Daily Archives: 20 April 2026

Jerusalem Latin cleric condemns destruction of Jesus statue by Israeli soldier

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Bishop William Shomali. [Wikipedia]

William Shomali, an auxiliary bishop for the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, condemned Monday the destruction of a statue of Jesus Christ by an Israeli soldier in southern Lebanon, calling it a “shameful and disgraceful act,” Anadolu reports.

Speaking to Anadolu, Shomali denounced the incident a day after the Israeli army acknowledged that one of its soldiers had smashed the statue in the town of Debel in Nabatieh province.

The acknowledgement followed a report by the Israeli newspaper Haaretz, which said Sunday that a soldier had destroyed a statue of Jesus in southern Lebanon.

Shomali said the act is “shameful, disgraceful, and constitutes a violation of international humanitarian law and a sign of disrespect for religions.”

“What we saw is contempt for religions. It is absolutely unacceptable and must not be allowed,” he said.

Responding to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s condemnation of the incident, Shomali said that “in my view, the killing of innocent civilians and children in Lebanon is more serious.”

READ: Israeli soldier smashes statue of Christ in southern Lebanon

“The breaking of the cross is not the only tragedy in Lebanon. Innocent people are dying every day as a result of this war, which must stop,” he added.

Netanyahu condemned the incident early Monday, claiming that Israel “respects all religions” at a time when Tel Aviv is attacking several countries in the region, resulting in deaths and injuries among civilians.

Since March 2, Israeli attacks on Lebanon have killed 2,294 people, wounded 7,544, and displaced more than 1 million, according to official figures.

US President Donald Trump announced Thursday a 10-day ceasefire in Lebanon following calls with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli officials.

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Keir Starmer explains that UK is actively supporting Israel's genocidal expansion and repeats his previous quotation that he supports Zionism "without qualification". Keir Starmer said “I said it loud and clear – and meant it – that I support Zionism without qualification.” here: https://www.jewishnews.co.uk/keir-starmer-interview-i-will-work-to-eradicate-antisemitism-from-day-one/
Keir Starmer explains that UK is actively supporting Israel’s genocidal expansion and repeats his previous quotation that he supports Zionism “without qualification”. Keir Starmer said “I said it loud and clear – and meant it – that I support Zionism without qualification.” here: https://www.jewishnews.co.uk/keir-starmer-interview-i-will-work-to-eradicate-antisemitism-from-day-one/
Donald Trump calls for help from NATO allies in securing the Straight of Hormuz despite saying on 7 March 2026 that they don't need people to join wars after they've already won. He's challenged with the claim that he lies as much as the IDF.
Donald Trump calls for help from NATO allies in securing the Straight of Hormuz despite saying on 7 March 2026 that they don’t need people to join wars after they’ve already won. He’s challenged with the claim that he lies as much as the IDF.
Climate science denier Donald Trump confirms that he knows nothing about democracy and that more liquid gold is being secured according to his policy of global privateering.
Climate science denier Donald Trump confirms that he knows nothing about democracy and that more liquid gold is being secured according to his policy of global privateering.
Continue ReadingJerusalem Latin cleric condemns destruction of Jesus statue by Israeli soldier

Boos erupt against pro-Israel candidates at Michigan Democratic convention

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US Congresswoman Haley Stevens [Screengrab/X]

In further signs of Israel becoming politically toxic, the deep divisions between the Democratic base and Democratic leaders were on powerful display yesterday, as party delegates in Michigan jeered, heckled and shouted down pro-Israel candidates at their own state convention.

AIPAC funded US Congresswoman Haley Stevens and University of Michigan regent Jordan Acker, who opposed student protesters demanding divestment from Israel, were both booed from the stage yesterday at the Michigan Democratic Party Convention.

Stevens, a four-term congresswoman from suburban Detroit, has cast herself as a pragmatic centrist and voted consistently with AIPAC’s position on Israel, including its war on Gaza. Her two Democratic primary rivals — state Senator Mallory McMorrow and former Michigan public health director Abdul El-Sayed, who is of Egyptian descent — have both pledged to refuse AIPAC money, mirroring a national trend of Democratic candidates trying to insulate themselves from a base that now views the Isael lobby’s endorsement as politically radioactive.

