Speaking at the #DohaForum in #Qatar, Guterres did not directly criticise the #US in his address but said the security council is “paralysed by geostrategic divisions”. He added world institutions “are weak and outdated, caught in a time warp reflecting a reality of 80 years ago”.

#UN chief vows to go on seeking ceasefire in Gaza despite US veto | #Israel-#Gaza war | The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/dec/10/un-chief-vows-to-go-on-seeking-ceasefire-in-gaza-despite-us-veto

UN chief vows to go on seeking ceasefire in Gaza despite US veto

António Guterres says UN has no clear route map to stop conflict and world institutions are ‘caught in a time warp’

The Guardian

According to several reports, #DavidBarnea, the head of #Mossad, had wanted to travel to #Qatar but was blocked by the Israeli prime minister, Benjamin #Netanyahu, and other cabinet ministers.

The decision prompted demands from the families of hostages for an explanation, saying that they were “shocked” by it.

Israeli ministers block Mossad head’s effort to restart Gaza hostage talks | #Israel-#Gaza war | The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/dec/14/israeli-ministers-block-mossad-heads-effort-to-restart-gaza-hostage-talks

Israeli ministers block Mossad head’s effort to restart Gaza hostage talks

Relatives of the abductees say they are shocked, as reports say David Barnea was stopped from visiting Qatar

The Guardian

#US efforts to show it retains significant influence over the Israeli government were dealt a double blow yesterday when the Israeli defence minister said it would take months to complete the task of rooting out #Hamas, and a leaked US intelligence assessment revealed up to 45% of the 29,000 air-to-ground munitions that #Israel has dropped on #Gaza since 7 October have been unguided “dumb bombs”.

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/dec/15/biden-in-a-bind-as-netanhayu-ready-to-flout-any-us-attempt-to-rein-in-israel

Biden in a bind as Netanhayu ready to flout any US attempt to rein in Israel

Israel PM has defied US calls for restraint in Gaza and told domestic audience he will not compromise

The Guardian

The protest, which followed another demonstration on Friday night, erupted after an official from the Israel Defense Forces revealed Saturday that the hostages “had a stick with a white cloth on it” before they were killed. #Israel #Gaza

Anger at Israeli government mounts after military admits to mistakenly killing hostages
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/israel-hamas-war-hostages-killed-idf-white-cloth-protests-netanyahu-rcna130049

Anger at Israeli government mounts after military admits to mistakenly killing hostages

Mounting anger at the Israeli government spilled onto the streets of Tel Aviv after it emerged that the country's military had mistakenly killed three hostages.

NBC News

"We have this exchange of fire between #Israel and #Hezbollah and the trend line is one of escalation. This is the most worrying thing about the situation, this trend of escalation. Nobody wants to have a full-scale war but we can get there anyway.” Orna Mizrahi, a former Israeli deputy national security adviser #Gaza #Hamas

Fears grow of all-out Israel-Hezbollah war as fighting escalates | Israel | The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/dec/17/fears-grow-of-all-out-israel-hezbollah-war-as-fighting-escalates-lebanon

Fears grow of all-out Israel-Hezbollah war as fighting escalates

Many in Israel see Hezbollah as a greater threat than Hamas and consider a new war in Lebanon to be inevitable

The Guardian

Recent attacks by #Iran-aligned Yemeni #Houthi militant group on vessels forced leading shipping companies including Maersk to reroute around the #CapeOfGoodHope to avoid the #SuezCanal, the shortest shipping route between #Europe and #Asia. #Israel #Gaza

Companies rush to avert disruption from #RedSea attacks as shipping rates rise
https://www.rappler.com/business/companies-rush-avert-disruption-red-sea-attacks-shipping-rates-rise/

Companies rush to avert disruption from Red Sea attacks as shipping rates rise

Electrolux, the world's largest appliance company, sets up a task force to find alternative routes or identify priority deliveries

RAPPLER

Muslim–majority #Malaysia has long championed #PalestinianRights and causes. Like nearby #Indonesia, #Brunei, #Bangladesh, the #Maldives and #Pakistan, it does not recognize #Israel.

The ongoing bombardment of #Gaza by Israel’s military following #Hamas’ deadly October 7 attacks has sparked mass rallies in Malaysia and put domestic political pressure on Anwar.

Malaysia bans Israeli owned and linked shipping citing ‘cruelty against the Palestinian people’ | CNN
https://edition.cnn.com/2023/12/20/asia/malaysia-israel-shipping-ban-palestine-support-intl-hnk/index.html

The #Iran-backed #Houthis have repeatedly targeted vessels in the vital shipping lane with strikes they say are in support of #Palestinians in #Gaza, where #Israel is battling militant group #Hamas.

