HUMAN RIGHTS IN ISRAEL
Israel election 2026: Netanyahu might be finished but his policies toward the Palestinians will largely endure
Israel's elections are anticipated to end Prime Minister Netanyahu's long political career while his settlement policies may endure. Many Israelis support settlement expansion despite deep divisions regarding Netanyahu's leadership and character. Netanyahu's opponents aim to address settler violence yet largely oppose a two-state solution. While new leadership might slow down settlement activities, significant changes seem improbable.
Vance vs Rubio: Trump has two Republican soldiers ready to reclaim the White House in 2028. Who has edge?
Donald Trump named Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio as possible candidates for the 2028 presidential election. Both politicians have drawn attention for their public appearances and political activities while remaining cautious about their ambitions. The Republican Party currently has several strong candidates, in Trump's view, despite no formal entries into the race. Polling shows Vance holds a slight advantage over Rubio among Republican contenders.
Days after Trump sanctions, ICC receives EU's top rights honour
The award came just days after the Trump administration announced sweeping new sanctions on the court, which is based in The Hague, Netherlands, as part of its campaign to dismantle the tribunal over investigations into the United States and its allies, including Israel.
Israeli forces detain US congressional candidate Brad Lander at West Bank harvest, released soon
Israeli forces detained U.S. Congressional candidate Brad Lander while he assisted Palestinian farmers with their olive harvest. The military stated the harvest lacked proper coordination, viewing it as a security risk. Lander expressed concern over the detentions and emphasized the right to harvest olives. Several other volunteers, including American rabbis, were also detained during the incident. The situation reflects ongoing tensions regarding Palestinian land access and Israeli military control.
A look at the major candidates in Israel's election Tuesday
Next Tuesday, Israeli citizens will vote for their next prime minister amid a tense political landscape. Benjamin Netanyahu has led Israel for years and faces strong opposition from Gadi Eisenkot. Eisenkot, a former military chief, has positioned himself as a moderate alternative but maintains a focus on security. Other prominent figures include Naftali Bennett, Itamar Ben-Gvir, and Mansour Abbas, each with unique political stances.
Could America elect its first Muslim senator? Michigan's high-stakes race may make history
Michigan's Senate race 2026 is drawing national attention as Democratic candidate Abdul El-Sayed seeks to become the first Muslim elected to the US Senate. The physician and former Detroit health official is running on healthcare, workers’ rights, higher taxes on billionaires and changes to immigration policy against Republican Mike Rogers in a closely watched contest.
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In their own words: Israeli politicians' extreme speech surges ahead of elections
Extreme rhetoric has risen under Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's far-right government as elections approach. A recent report highlights 227 extreme comments made by officials this year, indicating a troubling trend. The language used reflects rising hostility toward Palestinians and Arab citizens, raising concerns about societal implications. Officials have made particularly harsh statements regarding Gaza and its residents.
Cornell president faces no-confidence push over handling of sexual assault case
Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff confronted faculty frustration regarding his administration's handling of a serious sexual assault allegation. During a Faculty Senate meeting, faculty members expressed significant anger and questioned Kotlikoff's management of the incident. Faculty are considering a no-confidence resolution to signal their dissatisfaction with administration transparency and reforms. As the administration has faced a lawsuit related to the case, many faculty urge changes to address systemic issues.
Attacks on Saudi airports claimed by Houthi rebels kill 3 people
Two attacks on Saudi airports by Houthi rebels resulted in three fatalities and numerous injuries on Wednesday. The strikes targeted Abha and Riyadh's King Khalid airports, affecting Moroccan, Algerian, and Sudanese nationals. In response to threats against oil and military assets, Saudi Arabia has bolstered security measures around key locations. Fighting continues in Yemen, particularly in strategic areas near the Bab el-Mandeb strait, with significant casualties reported.
