U.S. sends more forces to region ahead of possible Iranian attack on Israel

The US Secretary of Defense ordered the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group to replace the USS Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group and to send additional cruisers and destroyers which have a system for intercepting ballistic missiles to the U.S. European Command and U.S. Central Command regions. The Department is also taking steps to increase their readiness to deploy additional land-based ballistic missile defense and deploy additional fighter jet squadron (Read more at Axios).

US don’t seem to have a plan B, not thrilled with Israel’s actions

The Biden administration is clinging to the stubbornly elusive goal of a cease-fire deal to end the fighting in Gaza. It has important effects on other areas where you could see conflict — whether it’s in the north of Israel and Lebanon, whether it’s Iran, whether it’s in the Red Sea with the Houthis. Israel in particular decided that the only way to eventually calm Gaza is through more fighting now. You have a situation where each of the parties believes that in order to deter the other, they have to climb the ladder (Read more at Politico).

Netanyahu denies adding new conditions to US-backed truce proposal

Netanyahu's latest conditions weren't included in the proposal announced by US President Joe Biden in May, which Biden said Israel had agreed to (Read more at Anadolu Agency).

White House says Lebanon war 'not inevitable' as Israel preps Hezbollah response

The White House, however, sought to downplay anxieties that an impending Israeli retaliation could trigger a broader regional war, with Kirby labeling such concerns “exaggerated” during a briefing with reporters. But the cautious optimism projected by the White House contrasted with defensive preparations taken by US troops in Iraq and Syria in anticipation of blowback from local militias in response to the impending Israeli strikes (Read more at AlMonitor).

U.S. warned Israel against targeting Hezbollah in Beirut after deadly strike

Israel has so far not targeted Hezbollah in Beirut. U.S. and Israeli officials agree that an all out war between Israel and Hezbollah would cause huge destruction on both sides and could lead to a regional war. The Israeli official said Hochstein expressed concern that if the IDF strikes Beirut, Hezbollah would respond by firing long-range missiles at Israel, which would likely lead to even further escalation (Read more at Axios).

U.S. says it requested information from Israel on Rafah water reservoir bombing

Earlier on Monday, the Israeli army admitted that its soldiers were responsible for the bombing of the water reservoir in Tal al-Sultan. According to the Israeli daily Haaretz, an investigation into the incident has been initiated. Also, fuel restrictions imposed by Israel have further hindered the operation of remaining desalination facilities in the region (Read more at Anadolu Agency).

US Blames Hezbollah for Golan Heights Attack, Says It Doesn't Want Escalation

Washington has been in discussions with Israeli and Lebanese officials since Saturday's attack. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated U.S. support for Israel. U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer on Sunday echoed Blinken's statement: "Israel has every right to defend itself against Hezbollah like they do against Hamas." (Read more at Reuters).

Harris' Support for Israel ‘Ironclad’ After Attack on Golan Heights

Her national security adviser Phil Gordon said "The Vice President has been briefed and is closely monitoring Hezbollah’s horrific attack on a soccer field in Majdal Shams" (Read more at Reuters). 

Israel sends Gaza hostage and ceasefire proposal to U.S

the updated Israeli proposal includes a mention of the establishment of a foreign mechanism to monitor and prevent the transfer of militanta and weapons from the south of the Gaza Strip to the north. It also includes changes in the locations where the redeployment of IDF forces will take place in the Gaza Strip in the first phase of the deal as well as a determination that the IDF forces will remain in the Philadelphi corridor during the first phase's implementation (Read more at Axios).

Hamas accuses US and Israel of 'lying' about Gaza ceasefire negotiations

“They are all lying and playing for time, pretending that we are close to an agreement to stop the war ... we no longer trust or believe American officials, especially the CIA director currently in the region,” Hamas official Mahmoud Taha said on Friday (Read more at The National).

Israeli Officials Criticize Harris' Call for End to Gaza War

An unnamed Israeli official said it was to be hoped that Harris' comments would not be interpreted by Hamas as indicating a gap between the United States and Israel "and thus push a deal into the distance." Both Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, leaders of two hardline religious nationalist parties whose support is vital for Netanyahu's right-wing coalition, condemned Harris' remarks (Read more at USNews).

White House Grants Deportation Reprieve to Lebanese, Citing Israel-Hezbollah Tensions

The White House will offer deportation relief and work permits to an estimated 11,500 Lebanese nationals already in the U.S., due to conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. The measure, under an authority known as Deferred Enforced Departure, will allow Lebanese nationals to remain in the U.S. for 18 months and could be renewed. U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell, a Democrat from Michigan, which is home to Lebanese Americans in Detroit and elsewhere, applauded the move (Read more at USNews).

Biden, Jordan's King Discuss Gaza Ceasefire Talks

In a statement, the White House said Biden briefed Abdullah on "preparations for a surge in humanitarian assistance during a ceasefire period." They also discussed reforms to the Palestinian Authority in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, and ensuring it has access to revenue. Abdullah reaffirmed "the important role of the United States in creating a political horizon to achieve just and lasting peace on the basis of the two-state solution." (Read more at USNews).

Harris strikes tougher tone than Biden

Harris did pressure Netanyahu to help reach a Gaza ceasefire deal. She did not mince words about the humanitarian crisis gripping Gaza. But analysts do not expect there would be a major shift in US policy toward Israel, Washington’s closest ally in the Middle East (Read more at Arab Weekly).

Trump slams Kamala Harris' remarks on Israel-Hamas war as disrespectful

Harris expressed her "unwavering commitment" to the existence of Israel and said the country has a right to self-defence, but added "how it does so matters." Trump dismissed questions that the relationship had hit a setback. "It was never bad, I would say it was always good. No president has done what I've done for Israel and we've always had a very good relationship," he said (Read more at Freance 24).

Israeli settlers court Republican religious right after Hamas attacks

Within Israel itself, two states remain the most popular way to peace, a May poll by Tel Aviv University showed, though support fell to only 33% of respondents, from 43% before Oct. 7. The annexation of the West Bank by Israel and limiting rights for Palestinians living there, an option favoured by some settlers, had the support of 32% of Israelis, from 27% before Oct. 7 (Read more at Reuters).

US Criticizes ICJ Opinion on Israeli Occupation of Palestinian Territories

The State Department said the ICJ opinion that Israel must withdraw as soon as possible from the Palestinian territories was "inconsistent with the established framework" for resolving the conflict. Washington said that framework took into account Israel's security needs, which it says were highlighted by the Oct. 7 attacks on Israel by Palestinian Islamist group Hamas (Read more at USNews).

US to Give Another $203 Million in Humanitarian Aid for Sudanese

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield called on other nations to step up their aid. "This is the worst humanitarian crisis in the world ... People are eating dirt to survive relying on tree leaves for nutrition," she told reporters. The U.N. says nearly 25 million people - half of Sudan's population - need aid, famine is looming and 10 million people have fled their homes. More than 2.2 million of those people have left for other countries (Read more USNews).

US Hits Former Israeli Military Sergeant With Visa Restrictions

The State Department barred a former Israeli Defense Forces sergeant from traveling to the United States, accusing him of being involved in the extrajudicial killing of a Palestinian in the West Bank. Washington also imposed visa restrictions on a group of people involved in actions undermining peace, security and stability in the West Bank (Read more at USNews).

US Military Ends Gaza Floating Pier Mission

Bad weather and distribution challenges inside Gaza limited the effectiveness of what the U.S. military says was its biggest aid delivery effort ever in the Middle East. The pier was only operational for about 20 days. "The maritime surge mission involving the pier is complete. So there's no more need to use the pier ... the temporary pier has achieved its intended effect to surge a very high volume of aid into Gaza," Navy Vice Admiral Brad Cooper, the deputy commander of U.S. Central Command, told a news briefing (Read more at USNews).

Drones Target Iraq Base Housing US-Led Coalition

One drone was shot down outside the base by defence systems, and the second exploded inside the base without causing any injuries or damage. A senior security official in Baghdad confirmed Tuesday’s attack, saying he believed it was meant to “embarrass” the Iraqi government and pressure the ongoing talks on the future of the international coalition in Iraq (Read more at Defense Post).

US and Saudi Arabia Signed Agreement for Space Collaboration

It opens new possibilities for cooperation with NASA in areas such as space science, exploration, aeronautics, space operations, education, and Earth science. “The agreement represents a turning point in the Kingdom’s journey towards building a strong and prosperous space sector,” said Saudi Space Agency Chairman (Read more at NASA)

Sikorsky Wins $251M Black Hawk Helicopter Deal With Jordan, Croatia

Sikorsky has received a $251.4-million contract to produce UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters for Jordan and Croatia, scheduled for completion by June 2027. The choppers are expected to boost the ability of both countries to conduct cargo and personnel transport, border security, counterterrorism, and search and rescue missions (Read more at Defense Post).

