*) Human Rights Watch accuses Israel of war crimes in Gaza Human Rights Watch has accused Israel of war crimes and ethnic cleansing in Gaza. A new report details massive forced displacements and the widespread destruction of civilian homes and infrastructure to permanently displace many Palestinians. Over 90 percent of Gaza’s population — which is about 1.9 million people — has fled amid Israel’s relentless attacks, with tens of thousands killed, mostly women and children. *) Democrats urge US sanctions on Israeli ministers Nearly 90 Democratic lawmakers urge US President Joe Biden to sanction Israeli ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir, accusing them of inciting anti-Palestinian violence in the occupied West Bank. The letter, citing 1,270 recorded attacks, highlights concerns over settlement expansion and destabilisation of the Palestinian Authority. Lawmakers insist Biden send a strong message on humanitarian grounds and oppose Israeli annexation plans. *) UN mulls to boost Lebanon peacekeeping efforts The United Nations is preparing to bolster its peacekeeping force UNIFIL in Lebanon to support the Lebanese army after a ceasefire with Israel. Although not enforcing a truce, UN peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix emphasised UNIFIL’s vital role. Diplomatic efforts hinge on UN resolution 1701, with hopes to end hostilities between Israeli forces and Hezbollah near the Israel-Lebanon border. *) Indian court outlaws demolition without due process India’s Supreme Court declared it “totally unconstitutional” to demolish homes without due process, issuing a nationwide prohibition against so-called “bulldozer justice.” Opposition parties hailed the verdict, citing it as a critical step toward ending the ruling party BJP’s oppression of Muslim communities. Key leaders demanded compensation for victims and hoped this ruling would curb collective punishment against marginalised groups. *) EU fines Meta $840 million for antitrust violations The European Commission has slapped Meta with an $840 million fine, accusing the tech giant of antitrust violations by bundling Facebook with Facebook Marketplace to stifle competition. Facebook’s owner Meta plans to appeal but will comply and swiftly develop a solution. This move follows a two-year investigation into anti-competitive practices by Meta in the EU market.