Columbia University in New York issued a stern warning to student protesters on Monday, demanding that they dismantle their tent encampments in support of Palestinians or face suspension from the university. The university’s administration made it clear that failure to comply with the directive would result in serious consequences for the protesting students.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a bold declaration on Tuesday amid ongoing cease-fire negotiations with Hamas. He vowed to launch an offensive into the southern Gaza city of Rafah, signaling a strong stance in the conflict with the Palestinian group.
In Georgia, security forces resorted to using water cannons, tear gas, and stun grenades on Tuesday to disperse protesters demonstrating against Parliament’s consideration of a “foreign agents” bill. The bill, similar to a law in Russia used to suppress dissent, sparked mass protests across the country.
In the Solomon Islands, former Foreign Minister Jeremiah Manele was elected as the next prime minister on Thursday after general elections in April failed to produce a clear winner. Manele’s appointment followed backroom discussions among parliamentarians to select a leader.
Lastly, Pope Francis visited Venice, Italy, on Sunday and urged young people to put away their cell phones and engage in face-to-face interactions. The pope also encouraged people to turn off the TV and read the Gospel during his visit. Additionally, two giant pandas arrived at the Zoo Aquarium de Madrid in Spain this week as a gift from China, named Zhu Yu and Jin Xi.