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Arab Nations Condemn Israel’s Strikes

Jordan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates asserted that Israeli airstrikes were in violation of international law …reports Asian Lite News

Qatar, Jordan and UAE joined Saudi Arabia on Saturday in condemning the airstrikes launched by Israel on the territory of Iran while expressing deep concern over the continued escalation and its repercussions on security and stability in the region.

“The State of Qatar expresses its strong condemnation and denunciation of Israel’s targeting of the Islamic Republic of Iran, considering this act a blatant violation of Iran’s sovereignty and a clear breach of the principles of international law,” read a statement issued by Qatar’s Foreign Ministry.

The ministry emphasised the country’s deep concern regarding the serious repercussions that may result from this escalation and urged all concerned parties to exercise restraint, resolve disputes through dialogue and peaceful means, and avoid anything that could destabilise security and stability in the region.

It also reiterated Qatar’s call for the international community to intensify efforts aimed at de-escalation, reducing tensions, and ending the suffering of the peoples of the region, particularly in Gaza and Lebanon.

Jordan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates asserted that Israeli airstrikes were in violation of international law and could lead to a dangerous escalation and more tension in the region.

Ambassador Sufian Al-Qudah, the spokesperson for Jordanian foreign ministry, stressed the Kingdom’s “absolute rejection” of the dangerous escalation in the region and violations of international law, warning against slipping into a conflict that threatens the stability of the region and international security.

“We call on the international community to assume its responsibilities and take immediate measures to impose a halt to the Israeli aggression in Gaza, the West Bank and Lebanon as a first step towards reducing the escalation, stopping Israel’s violations of international law and UN resolutions, and protecting the security and stability of the region from the disastrous consequences of continued Israeli attacks,” remarked Al-Qudah.

The UAE, while strongly condemning the military targeting of Iran, expressed its deep concern over the continued escalation and its repercussions on security and stability in the region.

In a statement, the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed the importance of exercising maximum restraint and wisdom to avoid risks and the expansion of the conflict.

“The ministry reiterated the UAE’s belief that enhancing dialogue, adhering to international laws, and respecting the sovereignty of states are the best foundations for resolving current crises. In this context, the UAE stresses the need to resolve disputes through diplomatic means, away from the language of confrontation and escalation,” it mentioned.

Earlier, Saudi Arabia expressed its “condemnation and denunciation” of the Israeli military’s action of targeting Iran, which it said is a violation of its sovereignty and a violation of international laws and norms.

“The Kingdom affirms its unwavering position in its rejection of the continued escalation in the region and the expansion of the conflict that threatens the security and stability of the countries and people of the region.

The Kingdom urges all parties to exercise the utmost restraint and reduce escalation, and warns of the consequences of continuing military conflicts in the region,” read a statement issued by the Saudi foreign ministry.

It called on the international community and influential and active parties to carry out their roles and responsibilities towards reducing escalation and ending the conflicts in the region.

Meanwhile, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Saturday the successful completion of “precise and targeted strikes” against multiple military targets in Iran that posed an immediate threat to Israel.

These strikes, conducted in three waves in collaboration with the Israeli Air Force (IAF), took place early Saturday in response to a ballistic missile attack on October 1, revealed IDF spokesman, Brigadier General Daniel Hagar.

“Our message is clear: anyone who threatens the State of Israel and strives to drag the region into a wider escalation will pay a heavy price. We proved today that we have the ability to act decisively, and that we are ready, in attack and defense, to protect the State of Israel and the citizens of Israel,” said Hagar.

He added: “The IDF has fulfilled its mission. Should the Iranian regime make the mistake of initiating a new escalation, we will respond.”

ALSO READ: Saudi Arabia denounces Israeli attack on Iran

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Jordan, UAE explore ways to deescalate Middle East

UAE President and Jordan King underscored the need to intensify efforts to prevent the conflict from escalating further and threatening regional stability….reports Asian Lite News

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with His Majesty King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Their talks focused on the strong fraternal ties between the two nations and their close collaboration in areas that support a shared vision of sustainable development, prosperity, and stability.

