Thursday briefing: While the ceasefire holds, Gaza continues to starve

Vice-President Vance and Secretary of State Rubio have expressed strong criticism of the Israeli parliament's recent vote to annex parts of the West Bank. Vance labeled the decision as 'stupid,' highlighting concerns over its implications for regional stability. Rubio warned that this move could jeopardize ongoing efforts for peace in Gaza, emphasizing the delicate balance needed in Middle Eastern politics. Their remarks underscore the potential fallout from such legislative actions, which could further complicate an already tense situation.

Israel has labeled the International Court of Justice's recent ruling as 'shameful' after it mandated the country to facilitate the flow of aid into Gaza. This decision is crucial as the UN aid agency has been unable to operate in the region since January, leaving many in dire need of assistance. The ruling comes at a time when humanitarian organizations are racing to provide essential support to the territory, highlighting the ongoing crisis. Additionally, Israel has recently returned the remains of unidentified Palestinians, further emphasizing the complex and tragic situation in the region.

Vance has criticized a recent vote in Israel to annex the West Bank, labeling it as 'stupid.' This vote, while largely symbolic, comes at a crucial time for President Trump's Gaza peace plan, highlighting the tensions and complexities surrounding the region's future. Vance's remarks underscore the challenges that such decisions pose to diplomatic efforts and the potential impact on peace negotiations.

Omar Rahman discusses the conflicting messages emanating from the White House regarding the Gaza ceasefire, highlighting the confusion and uncertainty that this creates. This matters because clear communication is crucial in international conflicts, and mixed signals can exacerbate tensions and hinder peace efforts.

Israeli airstrikes have struck various locations in eastern and southern Lebanon, reportedly targeting Hezbollah positions. This escalation in military action raises concerns about the ongoing conflict in the region and its potential impact on civilian safety and stability.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has raised concerns that the Knesset's vote to advance Israeli annexation of the West Bank could jeopardize the fragile ceasefire in Gaza. This warning comes as Rubio visits Israel to support the US-brokered truce, highlighting the delicate balance of peace in the region. The situation is critical, as any disruption could lead to renewed conflict, making it essential for international leaders to navigate these tensions carefully.

Today's photo selection from The Guardian showcases striking images from the West Bank, highlighting the olive harvest, alongside the ongoing impact of Russian drone attacks. These visuals not only capture the beauty of the olive trees but also serve as a poignant reminder of the complex geopolitical tensions affecting daily life in the region. It's a compelling juxtaposition that invites viewers to reflect on both the cultural significance of the olives and the harsh realities of conflict.

The recent preliminary approval by Israel's parliament to impose sovereignty over the occupied West Bank has drawn sharp criticism from the US, highlighting ongoing tensions in the region. This move is significant as it could escalate conflicts and undermine peace efforts, raising concerns about the future of Israeli-Palestinian relations.

A recent jewel heist at the Louvre Museum has been captured on video, showing two suspects escaping in a cherry picker. This incident is significant as it highlights security challenges even at the world's most-visited museum, raising concerns about the safety of priceless artifacts and the effectiveness of current security measures.

A class-action lawsuit against Rogers Communications is gaining traction as millions of Canadians receive notifications about potential compensation following a recent outage. This legal action is significant as it highlights the accountability of major telecom companies and the rights of consumers. If successful, it could lead to substantial payouts for affected customers, emphasizing the importance of reliable service in today's digital age.

In a crucial match at the Women's Cricket World Cup, India has set New Zealand a target of 325 runs from 44 overs as they chase a semi-final spot in Navi Mumbai. This match is significant as it showcases the competitive spirit of women's cricket and the growing interest in the sport, especially in India. Fans are eagerly following the updates, highlighting the importance of this tournament for both teams.

Toronto fire officials have assured the public that there is 'no risk' of Mimico Creek being affected by a recent five-alarm fire at a waste management facility in Etobicoke. This is great news for the community, as it alleviates concerns about potential environmental damage and highlights the effectiveness of the fire response. The swift action taken by the fire department has ensured that the situation is under control, allowing residents to feel safe and secure.

The U.S. has imposed sanctions on Russia's largest oil producers, targeting a critical sector of the country's economy during a particularly vulnerable period. This move is significant as it aims to weaken Russia's economic stability and reduce its ability to fund various activities, potentially impacting global oil markets and geopolitical dynamics.

The UK public accounts committee, led by Conservative chair Rachel Reeves, is set to inquire about Prince Andrew's rent-free housing arrangement at Royal Lodge. This scrutiny comes as part of a broader effort to ensure transparency regarding public funds and royal privileges. The inquiry is significant as it reflects ongoing concerns about accountability within the monarchy and the use of taxpayer money, especially in light of recent investments aimed at boosting the economy in the Oxford-Cambridge area.