Pope Leo XIV called for a ceasefire in Ukraine and a resolution to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, emphasizing the importance of dialogue. He also called for the release of Israeli hostages.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced the start of construction of a new settlement, which is intended to divide the West Bank and cut it off from East Jerusalem. This step, he said, will block the creation of a Palestinian state.
The Israeli government has begun construction of 3,401 homes in the E1 area of the West Bank, which, according to the finance minister, "will bury the idea of a Palestinian state. " This move has drawn sharp criticism from the Palestinian Authority and concern from Western allies.
The EU and over 24 countries are calling on Israel to urgently allow the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. The humanitarian situation in the region has reached a critical level, with 2.4 million residents at risk of starvation.
Madonna asks Pope Leo XIV to visit the Gaza Strip to bring light to children before it's too late. She calls for the opening of humanitarian corridors to save innocent children.
Australia plans to recognize the State of Palestine at the UN General Assembly in September. This decision was made after receiving commitments from the Palestinian Authority regarding demilitarization and recognition of Israel.
Greta Thunberg announced a new attempt to break the naval blockade of Gaza, which will begin on August 31 from Spain. Vessels from Tunisia and other ports will join the flotilla, and activists will also mobilize 44 countries for demonstrations.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that his country's goal is to liberate the Gaza Strip from the Hamas group, not to occupy the enclave. He presented a vision for Gaza's post-war development, including demilitarization and the creation of a security zone.
On August 9, thousands of protesters in Tel Aviv demonstrated against the Israeli Prime Minister's plan to escalate the war in Gaza. They demanded an end to the campaign and the release of hostages.
Germany, Italy, Great Britain, Australia, and New Zealand condemned Israel's plans for Gaza. They called for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian aid.
Hamas called Israel's plan to seize the Gaza Strip a "full-fledged war crime" that would come at a "high price. " The organization stated that it would make efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement.
Israel's Security Cabinet has approved a plan to take control of Gaza City. The plan includes disarming Hamas, returning hostages, and demilitarizing the Gaza Strip.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the country's plans to take full control of the Gaza Strip. The goal is to oust Hamas and transfer the enclave to civilian administration.
US President Donald Trump does not object to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plans to launch a new military operation to occupy the entire Gaza Strip. Israel's security cabinet will approve a "war expansion plan," Trump will allow the Israeli government to make its own decisions.
The UN expressed deep concern over reports of a possible expansion of Israel's military operations in the Gaza Strip. UN Assistant Secretary-General Miroslav Jenča emphasized that Gaza must remain part of a future Palestinian state.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will convene an expanded cabinet meeting to discuss the decision on the occupation of the Gaza Strip and the agreement on the return of hostages. Netanyahu is considering all available options for the next steps.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will seek cabinet support for a plan to fully occupy the Gaza Strip. The Israel Defense Forces already control 75% of the territory but oppose full seizure.
US President Donald Trump said that his special envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, will likely visit Russia on Wednesday or Thursday. Witkoff is currently focused on issues in the Gaza Strip, but Russia has invited him for a meeting.
Great Britain plans to evacuate up to 300 wounded and seriously ill children from the Gaza Strip for treatment on its territory. With each child, a guardian will be able to leave, and the evacuation of siblings is also being considered.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Hamas does not wish to conclude a hostage deal, but rather seeks to break Israel. He emphasized his determination to free the captives, destroy Hamas, and guarantee Israel's security.
The United Nations reported the deaths of 1373 Palestinians since late May 2025 while searching for food in Gaza. Deaths were recorded near aid distribution points and along food convoy routes.
British Foreign Minister David Lammy admitted feeling guilty during the conflict between Zelenskyy and Trump in the Oval Office. He believes he did not sufficiently support the Ukrainian delegation before the meeting.
US Presidential Envoy Stephen Witkoff announced the development of a plan to end the war in the Gaza Strip and rebuild the enclave. This plan is being developed jointly with the Israeli government, but Hamas is not ready to lay down arms without the creation of an independent Palestinian state.
Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff visited the Gaza Strip, where he discussed the humanitarian situation and the Iranian issue. The visit took place after criticism of the aid distribution system by Human Rights Watch.
The German army has launched an air bridge to the Gaza Strip, dropping 14 tons of humanitarian aid. The action is part of a joint project with Jordan, announced by the German Chancellor.
Hamas will not participate in negotiations with Israel until the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip improves. The US and Israel have formed a new agreement regarding negotiations.
Actor Leonardo DiCaprio has received final approval to build a 14-story luxury eco-hotel in Herzliya, Israel. The project, in which the actor owns a 10% stake, has drawn criticism due to its scale and the ongoing conflict in the region.
US President Donald Trump stated that strained relations with Putin and Netanyahu prevent him from receiving the Nobel Peace Prize. He is disappointed by the actions of both leaders regarding the continuation of wars in Ukraine and the Middle East.
Canada plans to recognize the state of Palestine in September 2025 at a UN meeting. This decision is driven by the spread of famine in Gaza and assurances from the Palestinian Authority regarding reforms.
Israel may annex part of Gaza if Hamas does not agree to a peace deal. Israeli cabinet member Zeev Elkin stated that territorial loss is the most painful for the enemy.