The leaders also discussed a number of regional and international issues of mutual concern, particularly the situation in the Middle East, including developments in Gaza and Lebanon. They emphasised the importance of intensifying efforts to achieve a ceasefire and ensuring full protection for civilians in accordance with international humanitarian law, while also advancing joint efforts to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

They underscored the need to intensify efforts to prevent the conflict from escalating further and threatening regional stability. They also stressed the importance of working towards a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace, based on the two-state solution, to ensure security for all.

UAE President praised Jordan’s historical role in supporting the Palestinian people in numerous ways and expressed his appreciation for Jordan’s contribution to efforts aimed at addressing the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

Both leaders noted the importance of enhancing Arab cooperation, both bilaterally and collectively, in light of the challenging circumstances currently facing the region.

The discussions took place during an official reception at Basman Palace in Amman, where His Majesty warmly welcomed the UAE President and his accompanying delegation, who are on a working visit to Jordan, expressing his pleasure at their visit.

During the meeting, the two leaders discussed the ongoing bilateral cooperation in areas such as the economy, investment, sustainable development, food security, renewable energy, and other key sectors. They reaffirmed their shared commitment to exploring new opportunities for collaboration and building strategic economic partnerships that align with the aspirations of both nations for development and progress.

His Highness and King Abdullah II spoke of the strong and deeply rooted ties between their countries, which can be traced back to the time of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the late King Hussein bin Talal.

The UAE President and King of Jordan highlighted the significance of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which was signed during the visit. This agreement, they noted, is a natural progression of the two nations’ longstanding history of fruitful economic relations and provides a solid foundation for expanding opportunities in the future.

Leaders witness signing of CEPA

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Majesty King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan today witnessed the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and Jordan. The first CEPA to be signed between the UAE and an Arab nation, the deal aims to deepen bilateral trade and investment ties, accelerate growth in priority industries, create jobs, and strengthen supply chains.

During a ceremony held at Basman Palace in Amman, the agreement was signed by Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, and His Excellency Yarub Falah Al-Qudah, Jordan’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply.

His Highness and King Abdullah II also witnessed the signing of the Administrative Cooperation Agreement on Customs Matters between the UAE and Jordan. The agreement was signed on behalf of the UAE by His Excellency Ali bin Hammad Al Shamsi, Chairman of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security, and on behalf of Jordan by His Excellency Yarub Falah Al-Qudah, Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply.

Sheikh Mohamed welcomed the CEPA as a natural progression of UAE-Jordanian strategic relations, noting that it lays a strong foundation for enhancing cooperation and economic integration between the two countries. It also paves the way for building more fruitful partnerships and initiating a new phase of long-term trade and investment collaboration, contributing to sustainable economic growth for both nations and fostering prosperity across the region.

King Abdullah expressed his hope that the agreement would contribute to achieving the two countries’ shared vision for sustainable economic development and prosperity, as well as opening new opportunities for economic integration between them. He also praised the UAE’s support for development efforts in Jordan.

The deal builds on robust UAE-Jordan economic ties, with non-oil trade reaching over US$4.2 billion in 2023. In the first half of 2024, non-oil trade between the two countries amounted to $2.7 billion, reflecting a growth of 36.8% compared to the same period in 2023. Jordan is currently the UAE’s third-largest Arab trade partner outside of the GCC. Meanwhile, the UAE is Jordan’s top foreign investor, with mutual investment between the two countries estimated to be approximately $22.5 billion.

By removing or reducing trade restrictions and non-tariff measures on commodities and services, it is expected the CEPA will forge even closer ties, fostering opportunities across multiple sectors including renewable energy, industrial projects, manufacturing, transport, pharmaceuticals, and food processing.

