UK Parliament in Chaos over Gaza Motion
The UK Parliament was thrown into chaos as a motion calling for a cease-fire in the Gaza Strip sparked controversy and disagreement among lawmakers. The motion, put forth by the Scottish National Party (SNP), called for an “immediate cease-fire” in Gaza. However, in an unexpected move, speaker Lindsay Hoyle allowed a vote on a motion for an “immediate humanitarian cease-fire” in Gaza proposed by the main opposition Labour Party. This decision allowed Labour lawmakers to support their own plan without defying their leadership by voting for the SNP motion. As a result, lawmakers from the governing Conservatives and the opposition SNP left the chamber in protest. The government ultimately decided not to participate in the vote, and the motion was not officially voted on.
Brazil Condemns ‘Paralysis’ on Gaza, Ukraine at G20 Meeting
Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira criticized the “paralysis” within the UN Security Council during a G20 foreign ministers’ meeting in Rio de Janeiro. Vieira expressed his dissatisfaction with the council’s inability to address ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, stating that innocent lives were being lost as a result. The conflicts between Russia and Ukraine, as well as Israel and Gaza, have highlighted the challenge of passing resolutions in the Security Council due to the veto power held by its permanent members. The G20 meeting provided an opportunity for representatives from 20 leading nations to discuss these pressing issues under Brazil’s presidency.
UK and Jordan Transfer Aid to Northern Gaza Hospital
The UK and Jordan collaborated to deliver much-needed aid to the Tal Al-Hawa hospital in northern Gaza. The consignment, funded by the UK and transported by the Jordanian Air Force, included 4 metric tons of vital supplies such as medicines, fuel, and food. The hospital, located in Gaza City, has been providing crucial medical treatment to thousands of patients since the start of the war. UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron emphasized the urgency of the situation in Gaza and the need for additional aid. This development comes after the World Food Program temporarily halted food deliveries to northern Gaza due to escalating violence.
‘Frank Exchange’ between Blinken and Lula after Brazilian Leader’s Holocaust Comments
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken engaged in a “frank exchange” with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva following controversial remarks made by Lula about the conflict in Gaza. Lula had accused Israel of “genocide” in Gaza and drew comparisons between its military campaign and Adolf Hitler’s actions during World War II. Israel responded by declaring Lula ‘persona non grata.’ The meeting between Blinken and Lula took place at the presidential palace in Brasilia, where they discussed the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Lula reaffirmed his commitment to peace and expressed support for the creation of a Palestinian state.
G20 Ministers Meet in Brazil to Talk Gaza and UN
G20 foreign ministers convened in Rio de Janeiro to discuss various global issues, including Israel’s war against Hamas in Gaza and the need for UN reform. Brazilian President Luiz Ignacio Lula da Silva criticized the UN for its failure to resolve the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians, calling for reforms within the organization. Lula’s previous comments about atrocities committed by Israeli forces in Gaza caused a diplomatic crisis, with Israel reprimanding him and Brazil recalling its ambassador. The meeting also addressed Russia’s war in Ukraine and other pressing matters affecting international peace and stability.
Doctors Without Borders Says 2 Dead in Attack on Staff Shelter
Medical aid group Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reported that two people were killed when a shelter housing staff in the Gaza Strip was hit during an Israeli operation. The strike occurred in an area designated as a shelter for Palestinians seeking safety. MSF expressed horror at the incident and stated that more details were still emerging. The war in Gaza began when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel, resulting in numerous casualties and hostages. The Gaza Strip has faced severe humanitarian challenges, with the UNICEF warning of a potential increase in preventable child deaths.
China Says US Veto Heightens Gaza Danger
China criticized the US for vetoing a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire in the Gaza Strip, stating that it has escalated the situation and made it more dangerous. The resolution, drafted by Algeria, demanded a humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza and the release of all hostages kidnapped during Hamas attacks on Israel. The US ambassador to the UN defended the veto, claiming that it was necessary to protect negotiations for the release of hostages. China, along with other countries such as Russia and Saudi Arabia, expressed disappointment with the US decision and emphasized the urgent need for a halt to hostilities in Gaza.
Syria Says 2 Dead in Israeli Rocket Strike
The Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) reported that two people died after the Israeli military launched a rocket strike on a residential building in Damascus. The attack targeted the Kafr Sousa area of the capital city. Witnesses reported