Israel confirms Gaza hostage-ceasefire deal proposal details laid out by Biden

But Israelis emphasized Israel can resume fighting if it thinks Hamas violates the deal at any point. Shortly after the Jewish Sabbath ended, Netanyahu's ultranationalist coalition partners ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich issued statements attacking the Israeli proposal, which they heard about for the first time in Biden's speech. Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid responded by issuing a statement committing to give Netanyahu a political "safety net" if needed in order to pass the deal (Read more at Axios).

Netanyahu Gets Invitation To Address Joint Meeting Of US Congress

Addresses to joint meetings of Congress by foreign leaders are a rare honour. This speech would make Netanyahu the first foreign leader to address joint meetings of Congress four times (Read more at Stratnewsglobal).

Hamas responds positively to Biden ceasefire proposal

Hamas said it was ready to engage “positively and in a constructive manner” with any proposal based on a permanent ceasefire, withdrawal of Israeli forces, the reconstruction of Gaza, a return of those displaced, and a “genuine” prisoner swap deal if Israel “clearly announces commitment to such deal” (Read more at Irish Times).

‘Major contradiction’ from the US and Israel on latest truce proposal

“There’s a major contradiction here and the fact that both the US and the Israeli side have said on the one hand, that they don’t want a future in Gaza in which Hamas has any kind of political role left. “At the same time, this is an agreement that would have to be reached through negotiations with Hamas, so, how do you do that? How do you eliminate them as a political force and at the same time reach a negotiated solution that is agreed upon by all parties?” (Read more at Aljazeera)

Israel pounds Gaza after Biden outlines ceasefire plan

Netanyahu took issue with Biden’s presentation of what was on the table, insisting the transition from one stage to the next in the proposed roadmap was “conditional” and crafted to allow Israel to maintain its war aims. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called his counterparts from Jordan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye on Friday to press the deal (Read more at Arabnews).

As US credibility falters over Gaza war, China seizes the moment in Mideast

In his opening speech at the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum, Chinese President Xi Jinping restated China’s backing of a two-state solution and pledged 500 million yuan ($69 million) in humanitarian aid for Gazans. The longer the war, the easier for China to pursue this objective (Read more at Arab Weekly).

Lawmakers up pressure on Biden to change struggling Sudan policy

Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.) said, “the U.S. must do more to empower Sudanese civilians ... and continue to support a transition to a civilian-led government.” Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas) said the administration’s sanctions policy is “uncoordinated and not part of a larger strategy to achieve a lasting ceasefire.” He also called on the White House to target countries that supply weapons and materiel to both sides of this conflict (Read more at Politico).

UK and US strike Houthi rebel targets in Yemen after surge in shipping attacks

The UK and the US struck 13 Houthi targets including a wide range of underground facilities, missile launchers, command and control sites, a Houthi vessel and other facilities,According to Houthi officials, the airstrikes killed at least 16 people and wounded 35 (Read more at Euronews).

Biden details a 3-phase hostage deal for the Israel-Hamas war

The first phase would last for six weeks and would include a “full and complete ceasefire,” a withdrawal of Israeli forces from all populated areas of Gaza and the release of a number of hostages in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. 600 trucks would be allowed into Gaza each day. The second phase would include the release of all remaining living hostages, including male soldiers, and Israeli forces would withdraw from Gaza. The third phase calls for the start of a major reconstruction of Gaza (Read more at Euronews).

Understanding US version of ‘red line’ in backdrop of Israel’s war on Gaza

When it comes to red lines, the US has one rule for its enemies and another for its allies and clients. One of the most infamous historical examples of red lines was seen in the lead up to the 2003 US-led invasion and another example of red lines came with former US President Barack Obama’s warning to the Assad regime against use of chemical weapons in Syria. Needless to say, Israel was true to its word in ignoring Biden’s feeble and non-credible red line warning as it launched a major military operation on Rafah (Read more at TRT World).

'Finish them': Nikki Haley signs Israeli artillery shell intended for Gaza

Nikki Haley, former United States Republican presidential candidate, visited Israel's which was organised by a right-wing member of the Israeli Parliament, Danny Danon. The message drew fury on social media (Read more at GEO).

Blinken discusses need to end Sudan war with army chief

Sudan has descended into crisis since the war between the army led by Gen Al Burhan, the country's de facto leader, and the Rapid Support Forces, commanded by his former ally Gen Mohamed Dagalo, began in April last year. Saudi Arabia was expected to host a round of peace talks earlier this month in Jeddah. However, Gen Al Burhan has said there will be no peace in Sudan until the military defeats the RSF, throwing any chances of a resumption of ceasefire talks into doubt (Read more at The National).

White House says ICC sanctions not the right answer

The Biden administration said it opposes sanctions being pushed by Republicans in Congress against the International Criminal Court in response to its prosecutor's decision to seek arrest warrants against Israeli leaders over the war in Gaza (Read more at Axios).

US calls Rafah strike heartbreaking but insists on Israeli right to self-defence

National Security spokesman John Kirby told reporters: "We still don't believe that a major ground operation in Rafah is warranted. US President Joe Biden earlier said Washington would not continue providing aid to Israel if it moved forward with a long-threatened invasion of Rafah, but his “red line” has become increasingly blurry amid the continuing military operations there. Israeli troops are now estimated to occupy 60 per cent of the city, including the hill that overlooks the border with Egypt, according to the BBC (Read more at The National).

Microsoft’s deal expected to transfer key US chips and AI technology to UAE

That entails the export of crucial components of AI technology such as model weights, a crown jewel of AI systems that determine how powerful they are. There were safeguards to protect the company’s technology and prevent it from being used by Chinese entities to train AI systems. But those measures have not been made public, and some US lawmakers question whether they are adequate (Read more at Arab Weekly).

US-Saudi defence pact could be ‘weeks away’

This bilateral agreement, once finalised, will be uncoupled from the regional “Grand Bargain”, which is supposed to include Saudi normalisation with Israel. Keeping normalisation outside the deal with the US, at least for now, would also allow Riyadh to avoid the domestic and regional blowback considering the tensions fuelled by the war in Gaza (Read more at Arab Weekly).

Egypt agrees to resume aid to Gaza through Israel after U.S. pressure

Under U.S. pressure, the Egyptian government agreed to resume the flow of aid trucks to Gaza through Israel, after deliveries were halted two weeks ago in protest of Israel's takeover of the Palestinian side of the Rafah crossing. Senior U.S. officials were also involved in the talks and pressured Israel, Egypt and the Palestinian Authority to find a solution that would allow the reactivation of the Rafah crossing as soon as possible. The main goal of the plan was to remove Hamas from involvement in the Rafah crossing (Read more at Axios).

Netanyahu speech plans spark internal furor for Democrats

Some top House Democrats are going so far as to say Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) should not sign onto the invitation. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) told reporters on Wednesday he has "not spoken to [Schumer] personally, but our staffs have communicated and it seems as though he wants to sign on." (Read more at Axios)

US Army Tests Portable ‘Dronebuster’ in Middle East

The counter-drone system works by overwhelming a hostile drone’s control frequency, forcing it to abandon its mission and return to its operator. The weapons can perform up to three hours of jamming and more than 10 hours of drone detection (Read more at Defense News).

Morocco further boosts military ties with US as ‘African Lion 2024’ kicks off

Considered the biggest such exercise in Africa, African Lion is joined by 7,000 elements of the armed forces from some 20 countries in Africa and countries of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). It added that the exercises includes combined day and night tactical, land, sea and air exercises, a special forces exercise, airborne operations and an operational planning exercise for Task Force staff (Read more at Arab Weekly).

US President Joe Biden: What’s happening in Gaza is not genocide

His remarks referred specifically to a case at a different tribunal, the UN International Court of Justice (ICJ). He also amped up his criticism of the ICC, a separate war crimes court, saying that “we reject” ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan’s bid to arrest Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and its defense minister (Read more at Arabnews).

Yemen's Houthis say they downed US MQ9 drone over al-Bayda province

Yahya Saree said the drone was targeted with a locally made surface-to-air missile and that videos to support the claim would be released. The Houthis said last Friday they downed another U.S. MQ9 drone over the southeastern province of Maareb (Read more at Reuters).

US, Saudis close to deal on defense pact, White House says

The potential sale of the F-35s to the Saudis was not guaranteed for a variety of reasons, but its inclusion in the discussions was significant because Riyadh has desired the stealthy fighter jet for years. The U.S.-Saudi security accord is also expected to involve sharing emerging technologies with Riyadh, including artificial intelligence (Read more at Reuters).

Iran Confirms Rare Talks With US on Escalating Regional Attacks

It is quoted that “these negotiations were not the first and will not be the last.” (Read more at Defense Post).