More than 20 countries join US-led coalition to protect #RedSea shipping
https://www.france24.com/en/middle-east/20231222-more-than-20-countries-join-us-led-coalition-to-protect-red-sea-shipping

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111610929656431194

More than 20 countries join US-led coalition to protect Red Sea shipping

More than 20 countries have joined the US-led coalition to protect Red Sea shipping from attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels, the Pentagon said on Thursday.

FRANCE 24

#WASHINGTON – A chemical tanker that was struck on Dec 23 off the coast of India was targeted “by a one-way attack drone fired from Iran”, the Pentagon said.The #DroneStrike occurred 200 nautical miles (370km) off the coast of #India, it added. No US Navy vessels were in the vicinity. #Israel #Gaza #ArabianSea

Tanker off India hit by attack drone fired from #Iran: Pentagon | The Straits Times
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/south-asia/tanker-ship-off-india-hit-by-attack-drone-fired-from-iran-pentagon

Back toot: Zhongzhi https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111610929656431194

Tanker off India hit by attack drone fired from Iran: Pentagon

The attack caused no casualties aboard the Japanese-owned vessel. Read more at straitstimes.com.

The Straits Times

A total of twenty countries have agreed to take part in the multi-national naval security coalition. Of those 20, only a fraction will supply actual ships or other major assets to help the cause. In addition, #Spain, #Italy, and #France have rejected the #US demand that their vessels fall under U.S. Navy command. #RedSea #Iran #Israel

Cracks Form In New Naval Coalition, #DroneStrikes Spread To #IndianOcean (#ArabianSea)
https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/cracks-form-in-new-naval-coalition-drone-strikes-spread-to-indian-ocean

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111625081729456011

Cracks Form In New Naval Coalition, Drone Strikes Spread To Indian Ocean

Some of the United States' closest allies are not agreeing to put their ships under U.S. Navy command for Operation Prosperity Guardian.

The Drive

"#Bethlehem is a message. It is not a city, it is a message of #peace to the whole world. From this sacred place we convey a message of peace…stop the war, stop the blood, the killing and the revenge,” said Father Ibrahim Faltas, a friar at the vigil.#Israel

Somber Bethlehem marks #Christmas with vigil as bombs rain on #Gaza
https://www.rappler.com/world/middle-east/somber-bethlehem-marks-christmas-vigil-bombs-rain-gaza/

Somber Bethlehem marks Christmas with vigil as bombs rain on Gaza

'Bethlehem is a message. It is not a city, it is a message of peace to the whole world,' says Father Ibrahim Faltas, a friar at the somber Christmas vigil

RAPPLER

Nearly three months after the start of the war between #Israel and #Hamas, the humanitarian situation in the #GazaStrip is catastrophic according to the #UnitedNations, with 85 percent of the population displaced. #PopeFrancis

Pope deplores 'desperate humanitarian situation' in Gaza, calls for immediate ceasefire
https://www.france24.com/en/europe/20231225-pope-deplores-desperate-humanitarian-situation-in-gaza-calls-for-immediate-ceasefire

Pope deplores 'desperate humanitarian situation' in Gaza, calls for immediate ceasefire

Pope Francis on Monday deplored the desperate humanitarian situation of Palestinians in Gaza and called for an immediate ceasefire and the freeing of hostages in his Christmas message.

FRANCE 24

Three stealth-guided missile destroyers were deployed “in various areas of the sea” to “maintain a deterrent presence” considering the “recent spate of attacks in the Arabian Sea”, the ministry said in a statement late on Monday. It was also using long-range maritime patrol aircraft for “domain awareness”, it said. #DroneStrikes

#India’s navy deploys warships to #ArabianSea after tanker attack | #IsraelGazaWar #Israel #Iran
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/12/26/indias-navy-deploys-warships-to-arabian-sea-after-tanker-attack

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https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111635250880960291

India’s navy deploys warships to Arabian Sea after tanker attack

Guided missile destroyers to ‘maintain deterrent presence’ after Israel-linked vessel hit off Indian coast.

Al Jazeera

Paul, who until October worked on the US’s foreign arms transfers, said he was concerned by the expedited process as it could bypass the state department’s pre-transfer controls. “There’s no review of human rights, there’s no review of regional balance, there’s none of the conventional arms transfer policy review that would normally happen,” he said.

#GazaWar puts #US’s extensive weapons stockpile in #Israel under scrutiny | #IsraelGazaWar | The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/dec/27/gaza-war-puts-us-extensive-weapons-stockpile-in-israel-under-scrutiny

Gaza war puts US’s extensive weapons stockpile in Israel under scrutiny

Israel appears to be receiving munitions from stockpile, but there has been little transparency

The Guardian

Edan Kleiman, who himself was wounded inside the #GazaStrip in the early 1990s, said he thinks Israeli authorities are not grasping the severity of the situation. He said the number of wounded is likely to stretch close to 20,000 once those diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder are included. #Israel #Gaza

Associated Press reports that the number of Israeli service personnel injured during the war against #Hamas has now reached roughly 3,000.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2023/dec/28/israel-gaza-war-live-macron-calls-for-lasting-ceasefire-as-israel-intensifies-attacks-on-gaza?page=with:block-658d53c58f083c8fda16ad01#block-658d53c58f083c8fda16ad01

Israel-Gaza war live: ‘Simply not enough food’ in Gaza and 40% of population at risk of famine, UN refugee agency says

UN agency for Palestine refugees (UNRWA) says nearly half of Gaza’s population now at risk of famine

the Guardian

#Cyprus, the closest #EU member state to the #MiddleEast, has offered to establish a humanitarian corridor to collect, inspect and store aid before shipping it to #Gaza, about 230 miles (370km) away.