ALSO READ: ‘UAE solidifies its position as a leading global financial hub’

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UAE, Jordan sign investment deal in railway sector

The memorandum aims to enhance capabilities and facilitate the exchange of knowledge, skills, and technical expertisebetween the two countries…reports Asian Lite News

The Ministry of Investment of the UAE and the Ministry of Investment of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan have signed an Investment Memorandum, to establish a framework for cooperation in the railway sector.

The memorandum aims to enhance capabilities and facilitate the exchange of knowledge, skills, and technical expertisebetween the two countries. As part of the cooperation between the two ministries, Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE National Railway Network, signed an agreement with the Jordanian Ministry of Transport to facilitate the implementation of railway projects in Jordan, with the aim of building, developing, and operating a Jordanian railway network spanning 360 kilometres, linking phosphate and potash mines to the Port of Aqaba. Furthermore, the company signed two additional MoUs with Jordan Phosphate Mines Company and Arab Potash Company to transport 16 million tonnes of phosphate and potash annually from mining sites to the Port of Aqaba via the Jordanian railway network.This strategic connection aims to create a transformative shift in the transportation of essential materials, enhance export capabilities, and improve logistical efficiency, thus, creating job opportunities in the transport and mining sectors, and contributing to economic development in the Kingdom.


Under the Investment Memorandum between the two ministries, the railway infrastructure will be developed, including the manufacturing and supply of a fleet of trains designed to the highest international standards. The project will also include the construction of loading and unloading terminals for various mineral products in Aqaba, Ghor Al Safi, and Shidiya. These terminals will facilitate the efficient handling and transportation of minerals, creating more seamless and efficient logistics and export operations. Additionally, the project will comprise maintenance, repair, and operation of the railway network.

Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, Minister of Investment of the UAE, said: “The Investment Memorandum with the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan showcases our commitment to leveraging our collective and bilateral efforts to drive economic growth, while enhancing resilience and promoting economic diversification in both of our brotherly nations. Through enhancing capabilities and sharing technical expertise, we aim to establish new economic and investment connections that support infrastructure development and foster promising opportunities, all within the framework of our vision to achieve comprehensive and sustainable economic growth.” He added: “This collaborative partnership aligns with our overarching vision to construct a robust and innovative railway network that meets and exceeds global standards, thereby setting the stage for future advancements and prosperity in the region.”

The Prime Minister of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, Dr. Bisher Al-Khasawneh, highlighted during the signing ceremony, which was also attended by the UAE Minister of Investment,
Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, that this significant strategic investment project underscores the deep and amicable bond between the two nations. He emphasised that these ties are nurtured and supported by His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan and President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.


Dr Al-Khasawneh stated: “Today, we signed Emirati investment agreements valued at US$2.3 billion to connect the Port of Aqaba with the mining areas in Al-Shidiya and Ghor Al-Safi.” He noted that these agreements, along with the series of investment initiatives, are part of a broader memorandum of understanding, agreement, and series of investment initiatives that Jordan signed with the UAE in November 2023. This series of investment initiatives, witnessed by His Majesty King Abdullah II and President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, totals approximately US$5.5 billion. He added, “We are always pleased with the enduring strategic partnership and close fraternal ties between Jordan and the UAE, which reflect the strong bond between His Majesty King Abdullah II and his brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.”

He emphasised that the signing of these agreements symbolises the deep fraternal and strategic relations between the two nations and serves the mutual interests of both sides. He highlighted that the signed agreements form a comprehensive cooperative framework in the railway sector, aimed at transferring technical expertise and skills related to railway construction and operation. The Prime Minister noted that the project will take five years to commence actual operations, projected for 2030. Detailed studies on railway tracks and the handling requirements for potash and phosphate will be completed by the end of 2025, with the goal of issuing bids for construction work in early 2026.

