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Following President Trump’s return to Washington after his Beijing visit, focus has shifted to rising tensions with Iran and potential U.S. response options.

During a conversation with Axios, the president delivered a stern message to Tehran, stating that “the clock is ticking.” Trump further indicated that without Iran offering an improved deal proposal, “they are going to get hit much harder.”

According to insider sources, the president plans to convene with his senior national security team in the Situation Room on Tuesday to examine potential military responses. U.S. officials report this meeting comes after multiple high-level weekend consultations.

Trump held discussions Sunday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the Iranian situation. The previous day, he gathered with key advisors at his Virginia golf facility, including Vice President J.D. Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, White House envoy Steve Witkoff, and CIA Director John Ratcliffe.

Diplomatic channels remain active as Pakistan’s interior minister made a weekend trip to Tehran for discussions with Iranian officials. Pakistan currently functions as the designated intermediary between Washington and Tehran.

Separately, the United Arab Emirates’ sole nuclear facility suffered a drone attack. Officials report no significant damage or radiation release occurred, and no organization has claimed responsibility, though Iran remains under suspicion.

HARARE, Zimbabwe — Recent deadly disease outbreaks across Africa are spurring continental leaders to pursue greater independence from international health donors as global assistance has been cut in half during the past five years.

Declining aid exacerbated by policy changes is clashing with Africa’s rapidly expanding population exceeding 1.5 billion people. The latest Ebola outbreak involving a strain without approved treatments or vaccines follows closely after an unusual hantavirus outbreak aboard a cruise vessel that heightened continental health alerts.

Africa confronts “an equally dangerous threat” from funding shortfalls, according to Dr. Jean Kaseya, director-general of the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, who spoke while introducing an African health financing self-reliance program earlier this year.

“Every time we have an outbreak, many countries start to ask for partners because they don’t have in their budgets funding to respond, even to prepare for these outbreaks,” he stated during a briefing about the recent Ebola outbreak.

However, African nations recognize this dependency must end.

The Africa CDC describes the continent as currently experiencing “an unprecedented financing crisis.”

The organization reports that official development assistance has plummeted dramatically, declining from approximately $26 billion in 2021 to roughly $13 billion in 2025, as wealthy nations redirect focus toward broader geopolitical concerns like the Iran war and internal pressures.

For years, African leaders had promised to improve funding for their own healthcare systems, but these commitments stayed largely theoretical. A 2001 agreement called for countries to dedicate at least 15% of national budgets to health, yet among Africa’s 54 nations, only Rwanda, Botswana and Cape Verde remain on target.

“The conversation was somehow theoretical because the donor system was still functioning,” explained Dr. Alex Ajangba, a health financing expert and co-editor of the new African Journal of Health Economics, Systems and Policy. “But now that cushion is gone.”

He continued: “What we are seeing here is not a temporary dip of donor funding that we will recover from.”

Nations are speeding up efforts toward “health sovereignty,” with goals to fund and operate systems with significantly reduced dependence on external assistance.

Programs such as Ghana’s “Accra Reset” introduced in September, and the Africa Health Security and Sovereignty Agenda, endorsed by African leaders in February, seek to build long-term stability.

Health ministers are suggesting domestic approaches, including increased taxes on tobacco, alcohol and sugary beverages, combined procurement of medications to reduce expenses, expanding regional pharmaceutical and vaccine production and addressing system inefficiencies.

The urgency is clear. Africa purchases over 90% of its health supplies including vaccines and medications, while health crises — from mpox to cholera to Ebola — jumped from 153 outbreaks to 242 between 2022 and 2024, the Africa CDC reports. The organization aims for the continent to manufacture 60% of its vaccines by 2040.

“The word ‘health sovereignty’ has become a phrase that is used in almost every continental policy meeting right now,” Ajangba noted, cautioning it risks becoming merely a “slogan.”

Specialists say the continent possesses substantial wealth. Africa contains roughly 30% of global mineral reserves, including materials crucial to technology and renewable energy, yet much of this value disappears through unclear or weak agreements, illegal financial transfers, debt obligations and limited local mineral processing, with resources mainly exported unprocessed, Ajangba explained.

The continent loses approximately $40 billion yearly to illegal financial transfers in an extractive industry encompassing mining, gas and oil, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa states.

Beyond addressing these challenges, another central element of African nations’ move away from aid dependence involves co-financing, demanding countries contribute more alongside donors.

Gavi, the global vaccine alliance, reports that lower-income countries provided a record $302 million toward vaccines in 2025, and roughly $1 billion during the past five years.

“This creates predictability,” Gavi chief executive Sania Nishtar told The Associated Press. “Reliance on aid for basic services does not.”

Yet the transition can generate controversy. The Trump administration has promoted co-financing as a central requirement of the “America First” health agreements it has established with nearly two dozen African nations. These arrangements reshape aid to Africa by demanding countries increase domestic spending within specified timeframes or risk losing support.

Some countries have refused the proposed agreements, angered by U.S. requests for health data sharing without guarantees that nations will gain any benefits from it. Others condemn suggested exchanges of health support for natural resources.

While most governments agree Africa needs to advance toward self-sufficiency, critics argue some of the U.S. conditions impose unrealistic demands on already stretched economies.

“They are being set up to fail,” said Asia Russell, executive director of Health GAP, an international advocacy group. “When an administration says, ‘If you don’t hit these numbers, you’re not going to get resources anymore,’ that is extremely serious.”

Many African countries face increasing debt pressures. Currently, about 40% spend more on debt than health.

“Many of these countries have huge debt service and other challenges,” said Jen Kates, a senior vice president at the nonprofit KFF, which focuses on health policy. “At the end of the day, it’s going to be people who live in those countries who will feel the effects.”

Africa’s debt has climbed to approximately $1.2 trillion, the African Export-Import Bank reports, creating harsh choices. Debt payments consume roughly 19% of government income in sub-Saharan African countries, United Nations data shows.

Israeli military forces report they have successfully eliminated a major Hamas figure responsible for planning the October seventh attacks. The Israel Defense Forces and Israel Security Agency announced that Izz al-Din al-Haddad was killed during a targeted operation in Gaza City on Friday.

Military officials say al-Haddad led Hamas’s armed forces and was among the primary architects of the October seventh offensive. He had assumed control of military activities after the elimination of senior Hamas commanders Yahya Sinwar and Mohammed Sinwar.

Israeli authorities indicate al-Haddad was instrumental in overseeing Hamas’s captive operations, frequently positioning himself near hostages to avoid being targeted. Officials characterized him as among the organization’s most experienced leaders, having been involved with Hamas command for many years.

Regional diplomatic initiatives continue to face challenges. A high-ranking international official informed The Wall Street Journal that Hamas’s unwillingness to surrender weapons and its authority over Gaza’s civilian areas are blocking advancement toward comprehensive peace negotiations. Hamas has rejected these claims.

In another operation, American officials announce the elimination of a senior global ISIS commander in Africa.

U.S. authorities verified that American military personnel, collaborating with Nigerian forces, conducted what they termed a precisely coordinated mission in northeastern Nigeria. The objective, Abu Bilal al-Minuki, was considered the second-highest ranking ISIS leader internationally.

President Trump released a statement describing the operation as “flawlessly executed,” noting that al-Minuki had been among the most active terrorist commanders worldwide, participating in attack planning and directing kidnapping operations.

U.S. Africa Command reports the operation also eliminated other significant ISIS targets and represents part of ongoing efforts to sustain pressure on remaining terrorist organizations.

Additionally, a suspected international terror coordinator is now facing federal charges in the United States.

The FBI reports that an Iraqi individual, Mohammad Baqer Saad Dawood al-Saadi, has been transported to New York to answer charges connected to approximately twenty planned attacks throughout Europe.

Law enforcement officials claim al-Saadi organized activities for a pro-Iranian extremist organization, focusing on Jewish educational institutions, synagogues, and charitable organizations, along with American and Israeli targets.

FBI Director Kash Patel described the apprehension as a significant international achievement, stating it demonstrates continued efforts to prosecute high-level terror suspects.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened security discussions on Sunday as a Turkish-led convoy of vessels carrying pro-Palestinian activists approaches Gaza waters, seeking to challenge Israel’s maritime blockade.

The convoy includes 53 ships transporting approximately 400 activists and is anticipated to reach Israeli territorial waters in under 48 hours. The fleet launched from Turkey as the second mission of the Global Sumud Flotilla’s efforts to breach the Gaza blockade.

