Isaac Herzog is in the news as Israel’s president, a role he’s held since 2021, after a long political career.
As of February 2, 2026, Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei warned that any US attack would trigger a regional war, amid a US naval buildup led by the USS Abraham Lincoln. Despite threats, both sides signal readiness for negotiations over Iran's nuclear program and protest crackdown. Iran's parliament designated EU militaries as terrorists in retaliation for EU's IRGC designation. Death toll from protests ranges from 3,117 to over 6,700.
Israel has recovered the body of Sgt. Ran Gvili, ending its hostage crisis in Gaza. Prime Minister Netanyahu emphasizes disarmament of Hamas and Gaza demilitarization as next steps, amid ongoing tensions and international negotiations. The return marks a significant milestone in Israel's efforts to secure its citizens and stabilize Gaza.
Scott Morrison proposed stricter oversight of Islamic religious roles in Australia, prompting condemnation from Muslim leaders. The government also revoked influencer Sammy Yahood's visa after he made controversial statements about Islam. The moves follow the December 14 terror attack at Bondi Beach, raising debates on security, free speech, and community cohesion.
As of early February 2026, Israel has returned the bodies of over 360 Palestinians to Gaza, including 15 recently handed over following the recovery of the last Israeli hostage's remains. The bodies, many mutilated and unidentified, are being examined by Gaza medical teams amid ongoing violence and a fragile ceasefire. The exchange fulfills a key part of the US-brokered ceasefire deal, which also includes prisoner releases and sets the stage for further peace efforts.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog is scheduled to visit Australia from February 8-12, following the Bondi Beach terror attack that killed 15 people. The trip has prompted protests and criticism over allegations of incitement to genocide and Israel's actions in Gaza, with some groups calling for the visit to be rescinded. The visit aims to support the Jewish community and commemorate victims.
In February 2026, violent incidents in New York and Israel highlight ongoing challenges: a Bronx teen was fatally shot after a McDonald's dispute, with suspects still sought; Israel's Arab community faces a surge in homicides linked to organized crime, prompting calls for police reform. Meanwhile, education systems in the US and UK grapple with funding deficits, extended school hours, and policy reforms amid social pressures.
Queensland will become the first Australian state to outlaw slogans like "from the river to the sea" and "globalise the intifada" following the Bondi terror attack. The proposed laws aim to criminalise hate speech, with penalties up to seven years in prison, amid concerns over incitement and rising antisemitism.
A building in Tripoli's Bab al-Tabbaneh neighborhood collapsed on Sunday, killing 14 and injuring eight. Authorities have identified 114 buildings at risk of collapse, prompting phased evacuations. The disaster highlights decades of neglect, poor maintenance, and illegal construction in Lebanon's poorest city.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog visited Bondi Beach to honor victims of the December 14 shooting, which killed 15 people. He laid stones from Jerusalem at the site, expressed solidarity, and discussed efforts to combat antisemitism. The visit included security measures amid protests over Israel's Gaza actions.
Two Israeli hostages, Yehoud and Cunio, were released after nearly two years in captivity by Palestinian groups. Yehoud described her ordeal, including daily abuse and suicide attempts, and her emotional release. Cunio recounted his isolation and the letters exchanged during captivity. Their release follows ongoing conflict and protests demanding their return.
Protests in Sydney turned violent as police used pepper spray and made arrests during Israeli President Herzog's visit, which aimed to support victims of a December mass shooting. Police claim restraint, while protesters allege excessive force. The event coincided with Herzog's meetings with victims' families.
Former US President Trump publicly criticized Israeli President Isaac Herzog for not granting a pardon to Prime Minister Netanyahu, who faces ongoing corruption trials. Trump, a supporter of Netanyahu, called on Herzog to act, amid tensions over Israel's legal proceedings and US-Israel relations. The story is current as of Sun, 15 Feb 2026.
Police in Sydney forcibly disrupted Muslim prayer during protests opposing Israeli President Herzog's visit. Multiple incidents of force and arrests prompted investigations and calls for public apologies, amid community outrage and concerns over police conduct during the event on Monday night.
Protests in Sydney against Israeli President Herzog's visit turned violent, with police using pepper spray and force. Multiple arrests and injuries occurred, prompting investigations into police conduct amid legal challenges to protest restrictions. The events highlight tensions over police response and protest laws in NSW.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Israel for the second time, strengthening security, economic, and technological cooperation amid regional tensions. The visit highlights a shift in India’s foreign policy, aligning more closely with Israel’s model of governance and security strategies, while also reflecting India’s evolving stance on Palestine and regional conflicts.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's second visit to Israel highlights a deepening strategic partnership, focusing on security, technology, and trade. The visit signals a shift in India's foreign policy, aligning more closely with Israel amid regional tensions and global realignments, with implications for regional stability and international support.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Israel, reaffirming strong political, military, and technological ties. The trip included signing multiple agreements, emphasizing innovation and security cooperation, while avoiding direct criticism of Israel's Gaza actions. The visit signals a shift in India’s regional alliances, amid international scrutiny of Israel’s conduct in Gaza.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Israel has resulted in over a dozen bilateral agreements focused on innovation, technology, and regional security. Both leaders emphasized their strategic partnership amid regional tensions, with plans to expand cooperation in AI, cybersecurity, and regional connectivity initiatives. The visit also included symbolic gestures and discussions on countering extremism.
Since early 2026, Israeli settler violence in the West Bank has escalated sharply, with at least five Palestinians killed in recent days, including two brothers shot in Qaryut and another man in Masafer Yatta. The Israeli military is investigating incidents involving reservist soldiers. Settler attacks have surged amid ongoing regional tensions following strikes on Iran.
