Israel’s Power Cut Worsens Gaza’s Water Crisis

Anadolu Agency,

Israel’s recent decision to cut off electricity supply to the Gaza Strip has exacerbated the region’s ongoing water crisis. The power cut has led to the shutdown of Gaza’s main desalination plant, reducing fresh water availability to central and southern Gaza by 70%. Additionally, eight out of 19 water wells in Deir al-Balah have ceased operation due to Israeli bombardment. This development has raised significant concerns among local officials and human rights organizations, who warn of a looming humanitarian disaster. The electricity cut follows Israel’s earlier decision to halt humanitarian aid to Gaza, despite a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement.

These actions have intensified the already dire living conditions in the enclave, where residents face limited access to essential services. The international community has called for immediate restoration of utilities and aid to prevent further deterioration of the humanitarian situation. The ongoing blockade and recent escalations underscore the urgent need for a sustainable resolution to the conflict, ensuring the rights and well-being of Gaza’s civilian population. citeturn0search3thousands of extrajudicial killings reported during his tenure. The arrest took place upon his arrival at Manila’s international airport, where he was returning from a trip to Hong Kong. Philippine authorities, in cooperation with international law enforcement, executed the warrant without incident.

Human rights organizations have lauded the arrest as a significant step towards accountability and justice for the victims of the drug war. The ICC’s investigation, initiated in 2021, has gathered substantial evidence linking Duterte to policies that allegedly encouraged lethal force against suspected drug offenders without due process. Duterte has consistently denied these allegations, asserting that his actions were within the bounds of the law and necessary for maintaining national security. His legal team is expected to challenge the ICC’s jurisdiction, arguing that the Philippines’ withdrawal from the Rome Statute in 2019 exempts it from the court’s authority. However, the ICC maintains that it retains jurisdiction over crimes committed while the Philippines was still a member. Duterte’s arrest marks a pivotal moment in international justice, potentially setting a precedent for holding former heads of state accountable for human rights violations.

China’s Retaliatory Tariffs Escalate Global Trade Disputes

Financial Times,

In response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of a 25% tariff on aluminum imports, China has imposed retaliatory tariffs of up to 15% on various American goods, including cotton, chicken, corn, and soybeans. This escalation in trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies has raised concerns about a potential trade war, which could have far-reaching implications for global markets and economic stability. The agricultural sector, particularly U.S. soybean farmers, is expected to be significantly impacted, as China is a major importer of American soybeans. Analysts warn that prolonged trade disputes could disrupt global supply chains, increase consumer prices, and slow economic growth. Both nations face mounting pressure to engage in negotiations to de-escalate tensions and establish fairer trade practices.

NASA Faces Workforce Reductions Following Executive Order

Hindustan Times,

NASA is undergoing significant workforce reductions following an executive order from President Donald Trump aimed at restructuring federal agencies. The agency has announced layoffs and the elimination of key offices, raising concerns about the future of U.S. space exploration and research initiatives. Acting Administrator Janet Petro acknowledged the challenging nature of these changes in an email to employees, emphasizing the need to adapt to new directives while maintaining core missions. The restructuring aims to increase efficiency and reduce government spending, but critics argue that it could hinder scientific progress and the nation’s leadership in space exploration. The long-term impact on NASA’s projects, including planned missions to the Moon and Mars, remains uncertain as the agency navigates this transition.

Arrest of Pro-Palestinian Activist Mahmoud Khalil Sparks Legal Battle

The Guardian,

A New York judge has blocked the deportation of pro-Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil, who was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) despite being a permanent U.S. resident. Khalil’s detention follows President Donald Trump’s executive order targeting students involved in pro-Palestinian activities, raising concerns about freedom of speech and civil liberties. Supporters argue that Khalil’s activism falls within his constitutional rights, while opponents cite national security considerations. The legal battle highlights the ongoing debate over immigration policies and the balance between security and individual rights in the United States.