Weather conditions forced the convoy to make a temporary stop at a Greek island before continuing its journey. According to the Jerusalem Post, Netanyahu convened Israel’s security cabinet in preparation for the flotilla’s expected arrival.

This mission represents the second attempt by the Global Sumud flotilla, following an earlier effort in April when Israeli naval forces intercepted 20 vessels.

Israeli authorities have expressed particular concern about the participation of the Turkish IHH organization, which describes itself as providing humanitarian aid but has been classified by Israel as a terrorist entity due to its connections with Hamas. Participants in the current flotilla have links to IHH and associated organizations.

The IHH organization previously helped coordinate the 2010 Mavi Marmara flotilla, during which pro-Palestinian demonstrators attempted to break through Gaza’s naval blockade. When Israeli naval forces boarded the vessel, Shayetet 13 special forces faced armed resistance, with Israeli personnel sustaining injuries from attacks involving metal bars, knives, and other weapons.

The flotilla’s arrival coincides with ongoing delays in implementing the October 2025 ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, which has stalled before entering its second phase. The primary obstacle involves Hamas’s required disarmament under the agreement, which the organization has refused to accept.

The American-supported 20-point Gaza proposal outlined terms for an immediate ceasefire, the return of all Israeli hostages, expanded humanitarian assistance, and a gradual Israeli military withdrawal tied to security guarantees and Hamas disarmament.

The plan also established provisions for internationally monitored reconstruction and governance structures for Gaza, specifically excluding Hamas from future leadership roles and establishing long-term discussions focused on regional stability and eventual Palestinian self-rule.

The United Nations Security Council convened a recent meeting to examine developments in Syria, with UN representatives and member nations describing what they characterized as “real but fragile progress” while advocating for enhanced support regarding recovery, stability, and transitional justice initiatives. Meeting participants also issued warnings about the effects of decreasing humanitarian funding and continuing security concerns.

The gathering occurred while Syria experiences ongoing political and security transformations, attracting heightened international focus on initiatives to stabilize the nation, reconstruct government institutions, fight terrorism, tackle missing persons issues, and promote transitional justice programs.

Throughout the proceedings, UN representatives assessed the political, humanitarian, and security conditions in the country, highlighting that Syria is navigating a delicate period that demands continuous international backing, especially as indicators of relative progress appear in certain regions while major economic, humanitarian, and security obstacles remain.

Conversations also covered the homecoming of refugees and internally displaced individuals, methods to encourage early recovery, and the significance of maintaining international initiatives to prosecute violators, determine the status of missing individuals, enhance stability, and stop extremist groups from reemerging.

The US delegation to the United Nations presented an extensive statement containing distinct political and security messages about Washington’s strategy toward Syria’s current situation.

Tammy Bruce, deputy US representative to the United Nations, stated during comments made at the Security Council meeting in New York on May 15, 2026, that President Donald Trump and the United States “stand with the Syrian people in supporting genuine transitional justice and the rule of law in Syria.”

Bruce opened by expressing gratitude to the session chair, along with Deputy Special Envoy for Syria Najat Rochdi Cordone and Undersecretary-General Tom Fletcher for their presentations to the Council.

The US representative declared that recent detentions conducted by Syrian authorities targeting members of former President Bashar Assad’s administration, who faced accusations of crimes against Syrian citizens, constitute “a strong step away from impunity and toward accountability.”

She continued that the United States “stands in solidarity with the millions of survivors of Assad’s brutality,” encouraging the Syrian government to utilize resources and knowledge provided by international partners to advance transitional justice and accountability initiatives.

Bruce emphasized the significance of collaboration with the UN’s International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism, characterizing such organizations as fundamental to the justice process.

The US representative also discussed missing persons, observing that “hundreds of thousands of Syrian families, along with many American families, are still waiting for answers regarding their missing loved ones.”

She explained that Syria’s healing process demands advancement on this complicated humanitarian matter, noting that the Independent Institution on Missing Persons holds important knowledge that could assist these initiatives.

Bruce promoted close collaboration between the Syrian government and international partners to deliver answers for families of the disappeared, while encouraging UN member nations to maintain support for international organizations and the Syrian government in promoting transitional justice and accountability.

In a different portion of her speech, the US representative commended the initiative started by Syrian authorities targeting terrorist networks and criminal organizations.

She stated the Assad regime “allowed Hezbollah and Captagon trafficking networks to operate or turned a blind eye to them,” contributing to destruction across Syria and the wider region.

In contrast, she noted, the new Syrian government has dismantled Hezbollah-linked plots, seized drug shipments, and coordinated with Jordan and Lebanon to combat cross-border crime.

The United States also welcomed cooperation with Syria as a full member of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS [The Islamic State].

Bruce explained that the Syrian government is collaborating with the United Nations and other organizations to rehabilitate, repatriate, and reintegrate populations affiliated with ISIS from northeastern Syria into their original communities.

She urged countries whose nationals remain in those areas to engage with Syrian authorities regarding their citizens.

While welcoming recent developments, the US diplomat emphasized that “much remains to be done,” referencing the assassination of a Shiite cleric near Damascus on May 1.

She said the incident reflects the persistence of serious security challenges and called on member states to support Syrian law enforcement agencies through information-sharing and capacity-building.

Bruce also expressed Washington’s anticipation for an upcoming side event during the UN High-Level Week on Counter-Terrorism, organized by the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism in cooperation with the European Union and Syria, focusing on Damascus’ approach to confronting ISIS.

Wrapping up her comments, the US representative mentioned Cordone’s recent visit to Syria, commending what she termed the “constructive engagement” between his team and Syrian officials.

Washington also expressed support for relocating the office of the UN special envoy to Damascus “as soon as possible,” contending that the office’s presence in Syria would enable it to better support both the Syrian government and the Syrian people.

The viewpoints shared during the Security Council meeting reflected a growing international movement toward backing Syria’s journey to stability and recovery, amid rising acknowledgment that persistent economic and humanitarian decline could jeopardize any political or security achievements made in recent months.

The meeting also showed increased international attention on transitional justice, accountability, missing persons, and counterterrorism as vital elements of any lasting transition or stabilization effort.

Simultaneously, multiple participants emphasized that current advancement remains delicate and demands sustained international backing, coordination with UN organizations, and sufficient funding for humanitarian and early recovery programs.

The approach taken by the United States during the meeting seemed to indicate a significant change in Washington’s strategy toward Syria’s changing situation, especially through repeated mentions of the “new Syrian government” in favorable terms and the focus on security cooperation, transitional justice, and counterterrorism.

Similarly, requests to move the UN envoy’s office to Damascus and strengthen cooperation with Syrian institutions reflected a wider movement toward direct international involvement inside Syria in an attempt to strengthen stability and prevent extremist groups and chaos from returning.

With ongoing economic, security, and humanitarian difficulties, the upcoming period appears crucial for Syria’s future, as observers wait to see whether continuing international efforts can transform what UN officials termed “real progress” into a lasting pathway toward recovery and stability.

Following the collapse of the Assad government in December 2024, over 1.2 million Syrians have chosen to return home voluntarily from surrounding nations, data from Syria’s General Authority for Border Crossings and Customs shows. Yet for countless others still living in exile, the choice to go back involves weighing damaged infrastructure, unreliable services, limited employment opportunities, and established lives created during years away from their homeland.

Standing at a border checkpoint, Samer gripped his child’s hand as his wife observed their travel bags stacked near a waiting bus. His possessions were few: clothing, important papers, and cherished photos kept safe throughout years of displacement. The 35-year-old had chosen to leave Turkey after more than ten years to return to his northern Syrian hometown, understanding that his former home had changed and the life he once knew might be gone forever.

Speaking with The Media Line, he explained the choice wasn’t simple but followed years of feeling disconnected and emotionally unsettled. “Living in his homeland, even with hardship, seemed more bearable than remaining abroad indefinitely,” he said. However, he acknowledged concerns about Syria’s struggling economy, inadequate services, and challenges in providing for his children’s future.

Samer’s situation mirrors the complex decision confronting thousands of Syrians living in Turkey, Germany, Lebanon, the Netherlands, and other countries: determining whether returning home is truly feasible, or if years spent in exile have established lives that are either too secure or too intricate to abandon.

