Imagine a huge wooden lantern, over 6 meters in size, hanging in the Barajeel area of Egypt. This lantern is not just any decoration - it carries a special message. The phrase “Palestine in the Heart” is proudly displayed on the sides of the lantern, symbolizing solidarity and support for Palestine.

A Long-Standing Tradition

For about 40 years, the people of the Barajeel area have been coming together to create the largest lantern in Egypt to celebrate the holy month of Ramadan. This lantern is a labor of love, crafted by carpenters, engravers, blacksmiths, electricians, and glass workers from the local community.

Community Celebration

This year, the hanging of the lantern in the Barajeel area was a festive event. Children danced and sang Ramadan songs around the lantern, creating a joyful atmosphere. It was a moment of unity and joy for the neighborhood.

Symbol of Hope

While the tradition of lantern-making in Egypt dates back to the Fatimid era, this year’s lantern holds special significance. It coincided with a devastating Israeli aggression on Gaza, reminding people of the importance of standing in solidarity with brothers in Gaza.

Spread of Tradition

Throughout Egypt, during the month of Ramadan, you can see lanterns and decorations adorning streets, parks, and public places. It is a beautiful tradition that brings communities together and spreads joy during this special time of year.

Bombing and Casualties

On the 156th day of the war on Gaza, Israel continued to target civilians in different areas, resulting in more casualties. The Israeli army carried out bombings in several parts of the Gaza Strip, causing injuries and deaths to many people. Within 24 hours, there were 8 massacres that led to the deaths of 85 Palestinians and injuries to 130 others. The total number of casualties from the ongoing aggression has now surpassed 31,000 deaths and 72,000 wounded, with a majority being women and children.

Resistance Actions

The Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, carried out operations against Israeli forces. They blew up a house in Bani Suhaila and clashed with another force in a tunnel, resulting in casualties among the Israeli soldiers. The Israeli army also reported the death of one of their soldiers in battles in the south of the Gaza Strip.

Political Developments

The head of the Hamas political bureau, Ismail Haniyeh, blamed Israel for the lack of agreement so far. He mentioned that Hamas is willing to show flexibility on the issue of prisoners if the aggression stops and the displaced people are allowed to return. Haniyeh emphasized that Hamas has set conditions for negotiations, including a ceasefire and preventing any harmful plans against Gaza.

Prisoner Exchange Talks

Egypt is in contact with Hamas, Israel, and other mediators to resume negotiations for a truce during Ramadan. US President Joe Biden expressed his desire for a 6-week truce, during which Israeli detainees in Gaza would be released.

Humanitarian Crisis

The month of Ramadan began in Gaza with severe humanitarian conditions. Many residents are suffering from hunger and lack of basic necessities. The UNRWA highlighted the tragic situation in the north of Gaza, where aid is being blocked despite repeated appeals. The US military announced new aid landing operations over Gaza, and Washington plans to build a naval pier for aid reception.

Post-War Period

A Hamas security official dismissed the occupation's attempt to create governing bodies in Gaza as a failed conspiracy. Hamas warned against collaborating with the occupation and vowed to protect Gaza from any new rules imposed by external forces.

Israeli Confession and Other Developments

The Israeli army admitted to killing an elderly Palestinian in Gaza, sparking outrage from Hamas. In Al-Aqsa Mosque, security measures were heightened during Ramadan prayers. In the West Bank, the Israeli army conducted incursions in various cities and towns. Hezbollah carried out attacks on Israeli sites along the Lebanese border, prompting preparations for a potential large-scale attack by the Israeli army.

