tightened its repressive measures, including reducing family visits and preventing the entry of books and educational materials. Despite the occupation authorities' denial of these accusations, testimonies of released prisoners and field reports confirm flagrant violations of the rules of international humanitarian law inside detention centers.

The right of prisoners to education has for many years been one of the most prominent rights they have struggled to establish despite repeated attempts by the prison administration to deprive them of it.

ARAB AND WORLD

Sat 20 Jun 2026 3:31 pm - Jerusalem Time

Intense American Moves in Switzerland and Efforts to Launch Direct Negotiations with Tehran

The diplomatic arena in Switzerland has witnessed accelerated American moves with the arrival of Steve Witkoff, Special Envoy of President Donald Trump, in preparation for direct talks with the Iranian side. These moves aim to formulate a new nuclear and ballistic agreement that would end the long-standing tension between the two countries.

Informed sources reported that Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of the American President, has already arrived in Swiss territory to participate in the logistical and political arrangements for this anticipated round. This step comes within the framework of the US administration's diligent efforts to open direct channels of communication to achieve a breakthrough in the thorny issues.

Despite these preparations, both Bern and Tehran announced the postponement of the first round of negotiations, which was supposed to begin on Friday at the Bürgenstock resort. The Swiss Foreign Ministry did not disclose the precise reasons for this postponement, merely stating the need to create suitable conditions.

For his part, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Ismail Baqaei clarified that the start of the negotiation train depends on the implementation of specific provisions contained in the memorandum of understanding previously signed between the two parties. Baqaei stressed that the continued application of these provisions is the only guarantee for engaging in a formal and serious dialogue on outstanding issues.

Media reports indicated that the ongoing military escalation between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon played a pivotal role in obstructing the talks' timeline. Mediating parties believe that the continuation of fighting casts a negative shadow on the diplomatic climate and complicates the process of making fateful decisions.

In the same context, sources revealed that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi plans to travel to Switzerland on Saturday, but this date remains subject to field developments. Araqchi believes that establishing a ceasefire on the Lebanese front is a top priority and a crucial factor for the success of the negotiating path with Washington.

On the American side, Vice President J.D. Vance was expected to lead the negotiating delegation, but he decided to postpone his trip at the last minute on Thursday evening. Speculation remains about the possibility of him joining the delegation over the weekend if a breakthrough occurs in the political scene.

These negotiations are based on what is known as the 'Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding,' which was reached in mid-June and consists of 14 basic provisions. This memorandum was digitally signed by both Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and American President Donald Trump, representing a roadmap for a solution.

The memorandum includes essential provisions related to halting hostile operations on several regional fronts, including the Lebanese arena, and lifting the naval blockade imposed on Iranian ports. The understandings also include the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to international navigation to ensure the stability of global energy markets.

Tehran dispelled concerns about the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, with the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman denying the accuracy of reports about the disruption of ship traffic. He affirmed that Iranian forces continue to secure the strategic waterway to ensure the passage of commercial vessels and tankers without significant obstacles.

Regarding the nuclear file, Iran clarified that it has not issued a new invitation to the International Atomic Energy Agency to inspect additional facilities outside the agreed framework. It stressed that inspections will be limited to sites that were previously under surveillance, such as the Bushehr plant, while maintaining the security of its nuclear program.

The two parties set a 60-day timeframe to reach the final version of the comprehensive agreement, which puts diplomats under time pressure to achieve tangible results. This period is considered a real test of the seriousness of both parties in overcoming decades of hostility and building a relationship based on security and economic understandings.

Mediating countries play a vital role in conveying messages between Washington and Tehran, especially in the absence of full direct diplomatic relations so far. These countries affirm that the success of the Switzerland negotiations will represent a major turning point in the history of the Middle East, which could lead to a comprehensive de-escalation in the region.

Anticipation remains the order of the day, awaiting what the coming hours will bring in terms of diplomatic moves in the Swiss corridors, and the extent of the parties' ability to overcome the obstacle of field escalation. While Washington insists on an agreement that guarantees the containment of ballistic capabilities, Tehran demands a complete lifting of economic sanctions as a fundamental condition for stability.

Establishing a ceasefire in Lebanon is a top priority for Tehran, and a decisive factor for the course of negotiations with Washington.

PALESTINE

Sat 20 Jun 2026 3:31 pm - Jerusalem Time

3 Martyrs and Injuries in Israeli Raid Targeting Residential Apartment in Gaza City

Medical sources in the Gaza Strip reported, early Saturday, an increase in the number of victims of the Israeli raid that targeted a residential apartment in the heart of Gaza City to three martyrs, in addition to a number of injuries of varying severity among residents and neighbors.

The Directorate of Ambulance and Emergency explained that the concentrated shelling hit a residential unit in the central areas of the city, causing widespread destruction at the site and damage to surrounding homes, while ambulances rushed to transport the victims to nearby hospitals.

For its part, civil defense and rescue teams began intensive field operations to comb through the rubble and search for trapped or potential victims under the debris, confirming that efforts are still ongoing to ensure the evacuation of all injured from the scene of the targeting.

The death toll from the occupation's shelling, which targeted a residential apartment in the center of Gaza City, rose to 3 martyrs and a number of injured.

ARAB AND WORLD

Sat 20 Jun 2026 3:31 pm - Jerusalem Time

A Reading of the Balance of Power: How Tehran Imposed Its Conditions in the Memorandum of Understanding with Washington?

Political circles are awaiting the official final signing in Switzerland of the Iranian-American Memorandum of Understanding, which came as a result of Pakistani mediation supported by an active Qatari role. This procedure was preceded by a mutual electronic signing, amidst media leaks that sparked mixed reactions in the capitals of Tehran and Washington, between supporters who see it as a strategic necessity and opponents who describe it as a concession.

Domestically in the US, criticism from Democratic Party leaders towards the Donald Trump administration escalated, with Senator Chris Murphy describing the framework agreement as an 'American surrender'. Murphy pointed out that involving soldiers in a military confrontation with Iran was a losing bet from the start, emphasizing that Tehran emerged from this confrontation stronger and more resilient.

Criticism was not limited to politicians but extended to think tanks and media, with 'The Atlantic' considering Iran the true victor in this conflict. Analysts explained that the United States failed to achieve the fundamental goals it announced at the beginning of the escalation, which granted Iran a more influential regional and international standing after its steadfastness against military pressures.

