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The 2025 Eurovision Song Contest faces new protests as Israel continues to take part, sparking debate over the politicisation of the music event. Activists, artists, and fans are calling for a boycott over the Gaza conflict, while organisers assert their neutral stance. Protests are anticipated in Sweden and across Europe.
Amnesty International has called for an investigation into potential war crimes after Israel destroyed dozens of homes in southern Syria. The rights group cited satellite imagery and witness testimony showing airstrikes and shelling targeting civilian areas, in violation of international law.
Lebanon has called on Israel to respect the April ceasefire during talks in Washington, seeking to ease tensions and prevent escalation. Compliance is deemed essential for peace. Observers see a potential path to a lasting solution if goodwill is demonstrated.
The third round of direct talks between Lebanon and Israel has started in Washington, just days before the current ceasefire expires. Lebanon seeks a new truce and progress on thorny issues like Israeli withdrawal and Hezbollah disarmament. While there is cautious optimism, the situation remains volatile with ongoing Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon.
Tensions escalated at the annual Jerusalem Day parade through the Old City as ultranationalist participants shouted racist slogans including 'Death to Arabs' and 'May your village burn,' prompting many Palestinian residents to shutter their stores and stay indoors. The parade, which Israel says celebrates the unification of Jerusalem, has frequently sparked violence over the years and this year coincided with Israel's war with Iran and a fragile Gaza ceasefire.
Israel announced it will sue the New York Times for libel over an opinion piece by Nicholas Kristof that detailed allegations of sexual violence against Palestinian detainees. The article cited international reports and victim accounts, sparking legal and political backlash from Israeli leaders.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused the UAE of being an active partner in US and Israeli aggression against Iran. He made the statement amid rising regional tensions and criticized the UAE for allowing military bases to be used against Tehran. The UAE has not yet reacted, as its relations with Iran remain strained after normalizing ties with Israel.
An Iranian-American analyst says shared hatred of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is emerging as a common point of unity for many people in the region and worldwide. The analyst attributes this to Netanyahu's controversial policies over decades, including West Bank settlements and the 2023 Gaza conflict.
Israel escalated airstrikes in southern Lebanon, killing two and issuing forced evacuations, as both sides prepare for US-brokered ceasefire talks in Washington. Hezbollah objects to the negotiations, viewing direct dialogue with Israel as surrender, while the Lebanese government sees them as a platform to address broader issues.
