Belarus Frees Opposition Leaders Maria Kalesnikava and Viktar Babaryka in U.S.-Brokered Deal 
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Taiwan Political Standoff Deepens as President Lai Urges Parliament to Withdraw Disputed Laws 
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Jimmy Lai Convicted Under Hong Kong National Security Law in Landmark Case 
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Federal Judge Declines to Immediately Halt Trump’s $300 Million White House Ballroom Project 
European Leaders Launch International Claims Commission to Compensate Ukraine for War Damage 
U.S. and Mexico Reach New Agreement to Tackle Tijuana River Sewage Crisis 
Pakistan’s Army Chief Faces Gaza Troop Dilemma Amid US Pressure 
At least 80 Palestinians were killed across Gaza on Wednesday as Israeli airstrikes intensified, coinciding with U.S. President Donald Trump’s Middle East tour. Health officials said most casualties, including women and children, occurred in northern Gaza’s Jabalia area, where homes were struck. The Israeli military issued new evacuation orders in parts of Gaza City, including zones near Shifa Hospital and several schools, prompting thousands to flee again.
Shortly after the orders, Israeli warplanes launched fresh strikes on Gaza City. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, some victims remain trapped under rubble, with rescue teams unable to reach them. The Israeli military has yet to comment on the latest reports.
In southern Gaza, Israeli forces targeted a bulldozer near Khan Younis’ European Hospital, wounding several. Israeli media, citing security sources, claimed Hamas commander Mohammad Sinwar may have been killed in a previous strike, though no confirmation has been given.
On Tuesday night, Islamic Jihad militants fired rockets into Israel, prompting retaliatory strikes and renewed evacuation orders for Jabalia and Beit Lahiya. Meanwhile, Trump’s visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE is seen by Palestinians as a chance to reduce hostilities. Hamas recently released Edan Alexander, the last known American hostage, with further negotiations ongoing in Doha.
Despite calls for a ceasefire, violence continues. The U.S. has proposed a private contractor-led humanitarian aid plan, backed by Israel but rejected by the UN and aid agencies. Since Israel’s offensive began in response to the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack that killed 1,200 Israelis and abducted 251, over 52,900 Palestinians have died, according to Gaza health officials. The war has pushed the territory to the edge of famine, aid groups warn.