In Israel, a state of deep shock prevailed in both government and opposition circles, with Avigdor Lieberman describing the memorandum as a great catastrophe. Benjamin Netanyahu found himself in an embarrassing defensive position, especially with the agreement's text stipulating a cessation of hostilities on all fronts, foremost among them the Lebanese front, which represents a priority in the memorandum.

The structure of the final agreement, drafted by Tehran in 14 clauses, is completely devoid of any reference to the Iranian missile program or its regional alliance network. The Iranian negotiator succeeded in isolating these files from the discussion table, focusing on linking the nuclear file to a cessation of war and an immediate lifting of the economic and naval blockade.

The effects of the agreement began to appear practically even before the official signing, as Iran resumed exporting oil and petrochemicals without objection from American fleets. In return, Tehran pledged the gradual opening of the Strait of Hormuz within thirty days, with a view to collecting navigation and environmental service fees from passing ships in coordination with the Sultanate of Oman.

Regarding the nuclear file, the agreement included a negotiation period extending for sixty days, with advanced centrifuges and nuclear facilities remaining under Iranian sovereignty. Washington appears to have backed down from its demands to dismantle the program, contenting itself with understandings regarding reducing high enrichment levels within Iranian territory or converting them into nuclear fuel through international intermediaries.

Recent intelligence reports indicate that Iran now possesses a 'strategic weapon' in its proven ability to control international waterways. Security sources confirmed that Tehran rapidly rebuilt its military industrial base faster than expected, giving it a permanent ability to threaten navigation in the event of a collapse of political understandings.

Despite this progress, there remain existing risks that could jeopardize the agreement, most notably the possibility of Israel violating the ceasefire in Lebanon to undermine Trump's efforts. In this context, Tehran insists on the necessity of a complete Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon, holding the American administration responsible for curbing any future Israeli military action.

In conclusion, the current scene shows the superiority of the Iranian negotiator who managed to transform military steadfastness into tangible political and economic gains. While Trump seeks to market the agreement as a historic achievement, observers believe that Tehran succeeded in establishing new rules of engagement that guarantee its national interests and end decades of imposed isolation.

Iran grew stronger day by day, and the military mission against it was impossible.

OPINIONS

Sat 20 Jun 2026 3:30 pm - Jerusalem Time

World Cup 2026: Racism fears turn into reality in the United States

Ramallah - “Alquds ” dot com

Ramallah - “Alquds ” dot com

Opinion Writer

Attention is currently focused on the 2026 World Cup, hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, amidst widespread controversy that has not centered on athletic performance, but rather on organizational challenges and racist practices. Fears have grown since 2025 that the troubled political climate in the United States and the rise of right-wing currents would negatively affect fans coming from countries in the Global South, which has indeed begun to materialize with the start of the competitions.

Despite promises made by FIFA President Gianni Infantino that the tournament would be a global celebration uniting peoples, the reality on the ground has revealed a wide gap between slogans and implementation. Infantino's decision to award the FIFA Peace Prize to US President Donald Trump late last year sparked widespread indignation, especially in light of the strict policies pursued by the current US administration towards immigrants and minorities.

These policies were embodied in the prevention of Somali referee Omar Abdiqadir Artan, winner of the award for best referee in Africa, from entering US territory via Miami Airport despite holding a valid visa. Responsible sources in the White House justified this measure by the necessity of preventing what they described as 'malicious entities' from exploiting the tournament's cover to enter, a reference that reflects racist tendencies towards those coming from certain African countries.

These measures were not limited to referees but also affected participating teams, as players from Senegal and Uzbekistan were subjected to humiliating security checks at airport terminals. The Iraqi delegation also faced harassment, including preventing its photographer from entering and subjecting star Ayman Hussein to a lengthy eight-hour interrogation, while the Iranian team was forced to leave the country immediately after their matches without being allowed to stay.

As for fans, the audience from the Democratic Republic of Congo was denied the right to attend and support their team on the pretext of health concerns regarding the Ebola epidemic, despite meeting all medical requirements and spending a quarantine period in Europe. This ban deprived the World Cup of iconic figures such as the fan 'Lumumba,' reflecting double standards in dealing with citizens of poor countries compared to their counterparts from Western countries.

In contrast to these restrictions, double standards towards Israel stand out, as FIFA previously withdrew the hosting of the Youth World Cup from Indonesia for its refusal to host the Israeli team. In the current tournament, Jake Perkunz, an Israeli-American soldier who participated in military operations in Gaza, was allowed to enter, despite reports against him for documented war crimes, raising questions about the absence of legal accountability within US territory.

These events come at a time when US detention centers are witnessing tragic conditions, with reports indicating the death of more than 44 migrants since early 2025 due to mistreatment and medical neglect. As the tournament continues, it appears that media and sports focus ignores these human rights violations, putting the slogans of 'sportsmanship' and 'world unity' promoted by FIFA to the test.

There is a vast difference between how participants and fans from Europe and the Global North are treated, and how those from Africa and Asia are treated.

PALESTINE

Sat 20 Jun 2026 3:30 pm - Jerusalem Time

Collapse of Lebanon's Calm: Intense Israeli Raids Leave Martyrs and Widespread Destruction in the South

The past hours have witnessed a dangerous Israeli military escalation in southern Lebanon, where warplanes carried out a series of intense airstrikes targeting populated towns and villages. This escalation represents a clear violation of the ceasefire agreement that came into effect on Friday evening, leading to a number of martyrs and injured, and causing severe material damage to private and public properties.

Field sources reported that after midnight, warplanes targeted the town of Nabatieh Fawqa with a violent raid, followed by morning raids that hit the Al-Rus neighborhood in the town of Al-Numairiya. These attacks resulted in the complete destruction of a number of residential homes, while simultaneously shelling targeted the towns of Shoukin and Haboush, causing a state of panic and widespread destruction in the area.

In the Jezzine region, Israeli planes launched two raids on the heights of Sajed and Al-Rihan, while the Kfarjouz area in Nabatieh was directly targeted, leading to the destruction of a residential building. Not long after, the planes re-targeted another building in the same area less than half an hour later, indicating an intentional effort to inflict the greatest possible damage to infrastructure.

