Day: July 29, 2025

Israeli Intellectuals Urge Ceasefire and Sanctions Against Government Amid Gaza Conflict

A prominent group of Israeli public figures, including former Knesset President Avraham Burg and ex-Attorney General Michael Ben-Yair, has called for a permanent ceasefire and “drastic sanctions” against the Israeli government amid ongoing violence in Gaza., reports 24brussels.

This urgent appeal arises as the death toll in Gaza surpasses 60,000, emphasizing a deepening rift within Israeli society and increasing international scrutiny over the conflict. In a collective statement, thirty influential Israeli intellectuals, artists, and former officials have publicly criticized the hardline policies of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government.

Among the signatories are notable figures such as Avraham Burg, Tamar Gozansky, and Michael Ben-Yair, who have expressed strong condemnation of the military offensive in Gaza, highlighting the severe humanitarian crisis and the call for a permanent ceasefire.

The statement, characterized by expressions of “deep shame, anger, and agony,” denounces the blockade conditions imposed on Gaza’s inhabitants and warns of the potential forced displacement of millions of Palestinians.

Framing their appeal as concerned citizens advocating for peace with Palestinians, the group demands that the international community enforce substantial sanctions against Israel until it ceases military operations, pointing to a moral and political crisis within Israeli society.

The significance of this declaration is heightened as Palestinian casualties continue to rise. According to the Gaza Ministry of Health, more than 60,000 lives have been lost, corroborating warnings from human rights organizations and peace advocates that current military actions may amount to collective punishment, contravening international law and fundamental human rights.

This call for sanctions and a ceasefire resonates with a diverse coalition of university professors, writers, filmmakers, and scientists in Israel, mirroring a global movement advocating for peace and justice in the region. The supporters of this cause refuse to enable the state violence perpetuated by backing from global powers.

Their demands emphasize criticism of militarism and occupation, underscoring the need for international solidarity with the Palestinian struggle and the provision of urgent humanitarian assistance.

EU Approves New Scanner Configurations for Airports

The European Commission has approved the use of new scanner configurations for airports across the EU, affecting 700 scanners in 21 member states, according to transport spokesperson Anna-Kaisa Itkonen. This approval marks a significant update in security measures but does not alter existing liquid restrictions for passengers, reports 24brussels.

Itkonen stated that the decision pertains to the first configuration of a specific type of scanners, emphasizing that other configurations exist. Each airport will be responsible for informing passengers about the rules applicable to their security checks.

Itkonen clarified, “They will have to inform passengers fully whether they are using this latest technology or whether they’re not using it.” Despite the updated technology, passengers cannot assume they can carry larger containers of liquids through security checkpoints.

This variance in approved scanners has resulted in inconsistent security regulations across the EU, sometimes even within the same city or airport complex. For instance, travelers departing from Milan can bring up to 2 liters of liquids past security at Linate airport and Terminal 1 of Malpensa, while those at Terminal 2 of Malpensa must adhere to the previous 100 ml limitation.

Brexit Implications of Trump’s Trade Deal

In a recent assessment of U.S.-U.K. trade relations post-Brexit, prominent figures within the Brexit movement expressed satisfaction over what they perceive as a trade victory for Britain following President Trump’s administration’s low-tariff agreement with the American market. The deal is heralded as a significant achievement, although questions arise regarding the impact on the nation’s economic standing with the European Union, reports 24brussels.

The U.K. government claims that the agreement opens the door to increased exports and economic benefits, but critics argue that the trade relationship with Europe remains compromised. The impending challenges for Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s administration are underscored by concerns over whether this arrangement truly offsets the potential losses in trade with EU member states.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the government emphasized, “This deal represents a new chapter in U.K. trade policy, allowing us to pursue our goals while fostering stronger ties with our American partners.” However, experts indicate that while the agreement may boost certain sectors, it does little to address the complicating factors of post-Brexit trade dynamics.

Leading politicians, including both supporters and detractors of Brexit, weighed in on the ramifications. Critics highlight that the reliance on the U.S. market could expose the U.K. to economic volatility. Furthermore, the long-standing trade disputes between the U.S. and the EU may complicate the U.K.’s position as it navigates its new status outside the bloc.

Economists have called for a more balanced approach to trade negotiations, noting that the U.K.’s future economic policy must prioritize sustainability and broad market access, especially within Europe. As the U.K. continues to redefine its trade relationships, the outcomes of these developments will be closely monitored by international stakeholders to gauge the lasting effects of Brexit.

As discussions evolve, further analysis and updates on the situation will provide insight into how this trade agreement will shape the U.K.’s economic landscape and its standing within global markets.