Protests Held in Stockholm and Tel Aviv After Israeli Forces Kill Gaza Aid Driver

Hundreds of protesters gathered at Odenplan Square in Stockholm to oppose Israel’s ceasefire violations in Gaza and restrictions on humanitarian aid. The demonstration followed calls by several civil society organisations. Israeli forces shot and killed aid truck driver Ahmed Salim in Gaza on Wednesday.

His brother Khader Salim said Ahmed was unarmed with his hands raised when an Israeli soldier summoned and shot him. Nahed Shuhayber, president of Gaza’s private transport association, said drivers would continue their work despite the risks because people’s lives depend on them. Approximately 1,000 people joined antigovernment protests in Tel Aviv organised by the Pro-Democracy Protest Movement.

The group described Prime Minister Netanyahu as a con man and total failure who is despised at home and abroad. US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee stated on Fox News that Israel had warned Washington of a specific Iranian plot to assassinate President Donald Trump.

He added that he had seen no significant evidence of a peaceful element in the Iranian government and that its position had not changed in 47 years.

Former Pentagon official David Des Roches said Iran’s approach in the Strait of Hormuz relies on creating uncertainty in commercial markets, especially maritime insurance. He noted that demand for Patriot missile interceptors is straining US and allied stockpiles needed in the Gulf, Ukraine and Europe.

Lebanese state media reported that the Israeli army conducted a machinegun sweep on the outskirts of Haris with no injuries and dropped a stun grenade in Haddatha.

Al Jazeera correspondents reported that Israeli forces are carrying out demolitions in an area of Khan Younis under their control. Oman proposed to Iran two separately controlled routes through the Strait of Hormuz, one in Iranian waters and one in Omani waters. Iran had previously rejected the idea and insisted on single management involving both countries.