This bloody escalation was largely concentrated in the town of Arabsalim, which was subjected to two consecutive raids, resulting in three martyrs and several others injured with varying degrees of severity. The raids also hit Jabal Al-Rafie on the eastern outskirts of the town, in addition to targeting the town of Zabdin and Al-Mahmoudiya farm near the Al-Aishiya area, amidst intensive drone flights in the skies.

Regarding human casualties, medical sources confirmed the martyrdom of a citizen in a shelling that targeted the town of Deir Al-Zahrani, while another was martyred at the eastern entrance of the town of Al-Duwair as a result of a motorcycle being targeted by a missile from a drone. Artillery shelling also hit the city of Nabatieh and its outskirts and the vicinity of the historic Beaufort Castle, reflecting the expansion of Israeli military operations despite the announced understandings.

This field deterioration comes just hours after Israel and Hezbollah agreed to a ceasefire, which began at 4:00 PM on Friday through international mediation. Despite the hopes placed on this agreement to end the suffering of civilians, the continuation of Israeli raids and military operations has put the calm at risk and returned the region to a state of tension.

In a related context to the ongoing occupation crimes, Gaza City bid farewell to the young Palestinian Abdul Jawad Abu Laban, who was martyred in a raid that targeted a civilian vehicle in the center of the Strip. Martyr Abu Laban was distributing invitations for his wedding, which was scheduled for next week, turning the wedding ceremony into a solemn funeral that set off from Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City amidst a state of deep sorrow.

The moments of bidding farewell to Martyr Abu Laban witnessed touching scenes, as his fiancée collapsed while taking her last look at him in the hospital, in a crime that reflects the extent of the human tragedy experienced by Palestinians. This incident confirms that the Israeli war machine does not differentiate between one front and another, targeting civilians and their dreams in Gaza and Lebanon alike.

The Israeli army violated the ceasefire agreement in Lebanon since last night, by carrying out a series of intense airstrikes that hit various areas in the South.

PALESTINE

Sat 20 Jun 2026 3:30 pm - Jerusalem Time

Joëlle El Hajjam.. A French fashion designer dedicates her life to Gaza relief from the streets of Paris

French fashion designer and human rights activist, Joëlle El Hajjam, embodies a unique model of individual solidarity with the Palestinian people, having dedicated her life for over a decade and a half to defending human rights. El Hajjam, who is over sixty years old, is keen to transform simple street events in France into effective tools for collecting direct donations for the Gaza Strip, in light of the deteriorating humanitarian conditions there.

The French activist adopts an innovative method to attract donors, by organizing display tables in public squares featuring various collectibles and items. El Hajjam emphasizes that this process is not under the traditional commercial selling concept, but rather a symbolic means to encourage passersby to contribute financially, stressing that all proceeds are allocated to support the basic needs of Palestinians.

Field reports indicate that this initiative receives a wide response from the French community, with daily donations averaging around 800 euros, equivalent to approximately 864 dollars. This figure reflects the increasing public awareness of the Palestinian cause, especially since El Hajjam continues her weekly and regular activity to ensure the flow of financial and in-kind aid through her private association.

El Hajjam does not limit herself to collecting money; she also uses her tables as platforms for political and humanitarian awareness about what is happening in the occupied territories. The activist believes that direct communication with the French public breaks the barrier of media misinformation, as she dedicates a long time to answering passersby's questions and explaining the details of the daily suffering experienced by the residents of the Gaza Strip as a result of the siege and aggression.

Sources following her activity explained that religious occasions, such as the holy month of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, witness a peak in donation turnout, as the initiative managed to collect huge sums of money during these times. These resources contribute to providing Iftar meals and clothing for needy families, which enhances the resilience of citizens in facing harsh conditions.

Regarding the mechanism for delivering aid, El Hajjam confirms that donations are transferred directly and documented into the Strip to purchase necessary supplies such as food, clothing, and medicine. She believes that the continuous documentation of distribution operations contributes to building a bridge of trust with French donors, who see the tangible impact of their contributions on the ground.

The French activist concludes her speech by emphasizing her ethical commitment to continuing this path, considering herself a voice for those whose voices have been silenced amid international silence. Through her individual effort, she aims to ensure that every child and family in Gaza receives the minimum requirements for a dignified life, transforming cross-border civil work into a message of hope and unwavering humanitarian solidarity.

We are the voice of the voiceless, and what I seek is to secure food and water and bring joy to the hearts of those besieged in Gaza.

PALESTINE

Sat 20 Jun 2026 3:30 pm - Jerusalem Time

Warnings against Palestinians paying the price for Netanyahu's military and political 'failures'

Palestinian researcher Ramzy Baroud warned that the Palestinian people might find themselves the 'weaker party' that will bear the consequences of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's political and military decline. Baroud explained that Netanyahu is currently experiencing the most fragile moments of his political life amid escalating crises on multiple regional fronts and severe internal criticism.

Analysis published on international platforms indicated that Netanyahu's state of weakness has made him a hostage to extremist right-wing currents within his government. Ministers such as Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich are exploiting this situation to push through unprecedented settlement and expansionist agendas in the occupied Palestinian territories.

Sources quoted former Israeli officials making explicit confessions of the current military strategy's failure to achieve its stated goals. Former Justice Minister Haim Ramon stated that Israel has not decisively won the battle on any of the open fronts, whether in Lebanon, Iran, or even against the resistance in the Gaza Strip.

For his part, former Israeli Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot criticized the crisis management style under the current government, considering that strategic independence has eroded. Eizenkot affirmed that excessive reliance on the American position has weakened Israel's ability to maneuver and make sovereign decisions that serve its long-term security.

Observers believe that Netanyahu has turned the ongoing state of war into a primary tool for staying in power and escaping judicial and political prosecutions. This approach has been reflected in a widespread military escalation in the Gaza Strip, increasing tensions on the Lebanese border, leading to a direct and open confrontation with Iran.

Baroud warned that this model of 'crisis management through escalation' is approaching a dead end with increasing international pressure. He added that any decline in Netanyahu's ability to achieve successes on external fronts might push him to shift pressure towards the West Bank as the politically least costly arena.

In a related context, reports issued by Oxfam International revealed shocking figures related to violations in the West Bank since 2023. The organization documented the killing of 1244 Palestinians, including 268 children, amid escalating violence and forced displacement of indigenous populations.

Amnesty International reports also drew attention to systematic displacement operations targeting dozens of Palestinian Bedouin and pastoral communities over the past three years. These operations come as part of a broader plan to expand settlements and confiscate vast areas of land for the settlement project.

