Global Pulse

分类： politics

  • Netanyahu to meet Trump in US Monday, discuss Gaza ceasefire’s second stage

    Netanyahu to meet Trump in US Monday, discuss Gaza ceasefire’s second stage

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to embark on his fifth official visit to the United States this year, with a pivotal meeting set with President Donald Trump at the Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida on Monday. This high-stakes diplomatic engagement occurs amid intensified efforts by the Trump administration and regional mediators to advance the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.

    The agenda for this crucial summit encompasses a broad spectrum of Middle Eastern security concerns, including ongoing tensions with Iran, potential security arrangements between Israel and Syria, and maintaining the fragile ceasefire with Lebanon’s Hezbollah. However, the primary focus remains on breaking the deadlock in implementing the next stages of the Gaza peace process.

    According to reports from Israeli media outlet Yedioth Ahronoth and subsequent confirmation by White House officials, the Trump administration has expressed growing frustration with Netanyahu’s approach to the ceasefire. Administration officials allege that the Israeli leader has taken steps that potentially undermine the delicate truce and delay progress toward lasting peace.

    The second phase of the ceasefire agreement, brokered by Washington and regional allies, stipulates three critical components: Israel’s withdrawal from its positions in Gaza, establishment of an interim technocratic authority to replace Hamas governance, and deployment of an international stabilization force. A particularly contentious provision requires Hamas to relinquish its weapons, representing a significant obstacle to implementation.

    Axios reported Friday that White House officials consider the Trump-Netanyahu meeting essential for突破ing the current impasse. The administration aims to promptly announce both the Palestinian technocratic government for Gaza and the composition of the international stabilization force, viewing these elements as crucial for maintaining momentum in the peace process.

    The meeting follows Trump’s mid-December comments to reporters, where he indicated Netanyahu’s desire for consultation during the Christmas holiday period. This diplomatic engagement occurs against the backdrop of a persistently fragile ceasefire, with both Israel and Hamas frequently accusing each other of violations while mediators work to prevent a complete collapse of the agreement.

  • Somaliland: How Trump, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and others reacted to Israeli recognition

    Somaliland: How Trump, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and others reacted to Israeli recognition

    In a landmark diplomatic move that has drawn widespread international criticism, Israel has become the first nation to formally recognize the breakaway territory of Somaliland as an independent sovereign state. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the signing of a mutual declaration of recognition on Friday, marking a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape of the Horn of Africa.

    The declaration has been met with swift condemnation from multiple nations and international bodies. Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry issued a statement rejecting the recognition as a violation of international law that undermines Somalia’s territorial integrity. Turkey characterized the move as “yet another example of the Netanyahu government’s unlawful actions aimed at creating instability,” while Qatar denounced it as a “dangerous precedent.”

    Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty coordinated with counterparts from Somalia, Turkey, and Djibouti in a unified rejection of Israel’s decision. The African Union expressed “deep concern” over the development, reaffirming its commitment to the “intangibility of borders inherited at independence.”

    The Palestinian Authority condemned the recognition as part of “Israel’s attempts as a colonial power to undermine international peace and security,” specifically referencing previous reports of Israel considering Somaliland as a potential resettlement location for Palestinians from Gaza. Somali Defense Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi declared Mogadishu would “under no circumstances” accept the recognition, warning that discussions about forcibly displacing Palestinians to Somali territory were “completely unacceptable.”

    While U.S. President Donald Trump stated the matter was “under study,” he displayed limited familiarity with the region, asking reporters “Does anyone know what Somaliland is, really?” when questioned about potential strategic port access. The United Arab Emirates, which maintains close relations with Somaliland and has developed infrastructure at Berbera port, remained silent on the declaration.

    Despite overwhelming international criticism, the move received support from Ethiopian State Minister for Industry Tarekegn Bululta Godana, who called it a “notable diplomatic move,” and UK Reform leader Nigel Farage, who has long advocated for Somaliland’s recognition. Netanyahu framed the declaration as being “in the spirit” of the Abraham Accords and extended an invitation to Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi for an official visit to Israel.