The U.S. and Israel have initiated a military campaign against Iran, citing preemptive action due to perceived imminent threats. The operation aims to degrade Iran’s missile and nuclear capabilities, with ongoing regional escalation and casualties. The justification and future outcomes remain uncertain.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's ongoing corruption trial has prompted a public push from former US President Trump for Herzog to grant a pardon. Herzog's office maintains the decision is sovereign and law-based, while Trump criticizes the delay amid Israel's war efforts. The legal process continues without a decision yet.
A missile attack in Beit Shemesh, attributed to Iran, killed nine people, including three children, and injured 65. Many homes were damaged, and evacuees are sheltering in hotels amid ongoing conflict and uncertainty about rebuilding. The attack marks a significant escalation in the Israel-Iran conflict.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog emphasizes the fight against Iran as key to regional stability, citing Iran's role in spreading terror and advancing nuclear and missile capabilities. Israel's military continues strikes on Iran and its proxies, with the U.S. supporting efforts to dismantle Tehran's 'war machine.'
British MPs are calling for sanctions on Israel, including arms embargoes and trade restrictions, citing violations of international law and recent land registration approvals in occupied territories. The movement reflects growing parliamentary pressure for action, contrasting with the UK government's current stance.
The ongoing Israel-Iran conflict has reshaped Israel's political landscape, with Netanyahu emphasizing Iran while U.S. and Gulf allies face increased risks. Meanwhile, Netanyahu's domestic and regional strategies are influenced by the broader Middle East tensions and international diplomacy.
Israel has intensified military actions in southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah positions following rocket attacks. Over one million Lebanese displaced, with ongoing airstrikes and ground operations. Diplomatic efforts, including French-led talks, aim to de-escalate the conflict triggered by Hezbollah's retaliation for Iran's leader's killing.
Since late 2023, Israeli settler violence in the West Bank has sharply increased, with 1,732 incidents reported from November 2024 to October 2025, a 24% rise. Over 36,000 Palestinians have been forcibly displaced amid expanding Israeli settlements. Recent weeks saw forced evictions in East Jerusalem's Silwan neighborhood and heightened military restrictions, including closures of Palestinian communities and Al-Aqsa Mosque during Eid.
European nations, including Estonia and Estonia's EU allies, are cautious about participating in US-led efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, citing risks and a preference for diplomatic solutions. Estonia supports US-Israeli actions against Iran, while EU leaders seek negotiations to end the conflict.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke faced heckling during Eid prayers at Lakemba Mosque, amid tensions over Australia's stance on Israel-Gaza conflict. Protesters called them 'genocide supporters' over Gaza war, with some security intervention. Albanese described the event as 'positive' despite disruptions.
Multiple senior Iranian military figures, including IRGC commanders, have been killed in Israeli airstrikes over the past days. The strikes targeted Iran's naval and intelligence leadership, with Iran confirming the deaths of Alireza Tangsiri and others. The conflict has escalated with missile attacks and infrastructure damage across the region.
On Palm Sunday 2026, Israeli police prevented Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa and Father Francesco Ielpo from entering Jerusalem's Church of the Holy Sepulchre, citing security concerns due to ongoing conflict with Iran. This marked the first such restriction in centuries, sparking international criticism and diplomatic protests over religious freedom during Holy Week.
Since early April 2026, Jerusalem's Old City holy sites, including Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, have reopened after a six-week closure due to the US-Israeli war on Iran. Far-right Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has repeatedly entered Al-Aqsa, performing Jewish prayers forbidden under the Status Quo, sparking Palestinian and Jordanian condemnation. Restrictions on Muslim worshippers and settler incursions continue, raising fears of escalating tensions and changes to the site's religious status.
Pope Leo XIV led Good Friday observances in Rome, emphasizing social justice and criticizing the misuse of Christianity for domination. He called for accountability among authorities and urged dialogue to end conflicts, including the Iran war, while reflecting on Jesus' message of liberation and love.
As of April 2026, Ukraine has signed long-term defense cooperation agreements with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE to share expertise in countering Iranian drone and missile attacks. Ukrainian President Zelensky has also met Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa to discuss regional security and food cooperation. Gulf states are diversifying arms suppliers due to unsustainable costs and delays with US defense systems.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's trial has been postponed for at least two weeks due to classified security reasons linked to recent regional tensions. The delay follows Israel's ceasefire with Iran and ongoing military actions in Lebanon. Netanyahu denies corruption charges, while security agencies cite threats to his safety.
As of April 27, 2026, the European Union has intensified debates over imposing sanctions on Israel due to its actions in Gaza, Lebanon, and the West Bank. Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia have formally requested suspending the EU-Israel Association Agreement citing human rights violations, while Germany and Italy oppose suspension, favoring dialogue. Hungary's recent election defeat removes a key veto, increasing prospects for EU sanctions on Israeli settlers.
On April 16, 2026, the US Senate has rejected two resolutions led by Senator Bernie Sanders to block $295 million in bulldozer sales and $152 million in bomb sales to Israel. Forty Democrats supported blocking bulldozer sales, and 36 backed blocking bomb sales, but Republicans opposed both measures, defeating them 40-59 and 36-63 respectively. The votes have reflected growing Democratic unease over US military aid amid Israeli actions in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran.
Israel observes Memorial Day on April 21, 2026, with ceremonies honoring fallen soldiers and victims of terror. Recent events include protests, controversial torch-lighting, and ongoing security challenges linked to conflicts with Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran. Leaders emphasize military achievements while families of the fallen express frustration.
The US has announced a three-week extension of the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, despite ongoing clashes. Israel has carried out strikes in southern Lebanon, and Hezbollah has launched rocket attacks. Negotiations are underway to extend the truce and address border issues, with both sides continuing to exchange fire.