Macron to Recognize Palestine; US Adopts Hands-Off Stance as Europe’s Leaders Oppose Israeli Sovereignty Move – 7/26/2025, 6:28:48 PM

The latest world news as of July 26, 2025, includes several major developments:

• Middle East Crisis: Ceasefire negotiations between Hamas and Israel are ongoing amid a dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where tens of thousands have been killed[2][3]. European leaders (Germany, UK, France) have jointly opposed any move by Israel to impose sovereignty over occupied Palestinian territories, emphasizing that such actions undermine prospects for a two-state solution[1][3].

• Recognition of Palestine: French President Emmanuel Macron has announced plans to recognize the state of Palestine, a move US President Donald Trump commented on by saying, “That’s fine; it’s up to him,” indicating a hands-off US stance on France’s decision[1][3].

• Russia-Ukraine War: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that Ukrainian defenses are holding against Russia’s intensified summer offensive along the front lines[3]. Meanwhile, US President Trump has stated that a meeting between Russian President Putin and Ukraine’s Zelenskyy “is going to happen”[1].

• Southeast Asia Border Tensions: Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated that Thailand and Cambodia require more time to withdraw troops from their border as part of a ceasefire agreement, following deadly clashes[1][3].

• Protests in Tunisia: Large-scale protests have erupted in Tunisia against President Kais Saied’s increasingly authoritarian rule, marking four years since his power consolidation[2].

• Taiwan Political Update: Taiwanese voters rejected a recall effort targeting roughly one-fifth of the parliament, all from the main opposition party, in the island’s largest-ever recall election[2].

• Russia Censorship Law: Russia’s parliament approved stricter measures targeting what it deems “extremist” online content, raising concerns about further restrictions on free speech[2].

• Hong Kong Security Law: Hong Kong police have offered rewards for information leading to the arrest of 19 overseas activists accused of violating the national security law imposed by Beijing[3].

• Europe and US Immigration: During a visit to Scotland, US President Trump told European leaders to “get its act together” on immigration, claiming it was “killing Europe”[2][3].

• Major Incidents:

  • A major forest fire in Greece has forced evacuations near Corinth[3].
  • A deadly shooting occurred at a University of New Mexico student housing complex, with a suspect arrested[5].
  • A Southwest flight had a violent drop to avoid a midair collision with a military plane, injuring several passengers[5].
  • In Syria’s Sweida, the aftermath of sectarian fighting has left streets filled with decaying bodies and destroyed buildings[3].
• Other Notable Events:
  • Iran is set to hold nuclear talks with European countries[3].
  • France is investigating reports that Jewish passengers may have been removed from a flight due to their religion[3].
  • Hong Kong police are targeting overseas activists with rewards for their arrest[3].
  • Peru seized a record 4-ton shipment of mercury[3].

These stories reflect ongoing global political tensions, humanitarian crises, and significant regional developments as of July 26, 2025.