Arab leaders toughen denunciations of Israel as it ramps up Gaza bombing
Israel has killed hundreds of Palestinians since Thursday in one of the deadliest waves of bombardment since a truce collapsed in March, even as U.S. President Donald Trump wrapped up a Middle East tour on Friday.
Egyptian President Abdel-Fatah al-Sisi, whose country is one of the main mediators in Gaza peace talks, described Israel's actions as "systematic crimes" aimed at "obliterating and annihilating" the Palestinians and "ending their existence in the Gaza Strip".
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, the summit's host, said Israel was engaged in genocide.
U.N Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who addressed the summit, said "nothing justifies the collective punishment of the Palestinian people".
After a six-week ceasefire, Israel imposed a total blockade of Gaza and resumed its military campaign in March. It blames Hamas fighters for harm to civilians for operating among them, which Hamas denies.
Israel's declared goal is the elimination of the military and governmental capabilities of Hamas, which attacked Israeli communities on October 7, 2023, killing around 1,200 people and seizing more than 250 hostages.
The military campaign has devastated the tiny, crowded enclave, pushing nearly all its 2.3 million inhabitants from their homes and killing more than 53,000 people, according to Gaza health authorities.
Israel faces growing international pressure to resume ceasefire talks and allow food and medical supplies into Gaza. UN aid chief Tom Fletcher asked the Security Council this week if it would act to "prevent genocide".
Iraq's prime minister announced the creation of a fund to help reconstruct Arab states after war, with an initial pledge of $20 million each for Gaza and Lebanon, where swathes of the south were destroyed last year in an Israeli campaign against the Hezbollah group.
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The Guardian
an hour ago
- The Guardian
Monday briefing: What's at stake for Ukrainians as Trump and Putin talk of ceding land in return for peace
Good morning. On Friday, Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin met in Alaska to discuss the future of Ukraine, but there was no deal reached and no big questions answered. Trump appeared deferential to the Russian leader and now backs plans to hand over Ukrainian territory as part of a peace deal. Today he will meet with Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders. In discussions about what a peace settlement would look like, 'land swaps' were represented as simple transactions. The fate of people appeared to be a casual afterthought. Trump and Putin are eager to embrace the idea that territory can be bought and sold like real estate, but Guardian reporting exposes the devastating part of this war: human loss. Last month casualties hit a three-year high, with more Ukrainian civilians killed than in any month since May 2022. Our writers have been documenting the escalating human cost of this war – whole communities eradicated, schools shut, cottages silent and people in towns near fighting exhausted by sleepless nights. For today's newsletter, I spoke to our senior international correspondent Luke Harding, who has just returned from four weeks in Ukraine, about what morale is like in these once tranquil villages now on the frontlines – and whether the Alaska summit changes anything for Ukraine. That's after the headlines. Gaza | Palestinians were gripped by fear and anxiety on Sunday after the Israeli military said it was preparing for the forcible displacement of a million people from Gaza City. Meanwhile tens of thousands of demonstrators gathered in Tel Aviv to call for an end to the war in Gaza. Scotland | The UK's first transgender judge has launched a case against the UK in the European court of human rights challenging the process that led to the supreme court's ruling on biological sex. Business | The bosses of Britain's largest listed companies took home record high pay packets for the third successive year, according to a report. Analysis found that the record set in the last financial year means the average FTSE 100 chief executive is now paid 122 times the salary of the average full-time UK worker. US news | Three people were killed and eight others wounded when multiple gunmen opened fire inside a crowded Brooklyn hookah lounge and restaurant early on Sunday morning, according to authorities. Weather | Hurricane Erin was downgraded to category 3 early on Sunday as its outer bands continued to lash the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico with heavy rains and tropical storm force winds. Luke Harding has been reporting from the Dnipropetrovsk region, which the Russians have penetrated for the first time in the last few weeks. An evacuation charity has been rescuing elderly and sick people from frontline villages swallowed up by fighting – they are usually the last to leave. 'It's about people, it's about homes, livelihoods, families, husbands, wives, children, grandparents, dogs, cats, chickens, vegetable gardens, and so on – this is what's being lost,' says Luke. 'Entire communities are being eradicated.' This monumental loss is encapsulated by the story of Valentyn Velykyi, a 70-year-old man who lived in the small agricultural village of Maliyivka in central-eastern Ukraine. He knew everyone in his village. Once Russian troops arrived, the village's 300-odd residents fled, except Velykyi – until a missile destroyed his house and he no longer had a home to go to. People in villages all over Ukraine have similar stories. 'There's something biblical about it,' says Luke. 'You go to these places and you see incongruously blooming vigorous gardens with flowers and marrows and apple trees where apples are falling and lying on the wayside, next to benches where people used to sit and gossip with their neighbours.' Primary schools are closed, shops are shut up, and people have fled. 