A political impasse in Washington D.C. has stalled a crucial $110 billion aid package for Ukraine. Ukraine's first lady Olena Zelenska pleaded to the international community not to let the funding lapse, stating "it is a matter of life for us." The package also included support for Israel and other national security priorities. However, Republican senators blocked the passage of the bill in Congress. President Biden warned that failing to provide further military and financial aid to Ukraine risks allowing Russia to gain the upper hand. With the war over 650 days in, Ukraine continues to face attacks even as the frontlines remain largely static. Zelenska urged the world not to lose the "passionate willingness to help," saying if support fades, "they will simply let us die." [Photo courtesy: htTweets/X]

The Biden administration has invoked emergency authority, allowing the immediate sale of 14,000 tank shells worth $106.5 million to Israel, bypassing congressional review. The move, part of a larger $500 million package for 45,000 shells, raises concerns about U.S. support for Israel's offensive in Gaza. Rights advocates question the alignment with efforts to minimize civilian casualties. Secretary of State Antony Blinken justifies the sale, citing national security interests. The tank cartridges, including High Explosive Anti-Tank Multi-Purpose with Tracer rounds, aim to enhance Israel's deterrent capabilities. The decision sparks debate over the U.S.'s role in the intensifying conflict.

The United States vetoed a U.N. Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza on Friday, as Israel's military offensive against Hamas entered its third month. The resolution, proposed by the U.N. Secretary-General amid a deepening humanitarian crisis, was blocked by the U.S., with Deputy Representative Robert Wood calling it "divorced from reality." Meanwhile, the death toll rose to over 17,000 in Gaza, mostly women and children, and 91 in Israel. Israel vowed to eradicate Hamas after its October attack that killed 1,200 Israelis. The U.S. supplies billions in military aid to Israel annually. Its veto came despite warnings from the W.H.O. that Gaza's civilisation is collapsing.

Turkey expresses "complete disappointment" after the United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution for an immediate Gaza ceasefire. Turkish President Erdogan criticizes the UNSC, branding it the 'Israel protection council.' Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasizes global isolation for the US on this matter. The US and Israel argue against a ceasefire, citing potential benefits to Hamas. President Erdogan questions the fairness of the UNSC, declaring it an 'Israel protection and defence council' since October 7. Tensions rise as Turkey challenges the US stance on Gaza, asserting a need for an alternative global approach.

In a disturbing revelation, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) uncovered a sniper rifle and ammunition cleverly hidden inside a teddy bear at a Gaza school. The 551st Division soldiers also found weaponry concealed in classrooms and United Nations bags at another educational facility. The IDF accused Hamas of endangering Gaza's children by using innocent-looking items to stash weapons. Meanwhile, in Shuja'iyya, a terrorist cell engaged by Israeli troops near a school met its end, revealing AK-47 rifles, grenades, and ammunition within classrooms. The Gaza Strip continues to face relentless airstrikes, raising concerns about the region's humanitarian crisis.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak faced an awkward moment before cameras while hosting Dutch PM Mark Rutte, as the two leaders got briefly locked out of 10 Downing Street. Viral footage shows Sunak welcoming Rutte for discussions on migration, Middle East and Ukraine, and posing for photos outside the PM's official residence. As they continued chatting, Sunak encountered errors with the door, forcing them to wait outside for custodians to open it. The incident sparked amusement online over the glitch at the British PM's iconic address. Sunak was hosting Rutte for wide-ranging talks on battling illegal migration, cooperating on Ukraine conflict, and issues like Rwanda deportation policy amid ongoing crises.

Harvard President Claudine Gay has publicly apologized for her response at a congressional hearing on antisemitism earlier this week. When asked if calls for genocide against Jews would violate Harvard's conduct code, Gay did not directly answer, saying it depends on "context." In an interview with The Harvard Crimson, Gay expressed regret for her failure to unambiguously state that such hate speech has no place at Harvard and will always be challenged. She admitted she "substantively failed" to convey the truth - that calls for violence against Jews are unacceptable. Gay faced criticism alongside presidents of UPenn and MIT for equivocating on whether threats against Jews violate rules on bullying and harassment. Her apology aims to reassure Jewish community members alarmed by her ambiguous stance.

The Biden administration has reportedly warned Israel to conclude its military war against Hamas in Gaza by end of 2023. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken conveyed to Israel that it does not have indefinite leeway to continue the months-long offensive. However, Israel has defied and dismissed previous US requests regarding the conflict. An Israeli official stated they will do "what we need to do to reach decisive victory" regardless of US opposition. The US is also concerned that rising Israel-Hezbollah tensions along the Lebanese border could expand the war and draw in Iran. But Israel's defense minister has signaled intentions to address Hezbollah as well.

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced his intention to stay in power for at least six more years. He made the declaration at a Kremlin ceremony honoring soldiers fighting in Ukraine. Putin awarded the 'Hero of Russia' medal to troops and families of fallen soldiers. A lieutenant colonel born in Ukraine pledged allegiance, saying "Russia needs you." In response, Putin confirmed "I will run for the post of president" in the next election. He expressed conviction that together they will achieve their goals, signaling lengthy continuation of his leadership amid the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.

The Israel-Hamas war enters its third month, with Israel intensifying its ground assault in central and south Gaza. Israeli forces bomb a family home in Khan Younis, resulting in 10 casualties. In a separate incident, Israeli troops attempt to free hostages in Gaza, leading to clashes with militants. Meanwhile, three Hezbollah terrorists and a Syrian are killed in an alleged Israeli drone strike in southern Syria. The Biden administration seeks congressional approval for the sale of 45,000 shells for Israel's tanks amid growing concerns about the humanitarian impact of the conflict. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas calls for an immediate end to the war.