Read: New pro-Palestine encampments erected at University of North Carolina, Arizona State University

The jeers for Stevens were not the only signal. Delegates also booed Acker, the incumbent University of Michigan regent and a prominent Jewish Democrat who became a lightning rod for pro-Palestine activists in 2024.

Acker publicly opposed student protesters demanding the university divest from Israel over its war on Gaza, pushed for a hard line against the Ann Arbor encampment, and dismissed divestment as unworkable. For activists, he became the face of a university administration that called in police against its own students.

On Sunday, Acker lost his re-nomination to Amir Makled, a civil rights attorney who represented many of the roughly 40 students arrested during the Ann Arbor encampment. Makled secured the nomination even after SEIU Michigan rescinded its endorsement following reports of past social media posts critics labelled anti-Semitic — a charge increasingly wielded against advocates of Palestinian rights.

“Acker was one of the reasons the encampment was persecuted the way it did,” Alex Rodriguez, a 20-year-old co-chair of the Ann Arbor-based Workers Against Oppression coalition, told the Michigan Chronicle. “What happened to Haley, what happened to Acker, was the consequence of ignoring the people who’ve been fighting against the genocide we’re complicit in abroad.”

Read: Nearly 2,500 people arrested at pro-Palestinian rallies at colleges and universities across US

The convention floor descended into further chaos when pro-Palestine delegates tried to force a point of order over the leadership’s year-long refusal to allow an amendment to a resolution on Palestine. “They have been blocking for a year resolutions on Palestine our members want to have a vote on,” longtime activist Liano Sharon told the Chronicle.

The Michigan revolt reflects a deepening national trend. A new Pew Research Center shows American support for Israel plummeting, with the collapse sharpest among Democrats, younger voters and independents. Gallup has similarly found Americans now sympathise more with Palestinians.

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Keir Starmer explains that UK is actively supporting Israel's genocidal expansion and repeats his previous quotation that he supports Zionism "without qualification". Keir Starmer said “I said it loud and clear – and meant it – that I support Zionism without qualification.” here: https://www.jewishnews.co.uk/keir-starmer-interview-i-will-work-to-eradicate-antisemitism-from-day-one/
Keir Starmer explains that UK is actively supporting Israel’s genocidal expansion and repeats his previous quotation that he supports Zionism “without qualification”. Keir Starmer said “I said it loud and clear – and meant it – that I support Zionism without qualification.” here: https://www.jewishnews.co.uk/keir-starmer-interview-i-will-work-to-eradicate-antisemitism-from-day-one/
Donald Trump calls for help from NATO allies in securing the Straight of Hormuz despite saying on 7 March 2026 that they don't need people to join wars after they've already won. He's challenged with the claim that he lies as much as the IDF.
Donald Trump calls for help from NATO allies in securing the Straight of Hormuz despite saying on 7 March 2026 that they don’t need people to join wars after they’ve already won. He’s challenged with the claim that he lies as much as the IDF.
Climate science denier Donald Trump confirms that he knows nothing about democracy and that more liquid gold is being secured according to his policy of global privateering.
Climate science denier Donald Trump confirms that he knows nothing about democracy and that more liquid gold is being secured according to his policy of global privateering.
Continue ReadingBoos erupt against pro-Israel candidates at Michigan Democratic convention

China urges ‘comprehensive’ ceasefire, normal passage via Strait of Hormuz amid US-Iran conflict

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Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, China, on April 15, 2026. [Russian Foreign Ministry/Handout – Anadolu Agency]

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday called for a “comprehensive” ceasefire and the normal passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz amid the US-Iran conflict, Anadolu reports.

Xi made the remarks during a phone call with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

He said that the normal passage through the strait “serves the common interests of regional countries and the international community,” according to the state-run news agency Xinhua.

Beijing supports regional countries in building a common home marked by “good neighborliness, development, security and cooperation, mastering their own future and destiny, and promoting long-term peace and stability in the region,” Xi added.

The Chinese president also said Beijing advocates an “immediate and comprehensive ceasefire and cessation of hostilities, supports all efforts conducive to restoring peace, and remains committed to resolving disputes through political and diplomatic means.”

Xi expressed China’s willingness to “deepen strategic mutual trust” with Saudi Arabia and strengthen practical cooperation.