US national security adviser, Saudi Arabia’s crown prince meet to discuss the deal

The deal included “a two-state solution that meets the aspirations and legitimate rights of the Palestinian people” and “the situation in Gaza and the need to stop the war there and facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid.” (Read more at Stripes).

Aid begins to arrive in Gaza via US-built pier

Pier estimated to cost $320m, involve 1,000 US troops. UN reiterates land crossings more 'efficient'. The temporary floating pier was pre-assembled at the Israeli port of Ashdod and moved into place on Thursday on the shore of Gaza, which lacks port infrastructure of its own. No U.S. troops went ashore, the Pentagon's Central Command said (Read more at Reuters).

U.S., Iran held indirect talks this week on avoiding more attacks

The talks — involving President Biden's top Middle East adviser, Brett McGurk, and Abram Paley the acting U.S. envoy for Iran — were the first round of discussions between the U.S. and Iran since January, when similar negotiations were held in Oman. The sources said the talks focused on clarifying the consequences of actions by Iran and its proxies in the region and to discuss U.S. concerns regarding the status of Iran's nuclear program (Read more at Axios).

Arab leaders’ Gaza demands give Biden another election-year headache

Key Arab leaders’ desire for a new “political horizon” for Gaza is only complicating President Joe Biden’s fraught efforts in the region — and his bid for a second term. Jake Sullivan, White House national security adviser, said that is what some Arab leaders would need to see before making long-term commitments to help the Palestinian enclave after Israel’s war with Hamas comes to an end (Read more at Stripes).

Communications chief highlights importance of Türkiye-US cooperation

Presidential Communications Director Fahrettin Altun said "We strongly believe that the relationship between Türkiye and the U.S. hold potential to develop peace, security, and prosperity-based approaches to regional and global concerns while adhering to the tenets of alliance and strategic partnerships." (Read more at DailySabah).

Hamas left hostage talks to pressure Israel, Sullivan tells ambassadors

The White House sees a hostage deal as the only viable path to a ceasefire in Gaza, and possibly ending a war. Hamas has claimed it left the hostage talks last week because of the Israeli military's operation at the Rafah crossing (Read more at Axios).

US billionaires joined Whatsapp group to change Israel narrative

The group was set up on 12 October, days after Hamas's surprise attack on southern Israel, to "change the narrative" on Israel, including by conveying "the atrocities committed by Hamas... to all Americans". Among the business leaders in the group were the CEO of Starbucks, Howard Schultz, Dell CEO and founder Michael Dell, and Joshua Kushner, a financier and brother to Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner. They urged New York City's mayor to use police to disperse a pro-Palestinian protest at Columbia University (Read more at Middle East Eye). 

Democrats join Republicans to override Biden's halt on bomb transfers to Israe

16 Largely symbolic vote underscores the divide in the Democratic Party over support for Israel. The lawmakers who broke ranks with their party include vocal democratic supporters of Israel such as Lois Frankel, Jared Moskowitz, Josh Gottheimer, and Ritchie Torres (Read more at Middle East Eye).

Israel-Egypt Rafah spat puts Biden in a bind

The Biden administration struggles to respond as two allies battle over who should control Gaza's lifeline. Analysts say that Egypt is unlikely to suspend its peace treaty with Israel over the dispute, but in addition to publicly criticising Israel, could quietly stonewall cooperation on security matters that both the US and Israel need (Read more at Middle East Eye).

Pro-Israel lobby's footprint writ large in law banning TikTok

TikTok has altered the way how a large number of Americans view Israel and its occupation of the Palestinian territories. Two American lawmakers, who co-authored a controversial law aiming to ban TikTok in the US, received tens of thousands of dollars in campaign funding from the pro-Israel lobby, according to official records (Read more at TRTWorld).

Biden administration is giving $1 billion in new weapons and ammo to Israel

The package being sent includes about $700 million for tank ammunition, $500 million in tactical vehicles and $60 million in mortar rounds. It’s the first arms shipment to Israel to be announced by the administration since it put another arms transfer — consisting of 3,500 bombs — on hold earlier in the month. The administration has said it paused that earlier transfer to keep Israel from using the bombs in its growing offensive in the crowded southern Gaza city of Rafah (Read more at Arabnews).

US Air Force Deploys ULTRA Glider-Like Drone in Middle East

Though the exact location was not disclosed, sharp eyes online revealed that the photos were taken from the Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates. Interestingly, the base serves as the home for the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing and previously housed the US Air Force’s RQ-4 Global Hawk drones. It is believed to be connected to intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (Read more at Defense Post). 

US calls on Iran to halt weapons transfers to Houthis

US deputy ambassador Robert Wood told the UN Security Council that there is extensive evidence that Iran is providing advanced weapons, including ballistic and cruise missiles, to the Houthis in violation of UN sanctions. The Houthis have launched more than 50 attacks on shipping, seized one vessel and sunk another since November, the US Maritime Administration said late last month. Houthi attacks have dropped in recent weeks as the rebels have been targeted by a US-led airstrike campaign in Yemen (Read more at IrishExaminer).

Strategic setbacks for US, Israel as the Resistance Axis gains ground in Syria

Recent resistance operations in eastern Syria have established new rules of engagement that constrain both Washington and Tel Aviv’s once-untethered freedom to operate in this strategic theater. The re-establishment of the Tehran–Beirut road, was perceived by the US and Israelis as a strategic geopolitical setback to their goal of severing relations and routes between Iran and the Mediterranean (Read more at TheCradle).

The limits of the Biden-Netanyahu ‘dispute’

A few factors may have encouraged the American president to take the risk of to suspending “advanced weapons” to Israel at this time: First is the willingness of Republican politicians to outbid him. No matter how excessive President Biden’s defense of Israel becomes; Secondly, the student uprisings on university campuses all across the US, from coast to coast, have challenged the stagnation; Thirdly, the Israeli far-right's brazen and racist speeches have alienated all neutral or moderate observers (Read more at Arabnews).

Former US military intelligence official says he resigned over Gaza war

Harrison Mann, an Army major, would be the first known DIA official to quit over U.S. support to Israel. "I was afraid. Afraid of violating our professional norms. Afraid of disappointing officers I respect," Mann wrote in a letter published on his LinkedIn profile (Read more at Reuters).

Top Biden official doubts Israel can achieve 'total victory' in Gaza

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell's comments are the clearest to date from a top U.S. official effectively admitting that Israel's current military strategy won't bring the result that it is aiming for. Likening the situation in Gaza to that of a recurring insurgency that the United States faced in Afghanistan and Iraq after its invasions there following the Sept. 11 attacks, Campbell said a political solution was required (Read more at Reuters).

White House sees no genocide in Gaza, condemns aid convoy attacks

Sullivan said the United States wants to see Hamas defeated. He also said that Palestinians caught in the middle of the war. Biden has sought to influence Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's approach to the war,  but Israel is a sovereign, democratic nation that ultimately makes its own decisions, Sullivan said (Read more at Reuters).

Pro-Palestinian Students End Encampment but Vow Continued Protest

(Reuters) - A group of Harvard students said on Tuesday they would peacefully end a pro-Palestinian protest encampment after the university agreed to discuss its endowment with the protesters and begin reconsidering involuntary leaves it imposed on some (Read more at USNews).

Israel's Gallant briefs Blinken on 'precise' Rafah operation

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant briefed U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken about Israel's military operation in the southern Gazan city of Rafah and takeover of the nearby border crossing into Egypt (Read more at Anadolu Agency).

A history of U.S. presidents drawing red lines with Israel

During the Suez Crisis of the 1950s, then-President Dwight Eisenhower leveraged the threat of sanctions to convince Israel to withdraw from the Sinai Peninsula - In 1983, Reagan reaffirmed that he would not send F-16 jets to Israel until Israel withdrew its forces from Lebanon - In 1992, the Bush administration threatened to withhold the delivery of $10 billion in loan guarantees to Israel if it continued building settlements in the occupied West Bank and Gaza (Read more at Axios).

Israel offensive on Rafah would not eliminate Hamas: Blinken

It would provoke "anarchy" without eliminating Hamas. Asked about a State Department report issued Friday that said Israel likely has violated norms of international law in its use of US weapons, Blinken said there was still too little evidence to warrant ending all military support (Read more at Al-Ahram).

Jordan War Game with the US and 32 Other Countries

The drills, named Eager Lion, set to to help fight “terrorist organizations” and respond to “the proliferation of drones, and biological, chemical and nuclear weapons of mass destruction. The exercise is “the largest” since the first “Eager Lion” edition in 2011 (Read more at Defense Post).

