***

*** 

A winter storm and severe cold sweeping across the Gaza Strip have claimed the lives of 14 Palestinians, also causing buildings to collapse across several areas, December 12, 2025.	Storm Byron landed in Gaza Strip, bringing heavy rainfall, flooding multiple sites and placed nearly 795,000 displaced Palestinians at heightened risk, as reported by the UN Organization for Migration, December 12, 2025.
More than 22,000 tents have been completely damaged, including tarps, insulation materials, and blankets in the Gaza Strip, by successive winter storms and the absence of basic infrastructure, December 11, 2025.	Relentless winter rains battered the Gaza Strip for a second consecutive day, flooding thousands of tents and compounding the humanitarian crisis for families displaced by two years of war, December 11, 2025.
Eight-month-old Rahaf Abu Jazar passed away in Khan Younus, south of the Gaza Strip, after prolonged exposure to low temperatures, without heating or enough clothes, December 11, 2025.	Two Palestinian teenagers and one woman were killed by the Israeli occupation forces in the Gaza Strip, identified as Kareem Zannoun, 17, and Jihad Shaqfa, 16, who were shot dead int Rafah, December 11, 2025.
8-months-old Palestinian little girl, Rahaf Abu Jazar, died of freezing cold in her family's rag-tent, in Khan Younus, southern Gaza Strip, due to the Israeli restrictions on the entry of functioning tents and heating fuel, December 12, 2025.	Several buildings, which were destroyed by the Israeli genocidal air strikes, collapsed as a result of the heavy rains falling on the Gaza Strip, such as this one in El-Shaikh Radhwan neighborhood in Gaza City, which led to the killing and injuring several displaced Palestinians, December 12, 2025.
Scenes of devastation which struck the rag-tent areas of displaced Palestinian families in Gaza, as a result of the heavy rains, which fell on the Gaza Strip, where the Israeli occupation regime continue to prevent entry of tents and mobile homes, December 20, 2025.	Performing funeral prayer on the Palestinian martyrs, who were killed by the collapse of several buildings in Gaza City, as a result of heavy rains, December 12, 2025.

***

14 Palestinians killed as severe storm and freezing temperatures batter Gaza

GAZA, December 12, 2025 (WAFA) –

A winter storm and severe cold sweeping across the Gaza Strip since yesterday have claimed the lives of 14 Palestinians in less than 24 hours, in addition to causing multiple building collapses across several areas, according to local and medical sources.

Civil defense and ambulance services reported that six people died when a house belonging to the Badran family collapsed in the Bir El-Na'ja area in northern Gaza. Two more people died after a wall collapsed in the El-Rimal neighborhood of Gaza City this afternoon, while another person died yesterday following a wall collapse in the Shati refugee camp.

Meantime, two children died in Gaza City due to the extreme cold, while another child died yesterday in Khan Younus under similar conditions. In addition, one resident died after a residential building collapsed, with rescue teams still searching for missing persons beneath the debris.

Civil defense crews reported that around 15 houses have collapsed across the Gaza Strip so far, including recent incidents in El-Karama and Shaikh Radhwan neighborhoods in Gaza City. Teams continue to address the aftermath of the collapses and search for survivors under challenging weather conditions.

M.N. 

***

Twelve martyrs and tens of thousands of destroyed tents in the Byron Storm

Friday 12-December-2025

GAZA, (PIC)

The warnings issued by the Palestinian Government Media Office (PGMO) regarding the polar storm “Byron” have begun to materialize into a tragic reality, as severe weather conditions have battered the Gaza Strip from Wednesday evening through Friday.

In a new statement received by the Palestinian Information Center, the PGMO said the storm brought with it sweeping floods, torrential rain, violent wind gusts, high sea waves, and thunderstorms, placing more than one and a half million displaced people in direct danger of drowning and the collapse of already-damaged homes.

It added that hundreds of thousands of families who have been living for more than two years in worn-out tents and temporary shelters now face an unprecedented threat, amid the Israeli continued ban on the entry of prefab homes and shelter materials, and the absence of any international intervention that provides even the minimum level of protection.

The statement noted that the past hours witnessed dangerous developments, including 12 martyrs and missing persons resulting from the effects of the storm and polar system, in addition to the collapse of bombed buildings across various governorates in the Strip.

The PGMO also documented the collapse of at least 13 homes; the most recent in El-Karama and Sheikh Radhwan neighborhoods in Gaza City, while Civil Defense teams continue responding to hundreds of nonstop emergency calls.