#Israel grants preliminary approval for maritime aid corridor from Cyprus to Gaza
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2023/dec/28/israel-gaza-war-live-macron-calls-for-lasting-ceasefire-as-israel-intensifies-attacks-on-gaza?page=with:block-658d96678f08eff61a0b199f#block-658d96678f08eff61a0b199f

Israel-Gaza war live: Egypt says it has proposed a framework to end conflict in Gaza

Country says it is awaiting responses on plan, which includes three stages ending with ceasefire

the Guardian

#Russia now has an interest in prolonging this conflict in the #MiddleEast,” said a senior European diplomat in #Moscow, speaking on conditions of anonymity. He said he feared an all-out #Israel-#Hezbollah war would further derail any help for #Ukraine.

Why are ties between Russia and Israel ‘at lowest point since fall of the #SovietUnion’? | Russia | The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/dec/30/why-are-ties-between-russia-and-israel-at-lowest-point-since-fall-of-the-soviet-union

Why are ties between Russia and Israel ‘at lowest point since fall of the Soviet Union’?

Russia’s pro-Palestinian stance has inflamed tensions and underscored shift in relations since invasion of Ukraine

The Guardian

US news outlet #Axios and Israeli website #Ynet, both citing unnamed Israeli officials, reported that Qatari mediators had told #Israel that #Hamas was prepared to resume talks on new hostage releases in exchange for a #ceasefire. #Qatar

https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2023/dec/31/israel-gaza-war-live-netanyahu-targets-control-of-gaza-egypt-border-in-many-months-of-war-on-hamas?page=with:block-659101bc8f083c8fda16c580#block-659101bc8f083c8fda16c580

Israel-Gaza war live: Netanyahu targets control of Gaza-Egypt border in ‘many months’ of war on Hamas

Prime minister says Philadelphi corridor buffer zone ‘must be shut’ and in Israel’s hands

the Guardian

Lana Nusseibeh, the envoy of the #UnitedArabEmirates, expressed the uneasiness of the Arab world that in the absence of “bold and perhaps uncomfortable decisions” to reverse the drift towards regional conflict, “the alternative is the hellscape of #Gaza expanded into the #WestBank, #Israel, #Lebanon, and other parts of the #MiddleEast”.

Middle East is sliding closer to the edge of a wider regional conflict | Israel-Gaza war | The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/dec/31/middle-east-sliding-closer-wider-regional-conflict-israel-iran-us

Middle East is sliding closer to the edge of a wider regional conflict

An escalation could spark a conflagration that would bring Israel into open confrontation with Iran, and suck in the US too, writes Julian Borger

The Guardian

The captain and crew deserve a big fat New Year bonus.
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The #MaerskHangzhou was struck by a missile at around 1730 GMT on Dec 30 about 100km south-west of Al Hodeidah, #Yemen. Then a US warship shot down another two anti-ship ballistic missiles.

Later at around 0330 GMT on Dec 31, the same ship was attacked by #Houthi rebels in four small boats. #Israel #Iran

#Maersk pauses #RedSea sailings
https://www.straitstimes.com/world/middle-east/maersk-pauses-red-sea-sailings-after-houthi-attack-on-container-ship

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111635250880960291

Maersk pauses Red Sea sailings after Houthis attack S’pore-flagged container ship twice

The Houthis have been targeting vessels in the waterway to show support for Hamas. Read more at straitstimes.com.

The Straits Times

More details on the Houthi attacks on the #MaerskHangzhou container ship. #Iran #Israel

U.S. forces killed boat crews in a Houthi ship attack in the Red Sea : NPR
https://www.npr.org/2023/12/31/1222339528/u-s-forces-say-they-killed-the-boat-crews-in-a-houthi-ship-attack-in-the-red-sea

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111676228256522510

The warning comes after the #US military said four boats from #Houthi-controlled areas in #Yemen fired at the #MaerskHangzhou and came within metres of the vessel as US helicopters fired back. #Iran #Israel #Gaza

#Britain ‘considering airstrikes’ on Houthi rebels after Red Sea attacks | Middle East and north Africa | The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/dec/31/britain-considering-airstrikes-on-houthi-rebels-after-red-sea-attacks

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111676296850332524

Britain ‘considering airstrikes’ on Houthi rebels after Red Sea attacks

Defence secretary says UK would not hesitate to take ‘direct action’ after US sank boats targeting a container ship

The Guardian

#Iran confirms deploying warship to #RedSea as tensions rise

Iranian state media confirmed #Tehran sent a warship to the Red Sea as the area rapidly militarises.

