Desert region in southern Israel; capital Beersheba
A Jerusalem court has paused the transfer of Nile crocodiles to Ketziot Prison while it reviews a petition by Let the Animals Live. The case ties Ben-Gvir’s security measures for Palestinian prisoners to animal welfare and environmental concerns, with a final ruling pending government response.
A record summer of heat, drought and wildfires has prompted an emergency Cobra meeting and voluntary retailer suspensions of disposable-barbecue sales. Green groups have written to Prime Minister Andy Burnham urging him to call the crisis 'climate change' and stop new North Sea drilling; Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice has questioned net zero and urged adaptation and celebration of warmer weather.
Israel has killed Abu Hassan Alaa, a senior Hezbollah commander, in southern Lebanon, with eleven people dead in the strikes, including children in some reports. Israel says the strikes are retaliation for Hezbollah’s attack that injured Israeli soldiers. The situation remains tense as Israel vows further action.
The Democratic Front for Peace and Equality (Hadash), Balad and Ta'al announce a three-party Joint List to confront Israeli political challenges. They say unity is essential to defend Palestinian rights, rebuild trust, and push for ten seats in the Knesset, aimed at countering a fascist right-wing government.
Several unarmed kites have been found this weekend in Kibbutz Nahal Oz and other southern Israeli communities near the Gaza border. Israel has said it will respond forcefully, treating kites and balloons like drones. Hamas has denied responsibility and called the kites childrens toys; Gaza media have reported Israeli strikes that killed civilians.
Rainfall is expected to be highly unusual for Israel this season, with the IMS forecasting heavy showers, thunderstorms and possible urban flooding in northern coastal areas, Tel Aviv and surrounding regions as part of a strong El Niño-driven pattern in fall 2026.
Archaeologists have uncovered a well-preserved ritual bath complex from the early first century CE near the Temple Mount, offering new details on pilgrimage practices during the Second Temple period. The find includes a hydraulic drainage system and multiple mikvaot, with researchers highlighting its role in serving thousands of pilgrims during major festivals.
Since Monday, Israeli authorities have demolished homes in Umm Numaila and Abu Quraynat, reflecting a wider pattern of home demolitions in unrecognized Bedouin villages across the Negev as authorities press for building permits. The moves are part of a broader legal and political struggle over land and recognition in Israel’s southern desert.