No ‘credible plan’: Blinken harshest criticism of Israel’s Gaza operations

“One, you have to have a clear, credible plan to protect civilians, which we haven’t seen. Second, we also need to see a plan for what happens after this conflict in Gaza is over, and we still haven’t seen that,” U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said (Read more at CNBC).

How US Big Tech supports Israel’s AI-powered genocide and apartheid

Israeli army is using a new AI-powered system, such as “Lavender” and “The Gospel” to decide on targets for its bombardment of Gaza. Israeli forces use Google Photos facial recognition service to scan the faces of Palestinians across Gaza for its dystopian “hit list” (Read more at Aljazeera).

Yahya Sinwar isn't in Rafah: US intelligence

The revelation from US intelligence could challenge Israel's justification for large-scale military operations in the city. However, Israeli officials have been compelled to engage in indirect negotiations with Sinwar, particularly regarding the release of captives. Sinwar's role as a negotiator is pivotal, as Hamas negotiators must obtain his approval before making concessions, according to some officials (Read more at Al-Ahram).

US energy secretary to visit Saudi Arabia and UAE next week

"The visit is a continuation of long-standing engagement between the US and this region," the official said. "Specifically, for the Department of Energy, it will move forward work both countries are doing on climate cooperation and to diversify the energy economy." (Read more at Yahoo Finance)

The Gaza 'aid pier': a US geopolitical ploy

It is a strategic maneuver aimed at consolidating US and Israeli control over land and sea. Once the goods are offloaded at the pier, they still need to be transported across Gaza to reach the populations in need. The Netzarim Corridor’s checkpoints, also known as Route 749, could become bottlenecks for these deliveries (Read more at The Cradle).

Biden's big donors fume over Israel criticism

Democratic megadonor and Israeli American Haim Saban emailed senior White House officials Wednesday asking them to pass along his criticism of Biden's recent move to pause bomb shipments to Israel over a possible ground operation in Rafah. He added: "Let's not forget that there are more Jewish voters, who care about Israel, than Muslim voters that care about Hamas." (Read more at Axios)

Blinken report says it's impossible to verify Israel broke law in Gaza

The report lists incidents that raise concerns about Israel's use of U.S.-made weapons in violation of international law. It also details efforts Israel made to operate in alignment with international law. Blinken said in the report, "although we have gained insight into Israel's procedures and rules, we do not have complete information on how these processes are implemented," (Read more at Axios).

Biden's Israel Weapons Pause Won't Dent Gaza Protests

It is too little, too late, to satisfy the left-leaning coalition of young voters and people of color who have led the protests against Israel's attacks, many say. But Republicans and some Democrats have accused Biden of putting the security of the U.S.'s closest ally in the region at risk (Read more at USNews).

US Working to Keep Israel, Hamas Engaged in Gaza Truce Efforts

Hamas said on Friday it would consult with other militant Palestinian factions on its strategy to negotiate a halt to the war triggered by its Oct. 7 onslaught into Israel. "We are working hard to keep both sides engaged in continuing the discussion, if only virtually," White House national security spokesman John Kirby said (Read more at USNews).

US threat won’t stop Israel, Netanyahu says

He said "if we have to stand alone, we will stand alone. If we need to, we will fight with our fingernails. But we have much more than fingernails." Israel says Rafah is the last stronghold of Hamas and that the army must go in if it hopes to dismantle the group and return scores of hostages captured in the Oct. 7 (Read more at ArkansasOnline).

Why the US suspended a shipment of 2,000-pound bombs to Israel

MK-84 bombs have been used by the US military since the 1970s, first in Vietnam and then, more sparingly, in Iraq and Afghanistan due to their devastating impact on urban areas. Military experts say these deadly bombs may have already contributed significantly to the horrific death toll of the war in Gaza. This decision is the most spectacular sign to date of the mounting disagreements that are poisoning the Biden administration’s relationship with the Netanyahu government (Read more at France 24).

US weapons shipments to Israel 'breach legal limits' say high

Just from a legal perspective within US domestic law, there’s a much wider body of rules that is being ignored right now. The US has been “selective in how it invokes international law” and “how it balances rights concerns with realpolitik”. Israeli army was acting with a “systematic disregard for international humanitarian law, and US weaponry was used in a significant number of these incidents, according to the report (Read more at Middle East Monitor).

Johnson slams Biden’s threat to cut off weaponson to Israel

Speaker Mike Johnson said Wednesday he felt betrayed by President Joe Biden after learning that he is willing to withhold offensive weapons to Israel and accused the president of reneging on the deal they made to pass aid to Israel, Ukraine and Taiwan last month (Read more at Politico).

UK won’t follow US in halting arms to Israel if it invades Rafah

Cameron said Britain “would not support some major operation in Rafah unless there was a very clear plan for how to protect people, but he said there is a “very fundamental difference” between arms shipments from the U.S. and the U.K., where the government grants individual licenses to companies wanting to export arms overseas. Moreover, the UK defense exports to Israel are responsible for significantly less than one percent of their total (Read more at Politico).

Israel’s US ambassador slams House Dems for trying to block military aid

‘At no point during the war has Israel had a policy of deliberately withholding humanitarian aid from entering Gaza,’ Michael Herzog wrote to 88 lawmakers. Israel merely inspects trucks carrying goods to ensure they’re not transporting weapons or explosives, Herzog continued, adding that “there are today four humanitarian crossings from Israel to Gaza, including three to northern Gaza.” (Read more at Politico).

US pauses bomb shipment as gulf widens between Biden and Netanyahu

A senior administration official said the shipment would have consisted of 1,800 2,000-pound (900kg) bombs and 1,700 500-pound (225kg) bombs. the US was concerned about how the larger bombs could be used in a dense urban setting (Read and listen at the Skynews). 

US repatriates 11 citizens from camp for relatives of ISIS in Syria

The repatriation was the largest Washington has carried out from the camps to date. Five of the 11 citizens brought back were children, and one non-U.S. citizen child. The camps are run by local authorities affiliated with the U.S.-backed, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (Read more at Stripes).

US ‘unwilling’ to push Israel to halt Rafah invasion

Analysts also point to wider attempts by the US to integrate Israel with the wider region fully as not having aided the Palestinian push for liberation and Statehood (Read more at TRTWorld).

US made clear to Israel its views on Rafah invasion

"We continue to believe that a hostage deal is in the best interest of the Israeli and the Palestinian people; it would bring an immediate ceasefire and allow increased humanitarian assistance into Gaza," the US State Department's spokesperson said in an email (Read more on TRTWorld).

Israelis frustrated with U.S. handling of hostage talks

Two senior Israeli officials said that when the Hamas delegation was in Cairo over the weekend, the Egyptians gave them a new proposal without coordinating with Israel. One Israeli official admitted it was a mistake that led Israel to have less visibility into the talks. Israeli officials claim the Biden administration knew about the latest hostage and ceasefire deal proposal Egypt and Qatar negotiated with Hamas, but didn't brief Israel before Hamas announced it accepted it (Read more at Axios).

Iran's Capacity to Move Oil Reliant on Malaysian Providers, US Official Says

Brian Nelson, Treasury's undersecretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, was speaking during a four-day visit to Singapore and Malaysia, which the department said aimed to advance its work in countering financing and revenue generation by Iran and its proxies (Read more at USNews).

US urges Israel to open Rafah crossing after its invasion

Kerem Shalom, the border crossing between southern Gaza and Israel has been the primary port of entry for aid deliveries. The Israeli leader "assured the President that it will be open very soon,” he said during a virtual briefing. The Israeli army said the 401st armored brigade took "operational control" of the Rafah crossing from the Palestinian side (Read more at Daily Sabah).

Senators demand Biden answer questions about hold on Israel ammunition transfer

“We are deeply concerned that your administration failed to notify Congress about this decision,” Joni Ernst, who serves on the Armed Services Committee, and Ted Budd said in the letter (Read more at The National)

US says it is studying Hamas response on ceasefire

United States is studying Hamas's response to a ceasefire proposal and will discuss it with allies in the Middle East in the coming hours, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said. CIA director Bill Burns is in the region "working on this in real time," Miller said  (Read more at Reuters).

Israel to U.S.: Rafah action required as Hamas refusing hostage deal

The statement said Gallant relayed that message in an overnight conversation with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin (Read more at Reuters).

Biden administration pauses ammunition shipment to Israel

Israeli officials were left scrambling as to why the shipment was withheld, Axios reported, while CNN reported that the decision was unrelated to U.S. opposition to an invasion of Rafah (Read more at The Hill).

US demands Qatar expel Hamas if group rejects Israeli truce deal

Analysts say expelling Hamas leaders from Qatar will not help Israel because the Hamas leadership in Gaza is making the decisions over a possible ceasefire. Doha has hosted Hamas’ political leadership at the US’ request since 2012 and provided billions in cash to the Hamas authorities in recent years with the approval of the US and Israel (Read more at The Cradle).