READ: China’s Xi assured Trump of no weapons support to Iran: White House

This is the first call by the Chinese president with a Middle Eastern leader since the US and Israel launched the war on Iran on Feb. 28.

Trump on Sunday announced that US representatives will fly to Islamabad for talks with the Iranians.

Tehran is yet to officially announce its decision, but has demanded the lifting of the US blockade of Iranian ports.

Pakistan hosted the highest-level engagement between the US and Iran on April 11-12, the first since 1979 when they broke diplomatic ties, but the talks remained inconclusive. The negotiations, dubbed Islamabad talks, were held after Pakistan mediated between the two parties since the war began on Feb. 28 and secured a two-week ceasefire that became effective on April 8.

Earlier, Pakistani sources said Iranians are expected to reach Islamabad on Tuesday.

However, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said Tehran “does not accept any deadlines or ultimatums in pursuing its national interests.”

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Monday, however, called for the use of “every rational and diplomatic path” to ease tensions, saying that war is no one’s interest.

READ: UAE discusses US financial backstop as Iran war threatens deeper economic crisis

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Keir Starmer explains that UK is actively supporting Israel's genocidal expansion and repeats his previous quotation that he supports Zionism "without qualification". Keir Starmer said “I said it loud and clear – and meant it – that I support Zionism without qualification.” here: https://www.jewishnews.co.uk/keir-starmer-interview-i-will-work-to-eradicate-antisemitism-from-day-one/
Keir Starmer explains that UK is actively supporting Israel’s genocidal expansion and repeats his previous quotation that he supports Zionism “without qualification”. Keir Starmer said “I said it loud and clear – and meant it – that I support Zionism without qualification.” here: https://www.jewishnews.co.uk/keir-starmer-interview-i-will-work-to-eradicate-antisemitism-from-day-one/
Donald Trump calls for help from NATO allies in securing the Straight of Hormuz despite saying on 7 March 2026 that they don't need people to join wars after they've already won. He's challenged with the claim that he lies as much as the IDF.
Donald Trump calls for help from NATO allies in securing the Straight of Hormuz despite saying on 7 March 2026 that they don’t need people to join wars after they’ve already won. He’s challenged with the claim that he lies as much as the IDF.
Climate science denier Donald Trump confirms that he knows nothing about democracy and that more liquid gold is being secured according to his policy of global privateering.
Climate science denier Donald Trump confirms that he knows nothing about democracy and that more liquid gold is being secured according to his policy of global privateering.
Continue ReadingChina urges ‘comprehensive’ ceasefire, normal passage via Strait of Hormuz amid US-Iran conflict

UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese: Israeli army “most degenerate on earth”

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UN Special Rapporteur on Palestine Francesca Albanese holds a press conference at the lower house of the Italian Parliament, the Chamber of Deputies, to present her new report titled “Genocide in Gaza: A Collective Crime” in Rome, Italy on February 03, 2026. [Barış Seçkin – Anadolu Agency]

UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese described the Israeli occupation army as “the most degenerate army on earth,” stating that its practices have crossed all red lines and violated international law.

The UN Special Rapporteur made the remarks in response to a video documenting the brutal abuse of a Palestinian child by Israeli soldiers, writing on her official account: “I have seen enough to say it with absolute certainty: the Israeli army is the most degenerate army.”

Francesca Albanese has been subjected to a widespread incitement campaign and direct death threats since submitting an official report accusing Israel of committing “genocide” in the Gaza Strip.

READ: Spain to urge EU to end Israel agreement over war: Premier Sanchez

In an interview with The Guardian, the UN Special Rapporteur said her life is under threat and that she lives in constant danger, describing her situation since publishing the report as a “roller coaster ride” due to the pressure and threats she faces.

According to the report, Israel has been waging a war of genocide against the Palestinians since 8th October, 2023, resulting in the destruction of most hospitals in the Gaza Strip, the killing, injury, and arrest of medical personnel, and the imposition of a siege that has worsened the humanitarian situation, particularly in the health sector.

The war has resulted in the deaths of more than 72,000 Palestinians, mostly children and women, and more than 172,000 injuries, along with widespread destruction affecting 90 percent of infrastructure in the Gaza Strip.

