Argentina withdraws from UNIFIL in Lebanon amid rising tensions and hostilities with Israel and Hezbollah.
Argentina has decided to withdraw from the UNIFIL peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, citing tensions attributed to recent attacks blamed on Israel, although Israel denies any deliberate aggression. This move comes as UNIFIL, which includes three peacekeepers from Argentina among its 10,000-strong force, continues operations despite calls for evacuation due to recurrent hostilities between Israeli forces and Hezbollah.
In a related development, Italy's Defense Minister has retracted an initial accusation against Israel for an attack on a UN base in Lebanon, now attributing the assault to Hezbollah. Reports of escalating violence within the UNIFIL operational area underscore the complex dynamics, as the force manages increasing attacks amid Israel's campaign in Lebanon, responsible for a significant death toll and injuries.
Shifting focus to U.S. news, prosecutors in New York have requested a pause in
Donald Trump's hush money case following his recent election win. They seek time to allow him to pursue case dismissal, given the complexities added by his presidency, even as his legal team cites Supreme Court rulings regarding the prosecution of sitting presidents.
Meanwhile, Turkiye's trade ban with Israel has inadvertently boosted Palestinian exports, highlighting economic shifts amidst compliance checks. With the ban in place since May, Turkiye has bolstered its exports to Palestinian territories, implementing verification processes to ensure conformity, despite initial logistical delays.
Back in the Middle East, international condemnation mounts over Israeli strikes on Lebanon, which have critically affected emergency services and first responders. Humanitarian organizations are decrying these actions, emphasizing the need to protect medical personnel under international law as Lebanon battles the consequences of these devastating strikes.
Lastly, in the Israeli border town of Metula, residents face the daily threat of Hezbollah rockets amidst the ongoing conflict with Lebanon. While most locals have evacuated, a few remain to form security forces for defense, as diplomatic efforts, spearheaded by the U.S., push for a ceasefire amid a landscape marked by violence and uncertainty.