José Andrés is taking on Biden on Israel policy

It’s the most prominent critique yet from someone inside Biden’s orbit on the administration’s response to the war in Gaza. José Andrés, co-chairs the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition, with more than 1 million X followers, called out the president to hold the Netanyahu government true to its commitments on humanitarian aid, and reiterating his calls for a cease-fire in Gaza (Read more at Politico).

Israel briefs US on plan to move Gazans ahead of Rafah invasion

The Israel Defense Forces recently told the U.S. government and aid groups that they had developed a plan to move people out of Rafah, the main to al-Mawasi, a small strip of land on the southern Gaza coast. The IDF has begun ordering tents for al-Mawasi (Read more at Politico). 

US Official in Singapore, Malaysia to Discuss Sanctions against Iran

there has been an uptick in money moving to Iran and its proxies, including Hamas, through the Malaysian financial system. Treasury's under secretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, Brian Nelson, is expected to discuss U.S. concerns. The visit comes as Treasury has increased its focus on terrorist financing through Southeast Asia, including through fundraising efforts and illicit Iranian oil sales (Read more at USNews).

US says Hamas tried to steal Gaza aid shipment from Jordan

However, the aid was ultimately recovered and returned to the organization responsible for its distribution. Describing the incident as the "first widespread case of hijacking seen" in Gaza, U.S. State Department spokesman, Matthew Miller indicated that Hamas held the aid trucks for a period before eventually releasing them (Read more at I24).

There Was No Indication Hamas Planning Attack on US Troops

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said on Thursday he did not see any indication Hamas was planning any attack on U.S. troops in Gaza but added adequate measures were being put in place for the safety of military personnel (Read more at USNews).

US and Saudi Arabia Nearing Agreement on Security Pact

The agreement is about the U.S. security guarantees and civilian nuclear assistance in return for halting Chinese arms purchases and restricting Beijing’s investment in the country, even as an Israel-Saudi normalization deal envisioned as part of a Middle East “grand bargain” remains elusive. The U.S.-Saudi security accord is also expected to involve sharing emerging technologies with Riyadh, including artificial intelligence. The terms are expected to be finalized within weeks (Read more at USNews).

Senators meet with ICC about possible Israel arrest warrants

ICC is preparing to issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi. The Israeli government warned the Biden administration that if the ICC issues arrest warrants against Israeli leaders, it will take retaliatory steps against the Palestinian Authority that could lead to its collapse (Read more at Axios).

Blinken urges Hamas to agree truce to help Gazans

However, Israeli warns that the army will keep fighting the Palestinian militant group after any ceasefire. "Hamas needs to say yes and needs to get this done," Blinken said. Hamas's aim remains an "end to this war", said senior Hamas official Suhail al-Hindi (Read more at France 24).

Israel Decommissions US-Made Patriot Air Defense System

Acquired in 1990, the Raytheon-manufactured system played crucial roles in neutralizing aerial threats during the 1991 Gulf War and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. But according to an IDF official, the Patriot system is becoming “obsolete,” making it difficult to maintain. The Patriot intercepted Scud missiles fired at the country from Iraq during the 1991 Gulf War. The system was operated by the US at the time. After the Patriot was officially transferred to Jerusalem that same year, it reportedly yielded poor results (Read more at Defense Post).

US Says Civilian Killed in Syria Strike Last Year

A US strike in Syria last year killed a civilian who was misidentified as an Al-Qaeda leader, the military command responsible for the region said (Read more at Defense Post).

Kuwaiti man held on suspicion of planning bomb attacks on US forces

He posted content on social media in support of a banned group. The statement did not identify the man or the group (Read more at The National).

Debunking three myths about pro-Palestine student protests in the US

First it is not violent. The takeover of the respective halls comes in the footsteps of students from previous generations at both Columbia and Princeton who opposed the Vietnam War or the apartheid regime in South Africa. Second Jewish students have not been harassed. Third, whereas some students have remained steadfast to the demands of disclosure and divestment, others have been open to various compromises (Read more at Middle East Eye).

Construction of Gaza's humanitarian pier has been completed

The cost estimate for constructing the pier has surged to $320 million, a substantial increase from earlier projections (Read more at I24).

Pro-Palestinian protests aren't going to leave Biden unscathed

Comparisons are being made to the 1968 anti-Vietnam War protests and the role they played in costing Democrats the presidency. Through it all, the Biden White House has demonstrated only limited concern, apparently convinced that they’ll weather this storm. Should the war continue, many young voters will be hard-pressed to vote for Mr Biden. They won’t vote for Mr Trump. Most likely they’ll either vote for a third party or not at all (Read more at The National).

US, Jordan conduct humanitarian airdrop into Gaza

More than 13,080 meal equivalents of Jordanian food supplies were delivered, while the US provided over 25,000 Meals Ready to Eat. According to CENTCOM's estimates, the US has airdropped approximately 1,110 tons of humanitarian assistance into Gaza thus far (Read more at Breaking the News).

Biden keeps up pressure on Netanyahu as Rafah invasion looms

During a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Biden eiterated his position that an invasion in Rafah would be a “red line” for his administration, pushing Israel not to pursue a military campaign in the region without a credible plan to protect civilians in place (Read more at Politico).

Blinken travelling to Israel and Jordan as Rafah invasion looms

National Security Council spokesman John Kirby on Sunday sought to play down warnings, telling US media that Israel has “agreed to listen to US concerns” before moving into Gaza's last enclave of relative respite (Read more at The National).

What role do US tech giants play in powering Israeli war crimes

After Amazon and Google signed a $1.2bn contract to launch Project Nimbus, providing cloud technology to the Israeli government and the military, tech workers started to notice more Israeli use of artificial intelligence against the Palestinian people (Read more at Aljazeera).

Rights group says US must act on evidence Israel is blocking aid to Gaza

Democracy for the Arab World Now (DAWN) report that an internal US State Department that reportedly raised “serious questions” about Israel violating international law in Gaza (Read more at Aljazeera). 

Protests in the US to support Palestine could have economic impact

Political analyst Tamer Qarmout says university protests across the US could have a broad impact on the economy since the country’s future workforce are criticising companies they may eventually work for (Read more at Aljazeera).

US loses 3 MQ-9 Reaper drones in Yemen since November

Each drone estimated to be worth around $30 million (Read more at Breaking the News)

Hamas releases video of a second American being held hostage in Gaza

One of the two hostages Keith Siegel said, "We are in danger here. There are explosions. It's stressful and frightening, and it's been going on for a very long time ..." Both men urge the Israeli government to "reach a deal" to free the hostages (Read more at NPR).

Bernie Sanders says Netanyahu attacks protests to deflect war criticism

After Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu posted a video on Wednesday criticizing ongoing campus protests across the U.S. as antisemitic, the independent lawmaker said antisemitism has always existed. But to suggest that when you have a significant majority of the American people who do not want to support more U.S. military aid to Netanyahu's war machine, we're not going to suggest that all of those people are antisemitic (Read more at NPR).

US presidential candidate jumps over fence to join pro-Palestinian sit-in

US thinker, anti-racism activist and potential US presidential candidate Cornel West has appeared at university student demonstrations against the Israeli (Read more at Middle East Monitor). 

Saudi to host Gaza conference with US

The talks in Riyadh may also include UK Foreign Secretary, David Cameron, and key officials from the European Union, Jordan, Egypt and Qatar, as well as the Palestinian Authority (Read more at Middle East Monitor).

Blinken Decries 'Silence' on Hamas

He suggested critics should focus their ire on Hamas who sparked the war with their 7 October attack on southern Israel in which about 1,200 people were killed and some 250 taken hostage. But as I’ve also said repeatedly, the way Israel goes about ensuring that 7 October never happens again matters profoundly. And we’re working every day to try to minimise the damage that’s done to innocent people (Read more at Middle East Monitor).

US Review on IDF Unit Over Rights Allegations Ongoing

The United States has received new information from the Israeli authorities about a specific Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) unit that Washington was reportedly going to designate for human rights allegations in the West Bank. In light of the new information, Washington is looking into whether the unit is on a path to remediation. No final decision has been made (Read more at USNews).

Turkey's Erdogan Postpones Tentative White House Visit

The visit had been tentatively planned for May 9. That would have been the first bilateral visit to Washington since 2019 when Erdogan met with then President Donald Trump, a Republican. A White House spokesperson said: “We look forward to hosting President Erdogan at the White House at a mutually convenient time, but we have not been able to align our schedules and do not have any visit to announce at this time." (Read more at USNews).