'It's the extermination of a way of life – that's what it is. It's not real estate. It's human estate.' Luke says Putin is indifferent to what happens in these areas – his priority is for them to be part of Russia. For many civilians in areas under occupation by Russia, ceding control in a peace deal would mean saying goodbye to their homes for ever. As a foreign correspondent, Luke would go to the frontline and then return to Kyiv to write his reports, but now Kyiv is being targeted by Russian drones almost every night. 'It's really hard to sleep, and when you go out for your coffee in the morning, everybody looks exhausted.' What do ordinary Ukrainians think about Russia? A poll from 2014 found that 26% of Ukrainians living in the east of the country thought Russia and Ukraine should unite as a single state. But Luke says that now – apart from a very few older people – everybody supports Ukraine and hates Russia. Since the war, Ukraine has also become more European (last month protests erupted against weakening the powers of anti-corruption agencies). 'The great irony of this war is that Putin wants to de-Ukrainise Ukraine – he wants to make it disappear, roll it back into Russia.' But he's done the opposite, says Luke, who has been travelling to Ukraine since 2007. 'Ukraine has become more Ukrainian since I've been going there.' Shaun Walker, meanwhile, has been reporting from the city of Zaporizhzhia, an industrial hub in south-east Ukraine that has been under near-constant attack from missiles and drones. Plenty of people here and in other Ukrainian towns close to the frontline are ready for Kyiv to sign a peace deal – even an imperfect one – if it means the attacks will stop. But many others disagree, because they know first-hand what it means to give Russia control over Ukrainian territory: arrests, disappearances and the erasure of anything Ukrainian. What does the future hold for Ukrainians? Today European leaders will join Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in the White House for a meeting with Donald Trump in an effort to push back on a US-endorsed 'peace plan'. Ukrainians understand Russia very well. They speak both languages, and they don't trust Putin, who has 'violated every previous agreement he's signed', says Luke. Giving over land, they believe, would simply make it easier for him to advance further. 'People understand that a ceasefire would last five minutes, five days, maybe a maximum of five months, and then Putin would continue because his goal is unchanged – which is to destroy Ukraine entirely and turn it into Russia, which he considers it to be,' says Luke. 'And practically the only person on the planet who doesn't seem to understand this is Donald Trump.' The Russian strategy is to be deliberately chaotic – targeting different areas all across the country. Fighting has increased on all fronts, with waves of kamikaze drones and ballistic missiles. 'It looks pretty bleak insofar as the Russians will continue to push forward. They have numerical advantages in terms of troops, machinery, fibre-optic drones,' he says. 'I just don't see that ending, because the Russians think they're winning … There's no incentive for the Russians to stop, and the Americans are not making the Russians stop. 'Putin's lobbying campaign on Trump behind the scenes has been extremely effective. Trump has basically shifted position in a way that Ukraine and Europe hoped he wouldn't. This has happened in two important ways: one, he now says there needs to be a comprehensive peace deal and then a ceasefire [which is the Russian position]; and two, sources suggest he has embraced the Russian land swap plan, which is that Russia gets full control of Donetsk and Luhansk as a condition for ending the war. 'What we'll see over the next few weeks is pressure ratcheted up on Ukraine to go along with this 'ceasefire plan' without very many meaningful guarantees from America,' says Luke. 'It's going to be a stormy and difficult time ahead. And what is abundantly clear – post Alaska – is that this war will continue.' What about the fate of Ukrainians elsewhere? There are nearly seven million Ukrainian refugees globally, with more than 200,000 in the UK. Generally, refugees have been treated well – support for Ukraine is not a party-political issue in the UK. But there have been issues with continued housing – for example, last weekend a Ukrainian mum with two children told Luke she was being kicked out of her council flat. 'Many people opened their homes to Ukrainian refugees three and a half years ago, and now many have had to move on,' he says. Some have gone back to Ukraine. A billion-pound budget was awarded to councils across England to help Ukrainian refugees find accommodation. Yet £327m has remained unused, despite thousands of Ukrainian refugees being homeless. 'It's fine to say, 'Oh, we're saving it for a rainy day,' but people are struggling now,' says reporter Diane Taylor, who worked on the investigation, published this morning. While organisations such as the Ukrainian Institute London have offered free language classes, learning English remains a barrier for many refugees seeking accommodation, especially when trying to access private rented housing. Diane stressed how 'if you can speak the language, it makes life easier, even for something as unimportant as a holiday'. Experts, meanwhile, say council support 'is often a postcode lottery'. Councils have a great deal of discretion over the funds, and while many have received assistance, more and more are struggling. The problem for Ukraine is that the longer the war goes on, the less likely people are to return. 'Mostly we're talking about women and kids,' says Luke. 