Mushir Al-Rimah, who leads the media department at Syria’s General Authority for Border Crossings and Customs, informed The Media Line that voluntary returns from nearby countries between the Assad regime’s fall in December 2024 and April 2026 totaled approximately 1.211 million individuals, with over 715,000 coming from Turkey.

Al-Rimah explained that the authority has streamlined border crossing processes by reducing bureaucratic hurdles at checkpoints, accelerating documentation procedures, and offering traveler assistance. Around 120,000 individuals have voluntarily returned from Lebanon to Syria since the start of this year, he noted.

“The services provided include buses inside border crossings, medical points, ambulances when needed, and arrangements for transporting furniture and luggage, along with full customs exemptions, as part of efforts to encourage voluntary return and ease the burden on returnees,” Al-Rimah stated.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) calculated that 1,630,874 Syrian refugees had returned to Syria since December 8, 2024, through April 30, 2026, with numbers climbing to 1,645,180 by May 14. UNHCR explains their figure comes from cross-referencing various data sources, accounting for differences with the Syrian border authority’s administrative records.

Despite this wave of homecomings, millions of Syrians remain outside their country. UNHCR’s regional refugee data indicates approximately 4.7 million registered Syrian refugees in the area, including 2.87 million Syrians registered by Turkey’s government and 1.79 million registered with UNHCR across Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, and Lebanon, plus over 43,000 registered in North Africa. Lebanon presents a unique situation: UNHCR records about 490,000 registered Syrian refugees there, while Lebanese officials estimate the country houses roughly 1.12 million displaced Syrians. Germany and other European nations also shelter large Syrian populations, many having secured protection status, citizenship, employment, housing, and school enrollment for their children, creating vastly different considerations than refugees in neighboring countries face.

While the statistics are substantial, they don’t reveal the complete picture. International assessments have cautioned that returning individuals encounter damaged infrastructure, unreliable basic services, limited employment, and massive reconstruction costs. International refugee policy guidelines mandate that returns must be voluntary, safe, and dignified.

For numerous Syrians, the decision varies dramatically based on their exile location. Those in Turkey and Lebanon often encounter different pressures and motivations compared to Syrians who established lives in Europe, where citizenship, property ownership, healthcare access, education, and children’s integration can strongly outweigh emotional connections to Syria.

Hikmat Al-Hassan, 32, shared with The Media Line that his asylum years in Germany gradually transformed into a stable, integrated existence. He mastered German, finished vocational training, joined the workforce, purchased a home, and gained citizenship. His children attended German schools. Returning now, he explained, would mean abandoning stability constructed over many years, particularly when Germany’s healthcare and educational systems are challenging to compare with Syria’s present circumstances.

Souma Taha, 37, a Syrian journalist residing in Germany, expressed a comparable struggle. She informed The Media Line that her family has become completely established after years of employment and education, securing citizenship, and homeownership. She views leaving that stability as a significant risk, especially since healthcare and educational needs cannot easily be assured at equivalent levels within Syria.

“She said that the decision to return remains a complex mixture of emotion and belonging on one hand, and logic and stability on the other,” she noted.

For Syrians in Turkey, the attraction of home may be more powerful, but practical obstacles remain substantial. Ibrahim Badanjki, 29, who resides in Turkey, explained to The Media Line that while the desire to return persists, it encounters one significant barrier: housing. Numerous Syrian homes are destroyed or require extensive renovation, while property costs have increased beyond what many expatriates earning limited incomes can afford. Returning without secured housing, he said, is practically unfeasible, despite the psychological strain of exile.

Sobhi Al-Bassas, 36, who lives in the Netherlands, informed The Media Line that return is presently impossible because his home has been destroyed. He also mentioned security challenges, lack of employment opportunities, and absence of a stable environment. For the time being, he said, staying abroad represents the most practical choice.

Abdul Hay Al-Ahmad expressed that he has long been prepared to return but is awaiting improvements in services and education, particularly for children, to prevent the shock of an abrupt transition. His perspective demonstrates how return involves not just individual decisions but family considerations.

Raghad Suleiman, a Syrian woman who gained Turkish citizenship and married a Turkish citizen, outlined another complicated aspect: social integration and education. She told The Media Line that children raised in Turkey or Europe encounter difficulties with Arabic and adjusting to different educational systems, along with limited job opportunities and hiring favoritism within Syria.

Medical requirements can also complicate return decisions. Abdullah Janniyat, a Syrian living in Turkey, highlighted declining free support for prosthetics and increasing reliance on private facilities, making treatment a significant financial burden for many affected Syrians.

Some returnees have made the opposite decision despite these challenges. Malath Assaf, a young Syrian woman who returned from Turkey to Syria, said that years of displacement strengthened rather than diminished her connection to Syria, despite recognizing the country’s economic and living hardships. She told The Media Line that hope for a dignified return continues to exist, regardless of time passed.

Yasser Al-Hammadi, a Syrian who returned to northern Syria from Turkey following the Assad regime’s fall, shared a similar perspective focused on personal connection. He said he returned to Syria without regret, describing the decision as deeply personal and dependent on each person’s circumstances and sense of stability.

Collectively, these accounts demonstrate that returning to Syria is no longer simply an emotional decision. It involves balancing housing, employment, education, healthcare, security, social identity, and the stability many refugees established abroad during over a decade of conflict.

The Assad regime’s fall opened a door many refugees believed was permanently closed, but walking through it requires more than governmental change. For some, Syria remains home regardless of life’s difficulties. For others, return remains a delayed plan, awaiting a roof, a school, employment, dependable electricity, medical care, or sufficient confidence that going back won’t mean starting over completely.

A delicate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas faces mounting pressure after Israeli forces eliminated Hamas’s chief military commander on Friday.

Both Hamas and Israeli security officials verified the death of Izz al-Din al-Haddad in the targeted operation.

Israeli authorities consider al-Haddad a key planner behind Hamas’s October 7, 2023, assault on Israel, which sparked a broader Middle Eastern conflict.

Ido Zelkovitz, who leads the Middle Eastern Studies program at Yezreel Valley College and serves as a research fellow at the University of Haifa, spoke to The Media Line about the significance of the operation. “This is a significant move,” Zelkovitz explained. “This is not only the elimination of the person in charge of Hamas’ military operations, but he also had the knowledge about Hamas’ deployment from the bottom up and was at the heart of Hamas’ organizational memory.”

Zelkovitz further noted the pressure on Hamas leadership: “What we are seeing is Hamas more and more preoccupied with its survival, alongside its natural efforts to keep and develop its strength. Israel is gradually eliminating all of its leadership, and they are busy running from one hiding place to another.”

Israeli defense minister Israel Katz stated that Israel viewed al-Haddad as blocking progress on the US-mediated agreement’s next phases.

A statement issued Friday night after confirming al-Haddad’s death declared: “He held our hostages captive under extreme cruelty, launched terrorist attacks against our forces, and refused to implement the agreement led by US President Trump to disarm Hamas and demilitarize the Gaza Strip.”

The assassination occurs during an impasse between the parties regarding the ceasefire’s continuation. The central dispute centers on Israel’s insistence that Hamas surrender its weapons, which the militant organization rejects while Israel maintains its non-negotiable stance. Israel pledged to oust Hamas from authority when launching its counteroffensive in October 2023.

The truce took hold two years afterward, in October 2025. Hamas freed all remaining Israeli captives, while Israeli troops pulled back from certain Gaza areas, maintaining positions along the “Yellow Line” – zones where Israeli forces may continue operating under the ceasefire terms.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced last week that Israel maintains authority over 60% of the Gaza Strip.

Speaking to an audience, he stated: “Today its 60%, tomorrow we shall see,” hinting at Israel’s future plans.

The existing arrangement, where Israel controls significant portions of Gaza while Hamas retains authority, creates conditions for inevitable future hostilities between the adversaries.

UN statistics indicate that humanitarian assistance entering Gaza has grown consistently since the ceasefire began. The region and its residents, who endured intensive Israeli military operations, sustained devastating damage, with recovery projected to require years.

Sharona Shir Zablodovsky, a public policy and national security specialist at the Dvorah Forum, told The Media Line: “The confrontation is inevitable. The humanitarian aid, which is aimed at helping the civilian population, is still being taken over by Hamas, which is trading with it, raising funds for its own rehabilitation.”

UN data reveals a substantial decrease in humanitarian supplies seized by Hamas or civilians before reaching designated recipients.

