Weekly International News Quiz by Foreign Policy

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 ultimatum came amidst a wave of pro-Palestinian demonstrations at universities across the United States, highlighting a broader crisis of politics in the country.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a bold declaration on Tuesday, pledging to launch an offensive into the southern Gaza city of Rafah amid ongoing cease-fire negotiations with Hamas. Netanyahu’s vow to take action, with or without a cease-fire agreement, underscored Israel’s struggle to restore its long-standing policy of deterrence in the region.

In Georgia, security forces clashed with protesters on Tuesday, using water cannons, tear gas, and stun grenades to disperse crowds demonstrating against Parliament’s consideration of a controversial “foreign agents” bill. The bill, likened to repressive legislation in Russia, sparked mass protests across the country, drawing attention to growing tensions between the government and civil society.

In the Solomon Islands, former Foreign Minister Jeremiah Manele was elected as the next prime minister on Thursday after a deadlock in general elections in April. Manele’s appointment followed backroom discussions among parliamentarians to select a leader in the absence of a clear winner at the polls.

Lastly, Pope Francis urged young people in Venice, Italy, on Sunday to put away their cell phones and engage in meaningful face-to-face interactions. The pontiff’s message to disconnect from technology and connect with others resonated with his call for a return to human connection and spiritual reflection in a digital age.