He explained that the establishment of this railway will greatly enhance our logistical and export capabilities, starting with a capacity of 16 million tons of phosphate and potash products. He highlighted that this crucial project for the Kingdom will connect major mining sites with the industrial port and phosphate port, extending to Wadi Al-Yatam in Aqaba. Additionally, it will improve logistical efficiency and export processes, creating new job opportunities across various fields, including logistics, mining, railways, and other related sectors. Dr Al-Khasawneh also highlighted that the railway route will commence at the phosphate port and the industrial port in Aqaba, extending northward to Wadi Al-Yatam and then to Shidiya. Another route will brand westward from Wadi Al-Yatam to Ghor Al Safi through Wadi Araba. He noted that this project will be implemented under the Jordanian Investment Fund Law and will require five years to be completed.


The Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to the Jordan Phosphate Mines Company and the Arab Potash Company for their constructive engagement during the negotiation phase of this project. He also commended the cooperation shown by the UAE’s Etihad Rail Company. He further extended his thanks to the Emirati partners for their interest in Jordan’s investment environment in general, and in the transport and railway sectors in particular. This interest builds upon the many existing Emirati investments, some of which are set to come to fruition soon in the Aqaba Special Economic Zone. The Prime Minister mentioned ongoing discussions with Emirati partners about revisiting the idea of establishing a dry port in Ma’an. He noted that while it may be premature to discuss this project extensively, the railway initiative lays the groundwork for re-establishing the dry port in Ma’an, enhancing the logistics network and the transport sector in the Kingdom. He also announced the continuation of collaboration with the Emirati partners, which will benefit both countries, emphasising that the two nations operate as ‘one body and one mind’. This relationship is strengthened by the strategic and historical ties between their leaderships and peoples, serving as a model for exemplary Arab relation.


Shadi Malak, CEO of Etihad Rail, said: “The agreements and MoUs signed by Etihad Rail reinforce our ongoing commitment to strengthening our presence in the region. This
strategic vision is made possible by the unwavering support of our wise leadership and the guidance of H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail. We are keen to leverage our proven expertise in developing and operating the UAE National Railway Network to support the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan’s ambitious plans for advancing its rail infrastructure and driving economic growth. This aligns with the strong and cooperative relationship between our two nations, particularly in the implementation of joint projects in the transport and infrastructure sectors, which are mutually beneficial to our nations.”


The Jordanian railway network project, which will be implemented by Etihad Rail in Jordan, is characterised by its strategic connection between phosphate and potash mines and the Port of Aqaba – a major port in the Red Sea region. Strategically located between Europe, Asia, and Africa, the port plays a pivotal role in the development of the Jordanian economy, handling most imports and exports to and from the Hashemite Kingdom, including products from the mining industries such as raw phosphate and potash, which are among the most abundant natural resources in the country.


Since its establishment in the UAE, Etihad Rail has been responsible for building, developing, and operating the UAE National Railway Network for freight and passenger transport, and constitutes a key part of the “Projects of the 50,” the largest initiative to solidify the strength of the Union for the next fifty years. Since 2016, the company has been operating a route, transporting granulated sulfur from gas production fields in Shah and Habshan to export points at Ruwais Port. In 2023, the UAE National Railway Network was inaugurated, and freight train operations were launched across the UAE. Furthermore, Etihad Rail continues to make progress in developing its passenger transport services, which will operate on the same network in the future. Etihad Rail has achieved remarkable success in its efforts to enhance cooperation with neighbouring countries in the rail transport sector. This is evident through the UAE-Oman Railway Network project, which is being implemented by Etihad Rail, Oman Rail, and Mubadala Investment Company through a joint venture company, Hafeet Rail. This joint network will contribute to strengthening the position of the UAE and Oman as logistical hubs in the region and enhance their role as gateways to regional markets.


This Investment Memorandum follows a US$2 billion agreement signed by the UAE and Jordan in 2023, establishing a framework for investment cooperation in key areas such as infrastructure and development. The UAE is one of the largest foreign investors in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, having invested about US$ 22.5 billion into various key sectors of the country’s economy over the past 10 years

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‘Jordan won’t send troops to Gaza’

Jordan Deputy Prime Minister said it will not deal with the catastrophic reality created by “Netanyahu and his government and this aggression”….reports Asian Lite News

Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Ayman Safadi, said that Jordan will not send troops to Gaza to replace the Israeli occupation forces, and will not deal with the catastrophic reality created by “Netanyahu and his government and this aggression”.

