Netanyahu trial postponed amid war tensions and Gaza aid crisis

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Benjamin Netanyahu’s corruption trial has been postponed by at least a week following a private court session attended by the heads of Mossad and IDF military intelligence. The Israeli prime minister had been due to give evidence in Jerusalem, but the proceedings were halted amid security and political developments. Former US President Donald Trump’s calls to drop the charges – claiming they undermine Netanyahu’s leadership during the Gaza conflict – have drawn mixed reactions within Israeli politics. Netanyahu’s office thanked Trump but denied asking for his intervention.

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Meanwhile, concerns continue to mount over the safety of humanitarian workers in Gaza. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) has accused Hamas of placing bounties on the heads of American contractors and Palestinian workers distributing aid. The organisation claims operatives have been stationed near distribution sites to hinder aid delivery. These allegations follow the recent killing of 12 Palestinian staff members, with GHF warning of growing threats to those trying to deliver essential supplies during the conflict.

The aid delivery model, created by GHF and backed by the US and Israel, has been condemned by some NGOs and international observers for being inhumane. Mass shootings have been reported near aid sites, with eyewitnesses blaming Israeli forces, although the IDF claims it has only used warning shots and is now investigating. The US recently approved $30 million to support the model, despite its growing controversy. Reports of Hamas interference and looting by both armed gangs and desperate civilians have further complicated aid efforts.

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Elsewhere, violence continues across the West Bank, with escalating tensions between Israeli settlers and security forces. The use of live ammunition by IDF soldiers to subdue allegedly violent settlers has triggered political discord, drawing criticism from far-right finance minister Bezalel Smotrich. Other politicians have pushed back, accusing him and security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir of inciting settler aggression. The situation on multiple fronts underscores the mounting pressures facing Israeli leadership amid war, political division, and humanitarian breakdown.

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