Gaza’s humanitarian conditions remain critical. Residents continue experiencing severe shortages of basic necessities, including food, potable water, and healthcare. Recent UN assessments indicate more than two million inhabitants require urgent aid, worsened by continuing hostilities and restrictions that impede relief distribution.

Although humanitarian supply flows have improved markedly since the ceasefire, delivery remains uneven, keeping many civilians reliant on international assistance. Ongoing military operations and political deadlock intensify the crisis, maintaining Gaza’s population in persistent vulnerability and uncertainty.

Each side blames the other for ceasefire violations, endangering President Trump’s comprehensive Gaza peace initiative. The plan faces obstacles from Hamas’s weapon retention and Israel’s continued military presence and attacks in Gaza.

The American strategy, developed by President Trump’s advisors Jared Kushner and Middle East special envoy Steve Witkoff, envisions Gaza’s demilitarization and replacement of Hamas with a technocratic administration. These phases should have commenced according to the timeline.

Zelkovitz observed the lack of progress: “In reality, we have not seen any steps taken in this direction. Hamas has not accepted the basic conditions, and what we are seeing is a gradual intensification of the fighting between the sides.”

Zablodovsky shared similar concerns about deteriorating conditions, contending that Gaza’s fundamental dynamics remain essentially unchanged, forecasting additional violence for both parties.

“We are reaching a boiling point; the question is when the confrontation will come and what the intensity will be,” Zablodovsky stated. “As long as Hamas controls territory, with popular support, we are back at square one, and things haven’t changed.”

She added: “Israel’s policy needs to be to use more force and further promote voluntary immigration of Palestinians from Gaza.”

Shortly after taking office last year, President Trump suggested Gaza’s complete population relocate to neighboring nations during reconstruction. The proposal generated widespread international condemnation and rejection, with critics arguing it constituted forced displacement violating Palestinians’ homeland rights. Advocates presented the concept as addressing Gaza’s destruction and humanitarian emergency. Netanyahu’s senior coalition members welcomed the idea, viewing it as advancing their Gaza reoccupation aspirations.

Limited numbers of Gazans have departed through evacuation, medical transfer, and emigration programs since hostilities began. Complete permanent resettlement data remains unavailable, but available figures suggest minimal trends.

Meanwhile, Israel continues expanding its territorial control in Gaza.

While Hamas and international observers consider this Israeli ceasefire violations, Israel frames it as punishment for Hamas violations – specifically weapon retention and blocking technocratic governance in Gaza.

Zelkovitz explained Israel’s position: “It is also an Israeli statement about its operational intentions, giving it more control over territory that is needed in order to guarantee the safety of its forces in Gaza. Hamas has shown no interest in changing the reality on the ground the way the US and Israel want it to change.”

Following the ceasefire, Israel has expanded its Gaza presence and continued targeting Hamas positions. The Hamas-controlled Gaza Health Ministry reports over 850 Palestinian deaths since the truce began last fall.

Hamas has issued multiple recent declarations refusing disarmament.

Currently, both Hamas and Israel appear managing confrontation levels without major armed conflict escalation.

“We could see a re-run of what we saw before the war,” Zablodovsky warned, referencing nearly two decades when Hamas strengthened while Israel overlooked the buildup.

The ceasefire’s instability may not immediately trigger confrontation, but could create conditions where Israeli forces remain in Gaza alongside Hamas control of territory sections. However, the combination of military actions, humanitarian requirements, and political maneuvering displays characteristics of an unstable situation that could rapidly deteriorate.

International nuclear safety officials are condemning a drone attack that sparked a fire near a nuclear power facility in the United Arab Emirates on Sunday morning.

The International Atomic Energy Agency announced on social media that UAE authorities reported radiation levels at the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant remained within normal ranges following the incident. No personnel were injured when the drone strike ignited a fire in an electrical generator positioned beyond the facility’s inner security boundary.

According to the agency’s statement: “The IAEA has been informed by the UAE that radiation levels at the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant ( NPP) remain normal and no injuries were reported after a drone strike this morning caused a fire in an electrical generator located outside the inner site perimeter of the NPP.”

Emergency backup diesel generators have taken over electrical supply for the plant’s third unit while officials assess the damage. The IAEA confirmed it maintains ongoing communication with UAE officials and stands ready to offer support if requested.

“Emergency diesel generators are currently providing power to the NPP’s unit 3. The IAEA is following the situation closely and is in constant contact with the UAE authorities, ready to provide assistance if needed,” the agency stated.

IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi voiced serious alarm about the attack, declaring that any military operations that endanger nuclear facilities are completely unacceptable. The director general renewed his appeal for armed forces to exercise extreme caution around nuclear installations to prevent potential atomic accidents.

This attack occurred following Iran’s massive assault on the United Arab Emirates involving thousands of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones during recent hostilities. The Iranian offensive targeted both the Al Dhafra Air Base and various civilian and energy facilities throughout the UAE.

Political developments are also unfolding as President Donald Trump reportedly weighs additional military responses against Iran after completing diplomatic talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. Trump was scheduled to hold discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday.

Speaking Sunday morning, Netanyahu stated: “Our eyes are also open regarding Iran. I will speak today, as I do every few days, with our friend President Trump.”

“I will certainly hear impressions from his trip to China, and perhaps other matters as well. There are certainly many possibilities, and we are prepared for every scenario,” Netanyahu added.

Lebanon and Israel have reached an agreement to extend their current ceasefire for an additional 45 days after two days of negotiations mediated by the United States in Washington, officials announced Friday.

The talks aimed to move forward with discussions for a more comprehensive agreement, even as violence persists along the border between the two nations.

Tommy Pigott, a spokesperson for the US State Department, described Friday’s meetings between Israeli and Lebanese officials on Thursday and Friday as “highly-productive.”

“The April 16 cessation of hostilities will be extended by 45 days to enable further progress,” Pigott said.

According to Pigott, political talks are set to continue in Washington on June 2 and 3, with military representatives from both nations planning to meet separately at the Pentagon on May 29 for security-focused discussions.

The ceasefire extension occurs amid continued violence between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah terrorist organization. Talks have moved forward even as Hezbollah has launched drone and rocket strikes against Israel Defense Forces (IDF) personnel in southern Lebanon and northern Israel.

On Saturday, the IDF reported that Capt. Maoz Israel Recanati, 24, a platoon commander in the Golani Brigade’s 12th Battalion from Itamar, died in southern Lebanon when an explosive drone hit troops in the region.

Recanati became the 20th Israeli soldier to die in Lebanon during Operation Roaring Lion and the seventh fatality since the ceasefire began.

His death came one day after Staff Sgt. Negev Dagan, 20, from Dekel, was killed in southern Lebanon by Hezbollah mortar attacks.

Israeli forces have maintained their military operations against what they identify as Hezbollah positions in Lebanon.

Despite ongoing US-mediated negotiations, Hezbollah has refused direct dialogue and remains opposed to any broad peace deal with Israel. The organization has called diplomatic efforts with Israel pointless and labeled the negotiations as a “grave sin” and a “gratuitous and humiliating concession.”

In contrast, the Lebanese government officially advocates for dismantling Hezbollah’s weapons and ensuring the state maintains exclusive control over arms within the country. The government in Beirut also supports strengthening the Lebanese Armed Forces’ authority and eliminating Hezbollah’s separate military operations.

Bulgaria celebrated its maiden Eurovision triumph Saturday evening as singer Dara’s performance of “Bangaranga” topped the international song contest, while Israel’s contestant Noam Bettan claimed second place with “Michelle” for the nation’s back-to-back runner-up finish.

Dara accumulated 516 total points to secure Bulgaria’s historic first Eurovision championship, combining 312 votes from television audiences with 204 points from professional juries. Bettan’s total reached 342 points through 220 public votes and 123 jury selections. Though Israel ranked third among television viewers and eighth with jury panels, Bettan’s combined score earned the overall second-place finish.

The Israeli contestant’s performance drew mixed reactions from the arena crowd, with both cheers and jeers from protesters who opposed Israel’s contest participation. Following his song, Bettan called out “Am Yisrael Chai!”

Yuval Tzafir, who leads the Israeli delegation and directed “Michelle,” spoke to Israeli media about the achievement. “We brought enormous pride to the country in a difficult time. Second place twice is a huge victory. I’m proud of Noam–a true prince,” Tzafir stated.