He made these statements in Athens on Wednesday during a joint press conference with his Greek counterpart Giorgos Gerapetritis.

“We call on all parties to work towards reaching a just deal that guarantees a permanent ceasefire and the release of all Israeli and Palestinian prisoners and detainees, as a step towards beginning to stop the humanitarian catastrophe imposed by the aggression on Gaza,” he added as quoted by Jordan News Agency (Petra).

In response to a question about the ceasefire and peace in the region, US President Joe Biden’s plan, and Arab participation in Gaza after or during the war, Safadi said: “A ceasefire is a permanent demand for us and our partners in the international community, and therefore we support every effort aimed at reaching an exchange agreement to reach a ceasefire, and we appreciate the efforts made by Egypt, Qatar and the United States to reach this deal, but we all heard what the Israeli Prime Minister said two days ago that he does not want a ceasefire and wants a temporary truce after which he continues the war, and this contradicts with the essence of Biden’s initiative.”

“We want a comprehensive plan not only to stop the war but also to reach a just, comprehensive and lasting peace based on the two-state solution, and this basically means that any approach that deals with Gaza separately from the rest of the occupied Palestinian territories and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, cannot be accepted,” he emphasised.

Safadi added, “The danger of expanding the war is real and increasing, and the only way to prevent it is to stop the aggression on Gaza, stop the escalation against the Palestinian people in the West Bank, reach a permanent ceasefire, respect international law, respect the UN Charter, and launch an action plan with a specific goal: the two-state solution, with clear timelines to resolve the conflict at its roots.”

Egypt, Türkiye renew truce calls

 Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sameh Shoukry and his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan emphasised in a phone call on Wednesday the urgent need for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza Strip.

According to the Egyptian Foreign Ministry, the two ministers warned of the ramifications of escalating the conflict in the region, especially in light of the recent developments between Israel and Lebanon.

The call also addressed bilateral relations between the two countries and the arrangements for holding the first meeting of the High-Level Strategic Council between Egypt and Türkiye.

‘UN won’t abandon Gaza’

UN aid teams and partner organisations remain deeply committed to delivering lifesaving supplies to Gazans in need, despite the increasing dangers of working there, the Organisation’s top aid official said on Wednesday.

Responding to media reports on Tuesday that the UN had warned the aid effort may have to stop unless the security situation and coordination with the Israeli military improved, Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths denied that any “ultimatum” had been given.

“We continue, as we have done for these many, many months to negotiate with the Israeli authorities and others with a lot of help, by the way, from the US, as you know, to get the right conditions to allow it to be delivered safely and securely,” he told UN News in an exclusive interview, just days before he is due to step down from his post.

“We’re not running away from Gaza, at all, but what is true now – and I think that’s the basis for this story – is of course that we are particularly concerned about the security situation in Gaza, and it is becoming more and more difficult to operate.”

“Aid can make a difference, that’s why we need to get all these crossings open,” Griffiths said.

“That’s why we need safety and security, that’s why we need the pier to restart and get that aid off the beach if that can be done too. We need all hands on deck for this. We’ll keep on at it. But we fail them daily every time we’re not able to get aid through to the people who need it.”

ALSO READ: UAE reaffirms commitment to supporting maritime sector, seafarers

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UAE, Jordan condemn Israel’s storming of Al Aqsa

The ministers emphasised that the Al-Aqsa Mosque, covering 144 dunams, is solely a Muslim worship site and called for Israel to respect its historical and legal status….reports Asian Lite News

UAE Foreign Minister H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his Jordanian counterpart Ayman Al-Safadi, who is also the Deputy Prime Minister, condemned the continued Israeli raids on the Al-Aqsa Mosque.

The latest one was “the storming of one of the extremist ministers in the Israeli government,” according to UAE Foreign Ministry. “Today, members of the Knesset and extremists entered the mosque under the protection of the Israeli occupation police.”