Data indicates that Finance Minister Smotrich has already begun implementing plans aimed at annexing about 82% of the West Bank to Israeli sovereignty. This shift represents a dangerous transition from mere political rhetoric to actual implementation on the ground, undermining any future opportunities for the establishment of a Palestinian state.

The analysis concluded that the decline in Netanyahu's political standing will not necessarily lead to a calming of the situation, but rather may generate a new wave of escalation against Palestinians. Baroud stressed the urgent need for the international community and Arab states to act to contain this path and prevent a comprehensive explosion that could spiral out of control.

Israel has not won in Lebanon, nor in Iran, nor against Hamas, and political decision-making has become excessively linked to the United States.

PALESTINE

Sat 20 Jun 2026 3:29 pm - Jerusalem Time

Injuries in settler attacks, occupation disrupts wheat harvest in Nablus

Israeli occupation forces, today Saturday, prevented Palestinian farmers from reaching their lands in the Beit Furik plain, east of Nablus city. This prevention came at the peak of the wheat harvest season, as occupation soldiers, accompanied by groups of settlers, spread throughout the area to prevent the completion of agricultural work and secure the settlers' presence.

In another field development, sources in the Palestinian Red Crescent reported that three citizens sustained various injuries as a result of an attack carried out by settlers in the Al-Badoon area, east of Salfit governorate. Ambulance crews intervened urgently to provide first aid to the injured before transferring them to the hospital for follow-up on their health condition.

Al-Badoon area, extending between Salfit city and the village of Al-Lubban Al-Sharqiya, is considered a flashpoint that witnesses repeated attacks by settlers who seek to control the lands of the residents. These attacks vary between physical assaults, destruction of agricultural crops, and preventing farmers from accessing their fields under the protection of the occupation army.

Regarding arrests, occupation forces detained eight young men from Qalqilya city while they were attempting to pass through the Attara military checkpoint located north of Ramallah city. This step comes within the policy of restricting movement between Palestinian cities through the military checkpoints spread deep in the West Bank.

Also in Ramallah governorate, a large military force raided the village of Deir Abu Mash'al at dawn today, and the operation resulted in the arrest of four citizens. Local sources stated that occupation soldiers raided a number of homes and tampered with their contents, causing a state of panic among the peaceful residents before the force withdrew from the village.

In Nablus city, occupation forces continued their raiding operations that targeted several neighborhoods, most notably the Jabal Fatair area. Field sources reported that the invading forces arrested a young man after thoroughly searching his home, while the area witnessed intensive military movements during the early morning hours.

In a related context, occupation forces tightened their military measures around the village of Al-Mughayyir by closing its main entrance, coinciding with the storming of the town of Deir Dibwan, east of Ramallah. The forces confiscated surveillance camera recordings from shops and homes as part of extensive search and sweep operations.

Incursions did not stop there, but extended to include the town of Al-Yamoun west of Jenin city, and Salfit city, in addition to Aqabat Jaber refugee camp in Jericho city. These simultaneous military movements come within the framework of a continuous escalation targeting various governorates of the West Bank, which further complicates the field situation.

Medical sources reported that three Palestinians were injured as a result of an attack carried out by settlers in the Al-Badoon area, east of Salfit governorate, where they were transferred to the hospital for treatment.

PALESTINE

Sat 20 Jun 2026 3:29 pm - Jerusalem Time

Between judicial prosecution and financial pressure.. How does France confront the student movement supporting Palestine?

The French university scene is witnessing a state of boiling and escalating tension, in light of the authorities' tightening of measures against student movements condemning the Israeli war of extermination in the Gaza Strip. Field sources reported that activists face an arsenal of penalties, including on-site arrests, exorbitant financial fines, in addition to referrals to disciplinary councils within universities.

These pressures come at a time when the Israeli occupation continues its widespread aggression on Gaza, which has resulted in the martyrdom of about 73,000 Palestinians and the injury of more than 173,000 others. This tragic reality has fueled student anger in France, where protesters are demanding an immediate halt to academic and military cooperation with the Israeli entity.

In a remarkable development, the prestigious Sorbonne University witnessed violent security interventions, where French police arrested 88 activists last May during a demonstration supporting Gaza. These figures reflect the extent of official insistence on restricting freedom of expression within the university campus, under the pretext of maintaining public order and enforcing applicable laws.

Prosecutions were not limited to the security aspect, but extended to include unprecedented financial pressures targeting the pockets of active students. In protests witnessed in Paris last April, authorities imposed fines of 400 euros on more than 70 students, in a move described by human rights activists as an attempt to stifle the movement economically.

Statistics issued by student committees indicate that the total fines imposed in one day exceeded 35,000 euros, which constitutes a significant burden on students. Rania, a member of the Palestine Committee at the Sorbonne, considered that this shift towards financial penalties aims to intimidate students and prevent them from participating in future events.

In a related context, the 'Yadan' bill sparked widespread controversy before its withdrawal, as it aimed to criminalize anti-Zionist positions within universities. Despite the withdrawal of the bill on April 16, its legal and political effects still cast a shadow over the freedom of academic discussion on the Palestinian issue.

Some female students face prosecution on controversial charges, such as the case of student Tiba, who studies at Paris 1 University, who was accused of anti-Semitism merely for her digital stances. Sofia, a member of the Student Unions Federation, confirms that these prosecutions represent a blatant assault on public freedoms and aim to settle scores with opponents of Zionism.

Student movements accuse university administrations of complicity with security services to photograph student IDs and threaten them with arrest if they refuse to provide personal data. These measures, according to activists, are a departure from French university traditions, which have always been a space for political and intellectual struggle against colonialism and injustice.

Students adhere to their basic demands of boycotting institutions and companies involved in supporting the Israeli military machine. Protesters point to strong ties between French universities and arms companies, in addition to partnerships with Israeli academic institutions that directly support the occupation army.

The student movement also demands facilitating the access of Palestinian students from the Gaza Strip to France to complete their education, which has been disrupted by the war. Students believe that the role of universities should be humanitarian and educational, instead of engaging in policies that serve the occupation or justify its ongoing crimes against civilians.

For his part, Ibrahim, a member of the Communist Youth Organization, explained that the security handling of the protests was characterized by a high degree of repression and physical violence. He pointed out that drawing the Palestinian flag or hanging solidarity posters has become a sufficient reason to refer a student for investigation, which reflects the authorities' intolerance of any dissenting voice.