Source: Agencies

On the 155th day of the war on Gaza, the Israeli occupation continued to commit massacres in the Gaza Strip. The battles intensified on multiple fronts, leading to a rise in the number of martyrs due to famine to 25.
Israeli Prisoners Revealed
Abu Ubaida, the spokesperson for the Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades, disclosed the identities of 4 Israeli prisoners out of 7 who were reported killed. This revelation came after an Israeli bombing.
President Biden's Aid Plan
President Joe Biden's proposal to construct a temporary port or pier off the coast of Gaza to provide food and aid by sea made headlines. However, international organizations viewed this as an attempt to divert attention from the real humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Escalation in the Red Sea
The Red Sea witnessed a significant escalation by the Houthi group, who carried out two military operations using missiles and drones against American ships and destroyers in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
Hezbollah's Actions in Lebanon
Hezbollah continued to target several Israeli military sites in Lebanon, prompting the Israeli army to expand its raids and bombings into southern Lebanon.
Battles in Gaza
The Al-Qassam Brigades announced that they seized two Quadcopter aircraft conducting intelligence missions in Gaza City. They also shared images of Israeli vehicles targeted in Khan Yunis, showing parts of tanks and heavy vehicles scattered in the streets.
The Al-Quds Brigades, along with other groups, targeted Israeli army concentrations in the central region of Gaza with missiles and artillery. The Israeli army reported the death of a major in the commando forces during the battles.
Israeli forces are preparing to expand their ground operation to include central Gaza and Rafah, focusing on Khan Yunis to locate Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.
New Bombing and Massacres
Israeli warplanes bombed the Al-Masry Tower in Rafah, destroying two-thirds of the building. The Ministry of Health reported 10 massacres in the last 24 hours, resulting in 82 deaths and 122 injuries.
The number of malnutrition and dehydration victims in Gaza rose to 23, with 3 children dying at Al-Shifa Medical Complex.
Abu Ubaida's Statement
Abu Ubaida revealed the identities of 4 Israeli prisoners killed in raids on Gaza. An investigation found that Israeli forces were aware of hostages in a targeted house, leading to casualties.
Identity of Palestinian Elderly
Al Jazeera identified a 73-year-old deaf man executed by occupation soldiers in Gaza City.
Aid Operations
Royal Jordanian Air Force dropped humanitarian aid in northern Gaza, with support from other countries' aircraft.
Plan for Temporary Port
Doctors Without Borders criticized the US plan for a temporary seaport in Gaza, urging the opening of border crossings for aid entry.
Sea Corridor Announcement
The EU and US announced a sea corridor between Cyprus and Gaza for humanitarian aid delivery, aiming to alleviate the dire situation in Gaza.
Prisoner Negotiations
Israel recently announced that their foreign intelligence agency head met with the American counterpart to work on securing the release of prisoners held in Gaza. Demonstrations are happening in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and other cities in Israel to demand the release of Israeli prisoners in Gaza.

Haniyeh's Appeal
The leader of Hamas, Ismail Haniyeh, is calling on Arab and Islamic nations to stop the Israeli aggression on Gaza and isolate Israel politically and diplomatically for their war crimes. He is urging leaders to take action to protect the people of Gaza and Al-Aqsa Mosque.

The Plight of UNRWA
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) is at risk of dissolution due to funding suspensions from several countries. The director of UNRWA warned that Palestinians in Gaza are facing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis.

West Bank
In the West Bank, a Palestinian was injured by Israeli forces during a raid in Kafr Thulth. Confrontations broke out, and young men were detained for investigation.

Red Sea Axis
In Yemen, the Houthi group carried out two military operations targeting American ships and war destroyers in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden using naval missiles and drones.

Lebanese Front
Hezbollah targeted Israeli sites near the Lebanese border and in the occupied Shebaa Farms, achieving direct hits on occupation soldiers. The party attacked various sites in the area.

Demonstrations in Support of Gaza
Across Europe, demonstrations are taking place to demand an end to the Israeli war on Gaza and provide relief to the suffering population. Thousands protested in London and Paris for an immediate ceasefire and aid for Gaza.

Source: Agencies

Erdogan's Firm Support
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan recently expressed his strong support for Hamas, a group fighting against the Israeli occupation in Gaza. He made it clear that Turkey stands behind Hamas leaders and refuses to label them as terrorists.

