‘Bibi-sitting’: US heavy-hitters take turns to supervise Israeli prime minister

Late-night hosts, including Seth Meyers, have taken aim at Donald Trump's controversial decision to demolish the East Wing of the White House to create a lavish $300 million ballroom. This move has sparked widespread criticism and mockery, as many see it as a blatant distraction from more pressing issues facing the nation. The demolition of a historic part of the White House for such extravagant purposes raises questions about priorities and the use of taxpayer money, making it a significant topic of discussion in the current political climate.

Hiba and Mohammad's return to Gaza City reveals the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict, as they find their family graves bulldozed and a bleak future ahead. This heartbreaking situation highlights the human cost of war and the struggles faced by families trying to rebuild their lives amidst destruction.

Australia's recent $20 million arms deal with Elbit Systems has sparked significant controversy, especially as it was signed just two weeks before a UN finding on genocide in Gaza. Critics argue that this contract reflects a troubling acceptance of Israel's actions in the region, raising ethical concerns about the federal government's stance on international human rights. This deal not only highlights the complexities of international relations but also puts Australia in a challenging position regarding its commitment to global humanitarian standards.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has made a strong statement asserting that Hamas should not be involved in the governance of Gaza, further claiming that the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, Unrwa, is effectively a subsidiary of Hamas. This declaration comes amid a tragic incident where at least 14 migrants lost their lives when their dinghy capsized in the Aegean Sea near Turkey's Bodrum. These events highlight the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region and the complexities surrounding governance and aid in Gaza.

Mervat Sarhan has recently returned to Gaza after spending nearly five months in Israeli detention, where she claims to have suffered severe abuse. Her story sheds light on the harsh realities faced by many detainees and raises important questions about human rights practices in the region.

The recent vote by the Israeli parliament to annex the West Bank has sparked significant controversy, especially after Donald Trump's declaration that he would forbid such actions. This situation is crucial as it highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and the complexities of international relations, particularly between Israel and the United States. The implications of this potential annexation could reshape the political landscape and impact peace efforts in the Middle East.

In a recent interview, US President Donald Trump cautioned Israel against annexing the West Bank, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism about a US-supported ceasefire in Gaza. This comes as Israeli lawmakers push forward with bills that could facilitate annexation, drawing criticism from Vice President JD Vance, who recently met with Prime Minister Netanyahu. The ongoing developments highlight the complex dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the challenges facing peace efforts in the region.

The UN has estimated that $70 billion is required to rebuild Gaza following extensive destruction. In a recent discussion, Charles Pellegrin spoke with Jaco Cilliersd, the UN development programme's representative for Palestine, about the challenges of clearing debris and preparing for reconstruction during a fragile ceasefire. This matter is crucial as it highlights the urgent need for international support and resources to restore stability and hope for the people of Gaza.

The US has conducted its tenth strike against alleged drug trafficking operations in the Caribbean, specifically targeting the Tren de Aragua cartel. This action, announced by Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, highlights the ongoing efforts to combat drug smuggling in the region. Such operations are crucial as they aim to disrupt the flow of illegal drugs, enhance regional security, and demonstrate the US's commitment to fighting organized crime.

Mark Carney has indicated that Canada is prepared to resume trade discussions with the United States whenever the American side is ready. This comes in the wake of President Biden's decision to halt negotiations over an advertisement featuring Ronald Reagan that criticized tariffs. The situation highlights the complexities of international trade relations and the importance of dialogue between neighboring countries.

This year marks 25 years since the UN Security Council linked gender equality to international peace and security, yet the world is facing a record number of active conflicts. This situation poses significant risks for women and girls, and alarmingly, only 10% of peace negotiations last year included female negotiators. Annette Young discusses these pressing issues with Chris Coulter, the executive director of The Berghof Foundation, highlighting the urgent need for women's involvement in peace processes.

Germany is actively seeking an exemption from the new US sanctions targeting the Russian oil giant Rosneft, particularly concerning its assets in Germany. This move is significant as it highlights the ongoing tensions between the US and Russia, while also reflecting Germany's reliance on Russian energy resources. The outcome of these discussions could impact energy prices and geopolitical relations in Europe.

In a surprising move, President Trump has announced the termination of all trade talks with Canada, citing an advertising campaign that features Ronald Reagan criticizing tariffs. This decision underscores the escalating tensions between the two nations and raises concerns about the future of trade relations. The ad's impact on U.S. Supreme Court discussions adds another layer of complexity, making it a significant moment in international diplomacy.

The mystery surrounding a missing Picasso still life painting has taken an unexpected turn, as investigations reveal it may not have even been loaded onto the van for its journey from Madrid to Granada. This incident, which sparked a police inquiry, highlights the complexities and vulnerabilities in the art transport process. Understanding what happened could lead to improved security measures for valuable artworks in transit.