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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa have pledged to strengthen security cooperation between their countries. The agreement was made during Zelenskyy's visit to Damascus, where he discussed ways to enhance security and development opportunities for both nations. The cooperation aims to provide more security and opportunities for development for their societies, Zelenskyy wrote on Telegram after the meeting. He highlighted that there is a great interest in exchanging military and security experience between the two countries. Ukraine, which has developed significant expertise in countering drone attacks during its ongoing conflict with Russia, has been offering its military capabilities to countries in the Middle East region. Zelenskyy has recently signed long-term military cooperation deals with Saudi Arabia and Qatar, and has sent teams to the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia to share Ukraine's expertise. Syria, which currently lacks effective air defenses against Iranian drones and missiles, stands to benefit from Ukraine's experience. Iran and its allied groups have been attacking US and Israeli targets, as well as targets in Gulf countries, using a range of missiles and drones. In addition to security cooperation, Zelenskyy and al-Sharaa discussed joint opportunities to strengthen food security across the region. Zelenskyy emphasized that Kyiv is a reliable grain supplier. The meeting between the two presidents was also attended by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, who met with Zelenskyy, al-Sharaa, and Ukrainian Ambassador Andrii Sybiha. This trilateral meeting underscores the growing diplomatic engagement in the region. Zelenskyy's visit to Syria follows his recent trip to Turkiye, where he agreed on new steps in security cooperation with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and discussed joint gas infrastructure projects.

Footage has emerged showing a missile launched by Iran striking a residential building in the Israeli city of Haifa. The video, which has been widely circulated, depicts the moment of impact and the subsequent damage to the building. The missile strike has heightened concerns about the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel. The incident has sparked fears of a wider conflict in the region. The authenticity of the video has not been disputed, and it is believed to have been captured by a resident in the area. The Iranian missile struck the building with significant force, causing substantial damage. The incident comes amid a backdrop of increased hostility between Iran and Israel. The two nations have been engaged in a longstanding conflict, with tensions frequently flaring over issues such as nuclear proliferation and regional influence.

Israel has continued its deadly offensive in Gaza, while simultaneously launching military strikes against targets in Iran and Lebanon. The coordinated actions suggest an expansion of the conflict beyond the Gaza Strip, raising concerns about a wider regional confrontation.Analysts note that the simultaneous operations could strain diplomatic efforts and increase the risk of further escalation across the Middle East, as neighboring states monitor the developments closely.

Al Jazeera reports that the armed wing of Hamas has rejected any proposal to disarm, reaffirming its commitment to continue armed resistance. At the same time, Israeli forces have maintained their series of attacks, indicating that the current cycle of violence shows no sign of abating.The refusal underscores the deepening stalemate between the two sides, with each side entrenched in its respective position. Analysts note that without a credible pathway to disarmament, the prospect of a de‑escalation remains limited, potentially prolonging the humanitarian and security challenges in the region.

Hamas's armed wing has rejected calls for disarmament, stating that discussing the issue before Israel fully implements the first phase of the US-brokered ceasefire in Gaza amounts to an attempt to continue the genocide against Palestinians.In a televised statement, Hamas spokesman Abu Obeida said that raising the issue of weapons 'in a crude manner' would not be accepted. He emphasized that the disarmament demands are an overt attempt to continue the genocide against Palestinians, something Hamas will not accept under any circumstances.The issue of Hamas relinquishing its weapons is a major obstacle in talks to implement US President Donald Trump's 20-point plan for Gaza, aimed at ending Israel's war on the besieged territory. Since the US- and Qatar-brokered ceasefire took effect in October, more than 705 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks, according to the Palestinian news agency Wafa.Hamas has told mediators it will not discuss disarmament without guarantees that Israel will completely withdraw from Gaza. Abu Obeida urged mediators to pressure Israel to fulfil its commitments under the first phase of the Trump plan before any discussion of the second phase can take place.Israel's war on Gaza, which began after Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel in October 2023, has killed more than 72,000 Palestinians and injured at least 172,000 others. Abu Obeida also addressed Israel's role in the US-Israel war on Iran, condemning it for launching strikes on Iran 'in the midst of the deception of negotiations, with full collusion and conspiracy with the United States'.