What student protests say about US politics, Israel support

Experts say growing protest movement on university campuses could help shift US policy on Israel in the long term. It could also threaten the bipartisan backing that Israel enjoys in Washington. We’re already seeing evidence of a generation divide on Israel, and that is going to be a long-term issue for the Democratic Party (Read more at Aljazeera).

Third State Dept official resigns over US Gaza policy

Secretary of State Antony Blinken's support for Israel's genocide has angered many officials and diplomats in the State Department. Hala Rharrit, the Arabic-language spokeswoman for the US State Department, has resigned in protest against White House support for Israel’s war on Gaza (Read more at The Cradle).

US military begins construction of Gaza aid pier, says Pentagon

Between 80,000 and 100,000 Palestinians have crossed into Egypt from Gaza since the start of the war triggered by the Hamas. More humanitarian aid could reach northern Gaza via the floating pier, including if an Israeli ground offensive disrupts deliveries in the south (Read more at France24).

US fails to deter more Yemeni attacks in Gulf of Aden

Yemen’s Armed Forces announced missile and drone attacks on two US vessels and an Israeli ship in the Gulf of Aden on 24 April (Read more at The Cradle). 

US asks Israel for information on Gaza’s mass graves

Asked by a reporter if he believes the Israeli government is “a credible source” for information on the mass graves, Patel responded: “We do. We do.” Gaza’s civil defence agency says more than 300 bodies have been found buried in the courtyard of Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis (Read more at Aljazeera).

US Forces in Middle East to Get Laser-Guided Counter-Drone Systems

It came days before Iran launched a volley of drones and missiles on Israel. Delivery is expected in 30 days. The system is available in mobile and palletized versions to protect critical infrastructure, such as power, water, information systems/data centers, and moving targets (Read more Defense Post).

US Sanctions Four Over ‘Malicious Cyber Activity’ for Iran’s Military

These actors targeted more than a dozen US companies and government entities through cyber operations, including spear phishing and malware attacks (Read more at Defense Post).

Iran Claims New Version of Bavar-373 Can Take Out US-Made Stealth Jets

It can also identify up to 100 aerial targets simultaneously and engage them with Sayyad-4B missiles. With the Bavar’s alleged enhanced capabilities, several Iranian officials are claiming that the system now matches or even surpasses the capabilities of the Russian S-400 missile system  (Read more at Defense Post).

US Troops Targeted in Western Iraq

It followed another attack over the weekend in which rockets were fired from northern Iraq at a base in Syria that houses forces from the US-led coalition against the Islamic State jihadist group (Read more at Defense Post).

Israel presses the U.S. to reconsider sanctions against IDF battalion

Israeli officials told Axios they are highly concerned the unprecedented decision could lead to more sanctions on other IDF units. The sanctions would ban the battalion and its members from receiving any kind of U.S. military assistance or training. A U.S. official said Blinken's determination about the Netzah Yehuda unit is based on incidents that occurred before the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel and all took place in the West Bank (Read more at Axios).

Iraq's Kataib Hezbollah denies saying it resumes attacks on US forces

The denial came hours after a post circulated on Telegram messaging app groups thought to be affiliated with the armed faction that declared a resumption in the attacks some three months after they were suspended. Yesterday, at least five rockets were launched from Iraq's town of Zummar towards a U.S. military base in northeastern Syria. The attack against U.S. forces is the first since early February when groups in Iraq stopped their attacks against U.S. troops (Read more at YahooNews).

Pro-Palestinian protests sweep US college campuses

Columbia University canceled in-person classes and police arrested dozens of students at New York University and Yale. dozens of protesters were arrested at Yale and the gates to Harvard Yard were closed to the public on Monday as some of the most prestigious US universities sought to diffuse campus tensions over Israel’s war with Hamas (Read more at Arabnews).

U.S. base in Syria targeted with drone, rocket attacks

The base at the Kharab al-Jir airport in the town of Al Ya'rubiyah in Al-Hasakah province in northeastern was targeted with unidentified kamikaze drones and rockets (Read more at Anadolu Agency). 

Blinken Denies US Double Standard Over Alleged Israeli Rights Abuses

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, "we have processes within the department that are looking at that incidents that have been raised. Those processes are ongoing." (Read more at USNews)

Biden, Ocasio-Cortez Meet as Israel Policy Vexes Some Liberals

The congresswoman from New York described the humanitarian situation in Gaza as like "an unfolding genocide." Still, she made a case for Biden's reelection despite his support for Israel, citing a "a vested interest in protecting democracy not just here domestically, but globally." (Read more at USNews)

EU, US sanction extremist Israeli settlers

The US Treasury Department also imposed sanctions on two organizations for fundraising on behalf of two violent Israeli extremists in the West Bank. The two groups -- Mount Hebron Fund and Shlom Asiraich – established crowdfunding campaigns to raise thousands of dollars for Yinon Levi and David Chai Chasdai respectively. At the same time, the State Department on Friday sanctioned Ben-Zion Gopstein, “the founder and leader of Lehava (Read more at Al Ahram).

Israel blindsided US, said it wouldn't attack Iran until after Passover

Israel did not notify the US of its intention to carry out strikes in Iran on Thursday, and had previously told its closest ally that it would not strike the Islamic Republic until after the Passover holiday, a senior US official has told Middle East Eye (Read more at Middle East Eye).

The U.S. Vetoes Resolution to Upgrade Palestine’s U.N. Membership

The U.S. was the only nation in the 15-member U.N. Security Council to vote against the resolution. Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan expressed disappointment at the number of countries that have supported the Palestinian request. “Regardless of the Palestinians’ failure to meet the necessary criteria for UN membership, most of you sadly decided to reward Palestinian terror with a Palestinian State.” (Read more at The Time).

Can Israel embrace America’s vision of a new Middle East

US has a formal vision of a deal between Israel and the leading power in the Arab and Muslim world, Saudi Arabia.The Saudis share Israel’s concerns about the Iranians and their regional proxy armies. Last weekend’s coordinated response to the Iranian attack will also have brought home the potential benefits to Saudi Arabia. A more formal U.S. security guarantee and access to top-of-the-line American warplanes are also major attractions for the Saudis in a deal with Israel (Read more at CSMonitor).

Biden slaps new sanctions on Iran after attack on Israel

The new package of penalties is aimed at disrupting Iran’s production of drones that were used in the attack. They also target Iran’s steel industry and automotive companies that supply the country’s military. The Republican-led House this week passed a series of sanctions bills, including a bipartisan measure that would target China’s purchase of Iranian oil (Read more at Politico).

US and Israel meet on Rafah days after Iran’s attack

It shows that Iran’s attack isn’t halting negotiations over Israel’s conduct in the war against Hamas. The initial plan had been to hold the discussion in person in Washington, but Iran’s weekend attack postponed a trip (Read more at Politico).

UAE, Jordan, Saudi Arabia shared intelligence with U.S. on Iranian attack

Furthermore, the Arab countries opened their airspace to fighter jets, shared radar surveillance information or, in some cases, provided their own forces to help. Jordan said it would allow U.S. and other countries' warplanes to use its airspace, even using its own aircraft to help intercept the Iranian threats (Read more at I24).

US will ‘wait and see’ on Iran response after attempted Israel strike

President Biden, since the beginning of this conflict, has worked very hard to keep this from becoming a broader regional war. If successful, this attack could have caused an uncontrollable escalation and broad regional conflict, something we have worked day and night to avoid since October 7 (Read more at CNBC).

US professor: I was censored, doxed and fired because of Gaza

A New York city academic explains why despite this setback, he'll keep advocating for Palestinians and other oppressed people across the world (Read more at TRTWorld).

Qatar rejects US claim that it pays Hamas $30m per month since 2018

Qatar’s embassy in Washington said t it has provided assistance to Gaza in two ways with the “full coordination” of the Israeli government. The first is a Qatar-funded fuel purchasing scheme to generate electricity in Gaza, and the second is a project in partnership with the World Food Programme that provides “$100 per month to the poorest families in Gaza”. (Read more at Aljazeera)

U.S.-Israeli sit-down on Rafah delayed again amid cease-fire talks

National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said that there is "still no date certain" for the meeting. The White House had said it expected the meeting to take place this week after a virtual face-to-face transpired last Monday, but Kirby said he is "not sure that it's going to actually happen this week." (Read more at Anadolu Agency)

U.S. not briefed on Rafah invasion date, says State Department

Earlier, Netanyahu said in a video that "there is a date" for a ground invasion of Rafah, saying that "it will happen". Reiterating the U.S.' opposition to a ground invasion of an Israeli assault on Gaza city of Rafah without a credible plan, Miller said: "We have not yet seen them present a credible plan for dealing with a 1.4 million civilians who are in Rafah." (Read more at Anadolu Agency)

US military support for Israel: What does it provide

Israel is in the processes of buying 75 F-35s and - as of last year - had taken delivery of 36, paying for them with U.S. assistance. The United States has also helped Israel develop and arm its Iron Dome short-range rocket defense system. Washington has also helped fund the development of Israel's "David's Sling" system, designed to shoot down rockets fired from 100 kilometers to 200 km (62 miles to 124 miles) away (Read more at Reuters).