This marks Israel’s second consecutive runner-up result, following last year’s second-place showing by Yuval Raphael performing “A New Day Will Rise.” Tzafir characterized Bettan’s Eurovision appearance as among Israel’s most impressive contest performances.

In his post-competition interview with Ynet, Bettan expressed satisfaction with the outcome. “Thank God who blessed us with second place. I feel proud, I feel like we won,” he said.

When questioned about the negative audience reactions during vote announcements, Bettan responded: “I heard them, but like lions we raised the flag and shouted ‘Am Yisrael Chai.’ We’re not ashamed of who we are.”

Bettan also reflected on his Eurovision experience, saying: “I didn’t know what to expect. I came without expectations and without thinking about what tomorrow would bring. I truly enjoyed it – from beginning to end.”

The Young Greens of Austria addressed the controversy surrounding Israel’s contest participation through an Instagram video that condemned antisemitism and criticized negative treatment of the Israeli delegation.

“Boycotting Israel’s participation in Eurovision, booing and harassing the Israeli artists will not free Palestine,” the organization stated. “What it will do is contribute to a hateful environment against Jews that makes Jewish life in Europe more and more unsafe. Which is why we’re giving zero points to antisemitism!”

The Israeli team encountered multiple technical difficulties before the final performance. According to Ynet reports, specialists flew in from Israel to address malfunctions with diamond display equipment used in rehearsals, while a costume specialist arrived to modify outfits for the dance performers.

Additionally, lead dancer Lihi Freud sustained a head injury when struck by a camera operated by an Austrian production cameraman during practice sessions.

“I choose to believe it wasn’t intentional. These things happen in the dance world,” Freud commented, noting she felt “shocked” and “dazed” before medical personnel approved her participation in the final show.

International financial markets experienced widespread declines while crude oil prices surged Monday following President Trump’s stern message to Iran that time is running out on stalled peace talks. Stock futures in the United States dropped as Asian markets retreated from recent record highs.

Additionally, authorities reported that a drone attack ignited a blaze near the United Arab Emirates’ only nuclear facility on Sunday, describing it as an “unprovoked terrorist attack.” While no group claimed responsibility, the incident underscored growing tensions as both the United States and Iran indicated their readiness to resume hostilities.

President Trump announced Monday his decision to drop a $10 billion legal action against the Internal Revenue Service regarding leaked tax documents, following reports suggesting a settlement was imminent.

The announcement came through a court document filed in federal court in Florida, where the legal challenge originated.

ABC News reported last week that Trump was willing to abandon his legal case as part of an agreement establishing a $1.7 billion compensation fund for presidential allies who claim they faced wrongful investigation and prosecution.

The court paperwork did not specify details of any proposed settlement.

More than three weeks have passed since the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner descended into chaos when an armed individual entered the Washington Hilton lobby and began shooting in what prosecutors describe as an assassination attempt against President Donald Trump, yet no new date has been set.

The association “continues to weigh options for rescheduling the event,” stated its president, Weijia Jiang of CBS News, speaking from China last week while covering Trump — she had taken cover alongside him when gunfire erupted that evening.

“We will do this again,” Jiang declared at the time. Trump posted on social media that the dinner would be rescheduled within 30 days (though that decision isn’t his to make), which would place it later this month.

Such timing appears unlikely, particularly for an event designed to host nearly 3,000 attendees. WHCA board members are exploring smaller venues, according to someone familiar with the planning, recognizing that any rescheduled event would need significant downsizing — addressing both financial and security considerations.

South Carolina lawmakers will begin comprehensive discussions Monday about redrawing the state’s congressional boundaries, launching what could be a contentious debate over whether to satisfy Trump’s push for a U.S. House map that might deliver complete Republican control.

Similar heated discussions have already occurred in Tennessee, Alabama and Louisiana as Republicans aggressively pursue opportunities created by a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision that reduced Voting Rights Act protections for minority-majority districts. This ruling has enabled Republicans to reconfigure districts with significant Black populations that traditionally elect Democrats.

In South Carolina, this strategy targets the seat held by U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn, the sole Democrat among the state’s seven House representatives.

Early voting begins May 26 for South Carolina’s statewide primaries scheduled for June 9. Beyond congressional redistricting, pending state House legislation would shift U.S. House primaries to August. After House passage, the measure would proceed to the Senate.

China has committed to increasing purchases of U.S. agricultural goods including beef and poultry, agreeing to buy at an annual rate of $17 billion starting in 2026 and maintaining that level through 2027 and 2028, the White House announced Sunday.

China will restore access for U.S. beef imports and resume poultry purchases from states that the U.S. Department of Agriculture certifies as bird flu-free, according to the White House. These agreements supplement China’s soybean purchase commitments from last year.

The deals provide some relief for American farmers hurt by trade disputes as they lost a crucial export market for soybeans and other crops. Farmers face additional challenges from Trump administration policies — the conflict launched by the U.S. and Israel against Iran has disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical trade route that has limited global fertilizer supplies and driven prices higher.

A drone attack ignited a fire near the United Arab Emirates’ only nuclear power facility on Sunday in what officials termed an “unprovoked terrorist attack.” No organization was identified as responsible, but the incident highlighted escalating war risks as the United States and Iran demonstrated their willingness to resume fighting.

No injuries or radiation releases were reported. The UAE, which houses air defense systems and personnel from Israel, has recently blamed Iran for drone and missile strikes. Tensions have increased around the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial energy shipping lane controlled by Iran, which faces a U.S. naval blockade.

The current ceasefire remains fragile, with diplomatic efforts toward lasting peace having stalled. Fighting has intensified between Israel and the Iran-supported Hezbollah militant organization in Lebanon despite an official ceasefire agreement.

Global stock markets primarily declined while oil prices jumped Monday after Trump cautioned Tehran that the “clock is ticking” as U.S.-Iran peace negotiations stall.

U.S. futures dropped while Japanese and South Korean markets retreated from record levels. In early European trading, Britain’s FTSE 100 gained 0.1% to 10,205.31. France’s CAC 40 declined 0.9% to 7,883.42, and Germany’s DAX fell 0.1% to 23,925.82.

During Asian trading hours, Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 dropped 1% to 60,815.95, with technology stocks leading the decline. The index reached historic intraday peaks above 63,000 last week.

The 10-year Japanese government bond yield jumped to 2.8%, its highest point since the late 1990s. This reflects a broader trend toward higher yields as the Bank of Japan gradually increases interest rates and rising energy costs fuel inflation expectations. The yield stood around 2.55% just one week earlier.

Pakistan has delivered an updated Iranian peace proposal to the United States as diplomatic efforts to end the Middle East conflict remain deadlocked, according to a Pakistani source who spoke to Reuters on Monday.

“We don’t have much time,” the source warned when questioned about closing the negotiation gaps, noting that both nations “keep changing their goalposts”.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei verified that Tehran’s position had been “conveyed to the American side through mediator Pakistan”.

U.S. President Donald Trump declared last week that a ceasefire agreement with Iran, established in early April, was “on life support” following Tehran’s response to an American proposal, which highlighted significant remaining disagreements between both parties on multiple matters.

Key obstacles blocking progress in negotiations include Iran’s nuclear ambitions and its control over the Strait of Hormuz, where Tehran has halted shipping operations that typically transport one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies.

Iran has demanded a complete end to warfare across all theaters, including Lebanon, where U.S. ally Israel is engaged in combat with Iran-backed Hezbollah militants. Tehran has refused to address its nuclear programme until achieving a “permanent end of hostilities”.

Tehran’s additional demands include war damage compensation, termination of the U.S. naval blockade, guarantees against future attacks, and the restoration of Iranian oil sales.

Baghaei stated Tehran was ready for any outcome.

“As for their threats, rest assured that we are fully aware of how to respond appropriately to even the smallest mistake from the opposing side,” Baghaei declared during a televised weekly press conference.

Pakistan has delivered an updated Iranian peace proposal to the United States in an effort to resolve the ongoing Middle East conflict, a Pakistani source revealed to Reuters on Monday. The source cautioned that negotiating parties “don’t have much time” to bridge their remaining disagreements.

The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei subsequently verified that Tehran’s position had been “conveyed to the American side through Pakistan,” though he declined to provide specific details about the proposal’s contents.

