Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been invited to visit the White House on Feb. 4 by U.S. President Donald Trump, making him the first foreign leader to visit Washington in Trump's second term. This visit comes at a crucial time as the United States is urging Israel and Hamas to uphold a ceasefire that has halted a devastating 15-month war in Gaza.
Displaced Palestinians Return to Heavily Destroyed Areas
In Gaza, displaced Palestinians are making their way back to heavily destroyed northern areas for a second day under the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. While some express happiness to return to their homeland despite the likely damage to their homes, others feel the pain of losing friends and relatives during the conflict.
Israeli Soldier Shares Ordeal of 15 Months in Captivity
An Israeli soldier, Naama Levy, who was released from captivity in Gaza, shared her experience on social media. She described spending most of the initial 50 days alone before being reunited with other captives, which gave her strength and hope during her time in captivity.
UNRWA Chief Warns of Impending Crippling of Operations
The head of UNRWA, the U.N. agency aiding Palestinian refugees, cautioned that impending Israeli legislation could severely impact its operations, jeopardize the ceasefire, and hinder Gaza's recovery. UNRWA is a vital provider of aid, education, and health services in Gaza.
Aid Flowing into Gaza from Egypt Under Ceasefire Agreement
Hundreds of aid trucks are being sent from Egypt to Gaza via Israel for inspection before distribution. The goal is to deliver 600 aid trucks daily to Gaza as outlined in the ceasefire agreement, with Egyptian officials ensuring a smooth flow of aid into the territory.
Israel to Maintain Presence in Syrian Buffer Zone Indefinitely
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz affirmed that Israeli forces will remain in the Syrian buffer zone for an unlimited period to prevent hostile forces from encroaching on the Israeli border. This decision aims to safeguard Israeli residents in the Golan Heights.
Palestinians Return to Northern Gaza Despite Devastation
Amid the ceasefire, Palestinians are returning to northern Gaza, braving the destruction to reclaim their homes and land. Despite facing hardships, many express relief and gratitude for being able to return to their homeland.
Russian Officials Visit Syria Post-Assad's Ouster
A delegation of Russian officials visited Damascus, marking the first such visit since the fall of former Syrian President Bashar Assad. The delegation's purpose and the subjects of discussion remain undisclosed, highlighting ongoing diplomatic engagements in Syria.
Explosion Hits Container Ship in Red Sea
An explosion on a container ship in the Red Sea forced the crew to abandon the vessel, sparking a fire. The cause of the incident remains unknown, with the ship drifting off the coast of Yemen. The crew was safely rescued following the incident.