Observers believe that what is happening in France represents a dangerous precedent in the history of university life, where the police are called to break up peaceful sit-ins inside the campus. Field testimonies confirm that security forces used excessive force in dispersing students, and this was interspersed with practices described as having a racist character against the participants.

Despite all these pressures, activists confirm their continued organization of protest events and introductory seminars on the Palestinian issue. Students emphasize that defending human rights and international justice is a moral duty that cannot be compromised, no matter how great the sacrifices or how high the financial fines.

In conclusion, the conflict between the student movement and the French authorities remains open to all possibilities, in light of the students' insistence on breaking the barrier of silence. The Palestinian issue remains the primary driver of these movements, which have revealed a deep gap between declared democratic principles and repressive practices on the ground.

The state has begun to target activists economically through direct financial fines instead of merely traditional arrest procedures.

PALESTINE

Sat 20 Jun 2026 3:29 pm - Jerusalem Time

Gaza Under Bombardment: Entire Family Martyred and Escalating Israeli Violations of Truce Agreement

Five Palestinian citizens were martyred today, Saturday, in airstrikes carried out by Israeli warplanes on various areas in the Gaza Strip. The raids targeted a residential home and a civilian gathering, leading to casualties among families, amid continued military escalation that disregards previously concluded ceasefire agreements.

In details of the massacre that occurred in the center of Gaza City, field sources reported the martyrdom of an entire family consisting of two young girls and their parents from the Al-Safadi family. The direct aerial bombardment targeted their home located near the Aviation intersection, leading to the destruction of the house over its inhabitants and turning it into rubble in a few moments.

In another raid carried out by an Israeli drone, citizen Ahmed Munir Al-Zaza, 38 years old, was martyred while walking near Al-Saftawi roundabout north of Gaza City. The same targeting also resulted in a woman sustaining moderate injuries, who was transferred to the hospital for necessary treatment amidst complex medical conditions.

Local sources confirmed that these raids are part of a long series of continuous Israeli violations, as the Government Media Office documented more than three thousand violations since October 10, 2025. These attacks varied between shelling residential apartments, targeting civilian vehicles, and even animal-drawn carts, leading to the martyrdom of more than a thousand Palestinians since the presumed truce began.

On the ground, the occupation army continues its policy of tightening the noose on residents by moving what are known as 'yellow cubes' in the neighborhoods of Al-Tuffah, Al-Shuja'iyya, and Beit Lahia. These military movements aim to reduce the available spaces for residents and push them towards cramped areas lacking the most basic necessities of life, increasing the suffering of displaced people in tents and shelters.

These field developments coincide with a catastrophic deterioration in humanitarian conditions, as the occupation authorities impose strict restrictions on the entry of relief and medical aid. The Strip suffers from a severe shortage of basic foodstuffs and fuel, threatening to halt vital sectors such as water pumping stations and waste and sewage management, which portends an imminent environmental and health disaster.

Residents of the Gaza Strip remain hostage to this continuous escalation despite eight months passing since the official announcement of a ceasefire, as airstrikes continue to claim civilian lives daily. Pressure is increasing on families who have been living in harsh conditions for many months, amidst a decline in basic services and a lack of safety in all areas of the Strip.

The Government Media Office has documented more than three thousand Israeli violations since October 10, 2025, resulting in the martyrdom of more than a thousand Palestinians.

ARAB AND WORLD

Sat 20 Jun 2026 3:29 pm - Jerusalem Time

Vance: Israel Seeks to Influence Our Policies, Our Interests Don't Always Align

US Vice President JD Vance made striking statements, confirming that Israel, like other countries, is making diligent efforts to influence the course of American policy. Vance explained in a television interview that he acknowledges this reality, emphasizing that this pursuit requires a high degree of caution and vigilance from leaders in Washington.

Vance called on American officials to exercise precise discernment when formulating strategic decisions, to ensure they primarily serve the national interests of the United States. He noted that being drawn behind the interests of external parties without scrutiny could harm the comprehensive American vision for national security.

Regarding the bilateral relationship with Tel Aviv, the Vice President rejected the idea of a constant alignment between Washington's and Israel's interests, affirming the existence of clear differences in strategic visions. He considered recognizing these differences as part of managing a realistic foreign policy based on figures and facts on the ground.

Vance revealed gaps in viewpoints between President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, particularly concerning how to deal with the Iranian issue. He explained that these disagreements became clearer when discussing effective mechanisms to end the ongoing conflict with Tehran and avoid comprehensive escalation.

The Vice President addressed the criticisms directed by Israeli government officials at the recent understandings between Washington and Tehran, considering them a reflection of differing political views. He affirmed that the US administration is moving forward with its diplomatic paths to ensure regional stability and protect vital waterways.

In the context of military support, Vance revealed that two-thirds of the arsenal and weapons used to protect Israel recently are purely American-made. He noted that this equipment was fully funded by American taxpayers' money, placing a significant responsibility on the administration for how this support is managed.

Regarding the agreement with Iran, Vance indicated the presence of currents within Tehran that wish to improve relations with the United States and open a new chapter. He explained that the fundamental goal of the recent diplomatic moves is to secure the opening of the Strait of Hormuz and ensure tangible gains in the Iranian nuclear program file.

Vance stressed that trust is not the primary driver in international relations, affirming that he does not give his absolute trust to any country, including close allies like Israel. He added that the only criterion governing the administration's actions is the extent to which strategic gains for the American state are achieved in international forums.

Regarding the controversy over criticizing Israeli policies, Vance called for distinguishing between political criticism directed at the Netanyahu government and the accusation of anti-Semitism. He affirmed that opposing certain political decisions should not be classified as racism, but rather is part of legitimate democratic and political dialogue.

It is worth noting that Washington and Tehran recently signed the 'Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding,' which includes 14 clauses aimed at halting military operations and addressing crises through negotiation. The agreement, signed by Trump and Pezeshkian, included provisions for de-escalation in Lebanon and lifting the naval blockade on Iran in exchange for security and nuclear guarantees.

I do not trust any country in international relations, including Israel, as foreign policy is built on interests, not absolute trust.