John Mearsheimer has warned that the current US‑Israel war over Iran shows no signs of a rapid conclusion. The scholar’s assessment underscores the deepening complexities in the Middle East and suggests that diplomatic pathways remain limited at this stage. While specific details of the conflict’s trajectory were not disclosed, Mearsheimer’s observation points to a prolonged period of tension, with potential ramifications for regional stability and international diplomatic efforts. Analysts note that such a stance may influence policy deliberations in Washington and Jerusalem, as both nations grapple with strategic calculations amid escalating hostilities.

Itamar Ben‑Gvir, a senior figure in Israel’s coalition government, presented his latest proposals regarding Palestinians who are currently on death row. The details, reported by Al Jazeera on 5 April 2026, signal a potential shift in Israel’s approach to the handling of capital‑punishment cases involving Palestinian detainees. The minister’s plan, though not fully disclosed, emphasizes a stricter stance that could affect legal proceedings and the broader political climate in the region. Analysts note that such measures may further complicate already fragile relations between Israel and the Palestinian territories. International observers are watching closely, as any change in policy toward prisoners on death row carries significant humanitarian and diplomatic implications.

Recent reports indicate that a wave of Israeli air strikes combined with extensive shelling across Lebanon has led to a noticeable rise in casualties. The surge in attacks highlights a rapid escalation in hostilities between the two neighbours, raising concerns over civilian safety and regional stability.While specific figures remain unconfirmed, the increasing number of fatalities underscores the growing humanitarian impact of the conflict. International observers are urging restraint and calling for immediate measures to protect non‑combatants.Analysts note that the intensified military actions could further destabilize the already volatile border area, potentially drawing in additional regional actors and complicating diplomatic efforts aimed at de‑escalation.

Gaza City, Gaza – While Easter traditionally celebrates resurrection and renewal, Gaza’s dwindling Christian population spent the holiday in quiet reflection, confronting displacement, scarcity and the trauma of a conflict the United Nations has described as genocide. The enclave is home to fewer than 1,000 Christians, a community already small before the war that has suffered heavy casualties; more than 72,000 Palestinians have been killed since Israel’s offensive began on 7 October 2023. Inside the remaining churches, prayers and modest services carried profound meaning as families clung to hope for survival and peace. Yet basic necessities—electricity, water and food—remain in short supply, and even traditional Easter items such as eggs are virtually unavailable. Fouad Ayad, a bio‑energy trainer displaced from near al‑Rantisi Children’s Hospital, described searching the markets of Gaza City for eggs without success. “We decorate eggs for the children, and sometimes Muslim children visit us for colourful eggs,” he told Al Jazeera, highlighting the inter‑communal bonds that persist despite the siege. Shortages have also erased the customary communal lunch. “Meat is scarce and extremely expensive,” Ayad lamented, recalling how families once gathered to share meals, colour eggs and visit elderly neighbours of all faiths. The Church of the Holy Family, which Ayad once attended, has been struck multiple times. “Three of my relatives were killed in one attack, and another strike killed more than 20 Christians,” he recounted, illustrating the direct targeting of places of worship. Attendance at Easter services in Gaza’s sole Catholic church has dwindled as many believers have fled the Strip. Yet, as one worshipper put it, “We only performed the prayers, refusing to celebrate because of our martyrs,” affirming their resolve to remain rooted in the land despite the devastation. Israeli restrictions have prevented Christians from traveling to the Old City of East Jerusalem to attend the Holy Sepulchre for the past two years. Recent attempts by Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa to enter the site were initially blocked, only to be reversed after international outcry. Elias al‑Jelda, a 60‑year‑old Orthodox council member, recounted sheltering in the Church of the Holy Family after his home was destroyed. “I lost friends, neighbours and relatives, many killed while staying close to their homes and faith,” he said, underscoring the personal toll of the conflict. Traditional Easter treats—coloured eggs, kahk, maamoul and Eidiya gifts—are largely absent this year. “There are no eggs anywhere in the Strip,” reported 74‑year‑old Amal al‑Masri, who recalled pre‑war celebrations filled with shared meals and festive sweets. Power outages compound the hardship. “Electricity continues to be a major problem, and the soaring cost of diesel and generator oil makes it worse,” al‑Jelda warned, highlighting the broader infrastructure collapse affecting all Gazans. Despite the bleak circumstances, the remaining Christians affirm their identity and solidarity with the broader Palestinian population. “No matter what your political agenda or religion is, all of us Palestinians are targeted by the occupation,” a worshipper declared, encapsulating the collective sense of victimhood and resilience.