Michigan is a battleground in 2026: An open Senate seat after Sen. Gary Peters' retirement has both parties fighting for it all in US midterm elections
Michigan's open Senate seat becomes highly contested with Democrat Abdul El-Sayed and Republican Mike Rogers. El-Sayed focuses on healthcare reform, advocating for Medicare for All and reducing medical debt. Conversely, Rogers emphasizes restoring manufacturing jobs and better managing costs for essential goods. Analysts highlight the race as a reflection of each party's strategies in a key battleground state. The election outcome on November 3 will significantly impact U.S.
UK Green Party adopts anti-Zionist stance, Israel bars leader Zack Polanski
The UK Green Party has formally adopted an anti-Zionist position at its recent conference in 2026. This decision has led to Israel barring the party's leader, Zack Polanski, from entering the country. The resolution defines Zionism as an ethnonationalist political project and not to be confused with antisemitism. Israel's Foreign Ministry criticized the resolution, stating it legitimizes violence against the state.
US waives rights curbs on Egypt military aid over Iran war role, clears $320 mn funds
The US State Department waived human rights conditions for Egypt's military aid of over $300 million. This decision aligns with Egypt's support during the US military operation in Iran. For years, Egypt has received about $1.3 billion annually in military aid from the US. There have been previous tensions over human rights issues concerning Egypt's record.
Trump will not win this year's Nobel Peace Prize, but he may influence who does
This year's Nobel Peace Prize is anticipated to avoid controversial choices due to Trump's influence. Experts believe awarding the prize could increase the pressure on the laureate from Trump. Possible candidates include Pope Leo and Francesca Albanese for their advocacy work. While some suggest safer choices like Save the Children, there's pressure to support liberal democracy and human rights. The final decision will be announced on October 9.
Netanyahu says Mamdani endangers Jewish New Yorkers by spreading lies about Israel's Gaza action
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani during a UN speech. He claimed that Mamdani's remarks have made Jewish individuals feel unsafe in New York. Mamdani, who has called Netanyahu a war criminal, maintained that his views are not antisemitic. Netanyahu defended his position and stated he cannot be silenced.
Netanyahu is booed as he begins his UNGA speech, with many delegations walking out of the General Assembly hall
During his speech at the United Nations General Assembly, Benjamin Netanyahu was met with protests and significant walkouts. Many delegates left the hall as a sign of disapproval, while Netanyahu called them moral cowards. In his speech, he defended Israel's military actions against Iran and criticized various global leaders. Outside the United Nations, demonstrators assembled to protest against Israel's actions in the ongoing conflict.
Trade deal between India and US done & dusted: Piyush Goyal
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced that the US-India bilateral trade agreement is on the verge of completion, showcasing significant progress. He also emphasized positive developments in the India-EU trade negotiations, particularly regarding climate regulations, and mentioned advancements in talks with Canada, Mexico, and the Gulf Cooperation Council.
‘India’s UNSC claim is strong — big powers are failing their UN role’
Richard Caplan emphasizes the limited role of the United Nations in current conflicts like Ukraine-Russia and US-Iran. He highlights how the UN struggles to enforce collective security due to actions by permanent members of the Security Council. While the UN has made some humanitarian contributions, significant issues remain unaddressed. Caplan also critiques the diminished institutional power of the UN under recent US administrations.
Why is Javier Bardem backing a petition to remove Pink as UNICEF ambassador after Ed Sheeran tour row involving Macklemore’s Palestine message?
Spanish Actor Javier Bardem has backed a Change.org petition calling for Pink to be removed as a UNICEF ambassador. The singer has been facing intense backlash over her response to Macklemore’s pro-Palestinian comments during Ed Sheeran’s tour. The petition had crossed 172,000 signatures in an earlier report and later surpassed 179,000.
'We unleashed the beast': the world's fears and hopes about AI
Global discussions are occurring about regulating artificial intelligence development. People in various countries share fears and hopes for the AI future. Leading US labs have called for a coordinated slowdown of cutting-edge work. Some individuals express concerns about AI making people less capable. Others see AI as a benefit if proper precautions are taken.
