The fragile US-brokered ceasefire in Gaza is facing its toughest test yet. Overnight, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed a targeted airstrike in southern Rafah, eliminating three individuals described as "terrorists" who emerged from an underground tunnel near troop positions. While the search continues for five others, the strike raises urgent questions about the stability of the truce that has been in place since October 2025. This escalation comes at a pivotal moment as the second phase of US President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace plan kicks off. With the newly formed "National Committee for the Administration of Gaza" and the US-led "Board of Peace" attempting to manage civilian affairs and restore public services, the path to demilitarization remains fraught with violations.

Ukraine has made a dramatic diplomatic move as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy publicly rejects Vladimir Putin’s invitation to Moscow and instead invites the Russian leader to Kyiv for direct talks. At the same time, the Kremlin confirms a temporary pause in strikes on Ukrainian cities following a direct request from President Donald Trump.