Israeli PM Netanyahu says war against Hamas will not stop after ceasefire: ‘We will continue until…’
Summary
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that the war against Hamas will continue even after the ceasefire. The Israeli Cabinet was expected to vote on a plan that would temporarily halt Israel’s offensive in Gaza in exchange for the release of some hostages held by Hamas. Netanyahu has vowed to continue the war until all of Israel’s goals are achieved. The announcement came as Israeli troops battled Palestinian militants in Gaza, and details of the ceasefire deal were not released. The toll in Gaza has risen sharply, with thousands killed and many missing or buried under rubble. Talks between Israel, the US, and Qatar over a hostage release and aid have been ongoing. The fighting has shifted to the Jabaliya refugee camp, affecting nearby hospitals, and conditions in Gaza remain dire.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, wife get royal welcome on UK state visit
Summary
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and his wife received a royal welcome from King Charles III during their state visit to the UK. The visit aims to strengthen trade and defense ties between the two countries. The UK government hopes that this visit will help establish an “Indo-Pacific tilt” in its foreign and trade policy. During a banquet at Buckingham Palace, King Charles III praised South Korea’s political and economic advances and even mentioned the K-pop girl group Blackpink for their role in promoting environmental sustainability. Yoon is scheduled to hold talks with UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak regarding trade, technology, and defense. The two countries will also launch talks on an upgraded free trade agreement. Other topics of discussion include cooperation in defense and technology, such as artificial intelligence, and investment in South Korean semiconductor manufacturing.
Israel-Hamas war Live: Antony Blinken likely to revisit Israel during truce
Summary
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is expected to visit Israel during a temporary ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue the offensive against Hamas after the truce ends. Israeli forces have intensified their attacks in Gaza, targeting areas believed to be regrouping spots for Hamas militants. The Israeli military has also ordered the evacuation of the Indonesian Hospital in Gaza City, stating that militants were operating from there. Over 13,000 Palestinians have been killed during the airstrikes, with thousands more missing or believed to be buried under rubble.
Netanyahu says war against Hamas to continue even if hostage deal is agreed
Summary
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that the war against Hamas will continue even if a temporary cease-fire is agreed upon to free hostages in Gaza. This declaration comes amid growing international pressure for a longer-term cease-fire. The hostage negotiations between the two parties are said to be progressing, with US President Joe Biden stating that a deal is “very close” and chances of it being completed are “very good.” The contours of the deal include the release of 50 women and children held hostage in Gaza during a four-day pause in fighting. Talks are being brokered by Qatar and are currently at a critical stage. The Israeli offensive in Gaza has resulted in thousands of deaths and a humanitarian crisis. Israel has said that Hamas attacks have killed over 1,200 people.
South Korea to Suspend Part of 2018 Pact with North Korea After Satellite Launch
Summary
South Korea is set to suspend parts of a 2018 inter-Korean agreement in response to North Korea launching its first spy satellite. The suspension will allow for the restoration of reconnaissance and surveillance operations against North Korea in the area near the military demarcation line.
