Israeli Ambassador to the UN, Gilad Erdan, opposed the UN General Assembly's resolution for an immediate Gaza ceasefire, asserting it requires Hamas to surrender weapons and release hostages. Erdan displayed Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar's office phone number, urging assembly members to call for a lasting ceasefire. Expressing disbelief in supporting a resolution without condemning Hamas, he emphasized Israel's commitment to self-defense. The resolution passed with 153 in favor, 10 against (including the US and Israel), and 23 abstentions. Erdan's direct appeal aimed to highlight conditions for what he deemed a "real ceasefire."

The Israeli military has reportedly commenced the pumping of seawater into Hamas' tunnel complex in Gaza, aiming to destroy tunnels where hostages, fighters, and munitions are believed to be concealed. U.S. officials suggest the process may take weeks. While some in the Biden administration see it as a strategy to neutralize threats, concerns are raised about potential risks to Gaza's fresh water supply. Israel's military is yet to comment on the matter, and the Israeli defense ministry spokesperson has not responded to requests for comment. The unconventional move underscores efforts to address security challenges in the region.

British PM Rishi Sunak survived a crucial parliamentary vote on the controversial Rwanda asylum bill as no MPs from his Conservative party voted against it, although several abstained. Sunak had hosted rebels within his party threatening to defeat the bill, which aims to deport illegal migrants to Rwanda. More right-wing Tories felt it wasn't tough enough on immigration while centrists cited human rights concerns. With the opposition voting against, Tory rebels abstaining or voting no could have inflicted an embarrassing loss. Sunak's last-minute charm offensive proved enough as the bill passed, despite over 40 Conservatives still unhappy. Avoiding a historic early defeat on his key immigration legislation will come as a relief for Sunak amid Tory infighting over the issue.

India voted in favor of a UN General Assembly resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire and hostage release amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The draft resolution was backed by Arab countries but didn't mention Hamas. India supported a US-proposed amendment unequivocally condemning Hamas' terrorist attacks in Israel. Earlier, India had abstained on a similar resolution at the UN in October, although calling for humanitarian access to Gaza. The UNGA vote comes after the US vetoed a ceasefire resolution at the Security Council despite widespread support. Over 1,200 Israelis and 18,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, have been killed since Hamas launched a major offensive against Israel in October. India's vote signals a subtle shift in its public positioning on the crisis.

Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza, a prominent Rwandan opposition leader, condemns the UK's "shocking" asylum transfer deal with Rwanda, emphasizing the country's human rights issues. Umuhoza, who faced imprisonment for challenging the Rwandan government, calls for a shift in UK efforts towards supporting human rights improvements in Rwanda rather than implementing a flawed immigration treaty. The UK, a key development partner to Rwanda, is urged to use its global influence to foster dialogue, political inclusion, and respect for human rights. Umuhoza contends that addressing root issues is crucial before considering any transfer of asylum seekers.

The Israeli army announced the successful retrieval of hostages' bodies in a Gaza operation. Eden Zakaria and Ziv Dado, seized by Hamas on October 7th, were positively identified, prompting authorities to inform their families. The operation signifies a crucial step in addressing the aftermath of the October attack. Families, previously in agonizing uncertainty, now find closure with the return of their loved ones' remains to Israel. The Israeli forces' effective action not only concludes a distressing chapter but also underscores the nation's commitment to securing its citizens against terror threats.            

President Joe Biden expresses concern that Israel is losing international support due to its indiscriminate bombing in Gaza amid the Hamas conflict. Speaking at a fundraising event, Biden suggests a shift in Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's hardline approach. Netanyahu reaffirms U.S.-Israel unity but highlights differences on Gaza's future, ruling out a return of the Palestinian Authority. White House adviser Jake Sullivan plans to discuss the war's timetable during an upcoming visit to Israel. Biden also schedules a meeting with families of Americans held hostage by Hamas. Tensions persist over the handling of the Gaza conflict.

Despite facing plagiarism accusations, Harvard University President Claudine Gay will remain in her role as the governing board offers support, signaling confidence in her leadership. The decision, following a meeting, has stirred speculation about the longevity of Gay's tenure. The Harvard Corporation affirmed its belief in Gay's capacity to guide the community and address societal challenges. However, questions surrounding the integrity of her scholarly work persist. The board's stance defies external pressures, highlighting the delicate balance between free speech concerns and allegations of antisemitism on campus. The controversy adds complexity to Harvard's academic landscape.            

Former President Donald Trump continues to dominate the 2024 Republican presidential nomination race with 61% support among GOP voters in a new Reuters/Ipsos poll. His closest rivals Florida's Ron DeSantis and ex-South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley trail at 11% each. The poll shows Trump maintaining his solid support base despite facing criminal charges for allegedly soliciting election fraud and inciting the attack on U.S Capitol in 2021. Just a quarter of Republican respondents believe those accusations, indicating limited impact on Trump's standing. With the first nomination ballots two months away, the poll also found no evidence of Republicans coalescing around an alternative like DeSantis or Haley as a Trump alternative.

Fashion retailer Zara has apologized for an ad campaign that was accused of being insensitive towards the Israel-Palestine conflict. Images showing mannequins missing limbs wrapped in white triggered outrage and boycott calls from pro-Palestinian groups who felt it resembled dead bodies in Gaza. Zara said it regretted the "misunderstanding" and removed the controversial photos, clarifying the campaign was inspired by historical men's tailoring. The brand affirmed respect towards everyone. The backlash highlights the landmines global companies now navigate regarding the Israeli-Palestinian issue, as calls for corporate boycotts over Middle-East policies grow. Zara's apology follows other brands like Balenciaga also facing flak last year over controversial ad campaigns that impacted sales. (Image Source: Zara)