PALESTINE

Sat 20 Jun 2026 10:09 am - Jerusalem Time

Hillary Clinton: Trump's Gaza Plan is the Only Available Option Despite International Reservations

Former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton affirmed that the international community faces a state of diplomatic paralysis due to the rejection of possible solutions in search of ideal alternatives that are not currently available. She clarified in an article that President Donald Trump's 20-point plan for the Gaza Strip remains the only framework that possesses political influence and sufficient resources for implementation on the ground.

Clinton pointed out that this plan, although it may not be widely welcomed by all international parties, is supported by a resolution from the UN Security Council. She also noted its integration with the roadmap proposed by Nikolay Mladenov and the 'Peace Council,' which aims to link the reconstruction file with fundamental changes in the administration of the sector.

The former Secretary warned that the continued absence of a clear political path would necessarily lead to an exacerbation of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the persistence of Hamas's influence through aid distribution networks. She considered that the continuation of the current situation means freezing investments and the absence of any real prospect for reconstruction, leaving civilians in harsh living conditions with no clear end.

Clinton stressed that the residents of the Gaza Strip understand that a genuine building process necessarily requires disarmament and a transition to a new political phase that does not include Hamas rule. She believed that the Israeli side would not withdraw from the areas it controlled within the sector unless this comprehensive security and administrative transformation is achieved.

In the context of her analysis of the international situation, Clinton described the decline in interest in the Gaza file in recent months as a 'strategic mistake' that could threaten the stability of the entire region. She affirmed that the current stalemate serves only extremist forces, while weakening moderate forces and making political settlements in the future extremely difficult and complex.

Clinton acknowledged the existence of legitimate doubts and reservations among many governments regarding the plan's provisions, especially concerning the sequence of political steps and the decline of trust in the US's leading role. Nevertheless, she called on these governments to overcome doubts and engage in the proposed initiative instead of passively waiting for initiatives that may never come.

She also noted that both Palestinians and Israelis are looking for a way out of the cycle of permanent crises, with Gaza residents seeking stability while Israelis demand an end to military threats. She considered that any real transformation in Gaza is the necessary gateway to reuniting Palestinians under a political leadership that possesses effectiveness and international credibility.

Clinton concluded her vision by emphasizing that the responsibility now lies with Arab and European countries to exert joint pressure to ensure the political process moves forward. She clarified that delays in making crucial decisions have a heavy humanitarian and political cost, stressing that a neutral stance in this stalemate contributes to empowering the most radical forces.

The international community does not face a choice between an ideal plan and a bad one, but rather between improving an existing framework despite its shortcomings, or leaving the arena to more radical forces.

PALESTINE

Sat 20 Jun 2026 10:09 am - Jerusalem Time

Norway moves to ban trade with settlements, occupation suppresses West Bank protests

The Norwegian government announced a package of new legal measures aimed at restricting commercial activity with Israeli settlements established on occupied Palestinian territories. This step includes imposing a comprehensive ban preventing Norwegian citizens and companies from trading goods and services produced within these settlements, in a move that reflects Norway's escalating stance against settlement policies.

Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide affirmed that his country, which officially recognized the State of Palestine in 2024, seeks to ensure that its economy does not contribute to supporting illegal settlement activities. Eide pointed out that investment or trade in these areas directly or indirectly contributes to sustaining the occupation, which contradicts Norway's international obligations and political positions.

The proposed bill, which is expected to be approved by the Norwegian Parliament, includes preventing all import and export operations related to the settlements. The ban also extends to real estate transactions, tightening the noose on any Norwegian attempts to invest in confiscated lands. The government has set September 19 as the deadline for concluding consultations on this legislation.

On the ground, various areas in the occupied West Bank witnessed violent confrontations after Friday prayers, as Israeli occupation forces suppressed peaceful marches condemning settlement expansion. Local sources reported that dozens of citizens suffered severe suffocation due to inhaling tear gas fired heavily by soldiers at demonstrators in areas threatened with confiscation.

In Ramallah Governorate, a massive march was launched in the village of Deir Abu Mash'al with wide participation from residents and foreign peace activists, heading towards the 'Al-Qarana' hill threatened with seizure. This event came in response to a group of settlers setting up settlement tents in the area about two weeks ago, in an attempt to impose a new reality and turn the hill into a permanent settlement outpost.

Field sources reported that the occupation army used live ammunition and tear gas canisters to disperse participants in the Deir Abu Mash'al march, leading to injuries and severe tension in the area. The occupation did not stop at field repression but also carried out an arrest campaign that included Palestinian citizens and five foreign solidarity activists who were documenting Israeli violations against the land and its owners.

These developments come amid successive international reports from the United Nations confirming the illegality of Israeli settlements and considering them a fundamental obstacle to achieving peace. International pressure on the occupation is escalating as European countries like Norway take practical steps to translate their condemnation of settlements into tangible economic and sovereign decisions that affect the structure of the settlement project.

Citizens and companies in Norway should not benefit from or support activities that help perpetuate illegal Israeli settlement activity in Palestine.

PALESTINE

Sat 20 Jun 2026 10:08 am - Jerusalem Time

Between Resistance and Appeasement: A Reading in the History of Palestinian Elites and Their Political Roles

Palestinian resistance is currently facing complex challenges that go beyond direct confrontation with the Israeli war machine in Gaza and the West Bank. These challenges emerge in the continuous clash with local elites who adopt policies that align with external powers, a historical path that has been repeated in the experiences of colonized peoples through three patterns: radical resistance, pragmatic cooperation, or complete complicity.

Since the early 1920s, Palestinian society has witnessed a sharp class and political division regarding the Zionist project and the British Mandate. While wealthy families in Jerusalem and Jaffa tended towards appeasement and compromise, farmers and laborers engaged in direct field resistance, creating a deep gap between the traditional leadership and the popular base.

The frustration with the performance of traditional elites led to the birth of the 'Independence Party' in 1932, which represented the aspirations of the middle class and young intellectuals. The party's leaders, such as Hamdi al-Husseini and Izzat Darwaza, drew inspiration from Gandhi's civil disobedience methods in India, calling for a comprehensive boycott of the British administration.

Tension reached its peak in 1933 when the Independence Party led massive demonstrations against Zionist displacement policies and the influx of Jewish immigration. British police confronted these movements with excessive force, resulting in dozens of martyrs and wounded in the cities of Jaffa and Haifa, which further inflamed the Palestinian street.