READ: Hamas calls for Israel to implement first phase of Gaza ceasefire

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Donald Trump sings and dances, says that it's fun to kill everyone ...
Donald Trump sings and dances, says that it’s fun to kill everyone …
Keir Starmer explains that UK is actively supporting Israel's genocidal expansion and repeats his previous quotation that he supports Zionism "without qualification". Keir Starmer said “I said it loud and clear – and meant it – that I support Zionism without qualification.” here: https://www.jewishnews.co.uk/keir-starmer-interview-i-will-work-to-eradicate-antisemitism-from-day-one/
Keir Starmer explains that UK is actively supporting Israel’s genocidal expansion and repeats his previous quotation that he supports Zionism “without qualification”. Keir Starmer said “I said it loud and clear – and meant it – that I support Zionism without qualification.” here: https://www.jewishnews.co.uk/keir-starmer-interview-i-will-work-to-eradicate-antisemitism-from-day-one/
Donald Trump calls for help from NATO allies in securing the Straight of Hormuz despite saying on 7 March 2026 that they don't need people to join wars after they've already won. He's challenged with the claim that he lies as much as the IDF.
Donald Trump calls for help from NATO allies in securing the Straight of Hormuz despite saying on 7 March 2026 that they don’t need people to join wars after they’ve already won. He’s challenged with the claim that he lies as much as the IDF.
Continue ReadingUN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese: Israeli army “most degenerate on earth”

Israeli artillery shelling violates ceasefire in southern Lebanon

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Israeli military vehicles and tanks are stationed near the Lebanese border in northern Israel on March 14, 2026. [Tsafrir Abayov – Anadolu Agency]

Israeli violations of the ceasefire continue through artillery shelling and demolition operations across several areas in southern Lebanon.

The Lebanese National News Agency reported that Israeli forces are continuing to demolish houses in the city of Bint Jbeil, as well as in the towns of Khiam, Markaba, and Taybeh. This coincides with intensive low-altitude drone flights over large parts of the south despite the ceasefire being in effect.

According to Haaretz, the Israeli army is carrying out widespread and systematic demolition of residential buildings and civilian structures. The newspaper quoted army commanders as saying that “systematic destruction” is being implemented in villages where troops are deployed.

The report added that the operations involve bulldozers and engineering equipment operated by civilian contractors, as part of a policy aimed at creating areas devoid of buildings south of the so-called “Yellow Line” and preventing residents from returning to their villages.

On the ground, the Israeli army announced the deaths of two soldiers in southern Lebanon on Friday and Saturday, who were killed by explosive devices during field operations.

Several other soldiers were reported injured with varying degrees of severity. The army said the devices were likely planted before the ceasefire came into effect.

READ: French soldier killed in attack on UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon: Macron

This work by Middle East Monitor is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.

Keir Starmer explains that UK is actively supporting Israel's genocidal expansion and repeats his previous quotation that he supports Zionism "without qualification". Keir Starmer said “I said it loud and clear – and meant it – that I support Zionism without qualification.” here: https://www.jewishnews.co.uk/keir-starmer-interview-i-will-work-to-eradicate-antisemitism-from-day-one/
Keir Starmer explains that UK is actively supporting Israel’s genocidal expansion and repeats his previous quotation that he supports Zionism “without qualification”. Keir Starmer said “I said it loud and clear – and meant it – that I support Zionism without qualification.” here: https://www.jewishnews.co.uk/keir-starmer-interview-i-will-work-to-eradicate-antisemitism-from-day-one/
Donald Trump calls for help from NATO allies in securing the Straight of Hormuz despite saying on 7 March 2026 that they don't need people to join wars after they've already won. He's challenged with the claim that he lies as much as the IDF.
Donald Trump calls for help from NATO allies in securing the Straight of Hormuz despite saying on 7 March 2026 that they don’t need people to join wars after they’ve already won. He’s challenged with the claim that he lies as much as the IDF.
Climate science denier Donald Trump confirms that he knows nothing about democracy and that more liquid gold is being secured according to his policy of global privateering.
Climate science denier Donald Trump confirms that he knows nothing about democracy and that more liquid gold is being secured according to his policy of global privateering.
Continue ReadingIsraeli artillery shelling violates ceasefire in southern Lebanon