  • Donald Trump urges release of any Epstein files naming Democrats

    Donald Trump urges release of any Epstein files naming Democrats

    Former President Donald Trump has intensified political tensions by publicly urging the Department of Justice to release all documents naming Democratic officials allegedly associated with Jeffrey Epstein. This development comes as the DOJ continues its phased disclosure of millions of records from the investigation into the deceased financier, who died in federal custody in 2019 while awaiting trial for sex trafficking minors.

    The Justice Department initiated the document release last week following legal mandates, though it missed its December 19 deadline for full disclosure. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche attributed the delay to extensive redaction processes necessary to protect the identities of Epstein’s victims.

    Trump utilized his Truth Social platform to accuse Democrats of orchestrating what he termed a ‘hoax’ investigation, claiming the ongoing document review distracts from Republican achievements. ‘The Dems are the ones who worked with Epstein, not the Republicans,’ Trump stated. ‘Release all of their names, embarrass them, and get back to helping our Country!’

    Notably, the released documents contain multiple references to Trump himself, including records of flights aboard Epstein’s private aircraft. While Trump previously acknowledged friendship with Epstein before his criminal activities became public, he has since distanced himself and characterized the renewed attention as a ‘Witch Hunt’ orchestrated by political opponents.

    The DOJ has previously defended Trump against allegations within the documents, describing some claims as ‘untrue and sensationalist’ submissions made to the FBI prior to the 2020 election. The department maintains that credible allegations would have already been utilized against the former president if they possessed substantiation.

    The unfolding document release continues to generate significant political ramifications, with implications for both major political parties as additional records become public.

  • China adopts revised Civil Aviation Law to update regulations for the sector

    China adopts revised Civil Aviation Law to update regulations for the sector

    China’s legislative body has ratified a substantially revised Civil Aviation Law, marking the most significant update to the nation’s aviation regulatory framework in recent years. The National People’s Congress Standing Committee formally approved the legislation on December 27, 2025, with implementation scheduled for July 1, 2026.

    The comprehensive revision addresses the rapidly transforming aviation landscape, particularly the exponential growth of unmanned aircraft systems and emerging business models within the sector. The updated statute comprises 16 distinct chapters containing 262 articles that establish clearer parameters for aviation safety, operational standards, and technological integration.

    A pivotal aspect of the new legislation involves stringent regulatory measures for civil drone operations. Manufacturers, importers, and operators of unmanned aircraft will now be subject to mandatory airworthiness certification requirements administered by national civil aviation authorities. The law further mandates that drone producers assign unique identification codes to each aircraft, enhancing traceability and regulatory oversight capabilities.

    Aviation safety provisions have been significantly strengthened, explicitly prohibiting laser interference with airport visual navigation systems and detailing restrictions on activities that could disrupt electromagnetic environments surrounding airport facilities. The legislation additionally empowers airlines and airport operators to implement necessary measures when safety support capacity is deemed inadequate.

    The revised framework also modernizes provisions concerning legal liability and enforcement mechanisms while supporting the development of aviation manufacturing capabilities and the emerging low-altitude economy. This legislative overhaul reflects China’s strategic approach to balancing technological innovation with robust safety protocols as domestic air travel demand continues to grow and new technologies reshape the aviation sector.

  • Iran’s president says his country is in a full-scale war with the West

    Iran’s president says his country is in a full-scale war with the West

    TEHRAN, Iran — Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has issued a stark declaration that his nation is engaged in a comprehensive conflict with the United States, Israel, and European powers. The provocative statement emerged just prior to a critical diplomatic meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump.

    In a Saturday interview published on Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s official platform, President Pezeshkian characterized the current geopolitical confrontation as more severe than Iran’s devastating 1980-1988 war with Iraq, which resulted in over one million casualties. “We are in a full-scale war with the U.S., Israel and Europe; they don’t want our country to remain stable,” the Iranian leader asserted.

    Pezeshkian emphasized the complex nature of this modern conflict, describing Western opposition as “more complicated and more difficult” than conventional warfare. The timing of these remarks appears strategically significant, coinciding with Netanyahu’s scheduled visit to the United States where Iranian relations were anticipated to dominate discussions.