It explained that more than 27,000 tents were flooded, swept away, or uprooted by the strong winds, while more than 250,000 displaced people were affected by water, floods, and collapses, deepening the scale of the humanitarian catastrophe.

The statement stressed that what is happening today reflects a catastrophic scenario that has long been warned about, as tens of thousands of families struggle to survive inside tents that cannot withstand rain or wind, amid international silence that worsens their suffering.

The PGMO added that these weather conditions come on top of a deeper humanitarian disaster caused by Israel’s siege and ongoing attacks, as it continues to close the crossings and block the entry of aid, including 300,000 urgently needed tents, mobile homes, caravans, and shelter materials.

It emphasized that these practices constitute a blatant violation of international humanitarian law and expose hundreds of thousands of civilians to danger amid continued aggression and the absence of any protection or safe alternatives.

The PGMO called on the United Nations, international organizations, US President Donald Trump, mediators, guarantors of the ceasefire agreement, friendly countries, and donor agencies to act immediately to pressure Israel to open the crossings without delay, allow the entry of shelter materials and emergency supplies, and provide the needs of Civil Defense.

It also called for urgent protection for hundreds of thousands of families affected by the storm, and for practical, binding steps to prevent the recurrence of the expected scenes of flooding and collapse in the coming hours and future storm systems.

***

Baby girl dies from cold in southern Gaza

Thursday 11-December-2025

GAZA, (PIC)

Medical sources reported that eight-month-old Rahaf Abu Jazar passed away on Thursday in Khan Younus, south of the Gaza Strip, after prolonged exposure to low temperatures.

Her mother told Al Jazeera satellite channel that she tried her best to keep her daughter warm.

“It was raining, fiercely cold, and I had very little to keep her warm. I fed her and put her to sleep. I wrapped her up the best I could, but it wasn’t enough,” she said.

“It kept raining, and the cold was getting worse. I was panicking all night, as the cold kept creeping in. Then, suddenly, I found my little baby motionless, dead,” she added.

Medical sources said that the death of this baby girl highlights the dangerous humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, particularly for displaced children and families living in fragile tents that are unfit to withstand the harsh cold and stormy weather.

Displaced families in Gaza are facing nowadays deadly risks from exposure to cold and rain as they find no adequate shelter materials, heating means, food, blankets, winter clothing, and even proper healthcare.

Dozens of tents sheltering displaced families were flooded on Wednesday in different displacement encampments, especially in El‑Mawasi area of Khan Younus, southern Gaza.

Gaza’s civil defense said it had received numerous distress calls from displaced citizens in southern Gaza, affirming that many families were trapped inside their tents by the heavy rains.

***

Israeli occupation army kills two Palestinian teens, one woman in Gaza

Thursday 11-December-2025

GAZA, (PIC)

Two Palestinian teenagers and one woman were pronounced dead on Thursday following new attacks carried out by the Israeli occupation army in the south and north of the Gaza Strip.

The teenage martyrs were identified as Kareem Zannoun, 17, and Jihad Shaqfa, 16. They were shot dead on Wednesday night by Israeli forces near El‑'Alam rroundabout in ElMawasi area of Rafa'h, south of the Gaza Strip.

Earlier the same day, media sources reported that three Palestinians were killed and others were wounded as Israeli forces opened fire at them and advanced with their vehicles in several areas of the Gaza Strip. One of the victims was a child who was shot and run over by an Israeli tank.

On Thursday, the Israeli occupation forces continued their ceasefire violations in the Gaza Strip, carrying out artillery and gunfire attacks.

Since the morning, Israeli helicopters have been firing intensively at areas east of Khan Younus in southern Gaza, according to local sources.

Israeli artillery also shelled the eastern areas of Khan Younus, while occupation vehicles opened heavy fire on the southern parts of the city.

In a fresh incident, medical sources reported today that a woman was martyred and others were injured following artillery shelling carried out by Israeli forces outside their areas of control in Jabalya refugee camp, northern Gaza.

***

Palestinian killed in Al-Shati refugee camp after wall collapses due to flooding

Thursday 11-December-2025

GAZA, (PIC)

A Palestinian man was killed on Thursday evening in El-Shati Camp, west of Gaza City, after a wall collapsed due to heavy rain-induced flooding. The incident occurred as five other damaged buildings in the city also collapsed amid ongoing stormy weather since Wednesday.

Five buildings collapsed on Thursday in different areas of Gaza City due to ongoing heavy rainfall associated with a deep storm system hitting the region for several days.