In that era, the interests of the British High Commissioner converged with those of Palestinian elites, who feared losing their privileges, to dismantle the Independence Party. Indeed, this alliance succeeded in weakening the party organizationally by 1935, but the revolutionary spirit remained latent among the youth and workers who refused to be held hostage by British promises.

1936 marked a historical turning point with the launch of the Great General Strike, which lasted for six continuous months, defying the wishes of the traditional leaders. The elite politicians were then forced to ride the popular wave and establish the 'Arab Higher Committee' to try to contain the revolutionary momentum and control the pace of the street in line with international pressures.

During the Great Palestinian Revolt, 'peace factions' emerged as a military tool supported by some elite families to confront Palestinian revolutionaries from within. This stab in the back, coupled with brutal British repression, led to the defeat of the revolution in 1939, which later paved the way for the Nakba of 1948 and the tearing apart of the social fabric.

After the Nakba, specifically in the 1960s, a new generation from refugee camps and workers rose to lead armed action, which wealthy elites later tried to contain. With the PLO's acquisition of the status of the sole legitimate representative in 1974, Arab political money began to play a role in taming national demands and shifting them towards diplomatic paths.

The PLO gradually moved from slogans of complete liberation to accepting the illusion of a 'two-state solution' under international and regional pressures. This policy opened the door for secret and public dialogues with Washington and European capitals, ultimately leading to the signing of the Oslo Accords in 1993, which changed the face of the conflict.

The Oslo Accords represented a qualitative shift, as the Palestinian leadership transformed from the role of 'negotiator' to that of 'security agent' under the signed commitments. The nascent Palestinian Authority began to operate within a system aimed at suppressing any attempt to revive the armed struggle legacy, which created a state of alienation between it and the resistance forces.

The strategy of repression reached its peak in 2007 following the coup against the results of the legislative elections won by Hamas. This clash, which was carried out with extensive security and political coordination, brought back memories of the 'peace factions' in the 1930s, where security forces began pursuing resistance fighters instead of protecting them.

Observers believe that the Palestinian people today find themselves forced to fight a double battle; one against the occupation and another against an authority that dedicates its efforts to security coordination. Despite the ongoing war of extermination in the Gaza Strip, security forces in the West Bank continue to pursue activists and resistance fighters, deepening the national crisis.

The history of the Palestinian conflict indicates that all attempts at domestication and containment by collaborating elites have not succeeded in ending the spirit of resistance. Resistance remains, despite the heavy cost and immense sacrifices, the true expression of the Palestinian people's aspirations for liberation and emancipation from settler colonialism.

In conclusion, the competition between the approach of compromise and the approach of resistance remains the primary driver of internal Palestinian politics for over a century. With the continuation of Israeli aggression, popular conviction is growing that externally dependent diplomatic paths have only led to further loss of established national rights.

Palestinian history has repeatedly proven that policies of containment and domestication have not succeeded in breaking the national will or liquidating the resistance project.

ARAB AND WORLD

Sat 20 Jun 2026 10:08 am - Jerusalem Time

Severe Diplomatic Crisis Between Rome and Washington: Meloni Responds Strongly to Trump's 'Claims'

The intensity of diplomatic tension between Rome and Washington has escalated following controversial statements made by US President Donald Trump regarding Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Trump claimed in an interview with an Italian media outlet that Meloni insisted on taking a commemorative photo with him during the last G7 summit in France, which the Italian government considered a direct insult to its sovereignty and the dignity of its leadership.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni responded with a video clip via her official accounts, in which she expressed her deep shock at these claims, describing them as 'entirely fabricated'. Meloni affirmed that such actions are unbecoming of a head of state towards his allies, emphasizing that her country possesses enough pride to prevent it from begging any party, no matter how powerful.

Meloni did not stop at denial but also sharply criticized Trump's foreign policies, noting that he shows leniency towards those she described as 'enemies of the West' while intensifying his animosity with traditional allies. She considered this approach to weaken international alliances and create unjustified gaps at a time when the world needs the cohesion of the Western front.

In an escalatory move reflecting the extent of Italian anger, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced the cancellation of his official visit to the United States scheduled for the coming days. Tajani explained that the words uttered by the US President are offensive to the entire Italian people and cannot be overlooked without a clear official stance that preserves the dignity of the state.

For his part, Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto entered the crisis, describing Trump's statements as a 'stylistic blunder' that harms the interests of both countries and the Atlantic alliance in general. Crosetto pointed out that such bickering serves no one but those who lie in wait for the security and stability of the international community, calling for adherence to diplomatic norms.

The intensity of the responses reached Meloni's inner circle, where Giovanbattista Fazzolari, Undersecretary to the Prime Minister, described Trump's statements as 'delusions' aimed at undermining European leaders. Fazzolari warned that this policy could lead to growing anti-American sentiment in the Old Continent, which harms American interests before others.

These skirmishes come after a series of previous disagreements, as Trump had previously attacked Meloni last April over her stance against direct military confrontation with Iran. It seems that the honeymoon between the two right-wing leaders has ended, despite previous expectations that Meloni would be Trump's closest ally in Europe.

Observers believe that this clash could reshape the map of alliances within the European Union towards Washington, especially with major international political events approaching. The unified Italian stance behind Meloni sends a message that Rome will not accept a subordinate role in the new international equation that Trump is trying to impose.

Finally, political circles are awaiting the White House's reaction to these official Italian protests, and whether Washington will seek to contain the crisis or continue to escalate. The question remains about the extent of the impact of this war of words on security and economic cooperation between the two countries amidst current geopolitical challenges.

There is one thing Trump should remember: Italy and I do not beg anyone.

LATEST NEWS

Sat 20 Jun 2026 10:08 am - Jerusalem Time

Ceasefire agreement in Lebanon enters into force under Qatari-American patronage

Informed sources reported that the ceasefire agreement between Hezbollah and the Israeli occupation entered into force, effective from 4:00 PM local time today, Friday. This announcement came after shuttle rounds of negotiations led by mediators from the United States and the State of Qatar, with contributions from the Iranian side to ensure de-escalation on the Lebanese front.

According to available data, Doha played a pivotal role in the last hours, as Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, and Qatari officials, held intensive contacts with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, who represented Hezbollah in the negotiation process. These contacts included conveying Iranian messages to Washington demanding guarantees to stop Israeli aggressions, while the party stipulated an explicit American commitment to oblige Tel Aviv to the terms of the agreement.

