Turkish authorities have taken a significant step in the investigation of the deadly Istanbul church attack, arresting Daesh militant Viskhan Soltamatov, who is suspected of planning the January assault that resulted in one Turkish citizen's death. This follows the earlier detention of 48 individuals linked to ISKP.

Meanwhile, Tunisia’s highest court has made a crucial decision, reinstating Abdellaif Mekki, Mondher Znaidi, and potentially Imed Daimi as presidential candidates for the upcoming election, amid rising political tensions. The court's ruling challenges the electoral commission’s previous rejections, which were seen by critics as favoring President Kais Saied.

In other news, Iraqi oil minister Hayan Abdel-Ghani is recovering well after undergoing emergency heart surgery during his visit to the United States. Abdel-Ghani had been there seeking American investment in Iraq’s energy sector when he fell ill.

Turning to the Middle East, Hezbollah’s second-in-command, Naim Qassem, has warned Israel that any attempt at a full-scale war could displace hundreds of thousands more people. This follows Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant's statement about preparations to restore security amid ongoing cross-border violence.

On a related note, Pope Francis has urged for an independent Palestinian state, emphasizing the need for a just resolution to the Palestinian issue to ensure lasting peace. He also praised Jordan's King Abdullah II for his support of the Palestinian people and condemned attacks on civilian shelters in Gaza.

Lastly, in the UK, British teacher Marieha Hussain has been acquitted in a free speech case regarding her satirical placard during a pro-Palestine demonstration. The court ruled the placard, depicting Rishi Sunak and Suella Braverman, fell under political satire, reinforcing the importance of freedom of expression.