The Civil Defense reported that three of the affected buildings were in the Tel El-Hawa and Al-Nasr neighborhoods in western Gaza City, and two in El-Zaytoun neighborhood in the southeast. These buildings were sheltering displaced Palestinians who had no other housing options. No injuries were confirmed.

The agency warned of the risks posed by damaged and structurally unsound buildings, many of which are currently housing displaced families. The ongoing storm has worsened soil erosion and expanded existing cracks in buildings damaged by previous airstrikes.

The Civil Defense urged displaced residents who have returned to damaged or targeted buildings to exercise extreme caution and evacuate if the structures show signs of instability.

Over the past 24 hours, more than 2,500 distress calls were received from displaced people whose tents were flooded due to the severe storm.

Since the storm intensified early Wednesday, thousands of tents across the Gaza Strip have been submerged or swept away, raising fears of continued destruction through Friday.

Gaza’s Health Ministry director warned that the crisis goes beyond the effects of the storm, highlighting severe shortages of medications, particularly for chronic conditions. He noted that cold weather has become “a new gateway to death,” with 9,300 children suffering from acute malnutrition.

The director of the NGO Network said international organizations have been unable to bring in aid or tents, warning that deaths from cold and tent collapses could increase due to ongoing aggression and blockade.

He emphasized the urgent need for shelter materials, pointing to the growing malnutrition crisis and lack of options for displaced families, who are forced to remain in dilapidated tents or next to their destroyed homes.

***

Gaza's displaced families struggle to survive amid torrential rains

By Sami Abu Salem

GAZA, December 11, 2025 (WAFA) -

Mazin Abu Darabi woke up in the middle of the night to the sound of rushing water. In his tattered tent in El-Maghazi refugee camp, the flood had already begun seeping in from beneath, while rain poured from above, soaking his meager belongings.

Frantically, Abu Darabi roused his seven children and wife, salvaging what they could before the deluge ruined more of their possessions. “The rain came from above, the flood from below,” he told WAFA. “Much of the children’s clothing, our belongings, and even food got wet.”

Across Gaza, tens of thousands of displaced families spent the night exposed to the elements, as torrential rains and flooding battered the already devastated territory. Since the Israeli offensive that began in October 2023, around two million Palestinians have been displaced, forced to live in tents or temporary shelters ranging from rented homes to chicken farms and agricultural greenhouses. Local sources estimate that roughly 300,000 families reside in tents.

Despite knowing of an approaching storm, Abu Darabi had no choice but to remain in his tent, his last refuge. Barefoot, he tried to block new streams of water from entering, while his children waded through the mud, seeking shelter under a makeshift lean-to. His wife gathered soaked clothing, and his 17-year-old daughter, Malak, collected what remained of their schoolbooks.

“Part of our food was swept away, mattresses, blankets, and the children’s clothes soaked,” Abu Darabi said. “I don’t know how we will survive the winter.” Once a farmer, he now finds himself in a heap of mud and despair after the destruction of homes and farms in Bait Lahya by the Israeli occupation.

A UN report released in October last year stated that 83% of homes in Gaza have been destroyed. Abu Darabi’s tent, pitched beside a garbage dump since October, marks his latest displacement. For many, the challenge of enduring harsh winters is compounded by the deterioration of tents after two years of use and severe restrictions on importing relief supplies imposed by the occupation.

Central Gaza—including Dair El-Bala'h, the refugee camps of El-Nusayrat, El-Buraij, El-Maghazi, and nearby villages—remains overcrowded with displaced families in fragile shelters. In the southern city of Rafa'h, entirely destroyed, and Khan Younus, where most homes were demolished, residents have clustered in El-Mawasi agricultural area, much of which has been washed away by floods.

Floodwaters have engulfed displacement camps in El-Bassa and Al-Baraka in Dair El-Bala'h, in El-Nusayrat camp, and in El-Mawasi west of Khan Younus, according to eyewitnesses. 

Hussein Youssef, 23, along with his family of five, searched desperately for an ax to divert the water from their tent, only to find neighbors equally busy protecting their shelters. “We had a large home. I was imprisoned at a checkpoint, released after two years, only to find my father dead, our home destroyed, and our family in a tent,” Youssef said, recalling his displacement from Jabalya to Dair El-Bala'h.

Despite a ceasefire in place since October 11, 2025, which established a “yellow line” preventing entry into certain areas, the occupation continues to destroy homes beyond the line. The rain now threatens not only tent-dwelling families but also tens of thousands in partially damaged or collapsing homes. 

In the Al-Nasr neighborhood of Gaza City, the Baghadadi family fled their home as rain-soaked soil undermined its foundations, causing it to collapse shortly after.