The #IRISAlborz , part of the 94th Naval Fleet of the Iranian army, travelled through the Bab al-Mandeb Strait near #Yemen to arrive at the Red Sea. #Israel #Houthi #Gaza

source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/1/israel-hamas-war-live-new-year-in-gaza-under-non-stop-israeli-bombardment

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111676228256522510

Israel-Hamas war live: Fierce fighting on streets of Gaza’s Khan Younis

Israel to withdraw thousands of reservists from Gaza ground invasion so troops can ‘gain strength’ for future battles.

Al Jazeera

In 2020 #Iran's frigate warship, the #IRISAlborz, was upgraded with new indigenously developed combat systems including an improved fire control system (FCS) and an electronic warfare system (EWS).

It's almost certain the #Houthis asked for backup after #US combat helicopters sank three Houthi raider boats attacking the #MaerskHangzhou in the #RedSea. #Israel

source: https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/iranian-navy-upgrades-alborz-frigate-with-new-combat-systems

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111681354926370647

Iranian navy upgrades Alborz frigate with new combat systems

The Islamic Republic of Iran Navy has equipped one of its ageing Alvand-class (Vosper Mk 5) frigates with new indigenously developed combat systems.

Janes.com

Under the plan, originally proposed by #Nicosia last month, ships would travel to #Cyprus for security checks before heading 370 kilometers to #Gaza's coast in a route that would avoid Egyptian or Israeli borders.

#Israel green-lights Cypriot aid plan for #Palestinians as military pounds Gaza – POLITICO
https://www.politico.eu/article/israel-green-lights-cypriot-aid-plan-for-palestinians-as-military-pounds-central-gaza/

Israel green-lights Cypriot aid plan for Palestinians as military pounds central Gaza

French, British, Greek and Dutch ships could carry aid directly to Gaza under new plan.

POLITICO

After the Oct. 7 attack on Israel by #Hamas, #Netanyahu suspended efforts to change the country's judiciary.

On Monday, Netanyahu's #Likud party said the ruling was against the will of the people at a time of war.

In landmark ruling, #Israel's #SupremeCourt rejects right-wing changes to judiciary

https://www.npr.org/2024/01/01/1222400537/israel-supreme-court-ruling-judiciary-changes

#Israel will appear at #InternationalCourtOfJustice: Israeli media

Israel “will not boycott” proceedings launched by #SouthAfrica at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Israel’s National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi has said, the Israeli news site Ynet is reporting.

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/2/israel-hamas-war-live-almost-22000-palestinians-killed-by-israel-in-gaza

Israel-Hamas war live: Almost 22,000 Palestinians killed by Israel in Gaza

Al Jazeera teams on the ground report Israeli attacks focused on the southern and central areas of Gaza.

Al Jazeera

TEL AVIV — Israel says five of its military brigades, including many reservists, will be withdrawing from the #GazaStrip this week in an effort to pace itself for an expected long-term conflict and to mitigate damage to Israel’s economy.

#Israel withdrawing some units from #Gaza
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/israel-withdrawing-units-gaza-rcna131800

Israel withdrawing some units from Gaza

TEL AVIV — Israel says five of its military brigades, including many reservists, will be withdrawing from the Gaza Strip this week in an effort to pace itself for an expected long-term conflict and to mitigate damage to Israel’s economy.

NBC News

“I don’t think he has the ability [to respond]" , says Amit Segal, chief political analyst at #Israel’s Channel 12. “Prior to the war, his allies (far-right ministers, Itamar) Ben Gvir, and (Bezalel) Smotrich would have demanded him to do so and dragged him to do it. Now they can’t because it’s a war and after the war, I think it will be the least of his problems.”

Israel’s #SupremeCourt deals huge blow to #Netanyahu, but one he may have to swallow | CNN
https://edition.cnn.com/2024/01/02/middleeast/israels-supreme-court-analysis-intl/index.html

Officials say four people were killed in the attack, including a “senior #Palestinian official”, Reuters reports, quoting two unnamed security sources. The Associated Press, citing #Hezbollah TV, named the person as “top #Hamas official #SalehArouri#Israel #Lebanon

https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/02/israel-gaza-war-live-israeli-military-kills-four-alleged-palestinian-militants-in-west-bank-idf-says?page=with:block-65943a318f08f167df68dffd#block-65943a318f08f167df68dffd

Israel-Gaza war live: senior Hamas official Saleh al-Arouri killed in Beirut explosion

Hamas has confirmed deputy head died in what Lebanon state media report as drone strike; Israeli officials declined to comment

the Guardian

#Hamas confirms deputy head killed in reported Israeli #DroneStrike

An Israeli drone strike killed the deputy head of Hamas, #SalehAlArouri, in #Beirut, reports on Tuesday said. His death, which was confirmed by a Hamas radio station, would be a significant blow to the group in #Gaza #Israel #Lebanon
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/02/israel-gaza-war-live-israeli-military-kills-four-alleged-palestinian-militants-in-west-bank-idf-says?page=with:block-65943e088f0892175dae604b#block-65943e088f0892175dae604b

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111687521892452106

Israeli military forces in a state of ‘high readiness’ says senior IDF spokesperson – as it happened

This blog is now closed

the Guardian

Who was Saleh al-Arouri?

