Israel’s UN Ambassador Criticizes UK and France Over West Bank Settler Demands

” Danon made the statement in a post on X. He said the double standard was exposed at the UN in a display of hypocrisy, noting that the UK and France face waves of terror within their own borders while focusing on the West Bank. “How convenient it is to focus on ‘settler violence’ and spread lies about Israel while Jews are afraid to walk the streets of London and Paris,” Danon wrote.

Settlers are Israeli citizens who live on Palestinian land in the occupied territory. Israel began building settlements on Palestinian land after the 1967 Six-Day War. More than 700,000 settlers now live in settlements and outposts across the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem.

The UN has passed multiple resolutions condemning the settlements. The United States has provided diplomatic cover for Israel for decades by using its veto power at the UN to block sanctions.

Brent crude oil futures rose as much as 3 percent on Friday amid renewed US-Iran fighting in the Strait of Hormuz before settling at $101.29 per barrel, up $1.23 or 1.23 percent. US West Texas Intermediate futures finished at $95.42 per barrel, up $0.61 or 0.64 percent.

John Kilduff, a partner with Again Capital, told Reuters there is uncertainty in the market but a belief that an agreement between the US and Iran is near. He said the market senses either a breakthrough in negotiations or a renewal of fighting. The US administration of President Donald Trump remains upbeat about reaching a deal with Iran to end the war.

Tehran has not yet formally responded to Washington’s latest ceasefire proposal.

The US State Department said it will facilitate talks between the governments of Israel and Lebanon on May 14 and 15. The discussions will focus on advancing a comprehensive peace and security agreement. Al Jazeera correspondent Zeina Khodr reported that the upcoming round will mark the formal start of negotiations rather than another preparatory meeting.

Lebanon’s delegation will be headed by Simon Karam, a lawyer and former ambassador to the US. Lebanon has insisted on a meaningful ceasefire but negotiations will proceed even if Israel does not adhere to one, according to Khodr.

” The event returned after a two-year pause caused by the war in Gaza. In Gaza, daily conditions remain marked by destruction six months after a ceasefire took effect. Bombings continue in some areas, families remain displaced, and basic needs are limited.

Delivery workers in Gaza have switched from motorcycles to bicycles because of fuel shortages. They report traveling long distances over damaged roads, sometimes near Israeli army positions.