Even under ceasefire, Gaza’s 2.3 million residents face dire humanitarian conditions, with limited access to safe housing, food, and security. The United Nations reports that more than two million Palestinians are now cramped into less than half of the Gaza Strip, with most lacking sufficient shelter materials to protect them from rain and wind.

For Abu Darabi, Yousuf, and countless others, survival is measured not in comfort or stability but in the desperate efforts to keep water out, food intact, and children safe—a daily battle against nature and occupation alike.

M.N.

***

Palestinian doctor injured by Israeli gunfire in Jineen

Thursday 11-December-2025

Jineen, (PIC)

A Palestinian doctor was shot on Thursday evening by Israeli occupation forces in Jineen, in the northern West Bank, coinciding with settler raids into Aqsa Mosque compound.

Medical sources reported that the doctor was injured in the thigh by live ammunition fired by Israeli soldiers deployed in Jenin refugee camp. He was shot while leaving a funeral home and was later transferred for treatment.

Elsewhere, Israeli forces raided the village of Baiteen, northeast of Ramallah, while settlers continued expanding illegal outposts by adding new mobile homes to the settlement built on Mount Sabee'h, in the town of Baita, south of Nablus.

Since the beginning of the genocidal war on Gaza in October 2023, Israeli forces have intensified their attacks on Palestinians across the West Bank, including Occupied Jerusalem. So far, approximately 1,070 Palestinians have been killed and more than 10,000 injured in the West Bank, according to Palestinian sources. Over 20,000 Palestinians have been also arrested during the same reported period, including 1,600 children.

***

Two Palestinians injured during Israeli raid into El-Am'ari refugee camp

Friday 12-December-2025

RAMALLAH, (PIC)

Two Palestinians were injured by live bullets on Friday after Israeli occupation forces stormed the El-Am'ari refugee camp, south of Ramallah in the central West Bank.

According to local sources, the Israeli forces raided the camp amid heavy live fire, injuring one man in the shoulder and another in the hand.

Since the beginning of the genocidal war on Gaza in October 2023, Israeli forces have intensified their attacks on Palestinians across the West Bank, including Occupied Jerusalem. So far, approximately 1,070 Palestinians have been killed and more than 10,000 injured in the West Bank, according to Palestinian sources. Over 20,000 Palestinians have been also arrested during the same reported period, including 1,600 children.

***

Young man injured during Israeli forces’ raid on village west of Ramallah

RAMALLAH, December 12, 2025 (WAFA) –

A young Palestinian man was injured on Friday night during an Israeli forces’ raid on the village of Shuqba, west of Ramallah.

WAFA correspondent said Israeli occupation forces stormed the village with several military vehicles and raided several commercial shops, triggering confrontations.

During the incursion, soldiers fired live ammunition, sound bombs and tear-gas canisters at residents, injuring a young man with a sound bomb. His condition was described as moderate.

T.R.

***

IOFs storm West Bank areas, kidnap Palestinians, foreign activists

Thursday 11-December-2025

WEST BANK, (PIC)

The Israeli occupation forces (IOFs) stormed several areas of the West Bank last night and on Thursday morning, raiding Palestinian homes and kidnaping a number of citizens, along with foreign activists near Ramallah.

In Nablus, Israeli occupation forces stormed the city in the morning and kidnaped two young men from their homes in different neighborhoods.

In Ramallah, the IOFs kidnapped several foreign activists during their presence in El-Khalayil area, south of El-Mughayyir village, northeast of Ramallah.

In El-Khaleel (Hebron), the Israeli occupation forces kidnapped Shaikh A'hmed Salhab, a noted national figure, and his son Amjad after raiding his home in the hamlet of Khirbet Qalqas.

Another young citizen was taken prisoner during an IOFs raid in the 'Ain Sara area of El-Khaleel (Hebron) City.

The IOFs also raided homes in other areas of the West Bank, with no reported kidnappings.

***

 Israeli forces raid areas in Toubas, Bait La'hm (Bethlehem) and Ramallah

TOUBAS, December 12, 2025 (WAFA) –

Israeli occupation forces carried out a series of raids on Friday NIGHT in Toubas, Bait La'hm (Bethlehem), Ramallah and Jericho, according to local sources.

In Tammoun, southeast of Tubas, Israeli occupation forces stormed the town with several military patrols and roamed a number of neighborhoods. Forces raided the homes of former detainees before withdrawing, with no detentions reported.

