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Al Jazeera English

Israel closes British consulate in East Jerusalem

Israel has closed the British consulate located in East Jerusalem. The British government has stated it will continue to have a diplomatic presence in the city despite this closure.

Al Jazeera English

Congressional Budget Office reports on US aircraft losses in Iran conflict

The Congressional Budget Office reported that at least 81 US military aircraft have been lost or damaged during Operation Epic Fury against Iran, with estimated costs between $1.9 billion and $3.3 billion. The ongoing conflict has raised concerns in Congress regarding defense spending and the financial impact on taxpayers, as the war continues without a ceasefire. Analysts are debating the potential effects of rising costs on the upcoming midterm elections.

Al Jazeera English

Gaza Playwright Ali Abu Yasin Receives English PEN Award

Ali Abu Yasin, a Gaza playwright, has received the "Writer of Courage 2026" award from English PEN for his resilience in the face of conflict. He has documented life under bombardment and faced significant personal loss during the ongoing crisis in Gaza. The award highlights the struggles of Palestinian writers and advocates for freedom of expression.

Axios

Trump States U.S. Will Not Attack Iran Before Midterm Elections

President Trump announced that the U.S. will not attack Iran before the midterm elections on November 3. This statement follows considerations of resuming military operations, which could impact both U.S. and Israeli elections. The Pentagon has been preparing for potential combat operations, but it remains unclear how this will affect relations with Iran.

BBC — World

UK Diplomats to Leave East Jerusalem Consulate, Israel Confirms

Most British diplomats are set to leave the consulate in East Jerusalem, but the UK government insists the mission will continue to operate. Israeli officials confirmed the departure of 20 diplomats, while a small task force will remain. The UK Foreign Secretary stated that the withdrawal is temporary for security reasons, and the consulate will not be closing.

Al Jazeera English

UK Consulate Signage Removed in East Jerusalem as Israeli Deadline Passes

Workers at the UK consulate in East Jerusalem removed its signage on October 8, 2026, as Israel's deadline for closure arrived. This follows an order from Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar in response to UK sanctions on Israeli settlements. The UK consulate has been operational for nearly 200 years and serves as a liaison with Palestinians, while the UK embassy in Tel Aviv remains unaffected.

Axios

Pentagon Prepares for Potential Military Action in Iran as Trump Considers Timing

The Pentagon has instructed U.S. Central Command to prepare for potential military operations in Iran, although no specific date has been set. President Trump is considering the timing of any strikes, which could occur before the upcoming U.S. midterm elections. The situation is further complicated by ongoing negotiations with Iran and the implications for Israeli politics.

PBS NewsHour

Israel Commemorates Third Anniversary of October 7 Attacks

Israel commemorates the third anniversary of the October 7, 2020, Hamas attacks that killed 1,200 people and resulted in 251 kidnappings. Survivors, including Omri Shifroni, emphasize the need for new leadership and accountability in the wake of the tragedy. The Israeli Defense Forces acknowledged failures in their response during the attack, and Shifroni has co-founded the Kumu Movement to foster public trust and rebuild society.

BBC — World

Israel Commemorates Victims of October 7 Attack Three Years Later

Israel held memorial events on the third anniversary of the October 7 Hamas-led attack, which resulted in significant casualties and hostages. Prime Minister Netanyahu acknowledged the tragedy while facing calls for an independent inquiry into security failures. The ongoing conflict has led to continued violence in Gaza, with dire humanitarian conditions affecting its residents.

Al Jazeera English

Rabbi Dov Lando's Comments on Zionism Spark Controversy Ahead of Israeli Elections

Rabbi Dov Lando's comments regarding Zionism and military service have sparked controversy in Israel ahead of the upcoming elections. His assertion that Jews may have been better off without a state and criticism of religious soldiers have intensified political debates, particularly concerning the ultra-Orthodox community's role in military conscription. Opposition leaders have condemned his remarks, while Prime Minister Netanyahu has remained silent, highlighting the complexities of coalition politics in Israel.

Fox News — Latest

Israel's UN Ambassador Criticizes NYC Mayor's Remarks on October 7 Anniversary

Israel's UN Ambassador Danny Danon criticized NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani for his remarks on the third anniversary of the October 7 Hamas attacks, comparing them to framing September 11 as a day of mourning for al-Qaeda. Mamdani's statement included accusations against Israel regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which Danon and others condemned as inappropriate.

Fox News — Politics

Israel's UN Ambassador Criticizes NYC Mayor's Remarks on October 7 Anniversary

Israel's UN Ambassador Danny Danon criticized NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani for his remarks on the third anniversary of the October 7 Hamas attacks, comparing them to framing September 11 as a day of mourning for terrorists. Mamdani acknowledged the loss of Israeli lives while accusing Israel of genocide and other crimes in Gaza, leading to backlash from various political figures.

Axios

Netanyahu Faces Accountability Over Oct. 7 Attacks Ahead of Israeli Election

As Israel marks the third anniversary of the Oct. 7 terror attacks, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's accountability for the incident is a key issue in the upcoming election. Polls indicate a competitive race, with Netanyahu's Likud party projected to lose seats. The election's outcome could significantly affect Netanyahu's political future and ongoing corruption trial.

Al Jazeera English

UK Threatens to Expel 27 Israeli Diplomats Over Consulate Closure

The UK has threatened to expel 27 Israeli diplomats if Israel closes its consulate in East Jerusalem. This action follows British sanctions on Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. Discussions between British officials and Israel are ongoing, but no agreement has been reached.

Al Jazeera English

Netanyahu presents election ultimatum to voters

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has presented an ultimatum to voters, indicating that they must choose between his leadership and support for Palestine in the upcoming election. This information was reported by Jerusalem Daily.