The two ministers denounced, during a phone call, the Israeli government’s permission for the so-called flag march in occupied Jerusalem, and the accompanying “aggression against the Palestinians, extremist racist practices, and the imposition of restrictions on worshipers’ access to the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque and restricting the movement of worshippers in the Old City of occupied Jerusalem.”

H.H. Sheikh Abdullah and Ayman Al-Safadi stressed the need for Israel to comply with its legal obligations, and to stop the illegal measures that undermine the chances of achieving a just, lasting and comprehensive peace based on the two-state solution.

The two ministers also stressed that the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque, with its entire area of ​​144 dunams, is a pure place of worship for Muslims, and the need for Israel to respect the historical and legal status existing in the Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan stressed the importance of the role of the Hashemite custodianship over the Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, and appreciated its role in protecting the identity of the Arab, Islamic and Christian holy sites.

Meanwhile, the Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, has condemned the ongoing Israeli incursions into the Al-Aqsa Mosque.

The Council expressed its strong condemnation of the “Flag March” in the occupied city of Jerusalem and the accompanying aggression against Palestinians to go with the extremist and racist practices, and the imposition of restrictions on the access of worshippers to the Al-Aqsa Mosque, as well as the restriction of movement for worshippers in the Old City of occupied Jerusalem.

The Muslim Council of Elders called on the international community to urgently compel the Israeli occupation to cease all forms of aggression against the Palestinian people and their Islamic and Christian holy sites and to respect the legal status of the city of Jerusalem by halting all illegal and illegitimate measures by the occupation authorities, including attempts to divide the Al-Aqsa Mosque spatially and temporally.

The Muslim Council of Elders reiterated its call for intensified international efforts to immediately stop the aggression on the Gaza Strip and to allow the entry of humanitarian and relief aid as well as acknowledging the Palestinian people’s right to establish an independent state.

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Rafah: Egypt, Jordan warn against humanitarian catastrophe

Egypt and Jordan said Israeli operation impedes the only safe exit of the wounded and sick Palestinians and hinders the delivery of humanitarian and relief aid…reports Asian Lite News

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Jordan’s Prime Minister Bisher Khasawneh have warned against the humanitarian catastrophe of the ongoing Israeli military operation in the Palestinian city of Rafah, according to the Egyptian Presidency office’s statement.

The two leaders made the remarks during a meeting in Cairo, where they reiterated the two countries’ “full rejection” of the Israeli invasion of Rafah, the southernmost city of the besieged enclave, said the statement on Thursday as quoted by Xinhua news agency report.

“The Israeli operation impedes the only safe exit of the wounded and sick Palestinians and hinders the delivery of humanitarian and relief aid,” they emphasised.

The ongoing conditions require the international community to take its responsibilities for reaching an immediate and sustainable ceasefire and to push forward for the recognition of an independent Palestinian state which will help in achieving regional security and stability, the statement added.

The Israeli army launched a military operation in Rafah on Monday night, where more than one million internally displaced Palestinians have sought refuge since Israel’s offensive began on October 7 last year.

Cairo talks failed

The delegations of Hamas, Israel, Qatar and the US left Egypt after talks for reaching a truce in the Gaza Strip hit an impasse, the media reported.

“The delegations participating in the Cairo talks left for consultations, while some points of disagreement remained unresolved,” Egypt’s state-affiliated Al-Qahera News TV channel report quoted an unnamed senior official as saying on Thursday.

The delegations arrived in Cairo on Tuesday to achieve a comprehensive truce in the conflict-stricken Gaza. Yet, no agreement has been reached despite some progress in the negotiations, Xinhua news agency reported.

Among the major disputes between the conflicting parties are the number and lists of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners to be released under a swap deal, as well as issues regarding Israel’s partial withdrawal from Gaza to allow free movement of Palestinians in the enclave.

The talks stalled when the Israeli military launched an operation in Gaza’s southernmost city of Rafah crowded with more than one million internally displaced Palestinians and took control of the Palestinian side of the key Rafah crossing.