A tenuous ceasefire remains active following six weeks of conflict that erupted after U.S.-Israeli military strikes against Iran. However, Pakistan-mediated negotiations have reached an impasse, prompting U.S. President Donald Trump to describe the current truce as “on life support.”

The Pakistani source declined to elaborate on the specifics of the updated proposal. When questioned about the timeline for resolving outstanding issues, the source expressed frustration that the parties “keep changing their goalposts” and emphasized: “We don’t have much time.”

The United States has called on Tehran to dismantle its nuclear capabilities and end its effective blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway that typically handles one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.

Iran has countered by demanding financial compensation for war-related damages, termination of U.S. blockades on Iranian ports, and cessation of hostilities across all theaters, including Lebanon where Israel continues fighting the Iran-supported Hezbollah militia.

In a weekend post on Truth Social, Trump warned that “the Clock is Ticking” for Iran, stating “they better get moving, FAST, or there won’t be anything left of them. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE!”

According to an Axios report, Trump is scheduled to convene with senior national security advisers on Tuesday to evaluate options for potentially resuming military operations.

Nuclear ambitions remain another significant obstacle in the negotiations. The United States and other major powers seek assurances that Iran will not pursue nuclear weapons development.

Tehran maintains it has no intention of developing such weapons and continues to seek war damage compensation, guarantees against future attacks, and restoration of Iranian oil export operations.

Baghaei indicated Tehran was ready for any eventuality, telling a televised weekly press briefing: “As for their threats, rest assured that we are fully aware of how to respond appropriately to even the smallest mistake from the opposing side.”

While hostilities have diminished since the April ceasefire implementation, Iran has continued launching drone attacks toward Gulf nations that host U.S. military installations.

A drone strike ignited a fire at a nuclear facility in the United Arab Emirates, officials reported Sunday, while Saudi Arabia announced intercepting three incoming drones.

Iran escalated its UAE attacks this month following Trump’s announcement of a naval operation to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which he called off after 48 hours.

Global financial markets declined Monday as the recent drone incidents drove up oil prices and bond yields, raising concerns about inflation.

Trump, facing November midterm elections that pose political challenges for his Republican Party, conducted discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping last week but failed to secure Chinese assistance in resolving the crisis.

The shipping disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz have triggered the most severe oil supply shortage in recorded history, driving crude prices up by 50% or more.

Some White House officials express concern that Trump’s foreign policy approach and its impact on domestic gasoline costs could jeopardize Republican congressional control, particularly as war-weary Americans prioritize living expenses over international conflicts.

Transportation workers across Kenya launched a nationwide work stoppage Monday, bringing the capital city of Nairobi to a standstill as they demonstrated against soaring fuel costs.

The strike left travelers without options throughout various neighborhoods while downtown areas sat empty. Those with personal cars chose to remain at home as demonstrators set tire fires across main thoroughfares.

School officials from the Kenya Association of Private Schools recommended that member institutions evaluate student safety for travel to classes, leading most educational facilities to switch to remote learning for the day.

Fuel costs in Kenya reached unprecedented levels last Friday, with diesel jumping 23.5% and gasoline climbing 8%.

President William Ruto, currently traveling outside the country, has not yet addressed the new pricing. During the previous price adjustment in April, he linked increases to the Iran war while cutting taxes to limit price spikes at that time.

The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry warned Friday that the higher fuel costs would impact all goods and services throughout the nation.

“The April–May comparison shows that while global crude oil prices increased by about 10.7%, Kenya’s diesel price rose by 23.5% over the same period. This points to the continued role of domestic cost buildup,” the chamber of commerce said in a statement.

Former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua, who switched to the opposition following his impeachment in October 2024 over corruption, pointed to corrupt businesspeople seeking higher profit margins as the cause of the dramatic price surge.

He drew comparisons between Kenya’s fuel costs and those in nearby landlocked nations that depend on Kenyan ports for fuel imports, including Uganda, where prices remain lower.

Kenya functions as a critical transportation center for merchants bringing goods through Mombasa’s port for overland distribution.

Hungary and Ukraine announced plans Monday to start high-level discussions regarding the treatment of ethnic Hungarians living in Ukraine, signaling a possible improvement in the strained relationship between the two neighboring nations.

Relations between the countries had deteriorated over several years under Hungary’s previous pro-Russian administration led by former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, which declined to offer financial or military support to help Ukraine defend against Russia’s full-scale invasion.

Orbán, who lost power in a decisive April election, had defended many of his administration’s anti-Ukraine positions by citing alleged limitations on language and educational opportunities for approximately 100,000 ethnic Hungarians residing in Ukraine’s Zakarpattia region.

Ukraine enacted legislation in 2017 requiring Ukrainian as the primary language of instruction beyond fifth grade, which was designed to counter Russian influence but also impacted other minority languages, creating frustration among Romanian, Bulgarian and Hungarian communities.

Hungary’s new Foreign Minister Anita Orbán announced on X Monday that “expert-level consultations aimed at resolving the rights of the Hungarian minority” would commence as early as this week.

These discussions will establish “an important foundation for the prompt and reassuring settlement of minority rights issues,” Orbán posted, noting she has no family connection to the former prime minister.

“I trust that the dialogue will be constructive and productive, and that the negotiations will soon bring tangible progress for the Hungarian community,” she added.

The initiative represents an early indication that bilateral relations, which had reached historic lows under Orbán’s leadership, might be improving. His nationalist-populist administration had obstructed vital European Union assistance to Ukraine, delayed sanctions against Moscow, and threatened to hinder Ukraine’s eventual EU membership aspirations.

Leading up to the April vote, Orbán’s administration conducted an intense anti-Ukraine campaign, portraying the neighboring nation as a fundamental danger to Hungary that could devastate its economy and force involvement in the conflict.

However, the victory of the center-right Tisza party and its leader, Prime Minister Péter Magyar, has raised expectations that Hungary’s new leadership would adopt a more collaborative stance.

Demonstrating the dramatic shift in Moscow relations following Magyar’s election, Hungary’s new foreign minister recently called in the Russian ambassador regarding a major drone attack in Zakarpattia — an action that would have been nearly impossible during Orbán’s 16-year rule.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described the diplomatic summons in Budapest as an “important message” and expressed gratitude to the new administration for its response.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha posted on X Monday that his government stands “ready to open a new, mutually beneficial chapter in Ukrainian-Hungarian relations without delay,” seeking to “restore trust and good-neighborly relations between our countries.”

Sybiha noted that during a telephone conversation with Anita Orbán, he had expressed appreciation for “the Hungarian government’s principled and swift reaction to the latest Russian strikes against Ukraine.”

ROME (AP) — A violent incident involving a vehicle and knife attack in Modena has sparked a national conversation about immigration integration in Italy, according to the country’s interior minister who spoke publicly Monday.

Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi stated that while terrorism has been ruled out, the weekend attack cannot be viewed as simply an isolated incident, emphasizing it reveals significant issues with social integration and community distress.

The violence occurred Saturday when a 31-year-old Italian citizen of Moroccan heritage drove his vehicle into pedestrians before crashing through a store window, injuring eight people with four in critical condition.

Law enforcement identified the suspect as Salim El Koudri, who officials say tried to escape on foot and used a knife to injure another person before being subdued by witnesses and arrested by police. He faces charges including massacre and aggravated injury, with a court decision on his detention expected Monday.

Speaking to Il Giornale newspaper, Piantedosi emphasized that investigators found no evidence of terrorist planning, instead pointing to what he called “a real and serious issue of social distress” combined with mental health problems.

“At this stage, there are no elements that correspond to the classic profile of a terrorist who plans violent actions,” Piantedosi said. “But all this cannot lead us to dismiss the attack as the act of an isolated madman.”

The minister characterized the civilian attack as “of absolute gravity,” stating it brings up “profound questions” regarding integration, identity and social marginalization, especially concerning some second-generation immigrants.

Local officials revealed that the suspect was born in Italy, attended university, had received a personality disorder diagnosis, and expressed dissatisfaction with his employment and social circumstances.

Piantedosi also referenced an email El Koudri had sent to his educational institution containing offensive remarks about Christians, though he later issued an apology, potentially indicating resentment connected to perceived unfair treatment.

“He may have been driven by resentment linked to a sense of having suffered discrimination,” Piantedosi said, while noting that investigators continue working to determine the complete motivation behind the violence.

