Coastal Israeli city at the heart of Gaza war and water security debates
Independent Truth Commission hearings have begun to examine extrajudicial killings tied to Duterte’s drug crackdown. Families of victims testify as the panel seeks information, with rights groups citing tens of thousands killed and the government contrasting figures.
A large microalgae bloom has clogged intake systems at five of Israel’s six coastal desalination plants, forcing temporary shutdowns and reduced output. Scientists link the bloom to currents from the Nile Delta and warm sea temperatures; some experts say untreated sewage from Gaza has increased nutrient loads. Authorities have mobilised backup supplies and restricted agricultural use while plants recover.
Defence Minister Katz has stated that there is no real solution for Gaza without migration, saying Israel is prepared to relocate Gazans by sea, air, and other means. The idea is being discussed as part of a broader debate over displacement, with international concern growing over humanitarian conditions in Gaza and the West Bank.
Israeli forces have carried out air strikes in Gaza City and Tuffah and Al-Rimal neighbourhoods this week, killing civilians and destroying buildings. Gaza health authorities say more than 1,400 Palestinians have been killed since the October 2025 ceasefire. Israel says it targeted militants and is investigating specific strikes but has not released evidence.