    The backdrop to this diplomatic tension includes recent military exchanges between the involved parties. During a twelve-day aerial confrontation in June, combined Israeli and American operations reportedly resulted in approximately 1,100 Iranian casualties, including high-ranking military officials and nuclear researchers. Iran’s counterstrikes with missile barrages claimed 28 lives in Israel, further escalating regional hostilities.

  • Brazilian judge puts coup plot convicts under house arrest after former police commander flees

    Brazilian judge puts coup plot convicts under house arrest after former police commander flees

    In a significant escalation of legal proceedings against participants in the alleged post-election coup attempt, Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes issued house arrest mandates for ten convicted individuals on Saturday. The decision targets those previously under restrictive measures such as ankle monitors and curfews, including Filipe Martins, a former key adviser to ex-President Jair Bolsonaro.

    The judicial action coincided with the dramatic extradition from Paraguay of Silvinei Vasques, former director of Brazil’s Federal Highway Police. Vasques, already convicted for his role in the conspiracy, had allegedly severed his electronic monitoring device and clandestinely crossed into Paraguay using fraudulent documentation in an attempt to reach El Salvador. Paraguayan authorities intercepted and returned him to Brazilian custody on Friday night.

    This development occurs against the backdrop of Bolsonaro’s own imprisonment since November, following his conviction and 27-year sentence for orchestrating efforts to retain power after his 2022 electoral defeat. The former president’s health has become a complicating factor, as he remains hospitalized following double hernia surgery and is undergoing treatment for persistent hiccups that have plagued him for nine months, according to statements from his wife.

    The trials have captivated a nation with fresh memories of its military dictatorship era, which ended in 1985. International dimensions continue to evolve, particularly with the United States’ shifting stance. Initially condemning the proceedings as a ‘witch hunt’ under the Trump administration—which imposed tariffs and sanctions against Judge de Moraes—the U.S. has recently moderated its position, lifting sanctions and reducing tariffs on key Brazilian exports like beef and coffee as trade negotiations progress.

  • Nine arrested in Italy for allegedly raising millions for Hamas

    Nine arrested in Italy for allegedly raising millions for Hamas

    Italian law enforcement agencies have executed a major counter-terrorism operation resulting in the arrest of nine individuals allegedly involved in financing Hamas operations. According to official police statements, the network orchestrated an elaborate fundraising scheme that collected approximately €7 million (£6 million) over a two-year period under the guise of humanitarian assistance for Palestinian civilians.

    The investigation, launched following the October 7th, 2023 Hamas attacks in southern Israel, uncovered a sophisticated financial infrastructure headquartered in Genoa with operational branches extending to Milan. Police analysis of suspicious transaction reports revealed that over 71% of donations intended for Gaza’s civilian population were systematically diverted to Hamas’s military wing and to support families of suicide bombers and detained terrorists.

    In addition to the arrests, authorities have seized assets exceeding €8 million (£7 million) as part of the ongoing investigation. The suspects face specific charges related to financing operations believed to have directly supported terrorist activities.

    The operation represents a collaborative effort between Italy’s specialized counter-terrorism units and financial police agencies. Among those detained is Mohammad Hannoun, president of the Palestinian Association in Italy, who has previously denied allegations of Hamas financing connections.

    Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi acknowledged the police operation’s success while emphasizing that “the presumption of innocence… must always be recognized at this stage” of judicial proceedings. The case highlights ongoing international efforts to combat terrorist financing networks operating under humanitarian disguises.

  • Somalia, African nations condemn Israel’s recognition of Somaliland

    Somalia, African nations condemn Israel’s recognition of Somaliland

    A significant diplomatic rupture has emerged following Israel’s groundbreaking decision to formally recognize the breakaway territory of Somaliland as an independent sovereign state. The announcement, made on December 26th, has triggered vehement condemnation across Africa and from key regional players, escalating tensions in the Horn of Africa.

