City of Sydney Considers Tearing Up Contracts with Suppliers Targeted by Boycott Israel Campaign

The City of Sydney is considering terminating contracts with suppliers who are part of the boycott Israel campaign. Mayor Clover Moore believes that this action could help increase pressure for a ceasefire in Gaza. The council will be preparing a report on its investment policy regarding companies involved in human rights violations, including the illegal occupation of settlements in Palestinian territories and the supply of weapons. This decision was made following a motion put forward by the Greens.

One in Five Gaza Households Go Days Without Food, UN Report Finds

A draft UN report reveals that one in five households in Gaza are going entire days without food. The report also highlights that over half of households in Gaza have resorted to selling or exchanging their clothes in order to purchase food. This comes amidst ongoing pressure on Israel to improve aid deliveries to the region. The latest findings from the UN's hunger monitoring system, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), paint a grim picture of the situation in Gaza. More than 495,000 people, representing one-fifth of the population, are now experiencing catastrophic levels of acute food insecurity. This includes extreme lack of food, starvation, and exhaustion. The report underscores the urgent need for increased assistance and support for the people of Gaza, as the risk of famine looms large over the territory.

Israeli Forces’ Actions in West Bank and Gaza Spark Outrage

Israeli forces have been accused of using excessive force in the occupied West Bank, with reports emerging of troops strapping an injured Palestinian to a jeep. This incident comes amidst escalating violence in the region, with at least 39 people killed in Gaza due to Israeli strikes. Since October 7th, Israeli forces have reportedly killed over 480 Palestinians in the West Bank. The situation remains tense as clashes continue between Israeli forces and Palestinian protesters. The use of force by Israeli troops has drawn criticism from human rights organizations, who have called for an end to the violence and for both sides to engage in peaceful dialogue to resolve the conflict.

Death Toll Rises to 19 in El Salvador Due to Heavy Rains and Landslides

The death toll in El Salvador has climbed to 19 as heavy rains persist, causing landslides and flooding across the country. The torrential downpours have led to widespread devastation and loss of life, with rescue efforts underway to assist those affected by the natural disasters. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety as the inclement weather continues to pose a threat to communities in El Salvador.

Food Aid in Gaza: Awaiting Distribution amid Blame Game

In a Gaza aid depot, hundreds of pallets of food are seen sitting in the sun, just miles away from where Palestinians are facing starvation. The situation has sparked a blame game between Israel and the United Nations. The food supplies are desperately needed by the people of Gaza, who are struggling to access basic necessities due to ongoing conflicts and blockades in the region. Despite the urgent need for aid, the food remains unused and exposed to the elements, raising concerns about its quality and safety. Both Israel and the UN have been accused of failing to effectively distribute the aid to those in need. The situation highlights the challenges and complexities of providing humanitarian assistance in conflict zones, where political tensions and logistical obstacles often hinder the delivery of crucial supplies. As the food continues to sit unused in the depot, the plight of the Palestinians in Gaza remains dire. Immediate action is needed to ensure that the aid reaches those who need it most and alleviate the suffering of the vulnerable population in the region.

Yemen’s Houthis Detain 11 UN Employees in Unclear Circumstances

Yemen's Houthi rebels have reportedly detained 11 Yemeni employees of UN agencies in a situation that remains unclear. The militia group's actions come amidst mounting financial pressure and airstrikes from a US-led coalition. UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric confirmed that 11 UN staffers have been taken into custody by the Houthis. The UN is currently working to secure access to its personnel and gather more information to clarify the circumstances surrounding the detentions. The aid group workers who have also been detained are part of the growing concern over the safety and security of humanitarian workers in Yemen.

RSF paramilitary group kills over 100 in Sudan village attack

A tragic incident unfolded in Sudan as at least 100 people lost their lives and many others were injured during an attack by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on a village in Gezira province. The assault, which took place in Wad al-Noura village, resulted in casualties that included women and children, according to Mini Arko Minawi, the governor of Darfur province. Reports indicate that the RSF clashed with the Sudanese army during the attack, leading to a significant loss of life and widespread injuries. Additionally, there have been claims of looting in the aftermath of the violence. The situation in Sudan remains tense as authorities work to address the aftermath of this tragic event. The international community is closely monitoring the developments in the region as efforts are made to ensure the safety and security of the affected population.