MEPs pressure Brussels for press access to Gaza

61 MEPs demand free access for journalists in Gaza.

The battle for the truth from Gaza

A group of 61 MEPs have put their finger on the issue: they want the European Commission to pressure Israel to let international journalists enter the Gaza Strip. The restriction has been in force since October 2023, when the whole mess with Hamas began. The letter, with signatures from Social Democrats, Greens and Liberals, is addressed to Ursula von der Leyen and Kaja Kallas.

What exactly are they asking for? Basically, let the information blockade end. Lawmakers warn that these limitations are leaving European citizens without access to independent information. And be careful, it’s not just anything: we are talking about the right to know what is really happening on the ground.

“The restrictions imposed by Israel are limiting the right to information of European citizens”

From my experience covering conflicts, I know that when governments close access to the press, they want to hide something. This is not new in the region, but the persistence of the measure is worrying. The key question: will Brussels listen to this call or will it remain another empty gesture? For now, the ball is in von der Leyen and Kallas’ court.

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Iran conditions nuclear dialogue on cessation of Israeli attacks

The Iranian absence in Switzerland slows down talks on the nuclear program and the Strait of Hormuz.

Pause in conversations

The attempt by the United States and Iran to begin talks on Tehran’s nuclear program and the restoration of oil transit in the Strait of Hormuz was suspended. Iranian officials did not attend the planned meeting in Switzerland.

According to regional sources, Iran conditioned the resumption of dialogue on Israel stopping its attacks against Hezbollah in Lebanon. The situation occurred while both parties were analyzing a provisional agreement that opened two months of negotiations.

US Vice President JD Vance was scheduled to lead technical talks in Switzerland, but the White House postponed his trip. Washington alleged logistical complications; However, sources indicated that the Iranian position influenced the decision.

Details of the provisional agreement

The pact provides for limits on the Iranian nuclear program and international supervision of enriched material. Differences persist over their scope. While sectors in the United States question the agreement, Iran considers that it is coming to the dialogue from a more solid position.

Tension increased after new clashes in southern Lebanon. Authorities reported deaths from Israeli airstrikes and casualties among Israeli soldiers. Although Israel and Hezbollah are not part of the bilateral agreement, their actions directly affect the negotiations.

The situation reflects how regional tensions affect the future of the Iranian nuclear program and the talks between the powers involved.

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Shipwreck in Libya leaves 11 migrants dead and 40 missing

Eleven dead and 40 missing after boat capsizes off the Libyan coast.

Tragedy in the Mediterranean

A boat with dozens of migrants capsized off the eastern coast of Libya. The accident occurred on June 12, but was not reported until this week by the monitoring group Abreen.

The preliminary balance is 11 human remains recovered, 40 missing people and 10 survivors, according to the organization.

Rescue work

Libyan coast guard and Red Crescent teams in Tobruk have recovered bodies that washed ashore in recent days. Searches continue in the area.

Images released show the rescue efforts. The Mediterranean remains a deadly route for those trying to reach Europe.

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Millennial festival brings together thousands in China and Taiwan

Thousands celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival with regattas and ancient traditions in China and Taiwan.

Millenary traditions in motion

Mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan were the scene of the Dragon Boat Festival. Regattas, dances and cultural activities brought together thousands of people.

With more than two thousand years of history, the celebration dates back to ancient beliefs about health, protection and harmony with nature. It also honors the legend of the poet Qu Yuan.

Families prepared foods such as zongzi and followed customs such as five-color bracelets and home remedies for good health.

In Beijing, boat competitions brought together hundreds of athletes and thousands of spectators, with lion dances, martial arts and craft fairs.

Authorities and experts pointed out that the festival has evolved adapting to modern urban life, but maintains its essence as a tradition that reinforces cultural identity and well-being aspirations in Chinese society.

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