BRICS adopts New Delhi Declaration: Inside the 140-point document on Global South's ambitions
BRICS leaders adopted the New Delhi Declaration at the 18th summit, reaffirming their commitment to cooperation, multilateralism and a more representative global order. The document outlines India's 2026 chairship priorities, recognises partner countries' contributions and calls for greater participation of Emerging Markets, Developing Countries and Least Developed Countries in global governance.
Quote of the day by Lena Headey: 'Freedom isn’t free at all, that it comes with the highest of costs. The cost of blood.' Life lessons from inspiring quote on privileges, achievement, true strength, hard work, courage and sacrifice
Quote of the day by Lena Headey highlights the link between freedom, sacrifice and courage. Spoken by Headey as Queen Gorgo in the 2006 film 300, the saying explains that freedom can come with a human cost. It also offers lessons about appreciating rights, understanding sacrifice, standing up for others, working for important goals and recognising the effort needed to protect peace, safety and independence.
AI could pose 'existential' risk to humanity, UN rights chief warns
UN rights chief Volker Turk warned that artificial intelligence poses an existential threat. He called for "cast-iron guarantees" to ensure AI safety and security. Turk also demanded accountability for deaths in US immigration custody. He condemned Russia's reported use of autonomous drones in Ukraine. The UN will expose businesses fueling global conflicts and illegal settlements.
Iran CJ seeks action over war crimes, sovereignty violations
Iran's Chief Justice urged stronger international action against sovereignty violations and war crimes. He specifically referenced military strikes by Israel and the United States against his nation. Justice Surya Kant proposed a common BRICS platform for arbitration and mediation. This platform aims to resolve cross-border commercial disputes effectively. BRICS members were called to uphold the rule of law and stand against aggression.
What to know about a reported US airstrike that hit a wedding in Iran
A U.S. missile struck a home in southern Iran during a wedding celebration. Four people, including two children, were killed and over sixty were wounded. The strike occurred amid ongoing U.S. bombardments targeting Iranian air defenses and radar systems. A nearby communications tower was also hit in the latest round of attacks. Weapons experts suggest the fragments indicate an American air-delivered guided weapon was used.
India’s in-demand economic weapon can turn a global crisis into opportunity
India is expanding its network of labour agreements with countries around the world to connect Indian workers with job opportunities abroad. The push comes as ageing populations and shrinking workforces drive demand for talent across several countries. These agreements can facilitate the movement of workers while boosting remittance inflows to India. Ensuring the recognition of qualifications and portability of social security benefits will remain crucial to making these partnerships effective.
Iran executes over 500 people in 2026: Rights group
In 2023, Iran has seen a grim milestone with over 500 executions, witnessing a notable increase recently. Among those executed, twenty-nine were linked to anti-government protests, including sixteen women and thirteen political activists. Former President Donald Trump has publicly called for Iran to cease these executions, labeling the situation as a crisis. The world's focus has shifted to other conflicts, enabling the continuation of these executions.
Facebook, TikTok promoted Colombian armed groups' content to recruit children: NGO
Human Rights Watch (HRW) said the circulation of social media content by armed groups "glorifies life in armed group ranks" and promotes "deceptive job offers." Since 2021, around 1,500 children have been recruited by armed groups, according to HRW.
"Hezbollah using its own civilians as human shields": Netanyahu on several killed in Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon
Prime Minister Netanyahu accused Hezbollah of violating a ceasefire after soldiers were injured. Israel's military responded by striking a Hezbollah headquarters in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah, in turn, accused Israel of aggressive escalation and targeting civilians. The Israeli Prime Minister's Office stated civilians were not the intended targets. Both sides exchanged accusations regarding the recent border incidents.
US human rights groups sue Trump over anti-ICC push
Four US human rights groups filed a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration's campaign against the International Criminal Court. They argue sanctions prevent vital work pursuing justice for major global crimes. The administration claims the court threatens American sovereignty and personnel. This legal action follows similar suits and past judicial blocks on such orders. The US government intends to intensify efforts to undermine the international court.
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