The death of #Hamas’s deputy leader, #SalehAlArouri, in a reported drone strike in #Beirut on Tuesday is a significant victory for the #Israel Defense Forces as the military campaign against the group in Hamas continues.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/02/israel-gaza-war-live-israeli-military-kills-four-alleged-palestinian-militants-in-west-bank-idf-says?page=with:block-659442918f083d1e9a9aeb87#block-659442918f083d1e9a9aeb87

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111687548116603918

Israeli military forces in a state of ‘high readiness’ says senior IDF spokesperson – as it happened

This blog is now closed

the Guardian

Witness reports spoke of two explosions 15 minutes apart in the south-central city of #Kerman tearing into the crowds that had gathered to mark the death of #Suleimani, once regarded as the most powerful figure in the Middle East, and responsible for extending Iranian influence in #Lebanon, #Syria and #Iraq.

Almost 100 dead in blasts at #Iran memorial for assassinated commander | Iran | The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/jan/03/dead-in-blasts-at-memorial-for-assassinated-iranian-commander

Almost 100 dead in blasts at Iran memorial for assassinated commander

Two explosions at Kerman ceremony marking anniversary of killing of Qassem Suleimani raise Middle East tensions further

The Guardian

Crack legal teams are being assembled, countries are issuing statements in support of #SouthAfrica, and #Israel has said it will defend itself in court, reversing a decades-old policy of boycotting the #UN’s top court and its 15 elected judges.

The first hearing in #TheHague is set for 11 and 12 January.

Stakes high as South Africa brings claim of genocidal intent against Israel | #ICC | The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/jan/04/stakes-high-as-south-africa-brings-claim-of-genocidal-intent-against-israel

Stakes high as South Africa brings claim of genocidal intent against Israel

Israel’s decision to defend itself at the international court of justice will make it harder for it to brush aside any adverse finding

The Guardian
Israeli forces searched houses in the #NurShams refugee camp in the occupied #WestBank city of #Tulkarem on Thursday, detaining hundreds of people suspected of militant activities, its military said. #Israel
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/04/israel-gaza-war-live-updates-hamas-palestine-antony-blinken-us-secretary-visit-saleh-al-arouri-death?page=with:block-6596a3448f08310f25e7da34#block-6596a3448f08310f25e7da34
Middle East crisis live: tension spreads as US says it carried out strike in Baghdad; Hezbollah reports Israeli attack in Lebanon

Lebanese state media said Israeli strikes hit border town of Naqura; US military says it carried attack in Baghdad against Iraqi militia leader

the Guardian
The #US military has carried out a strike in #Baghdad against an Iraqi militia leader it blames for attacks against U.S. forces in the country, killing him and another person, a US official told Reuters on Thursday. #Iraq #Israel
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/04/israel-gaza-war-live-updates-hamas-palestine-antony-blinken-us-secretary-visit-saleh-al-arouri-death?page=with:block-6596ad208f082ac94d4240fb#block-6596ad208f082ac94d4240fb
Middle East crisis live: tension spreads as US says it carried out strike in Baghdad; Hezbollah reports Israeli attack in Lebanon

Lebanese state media said Israeli strikes hit border town of Naqura; US military says it carried attack in Baghdad against Iraqi militia leader

the Guardian
It doesn't look like it's #Israel's doing. Earlier toot on #KermanBombing here:
https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111695032746407752
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Associated Press reports that the state-run Irna news agency in #Iran says suicide bombers probably carried out the attack in #Kerman, which killed at least 84 people.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/04/israel-gaza-war-live-updates-hamas-palestine-antony-blinken-us-secretary-visit-saleh-al-arouri-death?page=with:block-6596c5678f082ac94d424243#block-6596c5678f082ac94d424243
Norobiik @Norobiik@noc.social (@Norobiik@noc.social)

Attached: 1 image Witness reports spoke of two explosions 15 minutes apart in the south-central city of #Kerman tearing into the crowds that had gathered to mark the death of #Suleimani, once regarded as the most powerful figure in the Middle East, and responsible for extending Iranian influence in #Lebanon, #Syria and #Iraq. Almost 100 dead in blasts at #Iran memorial for assassinated commander | Iran | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/jan/03/dead-in-blasts-at-memorial-for-assassinated-iranian-commander

