Hamas to free three Israeli hostages in next ceasefire swap January 31, 2025 at 03:09AM

Hamas and Israel are set to carry out their fourth hostage-prisoner swap under the Gaza ceasefire on Saturday. In exchange for three Israeli captives—Yarden Bibas, Keith Seigel, and Ofer Kalderon—Israel will release 90 Palestinian prisoners. This swap is part of a broader deal, where militants have already handed over hostages in exchange for prisoners. The ceasefire has allowed aid into Gaza, and talks for a second phase are set to begin.

'Brutal' Trump example fascinates EU migration hawks January 31, 2025 at 01:46AM

EU home affairs ministers met in Warsaw to discuss tackling irregular migration, with Donald Trump's tough tactics influencing the conversation. While some preferred a softer approach, Sweden's Anders Hall suggested a mix of "carrots and sticks," such as trade and visa measures, could work. The EU faces pressure to improve migrant return rates. Proposals include "return hubs" outside the EU, though concerns over legality and ethics remain. EU officials seek tailored solutions.

Two killed in Israeli strikes on east Lebanon: ministry January 30, 2025 at 11:42PM

Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley killed two and injured ten, targeting Hezbollah sites linked to weapon production and smuggling. The attack followed Hezbollah’s drone breach of the ceasefire. Israel, citing Lebanon’s failure to meet ceasefire terms, has delayed its withdrawal deadline to February 18. The truce requires Hezbollah to pull back north of the Litani River and dismantle military infrastructure in the south.