The incident has intensified political discussions in Italy, where migration control and restrictions represent a central component of Premier Giorgia Meloni’s conservative political platform.

However, Piantedosi attempted to separate the Modena incident from the administration’s immigration policies, emphasizing the perpetrator’s citizenship status.

“We are working on repatriations of foreign nationals who commit crimes, but here we are talking about an Italian citizen,” he said in the interview. “This is something different.”

Nevertheless, the minister connected the event to wider integration difficulties, contending that legal documentation, citizenship or higher education do not automatically ensure successful community integration.

Piantedosi also cautioned against oversimplifying the situation by focusing exclusively on mental health aspects. Officials noted the man received treatment in 2022 for what they described as a schizoid disorder before discontinuing his care.

“It would be superficial to deny psychiatric discomfort, just as it would be to use it to avoid a broader reflection on social and cultural fragilities,” the minister said.

The violence prompted strong political responses throughout Italy. Deputy Premier Matteo Salvini, who leads the anti-immigration League party, called the suspect a “second-generation criminal” on social media, reiterating demands for tougher immigration policies.

Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani disputed that description, emphasizing that the man holds Italian citizenship rather than being a migrant. Tajani planned to visit Modena Monday to see the injured victims.

Opposition politicians also condemned efforts to use the attack for political gain, while local leaders rejected attempts to connect the violence with immigration issues.

The incident has also brought renewed attention to second-generation Italians — individuals born or raised in Italy to immigrant parents — who frequently become focal points in discussions about identity, citizenship and community integration.

Italy’s citizenship laws mean many such individuals do not receive automatic Italian recognition at birth and must pursue citizenship through application processes later. They often encounter integration-related pressures, including difficulties in education, job markets and social acceptance, despite being raised in Italy.

Modena Mayor Massimo Mezzetti dismissed broad generalizations about foreigners as “nonsense,” highlighting that two Egyptian migrants were among the people who helped restrain the attacker.

Thousands of community members assembled in Modena’s main Piazza Grande during the weekend to demonstrate support for the victims.

One woman continues to face life-threatening injuries from the crash, while other victims also suffered serious harm, according to officials.

A Nobel Peace Prize-winning human rights advocate from Iran has been released from hospital care following treatment for a suspected heart attack, according to a family-operated foundation that announced the news Monday.

Narges Mohammadi, age 54, received the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize in 2023 while serving time behind bars for her work promoting women’s rights and fighting against capital punishment in Iran.

The activist received an additional prison sentence earlier this year in February, the foundation reported, during the period leading up to military conflict between the U.S. and Israel against Iran.

Medical emergency struck Mohammadi in late March when she experienced what doctors believed was a heart attack. Hospital treatment began a month afterward, starting at a medical facility in the northwestern city of Zanjan. Following a temporary halt to her prison sentence with significant bail requirements, she was moved to Tehran’s Pars Hospital for continued care.

“Her recovery demands strict medical supervision outside prison walls. Returning her to detention is a death sentence,” Mohammadi’s daughter, Kiana Rahmani, stated according to the foundation.

Officials from the foreign ministry did not provide an immediate response when asked for comment, and state-controlled media outlets have not covered the situation.

Mohammadi’s repeated imprisonments have drawn international concern. Her most recent arrest occurred in December following her public criticism regarding the death of lawyer Khosrow Alikordi. Legal officials told media representatives that she had made inflammatory statements during Alikordi’s memorial service.

The Nobel committee responded to her detention by demanding Tehran release her without delay.

“Narges Mohammadi was initially hospitalized in the CCU of Mousavi Hospital in Zanjan from May 1st to May 10th,” the foundation reported.

“After 150 days since her brutal arrest in Mashhad… following a temporary suspension of her sentence, she was transferred by an ambulance to the CCU of Pars Hospital in Tehran from May 10th to May 17th,” the foundation continued.

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi of Iran has been discharged from a Tehran medical facility following more than two weeks of treatment, according to her supporters who announced the news Monday.

Supporters are urging that the 54-year-old Mohammadi remain at her residence for continued medical care and daily physical therapy sessions.

On May 1, Mohammadi required emergency transport from her prison facility to a medical center in northwestern Iran after losing consciousness. Nearly 10 days following that incident, she was granted bail and moved to the Tehran hospital facility where medical specialists conducted examinations.

The Nobel Prize was awarded to her in 2023 during her incarceration, and she has faced multiple imprisonments during her activism career. Her current detention period started in December following her arrest in Mashhad, a city in northeastern Iran.

According to her family members, her physical condition had been declining while incarcerated, partially due to severe physical assault during her arrest. She experienced cardiac arrest in March and has been dealing with a lung blood clot that predates her imprisonment, requiring blood-thinning medication and medical supervision.

A court in Spain has cleared the Colombian pop star of tax fraud charges and directed the Spanish government to refund more than 55 million euros ($64 million) in penalties and interest that were improperly assessed, according to court documents reviewed Monday by The Associated Press.

This verdict concludes several years of tax-related legal issues in Spain for the internationally known performer.

The court’s decision centers on a disagreement regarding Shakira’s tax obligations for 2011, where Spanish tax officials failed to establish that the entertainer maintained residency in Spain, according to the Madrid court’s ruling.

Under Spanish law, an individual must remain in the country for more than 183 days annually to qualify as a tax resident. Tax officials could only demonstrate that Shakira was present in Spain for 163 days during that particular year, the court determined.

Over approximately the last ten years, Spain’s tax collection agency has pursued high-profile soccer players including Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo for allegedly underpaying their tax obligations. While both athletes were convicted of tax evasion, they escaped imprisonment due to Spanish legal provisions that permit judges to suspend sentences of less than two years for individuals with no prior criminal record.

MOSCOW, May 18 – Moscow officials are expressing significant optimism about President Vladimir Putin’s upcoming visit to China this week, stating both nations will use the opportunity to strengthen their strategic alliance.

Putin’s visit is scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, occurring just days after U.S. President Donald Trump concluded his own talks with President Xi Jinping in China.

“We have very serious expectations for this visit,” said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Monday.

The relationship between China and Russia, which possesses the world’s largest natural resource reserves, has grown stronger following Western sanctions imposed on Russia over the Ukraine conflict. Officials have described their alliance as having “no limits.”

“We and our Chinese friends refer to it as a particularly privileged and strategic partnership,” Peskov explained.

According to Peskov, Putin’s delegation will feature several deputy prime ministers, cabinet officials, and business executives.

When questioned about potential discussions regarding the proposed Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline – a project that could eventually transport an additional 50 billion cubic metres annually from Russia’s Arctic gas reserves through Mongolia to China – Peskov indicated broad economic topics would be covered.

“All issues that are on the economic agenda of our bilateral relations will naturally be addressed,” he stated.

Hungary’s President Tamas Sulyok is standing firm against demands from the country’s new Prime Minister Peter Magyar that he step down, according to an interview released Monday where Sulyok stated no valid grounds exist for his departure.

Magyar’s TISZA party scored a decisive victory over Viktor Orban’s longtime ruling Fidesz party in April elections, bringing an end to Orban’s 16-year grip on power. The new leadership has vowed to address rule of law concerns and implement other changes that have been central to ongoing tensions between Hungary’s capital and European Union officials.

Describing the April vote as a “vote for a change of regime,” Magyar has been intensifying demands that Sulyok, who was backed by Fidesz, along with other officials step down before May concludes.

“There is currently no legal reason or constitutional justification that could justify my resignation,” Sulyok stated to Index.hu.

“I remain faithful to my oath, and as long as the exercise of my office is not impossible, I intend to fulfil the mandate I have undertaken.”

While Hungary’s presidential position is primarily symbolic, Sulyok retains authority to send legislation back to lawmakers for review or submit laws to the Constitutional Court, actions that could obstruct Magyar’s planned reforms.

Magyar has demanded that Sulyok and other “puppets” installed during Orban’s tenure resign, noting that Orban’s policies frequently created conflicts with EU leadership and resulted in blocked funding from the European bloc.

During his Index.hu interview, Sulyok argued that the presidency should represent national unity and disputed characterizations of the election as a regime shift, describing it instead as simply a governmental transition.

Magyar has warned that should Sulyok refuse to resign, he plans to leverage his party’s strong electoral mandate to modify constitutional and other legal provisions to remove him from office.