White House says Israeli troop reduction does not signal new strategy

National Security Spokesman John Kirby said it is really just about rest and refit. Some national security experts see this as a possible inflection point in the war, though the direction of that turn remains unclear (Read more at CNBC).

Pelosi Joins Call for Biden to Stop Transfer of US Weapons to Israel

Forty members of Congress signed a letter to Biden, dated Friday, stating that the deadly attack on World Central Kitchen aid workers necessitates investigation into whether Israel is using US weaponry “in compliance with US and international law.” The lawmaker's split with President Joe Biden highlights divisions within the Democratic Party on US-Israel policy (Read more at Huffingtonpost).

Morale at US State Department worse than during Iraq War

Secretary of State Antony Blinken responded to internal discontent with a letter to staff in November, saying: “I know that for many of you the suffering caused by this crisis is taking a profound personal toll.” (Read more at Arabnews).

Biden issued his sharpest tone toward Prime Minister Netanyahu

He warned that U.S. policy would now be determined by “immediate” steps Israel must take to mitigate an “unacceptable” humanitarian situation. Biden’s tone in addressing the attack that killed seven World Central Kitchen aid workers was markedly more tense than previous tragedies that took the lives of United Nations staff (Read more at The Hill). 

US prepares for Iran retaliation after Israel hit Tehran's Syria embassy

Iran retaliatory attack would include a swarm of Shahed loitering drones and cruise missiles, citing US intelligence. US President Joe Biden discussed the threat from Iran in a phone call on Thursday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Officials say the timing and target are unknown, but a proportional response to the Damascus attack would be to hit an Israeli diplomatic facility (Read more at TRTWorld).

Biden asks Egypt, Qatar to press Hamas to agree to hostage deal

CIA director is to travel to Cairo this weekend for talks with the head of Israel's Mossad and top Qatari and Egyptian officials to break the deadlock in negotiations. The current proposal could lead to a 6-week ceasefire and the release of 40 hostages — female soldiers and other women, men over the age of 50 and in critical medical conditions. In return, Israel would release roughly 700 Palestinian prisoners, including about 100 who are serving life sentences for killing Israelis (Read more at Axios).

Biden and Netanyahu: United in goal, divided by strategy

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's execution of these objectives is undermining the US soft power elsewhere in the region. For Israel, the stakes in the ongoing war are significantly higher than for the US because Tel Aviv’s top brass widely views it as an existential threat. Faced with limited alternatives, Netanyahu opts for confrontation, banking on enduring until the upcoming US elections in November (Read more at The Cradle).

US TikTok ban is an attack on Palestinian digital rights

The #BDS movement is witnessing a resurgence after many TikTok users urged their followers to boycott major brands due to their direct involvement in supporting Israeli forces. As TikTok has explained, there is a lot of pro Palestine content on its platform because their user base is broadly sympathetic to the Palestinian cause (Read more at NewArab).

John Bolton says Gaza war is still in the very early stages

Former Trump national security advisor John Bolton believes “The fact that Iran has not yet been held to account for any of it, suggests that we’re still in the very early stages of the war ... This is not a Gaza versus Israel war, or a Palestinian versus Israel war, or an Arab versus Israel war. This is an Iranian war against Israel, fought through terrorist proxies.” (Read more at CNBC).

A blinking red light for Israel in American politics

Even former President Donald Trump went public with his belief that Israel was losing the PR battle and needed to end the conflict soon. Kirby said the U.S. would only give Israel “hours and days” to outline policy shifts and that, absent real changes, “there’ll have to be changes from our side.” Hours later, Israel opened the Erez crossing for the first time (Read more at Politico).

At UN, US warns Iran not to target it over Syria strike

Deputy U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Robert Wood said, "We will not hesitate to defend our personnel and repeat our prior warnings to Iran and its proxies not to take advantage of the situation - again, an attack in which we had no involvement or advanced knowledge - to resume their attacks on U.S. personnel." (Read more at MSN).

Houthis' new coin reveals economic pressures on rebels, says US envoy

The Houthis announced the production of a 100-riyal coin to replace damaged 100-riyal banknotes issued by the Sanaa-based central bank. The central bank in Aden described the move as escalatory and the currency as “illegal”. Tim Lenderking, the US envoy to Yemen, said “We need to make this push towards the Yemen peace effort, which will help the humanitarian peace situation and Yemenis rebuild their economy.” (Read more at The National).

Biden Is Dreaming Like It’s 1918, but Israel Is Fighting Like It’s 1945

In 1918, the United States and its allies sought a German surrender that would neutralize its war-making capabilities without having to transform its state and society. A true solution to what contemporaries called the “German question” came only after World War II, when America and its allies demanded unconditional surrender from Hitler, occupied Germany and de-Nazified its institutions (Read more at NewYork Post). 

US 'heartbroken' after Israeli strike kills aid workers

The White House said it was "heartbroken" after several people working for World Central Kitchen, a US-based aid organisation, were killed in an Israeli military strike in Gaza. US Central Command and the Royal Jordanian Air Force conducted a combined humanitarian assistance airdrop into Northern Gaza on April 1, 2024 (Read more at TRTWorld). 

White House Hosts Muted Ramadan Event as Biden's Israel Policy Draws Anger

Some invitees turned the president down over frustrations in the Muslim community over his policy toward the Israel-Gaza war. The White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters that these leaders would rather have a meeting than a dinner (Read more at USNews).

US envoy for Yemen to visit Saudi Arabia and Oman to discuss Red Sea attacks

Tim Lenderking will meet regional officials to discuss ways to deescalate the crisis and “renew the focus on securing a durable peace for the Yemeni people. “The United States remains firmly committed to supporting a durable peace in Yemen and alleviating the complex humanitarian and economic crises harming the Yemeni people,” the State Department said (Read more at Arabnews).

U.S. tells Iran it "had no involvement" in Israel strike

The rare message shows the Biden administration is deeply concerned that the Israeli strike could lead to a regional escalation and the resumption of attacks by pro-Iranian militias against U.S. forces. Israel notified the Biden administration a few minutes before its air force conducted the strike but didn't ask for a U.S. green light, Israeli and U.S. officials said (Read more at Axios).

Sullivan to meet MBS to push Saudi side of Israel mega-deal

U.S. officials hope to reach a bilateral agreement with the Saudis and then possibly present it to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whose side of the deal would include committing to a path toward a two-state solution. Netanyahu would then face a choice: If he agrees, he could broke a historic peace deal with Saudi Arabia. If he says no, he could be exposed as a rejectionist and lose whatever U.S. support he still has left (Read more at Axios).

US Secretary of State Blinken urges Palestinian reforms in call with President Abbas

Secretary Blinken emphasized that a revitalised PA is essential to delivering results for the Palestinian people in both the West Bank and Gaza. Since the war broke out in October, the United States has been pressing for the Palestinian Authority to root out corruption and bring in new faces in hopes that the PA, which has limited autonomy in parts of the occupied West Bank, can take charge of Gaza as well should Hamas stop governing the Gaza Strip (Read more at NewArab).

American among 7 aid workers killed in Israeli airstrike

A dual US-Canadian citizen and six other aid workers were killed in an alleged Israeli airstrike in Gaza after delivering desperately needed food to the war-torn territory (Read more at NewYork Post).

US Congressman says Gaza should be nuked, not sent aid

Tim Walberg, a Republican representative from Michigan, which has a sizeable Arab community, was recorded making the comments during a meeting with his constituents. Walberg later released a statement backtracking on his remarks but did not apologise. He said his call for Gaza to be nuked was a "metaphor" to stress the need for Israel to win its war "as swiftly as possible (Read more at NewArab). 

US, Israeli officials to hold virtual meeting to discuss Rafah invasion alternatives

Senior Israeli officials said holding a virtual meeting is a way for Netanyahu to "save face" and have a discussion with the White House about Rafah without sending a delegation to Washington. A senior Israeli official said a second meeting, in person, is planned to take place as soon as next week (Read more at Axios).

US Has Agreed to Send More Bombs and Warplanes to Israel

The new arms packages include more than 1,800 MK84 2,000-pound bombs and 500 MK82 500-pound bombs, said the sources, who confirmed a report in the Washington Post. Washington gives $3.8 billion in annual military assistance to Israel, its longtime ally (Read more at USNews).