Comparison to Nazis
On the other hand, Erdogan criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, comparing him to infamous historical figures like Hitler, Mussolini, and Stalin. He condemned the Israeli government for committing crimes against humanity in Gaza.

Turkey's Support for Palestine
Commitment to Accountability
Erdogan emphasized Turkey's unwavering support for the Palestinian cause and pledged to hold Israeli officials accountable for the atrocities committed in Gaza. He expressed disappointment in the lack of solidarity from the Islamic world towards the Palestinian people.

Humanitarian Aid to Gaza
Turkey has sent thousands of tons of humanitarian aid to Gaza through various means, including aircraft and ships. Erdogan also mentioned working with Egyptian authorities to deliver aid to Gaza.

International Efforts for Peace
Call for Ceasefire
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stressed the importance of reaching a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and working towards a two-state solution. He urged the international community to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza and stop the violence against civilians.

Push for Political Solution
Fidan highlighted the need for a political solution to the Palestinian issue, emphasizing the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the two-state solution. He called for a consensus on ending the bloodshed in Gaza and providing humanitarian assistance.

Erdogan's Criticism of Israel's Allies
Partners in Genocide
Erdogan accused countries supporting Israel of being complicit in the genocide taking place in Gaza. He criticized Western powers for their unconditional support of Israel and called for international solidarity with Gaza and the Palestinian cause.
Call for State of Palestine
Erdogan emphasized the importance of establishing the State of Palestine with East Jerusalem as its capital. He criticized the current international system for failing to uphold justice and solidarity, particularly in the case of Gaza.

 Abu Ubaida's Concerns

Abu Ubaida, the spokesperson for the Al-Qassam Brigades, which is the military arm of Hamas, recently spoke out about the dire situation in Gaza. He mentioned that the famine affecting Gaza has now reached the prisoners of the Israeli occupation. Some of these prisoners are facing serious health issues due to lack of food and medicine.

Deception in Negotiations

Abu Ubaida also addressed the ongoing ceasefire negotiations, stating that the occupation government is not being honest. He emphasized that for any deal to be made, the aggression must stop, forces must withdraw, displaced persons must return, and reconstruction must begin.

Double Standards

American Administration's Response

Abu Ubaida criticized the American administration for showing concern over a small number of Israeli prisoners while ignoring the suffering of the Palestinian people. He called out their double standards and lack of regard for human rights.

Barbaric Aggression

Abu Ubaida revealed that the occupation had planned its aggressive actions before the events of October 7th. He stated that the Palestinian people responded to this aggression with the October 7th epic, standing up against attempts to Judaize and destroy Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Call to Action

Abu Ubaida urged Palestinians in the West Bank, Jerusalem, and occupied Palestine to stand up and protect Al-Aqsa. He also called on Muslims worldwide to mobilize and confront the occupation's arrogance.

Source: Al Jazeera

Reflection on the War

Israeli writer Gideon Levy believes that after 150 days of war in Gaza, Israel has not gained any strength or safety. In fact, he argues that the country is not more popular, united, or proud of itself.

Harsh Realities

Levy wrote in Haaretz that the past days of war have been tough and have not benefited Israel in any way. He believes that Hamas has actually emerged stronger, despite losing many fighters.

Public Opinion

Surprisingly, Levy notes that most Israelis still support the war, even after months of destruction and international backlash. Israel is now seen as a pariah and faces economic challenges.

The Darkest Days

Levy describes the past few months as the darkest in Israel's history. The country is now less secure, faces global sanctions, and risks losing American support. The war has also damaged Israel's democratic institutions.

International Standing

Israel's reputation has suffered greatly, and its relations with the United States have deteriorated. The ongoing violence and displacement have only fueled more hatred towards Israel.

The Future Outlook

Levy is not optimistic about the future, as long as Israel refuses to consider fundamental changes. He compares the mindset of continuing the war to that of a gambler who keeps betting despite losing everything.

