Hitting headlines due to Gaza/Israel clashes and cross-border fighting; PIJ is an Islamist Palestinian militant group founded 1981 to oppose Israel. They’ve carried out rocket attacks and have been targeted in Gaza.
Israel's parliament approved a law making the death penalty the default for Palestinians convicted of deadly attacks in the West Bank. The law, supported by far-right leaders, faces international criticism for discrimination and potential violations of international law. Implementation is set for 30 days, with legal challenges expected.
The WHO suspended medical evacuations from Gaza after a staff member was killed during a security incident. The incident occurred as tensions remain high following recent clashes and ongoing conflict, with humanitarian efforts hampered by security concerns and border restrictions.
Since mid-April's US-brokered ceasefire, Israel has continued air and drone strikes across southern and eastern Lebanon and near Beirut while Hezbollah has been firing explosive drones and rockets at Israeli forces. Lebanese authorities have reported rising civilian casualties and infrastructure damage as US-facilitated Israel–Lebanon talks proceed in Washington (25 May 2026).
Lebanese President Aoun has urged reaching an end to the Lebanon-Israel war, saying he is prepared to "do the impossible" to stop the fighting. Health authorities report the death toll in Lebanon has neared 3,000, with ongoing Israeli strikes, evacuations, and Hezbollah operations continuing in south Lebanon and northern Israel amid a 45‑day ceasefire extension.
Israel and Palestinian factions are negotiating under the US-backed Board of Peace to disarm armed groups in Gaza in exchange for an Israeli troop withdrawal. The talks, involving Egypt, Qatar and Turkey, face strong resistance over a complete demilitarization while humanitarian needs remain urgent and regional tensions persist.
Bezalel Smotrich has announced a move to revoke parts of the Hebron Agreement, transferring planning and construction powers in the H2 zone to Israeli authorities. The Palestinian presidency and Hamas condemn the action as a breach of agreements and international law. Separate developments show continued Israeli settlement activity and clashes around Hebron and the West Bank.
The IDF says it has eliminated Hamas and PIJ operatives rebuilding military capabilities in Gaza, including a Nukhba commander and others involved in training and attacks. Across southern Gaza, strikes target rocket launch posts and a border incident at Kerem Shalom are under investigation. The conflict continues amid stalled ceasefire talks and new proposals from Trump’s Board of Peace.