In Tuqu’, southeast of Bethlehem, a local source told WAFA correspondent that Israeli forces raided the town, deployed in its center, and fired sound bombs and tear gas canisters, with no injuries reported.

In El-Mughayyir, northeast of Ramallah, Israeli forces stormed the town center with several military vehicles, triggering confrontations, during which soldiers fired live ammunition at residents, with no injuries reported.

In Silwad, east of Ramallah, Israeli forces raided the town with several military vehicles and deployed a foot patrol in its center, leading to confrontations, with no injuries or detentions reported.

Villages and towns in northeast and east Ramallah are subjected to repeated raids by Israeli occupation forces, in addition to attacks by colonists on homes, land and property.

Israeli forces also raided 'Aqabat Jabr camp and several neighborhoods in the city of Jericho. Local sources told WAFA that Israeli forces stormed the city and 'Aqabat Jabr camp to the south with several military vehicles, patrolled the city’s streets amid the firing of tear gas canisters; however, no injuries were reported.

T.R. 

***

 Israeli raids, attacks across West Bank

Friday 12-December-2025

WEST BANK, (PIC)

Several areas across the occupied West Bank witnessed a wave of simultaneous raids and assaults carried out by Israeli occupation forces and settlers on Friday evening, with the most intense incidents occurring in the governorates of Tubas, Tulkarem, Ramallah, Nablus, and al-Khalil.

In Tubas, Israeli forces stormed the Al-Fari’a refugee camp south of the city, deploying patrols around the camp before sending infantry units inside and heavily firing stun grenades. Meanwhile, settlers chased local youths in Khirbet Ibziq in the northern part of the governorate and fired live bullets at them, though no injuries were reported, in yet another attack in the growing wave of violence against residents.

In Toulkarm, Israeli troops raided the town of 'Anabta to the east, concentrating their presence near the municipality building and Al-Sikka Street. Infantry soldiers assaulted residents, chased them, and fired stun grenades to intimidate them. They also set up a flying checkpoint on the main road, subjecting vehicles to searches, interrogations, and abuse.

In Ramallah, Israeli forces fired illumination flares during their incursion into the village of El-Mughayyir northeast of the city. Violent confrontations erupted in the town of Silwad between local youth and the invading forces.

In Nablus, Israeli troops entered the towns of Burqa and Qabalan, spreading through several areas within both towns.

In al-Khalil, clashes broke out between residents and Israeli soldiers in the town of Bait Ummar, accompanied by assaults on civilians. Separately, an Israeli settler was injured after his vehicle was pelted with stones near the Gush Etzion settlement bloc south of Bethlehem.

These widespread incursions and settler attacks are part of an ongoing escalation in the West Bank, where Palestinian communities are increasingly targeted amid heightened tensions and settler violence. 

***

The Israeli occupation apartheid regime issue demolition notice for sheep pen southeast of El-Quds (occupied Jerusalem)

El-Quds (occupied Jerusalem), December 12, 2025 (WAFA) –

 The Israeli occupation apartheid regime issued a demolition notice for a sheep pen in El-Quds (occupied Jerusalem) neighborhood of Jabal El-Mukabbir, according to local sources.

Sources said that Israeli authorities notified the demolition of a sheep pen in the neighborhood of Jabal El-Mukabbir within a week, noting that the pen is the main source of livelihood for a family of seven.

 El-Quds (occupied Jerusalem) Governorate said the demolition notice is linked to a settler bridge project the Israeli occupation apartheid regime is planning to implement in the area.

T.R.

***

Israeli ccupation forces carry out incursions in Toulkarm, Toubas and Jineen

Toulkarm, December 12, 2025 (WAFA) -

 Israeli occupation forces carried out a series of incursions on Friday evening, targeting several towns and villages across Tulkarm, Toubas and Jineen.

In Anabta, east of Toulkarm, Israeli occupation forces spread through the town’s main streets and neighborhoods, with a noticeable presence near the municipality building and along Al-Sikka Street. Local sources said foot patrols took up positions outside shops, pursued citizens—particularly youths—while moving through the area, and fired sound bombs in an attempt to intimidate them.

The forces also set up a flying checkpoint on the town’s main road, stopped passing vehicles, and subjected passengers to searches, field questioning, and assaults; however, no detentions were reported.

In Al-Fari’a camp, south of Tubas, local sources said Israeli occupation patrols positioned themselves around the perimeter, while foot units deployed throughout the camp amid the firing of sound grenades.

In the village of Faququa, in Jenin, local sources said Israeli forces stormed the town, fired sound bombs, and deployed in the streets amid confrontations with citizens.