Noc.Social
#Cyprus will be the key in getting more aid in. The country has functioned as a humanitarian aid hub before.
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#DavidCameron, the #UK foreign secretary, has warned about starvation and disease spreading in #Gaza if #Israel does not allow more aid into Gaza.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/04/israel-gaza-war-live-updates-hamas-palestine-antony-blinken-us-secretary-visit-saleh-al-arouri-death?page=with:block-6596ca628f082ac94d42429d#block-6596ca628f082ac94d42429d
Middle East crisis live: tension spreads as US says it carried out strike in Baghdad; Hezbollah reports Israeli attack in Lebanon

Lebanese state media said Israeli strikes hit border town of Naqura; US military says it carried attack in Baghdad against Iraqi militia leader

the Guardian

At least 84 people died when two blasts ripped through the crowd near #Suleimani’s tomb in the city of #Kerman, four years after he was killed by a US drone strike in #Baghdad. Suleimani had been a staunch enemy of IS, which resents the damage he did to its cause in #Iraq and #Syria. #ISIS #Israel

#IslamicState claims responsibility for Iran bombings that killed at least 84
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/jan/04/iran-kerman-attack-islamic-state-suspicion-border-afghanistan-pakistan

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111695032746407752

Islamic State claims responsibility for Iran bombings that killed at least 84

Afghan affiliate of IS claims responsibility for blasts in memorial crowd as Tehran tightens security on its eastern bordersMiddle East crisis – live updates

The Guardian

The ship sent a message on the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations portal, saying five to six unknown armed personnel had boarded on Thursday evening, the statement said.

At least 15 Indian crew members were on board the #MVLilaNorfolk, which was hijacked near #Somalia’s coast. #Houthi #Israel

#India navy says responding to Liberian-flagged vessel hijack in #ArabianSea | Shipping News | Al Jazeera
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/1/5/india-navy-says-responding-to-liberian-flagged-vessel-hijack-in-arabian-sea?traffic_source=rss&utm_source=press.coop

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111646123110157384

India navy says responding to Liberian-flagged vessel hijack in Arabian Sea

Navy says it has sent a warship to render assistance after the vessel issues a hijacking distress call.

Al Jazeera

Wow, if our own secretary of defense tried this stunt he'd be fired and out a job by morning 🙄
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Under the plan, #Israel’s war in the territory would continue until it had secured the return of the #hostages taken on 7 October, dismantled #Hamas’s “military and governing capabilities” and removed any remaining military threats.

Gallant unveiled the plan to the press before submitting it to prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s war cabinet, #PostWarGaza

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/jan/05/israel-defence-minister-yoav-gallant-gaza-plan-after-war-hamas-palestine-control-antony-blinken-visit

Israel could keep security control of Gaza after Hamas defeat, says defence minister

Yoav Gallant’s proposal suggests Palestinians would run day to day administration of territory

The Guardian
Middle East crisis live: Hezbollah chief warns of ‘inevitable’ response to killing of senior Hamas figure

Hassan Nasrallah says Beirut attack has changed nature of the conflict; Lebanon files UN complaint over killing of senior Hamas figure Saleh al-Arouri

the Guardian
Middle East crisis live: Israel to continue war with ‘new combat approach’ until Hamas dismantled, defence minister says

Yoav Gallant outlines plan for how Gaza would be run in document yet to be approved by Israeli officials

the Guardian
Middle East crisis live: Israel to continue war with ‘new combat approach’ until Hamas dismantled, defence minister says

Yoav Gallant outlines plan for how Gaza would be run in document yet to be approved by Israeli officials

the Guardian

#Teheran - Iranian President #EbrahimRaisi joined mourners in #Kerman on Jan 5 for the funerals of the 89 people killed in twin blasts claimed by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (#ISIS) group, state media said. Despite the claim of responsibility by ISIS, Iranian officials have continued to suggest #Israel's and #US involvement. #KermanBombing

Iran lays to rest victims of Islamic State twin bombings | The Straits Times
https://www.straitstimes.com/world/middle-east/iran-lays-to-rest-victims-of-isis-twin-bombings

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111702771023446526

Iran lays to rest victims of ISIS twin bombings

The 89 victims include multiple women and children and at least a dozen Afghan nationals. Read more at straitstimes.com.

