6 June 2025
Updates from the Israeli war on Gaza, now in its 608th day:
- Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the military is working with armed gangs in Gaza to combat Hamas, following fresh strikes that killed at least 52 Palestinians.
- In a video statement on X, Netanyahu said officials had “activated” powerful local clans after security advisers recommended the move. His comments came after ex-Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman accused him of the strategy.
- Israeli strikes hit Beirut’s southern suburbs shortly after the army ordered evacuations, targeting areas it claims hold Hezbollah drone facilities. The attacks coincided with the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha.
- Italy’s Defence Minister Guido Crosetto urged an end to the Gaza war, stating: “Innocent Palestinian civilians are the victims… From a military perspective, there’s no justification to continue.”
- Brazil’s President Lula da Silva doubled down on genocide accusations, saying: “What’s happening in Gaza isn’t war. It’s genocide by a highly equipped army against women and children.” He made the remarks during a press conference in France with President Emmanuel Macron.
- Macron called the “coming days” critical for ceasefire efforts, vowing to “intensify pressure with the US”. France and Saudi Arabia will co-chair a New York conference this month on a two-state solution.
Source: MEE