In Qabatiya, south of Jenin, Israeli forces raided the town and deployed foot patrols near the café area, with no detentions reported.

T.R.

***

***

***

Illegal Israeli settlers chase, open fire at Palestinian youths north of Toubas

TUBAS, December 12, 2025 (WAFA) –

A group of the illegal Israeli settlers chased Palestinian youths on Friday evening in Khirbet Ibziq, north of Tubas, and opened fire at them, according to a local official.

Head of Ibziq Village Council Abdul Majeed Khudhairat said that a group of colonists chased after the youths and fired live ammunition at them; however, no injuries were reported.

Khirbet Ibziq has been subjected to escalating attacks and violations by colonists and Israeli occupation forces.

The settler violence against Palestinians and their properties has dramatically increased since the onset of Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people on October 7th, 2023.

The indiscriminate violence by Israeli colonists against Palestinian civilians and their properties has been widely condemned.

Several countries have imposed sanctions against Israeli colonists accused of committing acts of violence against the Palestinian people in the West Bank.

T.R. 

***

350 of the  illegal Israeli settlers storm Al-Aqsa Mosque as rabbi affixes Torah scroll at Cotton Merchants’ Gate

Thursday 11-December-2025

GAZA, (PIC)

Around 350 of the illegal Israeli settlers stormed the courtyards of El-Aqsa Mosque on Thursday under the protection of the Israeli police forces, while a rabbi affixed a Torah scroll to one of the Mosque’s historic gates.

According to El-Quds (occupied Jerusalem) Governorate, groups of settlers performed Talmudic rituals near the Dome of the Rock and carried out provocative tours throughout the compound.

A rabbi also installed what authorities described as a distorted Torah scroll onto the stones of Bab E-Qattaneen (the Cotton Merchants’ Gate), one of Al-Aqsa’s western entrances.

In a brief statement, the governorate said the rabbi claimed the scroll, known as a “mezuzah”, was intended to bring “blessing and protection.”

The governorate added that this act is not unprecedented; similar scrolls were previously fixed onto two of El-Quds (occupied Jerusalem)’s gates, Al-Khalil Gate and Lions’ Gate.

El-Aqsa Mosque has faced near-daily settler incursions, except on Fridays and Saturdays, the official weekend for Israel, during morning and afternoon periods. These repeated raids are widely viewed as attempts to impose temporal and spatial division at the holy site.

Local authorities warn that these actions form part of a broader effort by Israel to erase Jerusalem’s Islamic and historical identity and undermine Muslim sovereignty over Al-El-Aqsa Mosque.

El-Quds (occupied Jerusalem) activists continue to call on Palestinians in the holy city and inside the Green Line to maintain a strong presence at the compound to counter settler and Israeli plans, reaffirming that the Mosque is a red line.

Meanwhile, Israeli police forces continue to impose strict restrictions on Palestinian worshippers entering the Mosque, including ID checks and the confiscation of identity cards at the gates, further tightening restrictions on worshippers and those maintaining presence at the site.

***

UN chief: 2025 saw largest expansion of the illegal Israeli settlements

NEW YORK, December 12, 2025 (WAFA) –

The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the illegal Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank, including El-Quds (occupied Jerusalem).

In a report on Friday, Guterres said 2025 witnessed the largest growth in settlement plans since UN monitoring began.

He also condemned settler violence, which he said is increasing at a dangerous rate and becoming more severe during the olive harvest season, as reported by the Middle East Monitor.

“All settlements are illegal and invalid, representing a clear violation of international law,” he affirmed.

Guterres expressed deep concern about the fragile security situation in Gaza and the ongoing violence that threatens the ceasefire.

He noted that Israel’s regular airstrikes in Gaza continue to cause significant civilian casualties and extensive damage to infrastructure.

The Secretary-General also highlighted that key sources of protein remain out of reach for most people, despite some improvement in food supplies to Gaza.

He stressed that full accountability must be ensured for any grave crimes or violations of international law.

Guterres warned that the humanitarian situation in Gaza is catastrophic, with over 80 per cent of residential and public buildings destroyed or severely damaged.

T.R. 

***

***

News Related to the Israeli Genocidal War on the Palestinian People

***

UN General Assembly adopts resolution demanding Israel uphold UN protections, end Gaza aid restrictions

NEW YORK, December 12, 2025 (WAFA) -

The UN General Assembly adopted a draft resolution on Friday demanding that Israel allow full humanitarian access into the Gaza Strip, respect the inviolability of UN premises, and comply with its obligations under international law.