Israel to continue Rafah op

The Israeli army will continue its operation in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah “as planned,” after the talks on the Israel-Hamas truce held in Egypt’s Cairo collapsed, an Israeli official told the media.

Meanwhile, a Xinhua news agency covering the developments reported mass Israeli troops stationed on the border with Rafah.

The unnamed Israeli official confirmed on Thursday that the Israeli delegation has left Cairo after talks with Hamas, the US, Egyptian, and Qatari negotiators on a deal to end the hostilities and secure the release of hostages in Gaza, Xinhua news agency reported.

The official did not elaborate on whether Israel will expand the offensive to more areas in Rafah at the southern end of Gaza, where about 1.2 million internally displaced Palestinians were taking refuge.

According to Israel’s state-owned Kan TV news, the talks were halted due to Israel’s ongoing ground assault on Rafah.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s war cabinet was scheduled to meet later on Thursday to discuss the continuation of the Rafah operation.

Commenting on US President Joe Biden’s decision to pause some shipments of weapons to Israel if it deepens its assault on Rafah city, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said it has enough weapons to continue operations in Gaza.

“The IDF has armaments for the operations it is planning, also for the operation in Rafah,” IDF Spokesman Daniel Hagari said in a statement.

“We have what we need,” he stressed.

“The US has so far provided security assistance to Israel and the IDF in an unprecedented manner,” Hagari added, noting that “even when there are disagreements between us — we resolve them in closed rooms”.

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Jordan Armed Forces Send Gaza Aid Convoy

The armed forces pledged continued efforts to send humanitarian and medical aid to the war-torn Palestinian enclave…reports Asian Lite News

The Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army has dispatched a humanitarian aid convoy to the Gaza Strip in coordination with the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organisation.

The convoy, consisting of 51 trucks loaded with food and other relief supplies, is part of the efforts by Jordan to help alleviate the suffering of the population in Gaza and a way to show support and solidarity for the Palestinians, the state-run Petra news agency reported on Monday.

The armed forces pledged continued efforts to send humanitarian and medical aid to the war-torn Palestinian enclave, either by air through Egypt’s Al-Arish airport and airdrop operations or by land through aid convoys, Xinhua news agency reported.

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Blinken calls up Turkish, Egyptian, Jordanian, Saudi counterparts

In conversation with Turkish leader, Secretary Blinken thanked him for his efforts to prevent further escalation in the region….reports Asian Lite News

Amid rising tensions in West Asia, US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken on Sunday spoke with his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan to discuss the ‘blatant’ and ‘unprecedented’ attack by Iran and its proxies on Israel, US Department of State spokesperson Mathew Miller said.

In conversation with Turkish leader, Secretary Blinken thanked him for his efforts to prevent further escalation in the region.

“@SecBlinken spoke with Turkish Foreign Minister @HakanFidan about yesterday’s blatant and unprecedented attack by Iran and its proxies on Israel. He thanked him for his efforts to prevent further escalation in the region,” Miller posted on X.

US official also spoke with his counterparts in Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia following Iran’s attacks in Israel.

During his phone calls, Blinken emphasised the importance of avoiding escalation in the region and the importance of “a coordinated diplomatic response.”

In his conversation with his counterparts in Jordan and Egypt, Blinken also underlined the significance of achieving an “enduring end to the crisis in Gaza.”

Spokesperson Miller shared details about Secretary Blinken’s conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister, Faisal bin Farhan, saying, “@SecBlinken spoke with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince @FaisalbinFarhan to discuss last night’s unprecedented air attack against military facilities in Israel and to coordinate on a diplomatic response.”

“@SecBlinken and Jordanian Foreign Minister @AymanHsafadi discussed Iran’s unprecedented air attack on Israel and the importance of regional de-escalation,” he added.

Meanwhile, the hours-long Israeli war cabinet meeting ended Sunday night without a decision on how Israel will respond to Iran’s missile and drone attack, CNN reported citing an Israeli official.