Biden Acknowledges 'Pain' of Arab Americans Over War in Gaza

However, hours after Biden's Friday statement, the Washington Post reported that his government had signed off on additional bombs and warplanes for Israel in recent days worth billions of dollars. Biden also said Arab Americans have been a target of hate crimes while noting the fatal October stabbing of 6-year-old Palestinian American in Illinois, the November shooting of three students of Palestinian descent in Vermont, and the February stabbing of a Palestinian American man in Texas (Read more at USNews).

US President Biden to host Turkey's Erdoğan for first time on May 9

The meeting would mark the warming relations between the nations, after a period of strained ties. A U.S. official said Washington sees the meeting as an opportunity for Erdoğan to agree to a full ban on the transshipment via Turkey of dual-use goods that it says Russia uses in its war effort in Ukraine (Read more at duvarenglish).

Egypt seeks border security support from US amid Gaza negotiations

Cairo wants help through funding and equipment if an Israeli operation into Rafah sends Gazans fleeing to its border. The Egyptian requests come as American officials deliberate with their counterparts in Qatar, Egypt and Israel to iron out a roadmap that will eventually lead to a pause in fighting (Read more at Politico). 

Does US deterrence work against Houthis? Yes and no

For more than six weeks, there have been no attacks by Iran-allied militias against U.S. forces in Iraq or Syria. What really shook them up was the targeted killing of the logistics commander in Baghdad. The strike, he says, was proof of exceptionally precise locational intelligence. There are definitely calls for targeted strikes on Houthi leaders in Washington. The U.S. Air Force can do more damage in one hour than the Saudi Air Force can do in eight years (Read more CSMonitor).

Israelis begin to sour on Biden as US ratchets up pressure over Gaza

Israelis are keenly aware that the close bond between their country and the U.S. is fraying over a war that they in their large majority support. Many are quick to echo Mr. Netanyahu by insisting Israel is ready to “go it alone” to “finish the job in Gaza” if need be. There is a growing sentiment that the widening breach with the U.S. is not based on a legitimate critique of the war, but on U.S. domestic politics (Read more at CSMonitor).

US Approves Sale of 50 Abrams Main Battle Tanks to Bahrain

The contract will cover 50 System Enhancement Package 3 (SEP v3) variant tanks equipped with M240 Coaxial 7.62mm machine guns. Supporting capabilities included in the order are M88A2 HERCULES Combat Recovery Vehicles and M1150 Assault Breacher Vehicles. Maintenance, training, and other logistics services will also be provided by the US (Read more at Defense Post).

Senate Democrats urge Biden to take 'bold' action on Palestine

19 senators encourage Joe Biden to 'publicly outline a path' for US to recognize 'nonmilitarized' Palestinian state. The senators said they have been "particularly disappointed" by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s refusal to engage on a path to a Palestinian state (Read more at Anadolu Ajansı).

US will pitch Gaza-Egypt border security plan in lieu of Rafah offensive

That proposal would see Israeli forces working to curb Hamas militants’ ability to smuggle weapons into Rafah, choking off their capacity to wage further war against Israel. It’s unclear for how long Israel would stay on the border along the eight-mile stretch. Egypt have lobbied Washington to urge Israel not to invade Rafah. They worry the operation would push Gazans, including Hamas militants to flee across the border into Sinai (Read more at Politico).

To woo Washington, Erdogan will sell out Palestine

Although a Washington–Ankara rapprochement is still in its nascent stage, recent developments reveal the old allies are on a positive trajectory to repair bilateral relations after a period of strained diplomatic ties. While the Turkish president is stepping up anti-Zionist rhetoric on his domestic front, his administration maintains substantial economic ties with Israel. It makes clear Turkiye's shift toward prioritizing strategic interests over ideological ones (Read more at The Cradle).

Kushner: Gaza's valuable waterfront, Israel should remove civilians

Jared Kushner, former US President Donald Trump's son-in-law suggested that Israel should remove Palestinian civilians from Gaza while it "cleans up" the territory. This sheds light on potential future implications for Gaza under a Trump presidency amidst Israel's ongoing conflict (Read more at Jordannews).

Blinken adds Israel stop to Middle East tour

Blinken has arrived in Saudi Arabia as part of a regional tour, his sixth since the start of the war. The State Department has announced that Blinken will cap his tour by visiting Israel. He is expected to be in Tel Aviv on Friday (Read more at Aljazeera).

Netanyahu to send delegation to D.C. to discuss Rafah invasion

This is a signal that both Biden and Netanyahu are trying to avoid a public clash. Biden told Netanyahu that while he shares the goal of destroying Hamas, there must be a coherent strategy to do that. "We want to have a strategic discussion about how to defeat Hamas in a way that will be long-term. There are ways to defeat Hamas without smashing into Rafah," Sullivan said (Read more at Axios).

US Says Israel Should Allow UN Palestinian Agency Chief Into Gaza

A day after UNRWA Commissioner General Philippe Lazzarini publicly complained that Israel blocked him, State Department spokesman Vedant Patel, defended the need for him and his staff to visit Gaza. Senator Chris Van Hollen, in a CBS News interview Sunday, said that Israeli charges that UNRWA is a proxy for Hamas were "flat-out lies" aimed at getting rid of the agency (Read more at Barron's).

US’ Gaza aid maritime effort is woefully insufficient

The Biden administration sincerely wants to help ease the suffering. But he refuses to use US leverage with Israel, providing billions of dollars in weapons and other assistance. The problem is that the Israeli government knows that Biden and Congress will not withhold serious amounts of funding and therefore does not need to heed US requests (Read more at Arabnews).

‘Time has long passed’: US must end arms sales to Israel

Sarah Yager, Washington director at Human Rights Watch, said in a statement, “Given ongoing hostilities in Gaza, the Israeli government’s assurances to the Biden administration that it is meeting US legal requirements are not credible.” (Read more at Aljazeera)

Talks on US troops withdrawal mark 21st anniversary of Iraq invasion

The issue is expected to lead the discussions in upcoming visit of Iraqi Prime Minister to Washington. Unlike hardline Shiite militias, security officials and some politicians have voiced concern that Iraq can’t afford a complete and abrupt withdrawal of US troops from the country, even though there is a feeling today that their presence at this time causes more problems than solutions (Read more at The National).

U.S.'s Blinken to Push for Gaza Ceasefire on Middle East Trip

He will visit the Middle East this week and meet senior leaders in Saudia Arabia and Egypt to "discuss the right architecture for lasting regional peace". "We've also impressed upon Israel the imperative of having a plan for Gaza for when the conflict ends, which we hope will be as soon as possible, consistent with Israel's needs to defend itself and make sure Oct. 7 can never happen again," Blinken added (Read more at USNews).

Biden and Netanyahu hold first phone call in a month

Netanyahu told lawmakers on Tuesday he had made it "supremely clear" to the U.S. president "that we are determined to complete the elimination of these battalions in Rafah, and there's no way to do that except by going in on the ground" (Read more at USNews).

Schumer: Netanyahu could prevent elections in Israel until 2026

In a meeting with American Jewish organization executives on Tuesday, Schumer defended his call for an election and the stance that Netanyahu is a danger to Israel. Schumer only shared the content of his speech with a small circle of staff members and his wife. He alerted the White House the day before — just to ensure it wouldn't interfere with negotiations (Read more at Axios).

Egypt demands US send ‘clear message' to Israel over Rafah invasion

Egypt’s foreign minister, Sameh Shoukry said, "It is not enough for rhetoric, it is not enough to state opposition, it is also important to indicate what if that position is circumvented, what if that position is not respected" (Read more at The Cradle).

A tale of two US court decisions, and the Palestine exception

The first case, Defense for Children International – Palestine v Biden, alleged that Biden Administration, has “actively abetted” Israel to commit genocide. The case was dismissed. In another case, US District Judge in Amarillo, Texas rejected the Biden administration’s bid to dismiss a lawsuit, that alleges Biden Administration put US visitors to Israel under increased risk of harm by providing economic aid to the West Bank and Gaza (Read more at Aljazeera).

Yemen simulates US, UK invasion as Palestinian factions meet Ansarallah

During the military drill, an air landing by US and British enemy forces on a Yemeni village was simulated. Popular groups arm themselves to resist the invasion until the arrival of the Yemeni Armed Forces (Read more at The Cradle).

Netanyahu snaps back US criticism: We’re not a banana republic

Netanyahu told Fox News that Israel never would have called for a new U.S. election after the Sept. 11 attacks, and denounced Schumer’s comments as inappropriate. “We will operate in Rafah. This will take several weeks, and it will happen,” he said (Read more at Yahoo News).

Kirby: Israel is a democratic country and U.S. need to respect it

Kirby, White House National Security Communications Adviser, said Biden "understands that that's up to the Israeli people" concerning whether they hold new elections. He added, the U.S. doesn't "agree with everything" Israel does, but elections up to them (Read more at Axios).