Moral Ambiguity

Levy questions the morality of believing that killing thousands of Palestinians will bring peace to Gaza. He urges Israelis to reflect on the true costs of the war and consider if it was truly necessary.

Source: Haaretz

Intensified Attacks

On the 154th day of the war on Gaza, the Israeli forces increased their airstrikes and artillery bombardment in different parts of the Strip. Meanwhile, hunger is becoming a serious threat to many people trapped in northern Gaza.

Demands for a New Deal

The spokesperson for the Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, stated that any new exchange deal must include stopping the aggression, withdrawing military forces, providing relief for the population, allowing the return of displaced individuals, and reconstructing Gaza.

Attacks in the Red Sea

Two explosions near a ship off the coast of Yemen have been reported. The Houthis have claimed responsibility for targeting Israeli ships in the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandab Strait, and Gulf of Aden in recent months.

Increasing Casualties

The Ministry of Health in Gaza reported a total of 30,878 deaths and 72,402 injuries since October 7 due to Israeli aggression. The ministry also mentioned 8 massacres in the past 24 hours, with a majority of victims being women and children.

Hamas Response

Hamas rejected the results of an Israeli army investigation into the "flour massacre" that occurred west of Gaza City. They described the investigation as misleading and false, emphasizing that Palestinians were deliberately targeted.

UN Warning

The UN Human Rights Commissioner warned that expanding settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories is a war crime and hinders the possibility of a viable Palestinian state.

Prisoner Exchange Negotiations

Hamas spokesperson emphasized the importance of a ceasefire in negotiations for a prisoner exchange. They highlighted the dire situation faced by prisoners due to illness and lack of resources.

Expectations of Aid Corridor

An aid corridor to Gaza is expected to start operating soon, following approval from Israel. This initiative aims to deliver much-needed aid to the people in Gaza.

Possible Ground Operation in Lebanon

Hezbollah reported the killing of its members in Israeli bombings in southern Lebanon. Israeli Chief of Staff is preparing plans for a potential ground operation in Lebanon, drawing lessons from the Gaza conflict.

Martyrs because of the fall of aid funds

Something terrible happened on the 154th day of the Israeli war on the Gaza Strip. The government media office in Gaza reported that 5 Palestinians lost their lives and many others were injured when humanitarian aid was dropped from planes. The aid boxes didn't land properly and ended up falling on people's heads.

Eyewitness Accounts

Eyewitnesses saw planes dropping lots of aid boxes, but some of them didn't open their parachutes correctly. This caused the boxes to fall quickly on groups of Palestinians who were waiting for them to land. The boxes fell on Palestinian gatherings north of the Beach Camp and on Al-Jalaa Street north of Gaza City.

Tragic Consequences

Witnesses and Palestinian medical sources said that the falling boxes resulted in the deaths of some Palestinians and injuries to others who were eagerly waiting for the aid. This was a heartbreaking accident that shocked everyone in the area.

Source: Al Jazeera

What is Going On?

 Back in 1945, the United Nations was created to help countries work together and keep peace. Nevertheless, some people think it's not fair because powerful countries have more say than others. It is like a big club where some members have more power than others.

Alternative Political Bodies

Smaller countries have tried to create their own groups within the United Nations to stand up for their rights. One example is the Non-Aligned Movement, which started in 1961. It is like a smaller club within the big club.

Special Legitimacy

The United States and its friends have their own idea of what's right and wrong in international law. They often use their power to veto decisions that don't benefit them. It is as if they made the rules that work for them.

Consequences

Recently, the United States defended Israel in the Gaza conflict, even when many other countries disagreed. This has caused some tension in the international community. The United States is also not a member of the International Criminal Court, but still tries to use it to cover up its actions.

These choices will have consequences in the future. The world is facing a crisis of legitimacy, and just making small changes will not fix the problem. A big deal needs to be addressed.

Source: American press