The cabinet is determined to respond but has yet to decide on the timing and scope and the official said the military has been tasked with coming up with additional options for a response.

In its first direct attack on Israel on Saturday night, Israel launched more than 300 drones and missiles from its territory towards the Jewish state, triggering air raid sirens throughout Israel on Sunday morning as the country’s advanced air defence intercepted and disabled the projectiles that came its way, the Times of Israel reported.

Notably, Iran and its proxies operating out of Yemen, Syria and Iraq launched more than 300 projectiles at Israel on Saturday night, including dozens of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones. (ANI)

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Blinken discusses ceasefire with Jordan, Egypt FMs

The Jordanian minister stressed the importance of opening all crossings for the entry of aid…reports Asian Lite News

Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi on Friday received a phone call from US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to discuss efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza, and attempts to transport sufficient aid into the area, especially through Jordan.

The parties stressed the need to remove all obstacles to ensure the adequate and immediate entry of aid into the besieged Palestinian territory, the Jordan News Agency reported.

The Jordanian minister stressed the importance of opening all crossings for the entry of aid, and the need for supplies to address the humanitarian crisis caused by the war.

He said that Jordan would be able to send hundreds of trucks to Gaza daily as soon as the northern crossings were opened, allowing the UN and its agencies to receive and distribute the aid.

Safadi also stressed the need to end the Israeli assault on Gaza, and warned of “the disastrous consequences of an Israeli ground offensive against Rafah” in the southern Gaza Strip, Petra added.

US State Department spokesman, Matthew Miller, confirmed both officials focused on “diplomatic efforts to achieve an enduring end to the crisis in Gaza that provides lasting peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians alike.”

He provided details on their efforts to secure an immediate ceasefire, which they hoped would continue “over a period of at least six weeks” as part of a hostage release deal with Hamas.

“Blinken thanked Jordan for its leadership in facilitating the delivery of life-saving humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza, including through joint US-Jordan airdrops and deliveries by land,” Miller also said.

The two parties discussed regional developments and efforts to reduce escalation in the conflict by Iran, as well as a number of bilateral issues.

Blinken also spoke to Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry on Friday, and the parties agreed to maintain “constant Egypt-US consultations to contain the crisis in Gaza, end the war, and sustain aid delivery,” said Ahmed Abu Zeid, the spokesperson for Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

He added that Shoukry emphasized the “risks of regional conflict expansion and the unfolding consequences on (the) security and safety of the people.”

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Egypt, Jordan, France Demand Gaza Ceasefire

The leaders urged Israel to ensure the flow of humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian population, a responsibility it has not fulfilled…reports Asian Lite News

Egypt, Jordan, and France have urged an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, which has been under Israeli siege and bombardment over the past six months.

In a joint article on Monday, Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi, Jordanian King Abdullah II, and French President Emmanuel Macron called for an immediate and unconditional implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2728, which demands an immediate ceasefire in the conflict-stricken enclave, Xinhua news agency reported.

“We warn against the dangerous consequences of an Israeli offensive on Rafah, where more than 1.5 million Palestinian civilians have sought refuge. Such an offensive will only bring more deaths and suffering, heighten the risks and consequences of mass forcible displacement of the people of Gaza and threaten regional escalation,” said the leaders.

Noting that there is an urgent need for a massive increase in the provision and distribution of humanitarian assistance, the leaders urged Israel to ensure the flow of humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian population, a responsibility it has not fulfilled.

They demanded an immediate release of all hostages and reaffirmed their support for the negotiations brokered by Egypt, Qatar and the United States dealing with ceasefire, hostages, and detainees.

The massive conflict in Gaza has so far killed 33,207 Palestinians, in addition to many unreported under the rubble, and injured 75,933 others, according to the update released by Gaza’s health ministry earlier on Monday.

Israel launched a large-scale offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip in retaliation to a Hamas rampage in southern Israel on October 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 people were killed and more than 200 were taken hostage.

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