– Houthis Support Palestinians Amidst Gaza Crisis:

Yemen’s Houthi faction has pledged support for Palestinians in Gaza, according to political bureau member, Mohammed Al-Faraj. He insists any agreement must halt attacks, cease the siege, and meet the Palestinians’ desire for independence. Meanwhile, Hazam Al-Asad, another Houthi official points to the “Zionist occupation of Palestine” as the root of the conflict, backed by Western and some Arab governments. Yemeni scholars suggest the Israeli conflict serves Houthi interests by drawing attention away from their domestic responsibilities.

– Israel’s Operation Oz ve’Cherev Continues in Gaza, Hostage Negotiations Stall:

Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, insists on the simultaneous return of all hostages in exchange for the cessation of Israel’s Operation “Oz ve’Cherev” in Gaza. Despite seven tumultuous months of dialogue, recent events hint that the conflict, which has lasted over two years may soon conclude. Meanwhile, Turkey suggests brokering a Hamas agreement in return for military resources, sanction relief, and humanitarian aid permitted through Israel.

– Israeli Government Approves Prisoner Trade Despite Delay:

Following a four-hour delay, a government meeting led by Prime Minister Netanyahu greenlit a prisoner swap, initiated by former US President Trump. The deal, first forged in Egypt, is waiting for the Israeli government’s final approval, with hostage release planned for early next week.

– Trump Declares Gaza War Over, Predicts Imminent Release of Hostages:

President Trump announced that the war in Gaza has ended and hostages will be released in the coming days. Further, he revealed intentions to visit the region and participate in an Egypt-based signing ceremony to commemorate the landmark agreement. Trump lauded the achievement as pivotal, aligning with his claims to the deserving of the Nobel Peace Prize following eight successful peace deals in his tenure.

– First Phase of Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Signed, Trump to Visit Israel:

Trump also announced the signing of the first phase towards the resolution of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire. He expects quick action, with the return of all hostages by next Monday and the Israeli Defence Forces’ withdrawal within 24 hours after the deal approval.

– US War Aid To Israel Totals $32 Billion Over Two Years:

A study from Brown University has revealed the US has invested over $32 billion aiding Israel during the war, with an almost $23 billion expenditure in the first year alone. Under Trump’s administration, spending has dropped to between $8.5 billion and $11 billion in the second year.

– US Government Shutdown and Tensions Continue over Healthcare Subsidies:

As the US government shutdown enters its second week, the dispute over health insurance subsidies under “Obamacare” rages on. Controversially, Trump has ordered 500 soldiers to Chicago while also triggering legal actions from journalists and activists over federal agents’ cruelty during protests. Consequentially, the administration is contemplating the “Insurrection Act,” inciting worry among Democratic leaders.