The Straits Times
Middle East crisis live: Hezbollah chief warns of ‘inevitable’ response to killing of senior Hamas figure

Hassan Nasrallah says Beirut attack has changed nature of the conflict; Lebanon files UN complaint over killing of senior Hamas figure Saleh al-Arouri

the Guardian
Middle East crisis live: Lebanon files UN complaint over killing of senior Hamas figure; Blinken arrives in Turkey

Complaint accuses Israel of using six missiles in attack that killed Saleh al-Arouri; US secretary of state arrives for first leg of Middle East tour

the Guardian
Middle East crisis live: Lebanon files UN complaint over killing of senior Hamas figure; Blinken arrives in Turkey

Complaint accuses Israel of using six missiles in attack that killed Saleh al-Arouri; US secretary of state arrives for first leg of Middle East tour

the Guardian

In a second nationally televised address within three days, #Nasrallah said that all of #Lebanon would be “exposed” if there was no response from his group to the killing of #SalehAlArouri, further heightening fears of a dangerous escalation in the conflict, even as #Israel warned its military was ready for any eventuality. #Hezbollah

https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/05/middle-east-crisis-live-updates-antony-blinken-israel-palestine-gaza-hamas?page=with:block-6598409e8f08640ae963aac6#block-6598409e8f08640ae963aac6

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111687563046771710

Middle East crisis live: Lebanon files UN complaint over killing of senior Hamas figure; Blinken arrives in Turkey

Complaint accuses Israel of using six missiles in attack that killed Saleh al-Arouri; US secretary of state arrives for first leg of Middle East tour

the Guardian

About 90% of #children under the age of two are consuming two or fewer food groups, #UNICEF said in a statement on Friday.

Most families said their children are only getting grains – including bread – or milk, which would meet the definition of severe #FoodPoverty, it said. #Gaza #Israel

https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/05/middle-east-crisis-live-updates-antony-blinken-israel-palestine-gaza-hamas?page=with:block-65983e518f08640ae963aab1#block-65983e518f08640ae963aab1

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111704611699433530

Middle East crisis live: Lebanon files UN complaint over killing of senior Hamas figure; Blinken arrives in Turkey

Complaint accuses Israel of using six missiles in attack that killed Saleh al-Arouri; US secretary of state arrives for first leg of Middle East tour

the Guardian

#SalehAlArouri’s assassination took place in the #Hezbollah stronghold of #Beirut’s southern suburbs, even as the group has attempted to pursue a policy of supporting #Hamas in #Gaza while stopping short of triggering its own major war with #Israel.

Friday’s comments by Hezbollah’s head, #HassanNasrallah, were, however, more forceful than those made earlier this week.

https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/05/middle-east-crisis-live-updates-antony-blinken-israel-palestine-gaza-hamas?page=with:block-659842d18f08d8e96baf7fef#block-659842d18f08d8e96baf7fef

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111704625289959044

Middle East crisis live: Hezbollah chief warns of ‘inevitable’ response to killing of senior Hamas figure

Hassan Nasrallah says Beirut attack has changed nature of the conflict; Lebanon files UN complaint over killing of senior Hamas figure Saleh al-Arouri

the Guardian

#India’s navy said its commandos have rescued all crew members from a Liberian-flagged merchant vessel after its attempted hijack in the #ArabianSea, and that it had not found any pirates on board.

The subcontinent’s navy said on Friday that 21 crew members, including 15 Indians, were rescued from the #MVLilaNorfolk after they intercepted the vessel. #Israel

Indian navy intercepts ship, rescues crew after Arabian Sea hijack attempt
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/1/5/india-navy-says-responding-to-liberian-flagged-vessel-hijack-in-arabian-sea

Back toot: https://noc.social/@Norobiik/111702399001659663

India navy says responding to Liberian-flagged vessel hijack in Arabian Sea

Navy says it has sent a warship to render assistance after the vessel issues a hijacking distress call.

Al Jazeera
Middle East crisis live: Hezbollah chief warns of ‘inevitable’ response to killing of senior Hamas figure

Hassan Nasrallah says Beirut attack has changed nature of the conflict; Lebanon files UN complaint over killing of senior Hamas figure Saleh al-Arouri

the Guardian

Families of captives arrive in #Qatar for meeting with prime minister

#Israel #Hamas

The The US secretary of state, #AntonyBlinken, arrived in #Istanbul late on Friday for the first leg of a trip that includes visits to #Israel and #WestBank, along with five Arab states.

Blinken’s fourth crisis tour since the start of the Israel-Hamas war three months ago comes with fears mounting that the conflict will engulf swathes of the #MiddleEast.

Blinken to discuss #Gaza with #Erdoğan
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/06/middle-east-crisis-israel-gaza-war-hamas-us-blinken-trip-erdogan?page=with:block-6598e21c8f08640ae963af69#block-6598e21c8f08640ae963af69

Middle East crisis live: dozens of rockets fired at northern Israel from Lebanon, IDF says

Israeli military says about 40 rockets fired into the Meron area

the Guardian
Middle East crisis live: dozens of rockets fired at northern Israel from Lebanon

Israeli military says about 40 rockets fired into the Meron area

the Guardian

#US Secretary of State #AntonyBlinken and the #EuropeanUnion’s senior diplomat #JosepBorrell were both in the region on separate diplomatic missions to stop the three-month-old #Gaza war spilling over into #Lebanon, the Israeli-occupied #WestBank, and #RedSea shipping lanes. #Israel