The resolution responds to the International Court of Justice's (ICJ) recent advisory opinion outlining Israel's obligations as both an "occupying power" and a UN member state.

The resolution, submitted by Norway and more than 12 other states, received support from 139 countries, with 12 voting against and 19 abstaining.

Norway's Permanent Representative Ambassador Merete Fjeld Brattested warned before the vote that "2024 was among the most violent years in three decades. 2025 has followed suit. There are a few signs that this trajectory will ease in the year ahead. The situation in occupied Palestine is a particular point in mind."

"Civilians are paying the highest price. Respect for humanitarian principles is eroding. The most fundamental tenets of humanitarian law are under pressure," Brattested said, stressing that advisory proceedings before the ICJ serve as a tool to clarify legal responsibilities.

She recalled that member states had sought clarity "on fundamental issues pertaining to the provision of life-saving humanitarian assistance to the civilian population in Palestine."

Brattested also mentioned recent incidents that highlight the urgency of the Court's findings, citing Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' condemnation of Israel's "unauthorized entry" into UNRWA's Shaikh Jarra'h compound.

"As stated by the secretary-general, this is in clear violation of Israel's obligations to respect the inviolability of United Nations premises," she said, urging all member states to back the resolution.

In the meantime, Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), saluted the overwhelming vote by the General Assembly to renew UNRWA's mandate for three years.

In a post on X, he said, “It reflects the broad solidarity of people across the world with Palestine Refugees.”

“It is also an acknowledgement of the international community’s responsibility to support the humanitarian and human development needs of Palestine Refugees pending a just and lasting solution to their decades-long plight.”

"This vote is an important sign of support for UNRWA from the overwhelming majority of the international community," he said.

He added: “The vote needs now to be translated into a genuine commitment and matching resources to ensure the mandate is fulfilled.”

“As the [the International Court of Justice] ICJ stressed, UNRWA is the key humanitarian actor in the occupied Palestinian territory, and everything must be done to facilitate our work, not hinder or prevent it.”

He urged Member States to continue supporting UNRWA efforts to respond to the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza and expand its critical public health and education services.

T.R.

***

El-Seesi, Macron stress need to launch comprehensive political process leading to establishment of Palestinian state

CAIRO, December 12, 2025 (WAFA) -

 Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Seesi and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed in a phone call on Friday bolstering relations between the two nations, and the need to end the war in Gaza.

The call also addressed the latest regional developments, particularly in the Gaza Strip, according to El-Ahram Online, the English-language website of El-Ahram.

President El-Seesi expressed Egypt's appreciation for French support of Egyptian efforts that led to the ceasefire agreement, emphasizing the need to solidify the ceasefire and move towards implementing the second phase of US President Donald Trump's peace plan. He also stressed the importance of expediting the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip and immediately commencing the early recovery and reconstruction phase.

For his part, President Macron expressed his appreciation for Egypt's pivotal role in achieving regional stability, particularly in consolidating the ceasefire agreement in Gaza.

The call also addressed developments in the West Bank, where the Egyptian President reiterated Egypt's firm rejection of Israeli violations, emphasizing the need to support the Palestinian people, increase international pressure to halt these violations, and support the Palestinian Authority in fulfilling its obligations to its people.

The two leaders agreed that current efforts must lead to the launch of a comprehensive political process culminating in the establishment of an independent Palestinian state within the 4 June 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

T.R.

***

Joint statement by 8 Arab and Islamic countries condemns Israeli occupation raid on UNRWA headquarters in Jerusalem

CAPITALS, December 12, 2025 (WAFA) -

The Foreign Ministers of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Republic of Indonesia, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the State of Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Republic of Türkiye, and the United Arab Emirates reaffirmed the indispensable role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) in safeguarding the rights and well-being of Palestinian refugees.

In a statement issued today, they stressed: “For decades, UNRWA has carried out a unique mandate entrusted to it by the international community, providing protection, education, health care, social services, and emergency assistance to millions of Palestinian refugees in its areas of operation, in accordance with UN General Assembly Resolution 302 (1949). The adoption of the UN General Assembly resolution to renew UNRWA’s mandate for an additional three years, reflects international confidence in the vital role played by the agency and the continuity of its operations.”

The Ministers condemned the storming of the UNRWA headquarters in the Shaikh Jarra'h neighborhood of East Jerusalem by Israeli forces, as this attack represents a flagrant violation of international law and the inviolability of UN premises, which constitutes an unacceptable escalation, and violates the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice dated 22 October 2025, which clearly states that Israel, as an occupying power, is under an obligation not to impede the operations of UNRWA and, on the contrary, to facilitate them.

