Gaza Conflict Intensifies Amidst Israeli Druze Presence in Syria

Protests erupted over an Israeli restaurant opening in Berlin amid controversy surrounding its owner’s ties to Gaza aid efforts. The restaurant, Gila and Nancy, is owned by Shahar Segal, a former spokesperson for the Gaza Humanitarian Fund. Protesters accused Segal of complicity in war crimes linked to Israeli military actions.

The demonstration, organized by anti-Zionist Jewish groups, was met with a pro-Israel counter-protest. Despite the backlash, the restaurant plans to reopen “in just a few weeks.” The UN reported over 800 people killed at GHF-operated aid locations, mostly from Israeli fire.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump expressed renewed optimism on negotiations for a cease-fire/hostage deal in Gaza. Trump is expected to meet with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed Al-Thani to discuss the agreement.

Dozens of Israeli Druze who breached the Syrian border remain in Syria, including lawmakers Abd Afif and Hamad Amar. The army is working to return them to Israeli territory.

In another development, a missile was fired from Yemen toward southern Israel but was intercepted by the IDF. Anti-war activists protested outside an Israeli Air Force base, calling for an end to strikes on Gaza.

The protests come as tensions escalate in the region, with Israel breaking the cease-fire in March. Activists are demanding that pilots refuse to participate in strikes, citing the human cost of the destruction in Gaza.

Source: https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2025-07-16/ty-article-live/report-u-s-allies-agree-august-deadline-for-iran-nuclear-deal-trump-no-hurry-to-talk/00000198-10f3-d292-a9fe-13fbe7950000