On the ground, the announcement of the de-escalation was preceded by fierce clashes in the Talat Ali Al-Taher area, which resulted in deaths and injuries among the Israeli occupation army. This coincided with striking political statements, including assurances from Donald Trump about his ability to pressure the Netanyahu government to end military operations, which created additional pressure towards completing the current agreement that ends a violent round of escalation.

Hezbollah and Israel agreed to a ceasefire, and the agreement entered into force after an exchange of fire earlier today.

ARAB AND WORLD

Sat 20 Jun 2026 10:08 am - Jerusalem Time

Trump hints at 'unconditional surrender' for Iran and asserts: Without me, Israel would not exist

US President Donald Trump described the ongoing negotiations with Tehran as potentially ending in an 'unconditional Iranian surrender,' emphasizing that Washington is managing this file from a position of military and political strength. Trump explained in a lengthy press interview that the Islamic Republic's naval and air power had effectively ended, leaving the Iranian leadership with very limited options.

The US President indicated that the strict naval blockade policy forced the Iranian side to return to the negotiating table more seriously than ever before. However, his speech was not without threats, as he warned that if a final agreement is not reached, the United States would take harsh measures that he described as 'not bringing happiness' to the Iranians.

Regarding the economic repercussions, Trump considered that moving towards concluding an agreement with Tehran was a strategic step to avoid major financial crises that would have engulfed the world. He affirmed that insisting on continuing the war to satisfy some hardline parties would have led humanity towards a 'global depression' whose end could not be predicted, indicating that his decision to end the conflict was the correct choice.

Trump cited current economic indicators, especially the decline in global energy prices and the rise in stock market indices, as evidence of the success of his political vision. He believed that these results reflect market confidence in his administration's approach to ensuring regional and international stability away from open military conflicts that drain resources.

In a surprising context, Trump touched upon the situation of the new Iranian Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, expressing regret for what he described as 'harming him.' Trump mentioned that despite not meeting or speaking directly with the Supreme Leader, information indicates that he sustained severe injuries, while at the same time acknowledging the rumors about Khamenei's courage in facing difficult circumstances.

The US President returned to attacking the nuclear deal concluded in 2015 during the Barack Obama era, again describing it as a 'catastrophe' that threatened regional security. He considered that his withdrawal from that agreement prevented Iran from possessing nuclear weapons, asserting that if Tehran had possessed that technology, it would have targeted Israel within just one week.

Regarding the relationship with Tel Aviv, Trump stated in harsh terms: 'Without me, Israel would not exist today,' referring to his decisions supporting its security. Despite describing the relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as 'good,' he hinted at differences in viewpoints, indicating the need to keep Netanyahu in a state of political 'balance.'

This coincided with US intelligence reports warning of Netanyahu's movements that might aim to undermine efforts for lasting peace with Iran. Informed sources reported concerns within the US administration about the Israeli Prime Minister's pursuit of escalating military operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon, which could once again complicate the political situation in the region.

If Iran had obtained nuclear weapons, it would have used them against Israel within the first week, and without me, Israel would not exist today.

PALESTINE

Sat 20 Jun 2026 10:07 am - Jerusalem Time

British Bar Standards Board Suspends Karim Khan from Practicing Law

The British Bar Standards Board has issued a decision to temporarily suspend Karim Khan, the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, from practicing law. The Board clarified that this decision is effective immediately, pending a comprehensive review by the specialized Suspension Committee, which will hold a formal hearing within the next four weeks to consider the merits of the case.

This legal development comes shortly after Khan's duties within the International Criminal Court were suspended on June 8th. This step followed accusations of sexual misconduct against him, which led the court's oversight body to refer him for disciplinary proceedings described as unprecedented in the history of the international institution.

For his part, Karim Khan, 56, denied all accusations against him in their entirety, asserting his innocence of any legal or ethical violations. The court is currently facing increasing pressure to determine the final legal course in this case, which has sparked widespread controversy in international human rights and political circles.

Reports indicate that the Assembly of States Parties, the oversight body of the International Criminal Court, will have the final say on Khan's professional fate. The Assembly is scheduled to hold a special session to assess the situation and determine whether the Prosecutor will continue in his position or be permanently removed based on the investigation results.

The Bureau of the Assembly of States Parties based its initial assessment on a report issued by the United Nations Office of Internal Oversight Services, in addition to evidence and written memoranda. The UN report included allegations of non-consensual sexual contact between Khan and an assistant in various locations, including his office, private residence, and during official work missions.

Despite the seriousness of the allegations contained in the UN investigation, a judicial panel of three judges found that the findings were not conclusive enough to convict Khan. This divergence in legal opinions within the court's organs caused confusion, necessitating the intervention of international parties to review previous legal assessments.

Karim Khan had decided to temporarily step down from his duties in May 2025 to allow investigations to proceed with full transparency and integrity. This exceptional situation prompted the Assembly of States Parties to establish new procedural rules for dealing with such cases, which the court had not witnessed since its establishment.

In press statements, Khan considered that what he is facing is not merely legal procedures, but a systematic campaign of intimidation and political pressure. He linked these measures to his historic decision to request arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.

The suspended Prosecutor accused parties within the Bureau of the Assembly of States Parties of ignoring fundamental legal principles and the results of investigations that had previously cleared him. He indicated that there is insistence on re-investigating despite the appointed judges finding insufficient evidence to prove any professional or behavioral misconduct.

Khan also criticized the way his identity was handled during the investigation, as his name was revealed to the media in a manner contrary to the norms followed in similar cases. He considered that his deprivation of the right to anonymity, which other officials enjoy, reflects a deliberate intention to damage his reputation and undermine his efforts to prosecute war criminals.

Informed sources revealed that a group of Western and European countries exerted pressure within the Assembly Bureau meeting to vote on re-investigating the case. This move came despite previous reports from independent judges confirming the absence of concrete evidence of misconduct or dereliction of duty by Khan.

This case remains open to all possibilities, amidst international anticipation of the outcomes of the upcoming hearings in Britain and within the International Criminal Court. Observers believe that the repercussions of this case will directly affect the prestige of the international court and its ability to continue investigations into sensitive matters such as war crimes in the Palestinian territories.

I am facing an unprecedented campaign of intimidation and pressure in the wake of my arrest warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant for war crimes in Gaza.