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Hecklers at US Zionist Conference Demand Pardon for Benjamin Netanyahu

Hecklers at US Zionist Conference Demand Pardon for Benjamin Netanyahu

During the American Zionist Movement conference held in New York City on December 8, 2025, a group of hecklers disrupted the event by demanding a pardon for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The audience erupted in shouting, with several individuals calling out 'shame' in Hebrew. One of the delegates held a sign that read 'Please, Pardon Netanyahu!' The incident highlights the ongoing debate and division within Zionist circles regarding Netanyahu's legal challenges and political future. The call for a pardon was directed at Israeli President Isaac Herzog, urging him to intervene in Netanyahu's legal matters.
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Gideon Sa'ar Dismisses New York Mayor-Elect's Threat Against Netanyahu

Gideon Sa'ar Dismisses New York Mayor-Elect's Threat Against Netanyahu

Gideon Sa'ar, Israel's Foreign Minister, has dismissed a threat made by New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani to arrest Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he visits New York. In an interview with The New York Post, Sa'ar expressed skepticism about Mamdani's statement, suggesting it was not a serious consideration in Netanyahu's travel plans. Sa'ar also criticized Hamas for not disarming in line with a US-backed Gaza peace deal. The comments come amid ongoing tensions between Israel and various international actors over its policies and actions in Gaza.
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US Congressman Urges Netanyahu to Lift Travel Restrictions on Dual-Citizen Yeshiva Students

US Congressman Urges Netanyahu to Lift Travel Restrictions on Dual-Citizen Yeshiva Students

U.S. Congressman Mike Lawler has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reconsider travel restrictions on yeshiva students with dual U.S.-Israeli citizenship who do not serve in the military. In a letter, Lawler expressed concern over sanctions imposed by Israel's attorney general, which could prevent these students from leaving the country. The issue has sparked opposition from Haredi leaders, who are against the enforcement of military service among yeshiva students.
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Cosgrove Calls for Greater Criticism of Israel at AZM Conference

Cosgrove Calls for Greater Criticism of Israel at AZM Conference

During a recent conference organized by the American Zionist Movement (AZM), Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove made a significant call for allowing greater criticism of Israel. This statement was made in the context of ongoing debates within the Jewish community about the role and efficacy of fundraising galas, especially in light of recent global events such as the October 7 terror attacks and the rise of antisemitism. The conference highlighted the tension between traditional fundraising methods and the growing need for more effective and transparent approaches to address the community's needs. Cosgrove's remarks have sparked discussions about the balance between supporting Israel and being able to critique its policies constructively.
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Israel and Bolivia to Restore Diplomatic Relations After 16-Year Break

Israel and Bolivia to Restore Diplomatic Relations After 16-Year Break

Israel is set to renew diplomatic relations with Bolivia after a 16-year hiatus. This development follows a meeting in Washington between Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar and Bolivian counterpart Fernando Aramayo. The two countries had severed ties in 2009 following Israel's military operations in Gaza. The recent election of Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz has opened the door for renewed relations, with both nations expressing a desire to start afresh. Bolivia has also announced the cancellation of its visa requirement for Israelis, signaling a warming of relations. The move is part of a broader strategy by Israel to strengthen ties with Latin American countries.
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Egyptian President Sisi Conditions Meeting on Israel Signing Gas Agreement

Egyptian President Sisi Conditions Meeting on Israel Signing Gas Agreement

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has reportedly set conditions for a meeting with Israel and the United States, contingent on Israel signing a gas agreement with Egypt. Additionally, Sisi demands Israel's withdrawal from the Philadelphi and Netzarim corridors. This development is part of broader negotiations involving regional energy resources and geopolitical alignments. The gas agreement is seen as a critical component of economic cooperation and regional stability, with potential implications for energy markets and diplomatic relations.
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Netanyahu Dismisses Claims of Diplomatic Collapse Amid Political Tensions

Netanyahu Dismisses Claims of Diplomatic Collapse Amid Political Tensions

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed opposition claims of a diplomatic collapse, asserting that Israel remains strong and influential. The Knesset debate focused on Israel's international standing, with Netanyahu highlighting economic achievements and military strength. The session coincided with Netanyahu's request for a presidential pardon in his corruption trial and discussions on a controversial draft exemption law. Netanyahu emphasized ongoing diplomatic engagements with the U.S. and Russia, countering opposition criticisms of his leadership and policies.
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Netanyahu says he will not quit politics if he receives a pardon

Netanyahu says he will not quit politics if he receives a pardon

JERUSALEM, Dec 7 (Reuters) - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday that he would not retire from politics if he receives a pardon from the country's president in his years-long corruption trial.
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Benjamin Netanyahu Affirms Continued Political Role Amid Pardon Speculation

Benjamin Netanyahu Affirms Continued Political Role Amid Pardon Speculation

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly stated that he will not be stepping down from his political role in exchange for a pardon. This announcement was made during a joint press conference with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Jerusalem. Netanyahu emphasized the ongoing cooperation between Israel and Germany in areas such as high-tech, artificial intelligence, and quantum technologies. Despite the ongoing legal proceedings against him, Netanyahu is scheduled to testify in court this week. The press conference also touched on international relations, with Merz noting that the topic of an official visit to Berlin was not discussed, despite the International Criminal Court's outstanding arrest warrants.
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Arab League Celebrates UNRWA Renewal Amidst US and Israeli Opposition

Arab League Celebrates UNRWA Renewal Amidst US and Israeli Opposition

The Arab League and Egypt have praised the United Nations General Assembly's decision to renew the mandate of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) for another three years. This renewal comes despite the United States halting its funding and Israel banning the agency after allegations of links to terrorist groups. The renewal is seen as a victory for Arab countries, which continue to support UNRWA's role in providing essential services to Palestinian refugees. The agency's future in Gaza remains uncertain, as it faces financial challenges and political opposition.
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Iran's Attempt to Leverage Thai Workers in Israel for Hostage Release Fails

Iran's Attempt to Leverage Thai Workers in Israel for Hostage Release Fails

Iran reportedly attempted to pressure Thailand into withdrawing 40,000 Thai farm workers from Israel in exchange for the release of Thai hostages taken by Hamas during an attack on October 7, 2023. The attack resulted in the deaths of 39 Thai citizens and the abduction of 31 others. Despite diplomatic efforts, including meetings between Thai diplomats and Iranian and Hamas officials, Thailand ultimately rejected the deal. The release of 23 hostages during a ceasefire and the eventual return of all captives influenced Thailand's decision. The plan, if successful, could have severely impacted Israel's agricultural sector, highlighting the geopolitical complexities in the region.
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US Congress moves toward repeal of tough 'Caesar' sanctions on Syria

US Congress moves toward repeal of tough 'Caesar' sanctions on Syria

By Patricia Zengerle WASHINGTON, Dec 8 (Reuters) - A set of tough U.S. sanctions imposed on Syria under its former leader Bashar al-Assad could be lifted within weeks, after their repeal was included in a sweeping defense policy bill unveiled during the weekend and due for votes in Congress within