Israel, #Hezbollah exchange fire across Lebanon border amid alarm over Gaza war spillover
https://www.rappler.com/world/middle-east/israel-war-hamas-updates-january-6-2024/

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Israel, Hezbollah exchange fire across Lebanon border amid alarm over Gaza war spillover

(1st UPDATE) Hezbollah says it hit a key Israeli observation post with 62 rockets as a 'preliminary response' to the killing of Hamas' deputy chief Saleh al-Arouri 

RAPPLER

#MetroManila (CNN #Philippines, January 6) — The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Saturday confirmed the safety of six #Filipino crew members on board the #MVNilaNorfolk after an attempted hijacking in the North #ArabianSea. #India #Israel

6 Pinoy seafarers safe after attempted hijacking of ship in North Arabia Sea
https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2024/1/6/6-Pinoy-seafarers-safe-after-attempted-hijacking.html

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6 Pinoy seafarers safe after attempted hijacking of ship in North Arabia Sea

The Department of Migrant Workers confirmed the safety of six Filipino crew members on board the MV Nila Norfolk after an attempted hijacking in the North Arabia Sea.

cnn

Judging from the positive outcome of this meeting, I'm going to assume that the discussion on the other items on the table (ie. #F16's for #Turkey, #Sweden's #NATO membership) also went well. #Israel #Erdoğan

Turkey to play 'productive' role in postwar #Gaza, #Blinken says
https://www.france24.com/en/middle-east/20240106-%F0%9F%94%B4-live-israel-bombing-of-gaza-continues-despite-un-warnings-that-territory-is-uninhabitable

🔴 Live: Israel bombing of Gaza continues despite UN warnings that territory is 'uninhabitable'

Israel’s bombardment of Gaza continued on Saturday despite UN warnings that the Palestinian territory has become "uninhabitable" after three months of fighting that threatens to engulf the wider region. Israeli strikes were reported on Gaza's southern city of Rafah, where hundreds of thousands of people have sought refuge from the fighting. Follow our liveblog for the latest developments.

FRANCE 24

This is video footage of the aftermath of the fatal Israeli airstrike on a car carrying two journalists in southern #Gaza.

Al Jazeera journalist #HamzaAlDahdouh and #MustafaThuria, a video stringer for AFP, were killed when their car was struck driving between #Rafah and #KhanYounis.

Hamza’s father, Al Jazeera’s Gaza bureau chief, #WaelAlDahdouh, holds his late son’s hand. His wife, two other children and a grandson were killed by a separate earlier airstrike. #Israel
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/07/middle-east-crisis-live-israel-west-bank-jenin-palestinian-ministry-latest-updates?page=with:block-659aad818f08640ae963b883#block-659aad818f08640ae963b883

Middle East crisis live: Israel says it has completed mission to destroy Hamas infrastructure in northern Gaza

Offensive will now shift to southern Gaza, as Netanyahu insists war is not over

the Guardian

Under the #ICJ’s rules a state that does not have a judge of its nationality already on the bench can choose an ad hoc judge to sit in their case. #TheHague

#Israel names former supreme court president #AharonBarak to ICJ panel ahead of #SouthAfrica's #genocide case hearing
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2024/jan/07/middle-east-crisis-live-israel-west-bank-jenin-palestinian-ministry-latest-updates?page=with:block-659ac87d8f08640ae963b92e#block-659ac87d8f08640ae963b92e

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Middle East crisis live: Israel says it has completed mission to destroy Hamas infrastructure in northern Gaza

Offensive will now shift to southern Gaza, as Netanyahu insists war is not over

the Guardian

@Norobiik Nasrallah's claim, that "all of Lebanon" were "exposed", if Hezbollah weren't "responding" to the killing of a Palestinian Hamas leader in Beirut is laughably absurd:

The Lebanese Shia, which Iran-backed Hezbollah claims to represent makes for about 31.2% of the Lebanese population, mostly in southern Lebanon, with Sunnis accounting for 31.9% & Christians (mostly Maronites) at 32.4%, the latter ones not at all guaranteed to agree with the aggressive moves by Hezbollah.
[Figures see CIA World Factbook 2020]
🇮🇱 🇵🇸 🇱🇧

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lebanon
#IsraelPalestine #Israel #Lebanon #Hamas #Hezbollah #Terrorism #Oct7 #PeaceSalaamShalom

Lebanon - Wikipedia

@ArenaCops Lebanon has always struck me as a nation locked in stasis. Looking at the figures and proportions of the major factions quoted in your post reinforces that impression.

@Norobiik Yeah, and that's as you exactly say just the major factions somehow existing side by side after long years of civil war & foreign interference, with Hezbollah emerging as an insanely armed force thanks (?) to Iranian intrusion into Lebanon's domestic affairs.
Besides eg Arafat's PLO (ab)using Lebanon as a base for terrorist operations against Israel — until they had to go.

While eg Beirut had once even been called Paris of the Middle East... :🙄