Hamas Has Calculated It Can Survive in Gaza—and Rule

The recent ceasefire between Hamas and Israel has not brought peace to Gaza, as violence continues to erupt among various armed factions and clans vying for control. This ongoing turmoil is significant because it highlights the fragility of the ceasefire and the complex power dynamics at play, with some groups allegedly having connections to Israel. The situation remains dire for civilians caught in the crossfire, raising concerns about stability and security in the region.

The U.S. has imposed sanctions on Colombia's president and his family due to allegations related to the drug trade, marking a significant escalation in tensions with a leader who has historically been a close ally of the U.S. in South America. This move not only strains diplomatic relations but also raises concerns about the future of cooperation in combating drug trafficking in the region.

This week's photo gallery showcases significant global events, including the Louvre heist, daily life in Gaza, and Russian strikes on Kyiv, alongside cultural moments like sumo wrestling in London. These images not only capture the essence of current affairs but also highlight the diverse experiences and challenges faced by people around the world, reminding us of the power of visual storytelling in understanding our shared humanity.

The recent Louvre heist in France has raised concerns about security and cultural heritage, while Israel's decision to mark its control areas in Gaza has sparked fears of a permanent division, contradicting previous peace agreements. This situation is further complicated by Trump's sanctions on Russian oil companies and the stalled peace talks, leaving European allies of Ukraine to gather in London amidst ongoing tensions. These developments highlight the fragile state of international relations and the impact of political decisions on regional stability.

Over 6000 Ukrainian prisoners have been freed from Russian prisons since the war began, marking a significant moment for many families. However, the emotional and physical scars from their time in captivity remain, highlighting the long journey of healing ahead for these individuals. This situation sheds light on the broader impact of the conflict and the resilience of those affected, reminding us of the human cost of war and the importance of support for the liberated.

The U.S. has firmly rejected the roles of Hamas and UNRWA in Gaza, as the Israeli blockade on aid continues to create a dire humanitarian situation. Senator Marco Rubio emphasized that Israel should have the authority to veto countries involved in a proposed task force for Gaza. This stance highlights the ongoing tensions and the complexities of international aid efforts in the region, raising concerns about the impact on civilians who are in desperate need of assistance.

Sweden is enhancing its support for Ukraine, recently signing a letter of intent for up to 150 Gripen fighter jets. In a notable development, Ukraine is utilizing Sweden's crowd-forecasting platform, Glimt, which aggregates thousands of user responses to make predictions about future events, including those related to the ongoing war. This innovative approach not only aids in strategic planning but also highlights the collaborative efforts between nations during challenging times.

Recent protests in Israel have escalated as demonstrators block aid trucks at the Kerem Shalom crossing, claiming that Hamas has violated ceasefire agreements. This situation is critical as it highlights the ongoing tensions and humanitarian concerns in the region, affecting the delivery of essential supplies to Gaza amidst a complex conflict.

The recent mistaken release of Ethiopian national Hadush Kebatu, who was jailed for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl, has ignited nationwide protests. This incident highlights serious flaws in the asylum seeker management system and raises concerns about public safety. The manhunt for Kebatu underscores the urgency of addressing these issues to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Ontario has decided to pause its anti-tariff advertisement campaign following sharp criticism from U.S. President Trump, who called off trade talks. The ad, which features a recording of former President Ronald Reagan, has sparked controversy and highlights the tensions in U.S.-Canada trade relations. This pause reflects the delicate balance both regions must maintain in their economic interactions, especially in light of ongoing trade negotiations.

Pakistan's recent ban on a hard-line Islamist party highlights the ongoing tensions in the country, especially following violent clashes with police that resulted in multiple fatalities. This decision reflects the government's struggle to maintain order and address extremist views, which is crucial for the nation's stability and security.

The US Justice Department is set to send election observers to California and New Jersey following requests from Republicans who are concerned about potential irregularities. This move comes amid a backdrop of heightened political tensions and accusations from Democrats. The presence of federal observers aims to ensure a fair electoral process, which is crucial for maintaining public trust in the democratic system.

Keir Starmer expressed his deep disappointment following Labour's unexpected defeat in the Caerphilly by-election, marking the party's first loss in this constituency in a century. This loss is significant as it reflects shifting political dynamics and could impact Labour's strategy moving forward, especially as they prepare for future elections.

Tonight's Premier League match between Leeds and West Ham at Elland Road is generating excitement among fans. Leeds' manager Daniel Farke has praised goalkeeper Karl Darlow for his reliability, while also discussing the recent signing of Lucas Perri. This match is crucial as both teams aim to improve their standings in the league, making it a significant event for supporters and players alike.