'The ones in the UK are in British schools, they've made friends – they're integrating. The longer the war continues, the greater the likelihood they become British.' Ukrainians are weary but defiant. 'They want the fighting to stop, they want the bombs to stop falling. But they don't want to hand over their homes, communities, jobs, the places where they fell in love, to the Russian enemy.' Sign up to First Edition Our morning email breaks down the key stories of the day, telling you what's happening and why it matters after newsletter promotion Additional writing by Saranka Maheswaran. England has an international reputation for endless rain and yet it appears the unthinkable is happening – we're running out of water. Here's a great read from Helena Horton on why our reservoirs are so low. Phoebe Hundreds of people have been arrested for taking part in demonstrations in support for the banned group Palestine Action. Half of those recently arrested were 60 or over. The Guardian interviewed those who took part for this incredibly beautiful infographic. Aamna This piece is not for the squeamish but it's a fascinating look inside the world of men who are so desperate to be taller they will sustain medieval torture for the privilege. Phoebe Simon Hattenstone recalls Princess Andre as a baby in the arms of her mother, Katie Price, who was then married to Princess's father, Peter Andre. As she turns 18 and launches her reality TV career, the interview deftly examines whether she will fall into the same traps of fame as her parents. Aamna I'm curious about Zack Polanski's brand of 'eco-populism' and interested to see he is starting to pull away from his more traditional Green party competitors – seems like change could be afoot. Phoebe Football | A goalkeeping error from Manchester United's Altay Bayindir allowed Riccardo Calafiori to score the winner at Old Trafford for Arsenal in the opening weekend of the Premier League. Tennis | Jannik Sinner, the top seed and defending champion, ended the French qualifier Térence Atmane's dream run at the Cincinnati Open with a two-set win to reach the final of the US Open warm-up event. Athletics | Long-distance runner Evie Parts has sued the NCAA and Swarthmore College as well as members of its athletic department, saying they illegally removed her from the track team because she is transgender. 'UK and EU at Zelenskyy's side for talks with Trump' is the Guardian's lead story headline while the Mirror says 'Ukraine war showdown … Europe takes a stand' and the Telegraph runs with 'Europe tells Trump: Don't give in to Putin'. Similar in the i paper – 'Europe unites for Zelensky's peace mission in Washington' – and in the Financial Times: 'Zelensky and European allies seek security guarantees in Trump talks'. The Mail calls it 'D-day at the White House' and the Times has 'Zelensky wants security guarantees before a deal'. A change of subject courtesy of the Metro: ''Outrageous' rail fares rises' while the Express splashes with 'Britain's 10 million junk food addicts'. Stephen Miller, Trump's immigration mastermind What is driving the architect of Donald Trump's immigration policy? With Jean Guerrero A bit of good news to remind you that the world's not all bad Channel 5 is reviving Play for Today, the influential BBC anthology drama series that ran from 1970 to 1984 and became known for tackling social issues and launching major careers. The new series aims to give opportunities to creatives from lower-income backgrounds, while continuing its tradition of politically charged storytelling. The first few productions explore themes such as failing schools, historical abuse and ageing. Channel 5's chief content officer, Ben Frow, said: 'The original Play For Today helped establish the careers of some of Britain's best writers, directors and producers, so we want to do the same.' Sign up here for a weekly roundup of The Upside, sent to you every Sunday And finally, the Guardian's puzzles are here to keep you entertained throughout the day. Until tomorrow. Quick crossword Cryptic crossword Wordiply
BBC News
an hour ago
- BBC News
Sir Keir Starmer urged to put pressure on Israel to end war with Gaza
MPs, members of the Northern Ireland Assembly (MLAs), Scottish Parliament (MSPs) and Welsh Senedd (MSs) have urged the prime minister to "act now" and exert pressure on Israel to end the war in joining in the SDLP-led letter include Sinn Féin, Alliance, the SNP, Plaid Cymru, the Green Party and People Before letter calls for Parliament to be recalled as well as urgent diplomatic intervention and an end to arms sales to Minister Sir Keir Starmer previously said the UK will recognise a Palestinian state in September, unless Israel takes "substantive steps to end the appalling situation in Gaza". But the government has been facing political pressure, both internationally and domestically, to go further. Call for actions on Israel France announced last month that it would recognise a Palestinian state in September, joining Ireland, Spain and Norway, who took the step last year. In the joint letter, seen by BBC News NI, the leadership of seven parties said they are "united in our deep concern and opposition to the government's ongoing support for the actions of the Israeli government in Gaza".It adds: "We note your stated September deadline for reassessing the UK's position. Given the urgency of the crisis, this is far too late."Every day of delay means more children starve, more families are torn apart, and more lives are lost. You must act now. The UK cannot be complicit in prolonging this tragedy."The letter is signed by SDLP leader Claire Hanna, Sinn Féin vice-president Michelle O'Neill, Alliance leader Naomi Long as well as SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn, Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth, and People Before Profit MLA Gerry said: "Today the SDLP is leading parties in giving expression to the despair and anger at the UK Government's failure to