In light of the unprecedented humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, the Ministers underscored the essential role UNRWA plays in delivering humanitarian assistance through its network of distribution centers, ensuring that food, relief items, and basic necessities reach those in need fairly and efficiently, in accordance with Security Council Resolution 2803. “UNRWA’s schools and health facilities remain a lifeline for refugee communities in Gaza, continuing to provide education and essential primary health care under extremely challenging conditions, which contributes to the implementation of President Trump’s Plan on the ground and enables the Palestinian people to remain in their land and rebuild their homeland.”

The Ministers stressed that UNRWA’s role is irreplaceable. “No other entity possesses the infrastructure, expertise, and field presence required to meet the needs of Palestinian refugees or to ensure continuity of services at the necessary scale. Any weakening of the Agency’s capacity would have grave humanitarian, social, and political repercussions across the region.”

Accordingly, the Ministers called upon the international community to ensure sustainable and adequate funding for UNRWA, and to provide the Agency with the political and operational space needed to continue its vital work “in all five fields of operations”.

“Supporting UNRWA is a cornerstone of maintaining stability, preserving human dignity, and upholding the rights of Palestinian refugees until a just and lasting solution to their plight is achieved in accordance with international law and relevant United Nations resolutions, including UN General Assembly resolution 194,” the statement concluded.

T.R.

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Eurovision champion Nemo returns the winner's trophy to protest Israel's inclusion

GENEVA, December 12, 2025 (WAFA) -

Swiss singer Nemo, who won the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest, has said they will return the winner's trophy because Israel is being allowed to compete in the politically troubled pop music competition.

Swiss singer Nemo, who won the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest, has said they will return the winner's trophy because Israel is being allowed to compete in the politically troubled pop music competition, according to the Pleak website.

In an Instagram video, Nemo held the microphone-shaped glass ornament and said, “Today I no longer feel like this trophy belongs on my shelf.”

“Eurovision says it stands for unity, for inclusion and dignity for all people,” Nemo said in the post Thursday, adding that Israel’s participation shows those ideals are at odds with organizers’ decisions.

Five countries have announced they will boycott the 2026 contest after organizers declined to expel Israel: Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Slovenia and Iceland.

“When entire countries withdraw it should be clear that something is deeply wrong,” Nemo said before placing the trophy in a box they said would be sent to the Geneva headquarters of the European Broadcasting Union, which runs Eurovision.

T.R. 

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While brutal force has been used to create Zionist Israel and sustain it thus far, Zionist claims to Palestine are false. Actually, from the five thousand years of known written human history, there has been a continuous Palestinian-Canaanite presence in the Holy Land. Despite the Zionist false claims, the ancient Israelites ruled part of the land for only 85 years (during the reign of Prophets David and Solomon , peace be upon them, and Solomon's son).

 After that, the Egyptians conquered Palestine-Canaan in 925 BC, followed by Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, and Romans, before the Arab Muslim rule, starting from 636 AD.

By the Time Jesus, peace be upon him, started his mission, the three population groups of Canaanites, Palestinians, and Israelites were melted together in religion and language. Most of them became Christians when Constantine converted in 313 AD. Then, most of them became Muslims in the 7th and 8th centuries AD.

So, Palestinian Muslims, Christians, and Jews are the ones who have the right to claim descent from ancient Israelites, Palestinians, and Canaanites, not Zionists from other continents.

No matter what the Zionists and their supporters do, they cannot change the will of God, Who promised the Holy Land to Abraham and his descendants, basically the Palestinian Muslims and Christians.

No matter how much persecution and aggression the Zionists and their supporters inflict upon the Palestinian people, they will never be able to force them out of the Holy Land, which Allah, praise to Him, promised for them, and kept His promise ever since.

This is a necessary brief background to understand the US-Backed Zionist Israeli continuous wars against the Arab nation generally, and the Palestinian people in particular, which included the wars of 1948, 1956, 1967, 1978, 1982, the brutal crushing of the two Uprisings (1987-1993 and 2000-2004), 2009, 2012, 2014, 2021, and the current genocidal war on Gaza (Since October 7, 2023), which has culminated a blockade of Gaza since 2007. In addition, the Israeli occupation and apartheid regime launched so many covert operations, raids, and air strikes on many Arab states since 1948.

The following news stories are just examples, not a systematic record, of the Israeli occupation government abuse, mistreatment, and violations of Palestinian human rights, on daily basis.