West Asia Highlights: Key Developments from Yemen to Israel

 The last 24 hours have seen significant developments in West Asia, from mass rallies in Yemen to critical military and political maneuvers in Israel and Palestine.

May 20, 2024 - 11:53
West Asia Highlights: Key Developments from Yemen to Israel

 

 The last 24 hours have seen significant developments in West Asia, from mass rallies in Yemen to critical military and political maneuvers in Israel and Palestine.

**Iraq Invalidates Passports of Terrorists**

The Iraqi government has announced plans to invalidate passports issued by the Kurdistan Regional Government to members of anti-Iranian separatist groups. This move aims to curtail the activities of these groups, as reported by Al-Arabi Al-Jadeed.

**Destruction in Gaza**

Gaza's Ministry of Aid has reported extensive damage due to ongoing Israeli attacks. A total of 604 mosques have been destroyed, with over 200 more partially damaged. These figures highlight the severe impact on Gaza's infrastructure.

**Hamas Claims Tank Destruction**

The military wing of Hamas has claimed responsibility for the destruction of an Israeli Merkava tank in the Al-Tanur district, east of Rafah, using Yasin 105 missiles. This marks a significant escalation in the conflict.

**Civilian Casualties in "Safe Areas"**

The Red Crescent Society of Gaza has reported that 40% of Palestinian victims were in areas designated as "safe" by Israel at the time of their deaths. The organization also emphasized that the ongoing conflict and the blockade of Gaza crossings have exacerbated the humanitarian crisis.

**Pro-Palestinian Protests in California**

In Irvine, California, police suppressed a demonstration by pro-Palestinian students following a speech condemning Israeli actions. The incident at the University of Physical Sciences reflects growing international tensions.

**Palestinian Filmmakers at Cannes**

A group of Palestinian filmmakers has traveled to the Cannes Film Festival to seek international support for their advocacy projects. They aim to shift global perceptions and garner solidarity for the Palestinian cause.

**Hamas Criticizes US Involvement**

Senior Hamas leader Sami Abu Zahari has accused the US government of complicity in the Gaza conflict. He asserts that American support for Israel has prolonged the violence.

**Hamas Prepared for Extended Conflict**

Abu Obeida, spokesman for Hamas's military wing, has declared that Palestinian fighters are prepared for a prolonged and destructive war. He stated that recent military operations have significantly intensified the conflict.

**Mass Rally in Yemen**

Millions of Yemenis participated in a march across Sana'a and 14 other provinces in solidarity with Gaza. This marks the 30th consecutive Saturday of demonstrations, emphasizing Yemeni support for Palestinian resistance.

These events illustrate the volatile and interconnected nature of conflicts in West Asia, impacting both regional and international dynamics.