    Somalia’s government denounced the recognition as a ‘deliberate attack’ on its territorial integrity, asserting that Somaliland remains an inseparable part of its national territory. The African Union echoed this position, with Commissioner Mahamoud Ali Youssouf warning that Israel’s move risks ‘setting a dangerous precedent with far-reaching implications for continental peace and stability.’

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu framed the decision as extending the spirit of the Abraham Accords, the normalization agreements brokered by the Trump administration between Israel and several Arab nations. Netanyahu personally invited Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi to visit Israel, highlighting potential economic partnerships. President Abdullahi hailed the development as a ‘historic moment’ and the beginning of a strategic partnership, sentiments celebrated by crowds in Somaliland’s capital Hargeisa.

    The Palestinian Authority issued a sharp rebuke, alleging Israel had previously identified Somaliland as a potential relocation site for Palestinians from Gaza—a claim that adds another layer of controversy to the recognition. Regional powers including Turkey, Egypt, and Djibouti joined in condemning what they characterized as ‘overt interference’ in Somalia’s internal affairs, reaffirming their support for Somali unity.

    Strategic analysts suggest Israel’s move may be motivated by Red Sea security interests, particularly concerning countering Houthi influence from Yemen. Somaliland’s strategic location on the Gulf of Aden offers potential naval advantages. The recognition represents Israel’s continued efforts to expand diplomatic ties in Africa and the Middle East, though recent conflicts have complicated normalization efforts with several Arab states.

  • Italian authorities arrest 9 for allegedly funding Hamas through charities

    Italian authorities arrest 9 for allegedly funding Hamas through charities

    Italian anti-terrorism prosecutors announced the arrest of nine individuals on Saturday, uncovering a sophisticated financial network allegedly funneling millions to the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The operation targeted three charitable organizations operating within Italy that prosecutors claim served as fronts for terrorist financing.

    According to judicial authorities, the suspects orchestrated a complex scheme to transfer approximately €7 million ($8.2 million) to Gaza-based associations with established ties to Hamas. The European Union-designated terrorist organization has been subject to strict financial restrictions across member states.

    The investigation revealed that Mohammad Hannoun, president of the Palestinian Association in Italy, allegedly served as the operational leader of what prosecutors described as “the Italian cell of the Hamas organization.” The funding mechanism involved elaborate “triangulation operations” utilizing international bank transfers and intermediary organizations based outside Italy to conceal the money’s ultimate destination.

    Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi characterized the operation as exposing activities that “pretended to be initiatives in favor of the Palestinian population, concealed support for and participation in terrorist organizations.” The investigation benefited from collaboration with multiple European Union counterparts, reflecting ongoing coordinated efforts to combat terrorist financing across the region.

    This development follows the European Council’s January 2020 decision to extend restrictive measures against 12 individuals and three entities supporting Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad financing. The suspects and associated organizations have not issued immediate public statements regarding the allegations.

  • African regional bodies reject recognition of Somaliland by Israel

    African regional bodies reject recognition of Somaliland by Israel

    NAIROBI, Kenya — Continental governance institutions have issued forceful condemnations of Israel’s unprecedented recognition of Somaliland as an independent state, marking the first such international acknowledgment since the region declared autonomy from Somalia in 1991. The African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf declared Saturday that any recognition of Somaliland’s sovereignty constitutes a direct threat to continental peace and stability, reaffirming that the territory remains constitutionally part of Somalia.

    The diplomatic controversy emerged Friday when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced a joint declaration with Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, framed within the context of the Abraham Accords normalization initiative. This move triggered immediate backlash from multiple African regional bodies and neighboring nations.

    Somalia’s federal government categorically rejected what it termed an ‘unlawful violation’ of its territorial integrity. The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), East Africa’s primary political bloc, issued a statement emphasizing that unilateral recognition contravenes multiple international statutes including the UN Charter and African Union Constitutive Act.

    Egypt’s Foreign Ministry, currently mediating Israel-Hamas negotiations, joined the condemnation through social media channels, expressing full solidarity with Somalia’s sovereignty. The recognition timing remains diplomatically puzzling, though previous reports indicated Israeli officials had explored with Somaliland the potential resettlement of Palestinians from Gaza—a proposal since abandoned by the U.S. administration.