West Bank olives and Russian drone attacks: photos of the day – Thursday

US Vice President JD Vance has criticized recent Knesset votes aimed at annexing the West Bank, calling them an 'insult' and a 'stupid political stunt.' In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has halted further progress on these bills. This situation is significant as it highlights the tensions between US and Israeli policies regarding the West Bank, a region central to ongoing conflicts and peace negotiations.

Recent visits by senior US officials to the Middle East signal a stern warning to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government against actions that could jeopardize the fragile Gaza ceasefire, particularly following a Knesset vote to annex parts of the West Bank. This situation is critical as it highlights the delicate balance of peace in the region and the potential consequences of political maneuvers that could escalate tensions.

Tensions between Israel and the United States have escalated as President Donald Trump publicly warned Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu against annexing the West Bank. This warning comes as Secretary of State Marco Rubio visits Israel to support a truce in Gaza. The situation is significant as it highlights the shifting dynamics in U.S.-Israel relations and the potential impact on peace efforts in the region.

The inquiry into grooming gangs led by Keir Starmer is facing significant backlash as survivors express frustration over the recruitment of chairs from professions that previously failed to protect them. This division highlights the ongoing struggle for justice and accountability, raising concerns about whether the inquiry will effectively address the issues at hand. The situation is critical as it affects the trust of survivors in the system meant to support them.

US Vice President Vance has criticized the recent vote by the Israeli parliament regarding the annexation of the West Bank, labeling it a 'political stunt.' He emphasized that former President Trump would not support such actions, highlighting the contentious nature of the issue. This matters because it reflects ongoing tensions in the region and the complexities of US-Israel relations, especially as political dynamics shift.

The Guardian's editorial critiques the Conservative Party's immigration policy, particularly its plans to revoke indefinite leave to remain, which echoes far-right ideologies. The piece highlights the troubling implications of such policies, suggesting they threaten the rights of individuals and promote a culture of fear. It also questions the effectiveness of the recent migration deal with France, indicating that the government's claims of success are premature. This discussion is crucial as it raises awareness about the potential human rights violations and societal impacts of stringent immigration measures.

During a recent two-day visit to Israel, US Vice President JD Vance firmly opposed any plans for Israel to annex the occupied West Bank. This stance is significant as it reflects the ongoing tensions in the region and the complexities of US foreign policy regarding Israel and Palestine. Vance's rejection of annexation could influence future diplomatic discussions and the peace process.

Conservative MP Katie Lam has sparked controversy within her party after suggesting that many legally settled individuals should be deported to enhance the UK's cultural coherence. This statement has led to complaints from fellow MPs to party whips, highlighting a growing confusion regarding the party's stance on indefinite leave to remain. Lam's comments not only raise questions about the party's immigration policy but also reflect a deeper divide within the Conservatives as they navigate complex issues surrounding cultural identity and immigration.

Recent arrests linked to gambling have revealed a shocking scheme involving the NBA, rigged poker games, and organized crime, with authorities estimating the fraud to be worth tens of millions of dollars. This situation is significant as it highlights the deep-rooted issues of corruption and crime within the gambling industry, raising concerns about the integrity of sports and the safety of players and fans alike.

During a recent visit to the Blue Jays' practice at the Rogers Centre, Carney humorously remarked that Trump is 'afraid' to make a bet on the World Series, highlighting Trump's aversion to losing. This light-hearted comment not only adds a touch of humor to the sports scene but also reflects the intersection of sports and celebrity culture, drawing attention to how public figures engage with sporting events.

EU leaders have postponed their decision on utilizing frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine, which was intended to help fund a significant loan of 140 billion euros. This delay highlights the complexities involved in international financial aid and the ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding the conflict in Ukraine.

EU leaders have failed to reach an agreement on using frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine's defense against the ongoing war, despite Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's urgent appeal for action. Belgium's opposition to the proposal, which aimed to utilize billions of euros in immobilized Russian central bank funds to finance a €140 billion loan for Ukraine, has stalled progress. This setback highlights the challenges the EU faces in providing timely support to Ukraine, raising concerns about the effectiveness of international efforts to hold Russia accountable.

Recent findings on Heard Island have raised alarms about a highly contagious strain of H5 bird flu potentially infecting elephant seals. This situation underscores the urgent need for Australia to prepare for a possible outbreak of this deadly virus. As officials emphasize the importance of vigilance, the news serves as a reminder of the ongoing threats posed by avian diseases and their impact on wildlife and public health.

RT has creatively envisioned a world where Western leaders are more honest about their actions, using AI-generated lookalikes to illustrate this concept. This thought-provoking approach invites viewers to reflect on the authenticity of political discourse and the importance of transparency in leadership. It matters because it challenges the status quo and encourages a dialogue about accountability in governance.