Responding to Sulyok’s interview comments, Magyar posted on Facebook Monday that Hungary requires a president who remains independent of political factions and repeated his assertion that the president represents a “puppet of the failed system.”

“You must leave! And you will leave,” he declared.

An 82-year-old Venezuelan woman has passed away just 10 days after learning her son died while in government custody, according to the NGO that represented his case.

Carmen Navas had spent almost a year looking for her detained son and became well-known throughout Venezuela as she publicly asked for details about her 50-year-old son, Victor Quero. Authorities disclosed 10 days ago that Quero had died from respiratory failure at the notorious Rodeo I prison facility last July.

According to Alfredo Romero, who leads Foro Penal, correctional facility staff had continuously informed Navas that they were unaware of her son’s whereabouts.

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado expressed condolences for Navas through social media, commending her for standing up to a “terror apparatus” in her quest to locate her son.

“Not just a mother died; a woman who turned pain into courage and despair into denunciation was extinguished,” Machado wrote, adding that Navas’ voice had become that of thousands of mothers seeking disappeared or imprisoned children.

Earlier this year, after the U.S. attacked Caracas and captured President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Venezuela’s government passed an amnesty law intended to free hundreds of people rights groups consider political prisoners.

Venezuelan authorities have always denied holding political prisoners and said those detained committed legitimate crimes.

A high-ranking Taiwanese official stated Monday that Taiwan would be open to direct communication between President Donald Trump and President Lai Ching-te, as the island nation works to address worries stemming from Trump’s comments after his recent meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

During their Beijing meeting last week, Trump and Xi had discussions about Taiwan, which China claims as its territory. Xi issued warnings about potential conflict if the Taiwan situation isn’t managed appropriately.

Following the summit, Trump offered various statements regarding Taiwan, including expressing uncertainty about future weapons sales, hinting at possible communication with Lai, and noting that the United States was “not looking to have somebody say, ‘Let’s go independent’”.

No direct communication has taken place between a serving U.S. president and Taiwan’s leader since Washington changed its diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing in 1979.

Taiwan Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi informed reporters that Trump’s statements had “caused some unnecessary concern” in Taiwan, though the government maintains that “nothing has changed.”

Chen explained that Taiwan would be receptive if Trump genuinely wishes to communicate with Lai.

“Of course, we would also ask: based on what you have said, does that mean you want to speak with our president? If he says yes, then should we make the relevant arrangements? We very much hope to have such an opportunity,” Chen added.

The United States serves as Taiwan’s primary international supporter and weapons provider.

Taiwan’s leadership disputes Beijing’s claims of sovereignty over the island, maintaining that only Taiwan’s citizens have the authority to determine their own future.

Syria will participate in private discussions with G7 finance ministers and central bank governors during a meeting in Paris on Monday, according to a source with knowledge of the arrangements, representing another milestone in the nation’s rising international profile following Bashar al-Assad’s departure from power less than two years ago.

Syrian Finance Minister Yisr Barnieh is anticipated to join the gathering, with conversations expected to center on Syria’s long-term economic recovery and efforts to reconnect with international financial networks, the source indicated.

The G7 finance leaders are holding a two-day conference addressing worldwide economic challenges, including trade disputes and consequences from ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine.

Years of warfare and international isolation have left Syria’s economy severely weakened. Although many sanctions have been reduced or eliminated following former president Assad’s departure, economic rebuilding has progressed slowly as investors and financial institutions remain cautious about compliance concerns and the logistical challenges of reestablishing Syria’s connections to worldwide financial networks.

Both Syria and Ukraine are anticipated to participate in portions of the meetings, highlighting the G7’s focus on supporting stability in nations considered crucial for regional and international security.

The informed source noted that Syria’s involvement represents preparation for the G7 leaders’ summit scheduled for June and demonstrates efforts to draw President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s administration closer to major world economies.

For Damascus, taking part in G7 financial discussions represents another milestone in its campaign to rejoin the international community, secure reconstruction assistance, and demonstrate its emerging role as an important player in regional transformation.

Aid flotilla organizers announced Monday that Israeli military personnel had taken control of one of their humanitarian vessels bound for Gaza, while communication was severed with a second ship in the eastern Mediterranean waters.

Israel’s foreign ministry had declared earlier that day on X that the country “will not allow any breach of the lawful naval blockade on Gaza.”

The Global Sumud Flotilla vessels had launched their journey Thursday from southern Turkey’s coast, marking their third attempt to transport humanitarian supplies to Gaza following previous interceptions by Israeli forces in international waters.

Video footage captured military ships moving toward the aid vessels on Monday.

“Military vessels are currently intercepting our fleet and (Israeli) forces are boarding the first of our boats in broad daylight,” the Global Sumud Flotilla posted on X.

“We demand safe passage for our legal, non-violent humanitarian mission.”

Israeli officials also urged “all participants in this provocation to change course and turn back immediately” in their public statement.

A previous aid convoy had launched from Spain on April 12, but Israeli military forces intercepted those vessels as well, transporting over 100 pro-Palestinian activists to Crete while detaining two additional individuals in Israel.

Russian President Vladimir Putin confronts increasingly limited options in Ukraine as his military forces struggle to make meaningful progress while Western economic sanctions continue draining his country’s resources, according to Estonia’s intelligence leadership.

Kaupo Rosin, Estonia’s foreign intelligence chief and a senior intelligence official on NATO’s eastern border, informed Reuters that Russia is experiencing higher casualty rates than recruitment numbers in the fifth year of its comprehensive military campaign. He noted that implementing widespread military conscription would likely face strong public opposition and could threaten domestic stability.

“All these factors together are creating a situation where some people in Russia including in the higher levels understand that they have a big problem. Hard to say what Putin thinks about it, but I think all these factors are starting to float into his decision-making,” Rosin stated during an interview conducted in Tallinn.

Recent months have seen Russian military units achieving some of their most limited territorial gains in Ukraine since 2023, occurring one year following their comprehensive invasion of Ukraine. Russia’s $3 trillion economy experienced a 0.3% decline during the initial quarter.

Putin maintains that government initiatives aimed at strengthening the economy are starting to produce favorable outcomes, and he has consistently stated that Russian military forces will continue operations until achieving all their objectives.

Rosin indicated that the primary factor behind Russia’s deteriorating financial circumstances was sanctions targeting the financial sector that were “really, really hurting,” while punitive actions against Russia’s oil export industry were also restricting revenue streams.

“I think it’s very difficult choices for them now. It’s hard to predict what they will decide in this current situation,” he said.

Estonia, which maintains a direct land boundary with Russia, serves as a prominent Ukraine supporter within the NATO military alliance and European Union, consistently urging fellow members to intensify pressure against Moscow.

“So my message is let’s push forward with (sanctions). This is not the time to hesitate, just let’s keep going,” he emphasized.

A separate European intelligence leader, speaking under anonymity conditions, told Reuters in independent comments that while growing pressure indicators on Russia were evident, no signs suggested this was altering Moscow’s strategic approach to the conflict.

“It’s very difficult for me to see that they (Russia) would get rid of their objective to get the whole Donbas area… and Russia is in no hurry, basically,” the official explained.

Russia has maintained during U.S.-facilitated peace negotiations that Ukraine must retreat from the eastern Donbas territory as part of any agreement, a demand that Kyiv has dismissed.

The Donbas territory includes the Russian-controlled province of Luhansk and the Donetsk area, portions of which Ukraine has successfully defended against prolonged Russian military operations.

The intelligence official added that Russia appeared unlikely to moderate its war objectives or that any significant “big breakthrough” was approaching. The official characterized Russian society as demonstrating resilience.

“It is wishful thinking that now Russia’s leadership is in some way eroding, or Putin is somehow challenged (domestically)…” the official stated.

The Estonian intelligence leader forecasted that Russia would maintain its goal of controlling Ukraine while Putin continues in leadership, and would also position substantial military forces along Ukraine’s borders following the conflict’s conclusion.

Additionally, he predicted that after hostilities end, Moscow will attempt to build up its military presence along NATO borders and pursue “military dominance … from the Arctic until the Black Sea.”

“The military ambition is very, very big on the Russian side,” he stated, predicting Moscow would persist in conducting sabotage operations in Western nations despite risks to civilian populations.

Russia has repeatedly denied participation in sabotage planning or attacks, dismissing such claims as Western fear tactics.

“Russia sees this (such attacks) as something which doesn’t ignite a big war,” Rosin concluded.