stand up to Netanyahu."Our voice may be the only tool we have, but together it is a powerful one - reflecting the depth of feeling of our constituents and highlighting the failure of the Prime Minister and his government to do all in their power to protect the people of Gaza."We are demanding the immediate recall of Parliament and an intervention that sends a clear message to the Israeli Government that this cannot continue."The letter also calls for the UK to use its "diplomatic influence to press for the unimpeded delivery of food, water and humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza". The letter, signed as well by the Scottish Greens and Scottish Lib Dems, says the parties condemn "without reservation" the actions of Hamas on 7 October when the Palestinian armed group attacked Israel, killing about 1,200 people and taking more than 250 triggered a massive Israeli military offensive in Gaza, which has killed tens of thousands of Palestinians. Hamas, which the US, UK, Israel and many other nations have designated as a terrorist organisation, continued to fire rockets into week, Israel's security cabinet approved plans to take over Gaza City, a move condemned by Starmer as "wrong" and that it would "only bring more bloodshed". The UK's plans to recognise a Palestinian state have been strongly criticised by Israel, which said it "rewards Hamas's monstrous terrorism".It also puts the UK at odds with the US, which, like Israel, has suggested recognition would reward joint letter to Starmer calls on the UK government to "support a ceasefire and meaningful diplomatic intervention to protect civilians and secure a just, lasting peace".It adds: "We urge you to act decisively by standing against the man-made famine, the mass killing of children and the broader assault on human life.""History will remember whether we chose to remain silent or stand on the side of humanity," the letter has denied allegations of genocide.
Telegraph
2 hours ago
- Telegraph
Iran using Taliban ‘kill list' to hunt British spies
Iran's revolutionary guards are hunting British spies using a leaked Ministry of Defence list provided by the Taliban, The Telegraph has learnt. A group of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) officials flew to Kabul last week to discuss a cooperation deal with Taliban leadership, according to senior Iranian and Afghan officials. The officials, whom sources said travelled to Afghanistan without the knowledge of Tehran's civilian government, wanted to use the list to capture suspected spies to use as bargaining chips in discussions with the West over the Islamic Republic's nuclear programme. In return, the Taliban is seeking recognition by Iran as the new official rulers of the war-ravaged country. The leaked database contains names of Afghans who applied for asylum in Britain, including soldiers who worked with the British Army, as well as intelligence assets and special forces personnel. Some on the list are believed to have fled to Iran to escape Taliban reprisals. A senior Iranian official, speaking from Tehran, said that four IRGC officials had travelled to Kabul. 'They promised the Taliban that they would pressure the government [in Tehran] to expedite their recognition,' the official said. 'The Taliban gave them the list. They want to find British spies before the 'snapback' to have something to pressure London behind closed doors.' 'The focus is just on British spies' Iranian border forces have arrested several people whose names appeared on the leaked list in recent days, The Telegraph understands. 'Many were released because they were only former Afghan soldiers, while others are being held for further checks,' they said. 'The focus is just on British spies.' The move comes after Britain, France and Germany threatened Iran this week with crippling economic sanctions if it does not begin talks to renew its nuclear programme by the end of August 2025. A 2015 nuclear deal provided Iran's economy relief from nearly a decade of trade and banking restrictions in exchange for curbs on its nuclear enrichment program designed to prevent development of nuclear weapons. On Wednesday, the European powers told UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres they were prepared to trigger a 'snapback' mechanism – reimposing all UN sanctions that existed before the 2015 agreement – if Iran fails to act by the deadline, though they offered an extension if Tehran complies. The 2015 deal expires on October 18. The official added: 'The IRGC is doing everything it can to find bargaining chips for talks before the deadline. 'The government has little idea of what they're doing and [the IRGC] fears that, after the war and all the damage, Iran will enter negotiations from a position of weakness.' 'Modified' list given to Revolutionary Guard The Telegraph revealed earlier this month that the IRGC had officially asked the Taliban for the list. The so-called 'kill list' was accidentally leaked in February 2022 when a Royal Marine emailed the complete file to Afghan contacts in Britain instead of sending a small extract, according to sources familiar with the incident. The spreadsheet contained names, telephone numbers and email addresses of Afghan soldiers, government workers and family members who applied to relocate to Britain under the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy after the Western military withdrawal. The list also included identities of more than 100 British special forces personnel and MI6 operatives who had vouched for Afghan applicants seeking relocation. The Taliban's decision to share the database followed internal deliberations within its leadership in Kandahar. A senior Taliban official said some faction members opposed cooperation with Iran because of Tehran's mistreatment of Afghan refugees. However, the prospect of Iranian recognition ultimately swayed the decision.
