MENA

Egypt's new asylum law faces backlash for excluding civil society input, risking refugee protection, and sparking public anger over economic pressures.

The blocking of the resolution marks the fourth time the US has vetoed against the measure since Israel launched its war on Gaza.

Sanders and a group of Democrats put legislation up for a Senate vote that would block the sale of some tank and mortar rounds and smart-bomb kits to Israel.

At least 40 people have been killed in an attack carried out by paramilitary forces that began on Tuesday, with fighters also looting property.

Human rights defender Diala Ayesh, who has been held in administrative detention since 17 January, has been awarded Index on Censorship's Freedom of Expression.

Hezbollah's leader also asserted that there must be a complete end to the aggression and the "preservation of Lebanon's sovereignty".

Hamas' acting Gaza chief reiterated that the captives held in Gaza would not be released unless Israel ends the war on Gaza, and are open to truce talks.

A resolution for a ceasefire put forward by 10 non-permanent members of the UN Security Council was blocked by the US after they voted against it.

The firm told Axios it would not play a role in any works on the ground in Gaza and that the plan would be part of a transitional period.

The upcoming offensive comes as China pushes to join security efforts to protect its citizens in the region.