The Israeli military targeted a Hezbollah militant in Lebanon, while international ministers supported a $53 billion Gaza reconstruction plan. Donald Trump appointed Michel Issa as US ambassador to Lebanon. Freed Israeli hostages urged for the full implementation of a Gaza ceasefire deal. High-level talks between Hamas and Egypt are planned regarding the next ceasefire phase. The UAE aims to halve food waste by 2030. The OIC endorsed an Arab counter-proposal to Trump’s Gaza plan, focusing on Palestinian governance and reconstruction.
The Israeli military announced an air strike targeting a Hezbollah militant in southern Lebanon on Saturday. This came shortly after the military reported conducting earlier attacks on Hezbollah’s military sites. According to a military statement, the strike aimed at a terrorist involved in re-establishing terrorist infrastructure and directing Hezbollah activities in the area.
In related news, the foreign ministers of France, Germany, Italy, and Britain expressed their support for an Arab-backed $53 billion reconstruction plan for Gaza. They assert that this plan is a realistic approach for improving the dire living conditions of Palestinians in the enclave, emphasizing the importance of non-displacement during the reconstruction process.
President Donald Trump announced the selection of Michel Issa as the new US ambassador to Lebanon. Trump praised Issa, noting his extensive experience in banking and international trade, which he believes will benefit US relations in the region.
More than 50 freed Israeli hostages have issued a plea to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to fully implement the Gaza ceasefire agreement, advocating for the release of those still held captive. Their letter highlighted the dangers of a return to war, emphasizing the urgency of securing their fellow hostages’ freedom.
High-level talks are anticipated between a Hamas delegation and Egyptian officials regarding the next phase of the ceasefire agreement. Hamas is expected to request that Israel implement the agreement in full, negotiate the second phase, and reopen border crossings for humanitarian aid, aiming for a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire.
In the UAE, food waste poses an ongoing challenge, with approximately 3.27 million tons wasted annually. The UAE has set a goal of halving food waste by 2030, aligning with its food security strategy. During Ramadan, initiatives are in place to collect surplus food from various sectors to assist those in need, particularly low-income laborers struggling to access food.
In political developments, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation endorsed a counter-proposal to President Trump’s Gaza takeover plan during an emergency meeting in Jeddah. The proposal aims to reconstruct Gaza under future Palestinian Authority administration, emphasizing the need for a two-state solution without the displacement of Palestinians, thus seeking a more peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The Arab League has proposed a trust fund to finance Gaza’s reconstruction, urging international backing. However, the counter-proposal, which does not include Hamas’ role in governance, has faced criticism from both the US and Israel. The overarching goal remains establishing a sustainable peace in the region through comprehensive diplomatic efforts.
This article outlines several pivotal updates concerning the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and regional diplomatic efforts. The Israeli military’s recent actions against Hezbollah, coupled with international support for Gaza’s reconstruction and calls for a comprehensive ceasefire, highlight the ongoing complexities in the region. Initiatives to reduce food waste in the UAE also demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility. Overall, these developments reaffirm the urgent need for collaborative diplomatic efforts to secure lasting peace and stability.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
