Plans to evacuate up to 800 Palestinians with foreign passports from Gaza began amid intensified Israeli airstrikes, with the American Consulate in Israel assisting 150 dual US citizens. The death toll in Gaza has risen to 171, with over 1,000 injured. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated the operation might continue for an extended period. Evacuation efforts are coordinated with the Israeli government, and the first group of evacuees has been transported to Jordan. The conflict has led to significant casualties and destruction, with international calls for a ceasefire being ignored. Hamas has set conditions for a ceasefire, including the release of prisoners and financial support, while Israel demands an end to rocket fire and lasting security.

Palestinians in Gaza celebrated a new reconciliation deal between Fatah and Hamas, marking the third such agreement in recent years. The deal includes forming a unity government within six weeks and holding elections within six months. While many Gazans expressed joy and hope for a better future, some remained skeptical about the agreement's ability to address long-standing issues such as economic hardship and freedom of movement. The reconciliation drew criticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who argued it undermines the peace process. However, many Palestinians believe that internal unity is a crucial step towards achieving lasting peace.

A broken drone, along with two packets of tobacco and a mobile phone, was discovered on the roof of a prefabricated building at Goulburn Correctional Centre in NSW. The items have been handed over to NSW police for further investigation. Corrective Services is exploring new technologies to mitigate security risks in state jails.

Adelaide, Australia, often overlooked for being quiet and small, is praised for its beautiful beaches, excellent food, and wine. The city's grid-like streets are reminiscent of Christchurch, its sister city. Highlights include Fino Vino, an urban wine bar, the Adelaide Central Market for local produce, and the German heritage-listed town of Hahndorf for authentic German cuisine. The Adelaide Hills offer hiking opportunities, while local beaches like Henley Beach provide stunning sunsets. Air New Zealand offers direct flights to Adelaide from Auckland.

With the trans-Tasman bubble open, New Zealand offers a variety of travel experiences reminiscent of global destinations. Highlights include whale watching in Kaikoura, urban exploration in Wellington's Te Aro neighborhood, alpine adventures at Tongariro, and geothermal relaxation in Rotorua. The article emphasizes the unique cultural and natural attractions of New Zealand, showcasing its diverse offerings from Maori culture to modern hospitality.

New Zealand offers a variety of destinations that can evoke the experience of international travel, from whale watching in Kaikoura to urban exploration in Wellington's Te Aro neighborhood. The article highlights the Whale Watch company, owned by the Ngati Kuri people, and the Intrepid Hotel, which features local artwork. It also describes the Chateau Tongariro Hotel's historic charm and the geothermal attractions of Rotorua, including the Hell's Gate spa and the opportunity to immerse in Maori culture. The piece suggests that New Zealand's diverse landscapes and cultural offerings provide a world tour experience without leaving the country.

A new wave of coronavirus infections has led to a six-week lockdown for 5 million people in Melbourne, Australia, as authorities attempt to control the surge in cases. The lockdown includes restrictions on movement and the closure of certain businesses. The resurgence is partly attributed to complacency and failures in infection control, particularly in hotel quarantine. Experts highlight the virus's explosive potential and the challenges in managing contact tracing and protecting vulnerable populations. The lockdown raises concerns about Australia's economic recovery, with Prime Minister Scott Morrison expressing hopes for easing restrictions.

Paul Parker, a volunteer firefighter from Nelligen, New South Wales, became the face of Australia's summer of bushfire discontent after his televised expletive-laden criticism of Prime Minister Scott Morrison went viral. Parker accused Morrison of inadequate support for volunteer brigades and faced repercussions from the Rural Fire Service (RFS), which he claims led to his dismissal, a claim the RFS disputes. The incident highlighted the strain on Australia's volunteer firefighting force and sparked debate over the country's climate policies and the sustainability of the volunteer system amid worsening fire seasons.

Three Americans died when their aerial water tanker, operated by Coulson Aviation, crashed while battling bush fires in New South Wales, Australia. The Lockheed C-130 Hercules was carrying fire retardant when it went down near Cooma. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash. The incident adds to the toll of firefighters killed during Australia's unprecedented bush fire season, which has claimed over 30 lives and destroyed more than 2,500 homes. Coulson Aviation grounded its fleet to reassess safety conditions. The U.S. and Australia have a long-standing agreement to assist each other in firefighting efforts.

Australia, known for its biodiversity, is dominated by eucalyptus trees, which have a long-standing relationship with fire. These trees, native to Australia and essential to koalas, have evolved over 60 million years to thrive in fire-prone environments.

Scott Morrison, Australia's coal-supporting prime minister, faces intense criticism as wildfires devastate the country. His past advocacy for coal and perceived lack of empathy during the crisis have fueled public backlash. The fires have reignited debates on climate change and Australia's coal industry, with activists and experts condemning the government's response. Morrison's attempts to manage the crisis, including a controversial vacation and promotional efforts, have been met with widespread disapproval. The disaster underscores the urgent need for effective climate policies as Australia grapples with severe environmental and social impacts.

A leaked report in 2017 about possible unlawful killings by Australian soldiers in Afghanistan has sparked a debate on media freedom and whistleblower protections in Australia. Recent police raids on journalist Annika Smethurst and the Australian Broadcasting Corp. have raised concerns about the extent of national security laws and their impact on journalism. Critics argue that these actions deter whistleblowers and threaten public-interest journalism. Discussions between ABC executives and Prime Minister Scott Morrison have taken place, but no clear proposals for legal changes have been made public.

Brenton Tarrant, an Australian man, moved to Dunedin, New Zealand, in 2017, where he lived a solitary life while planning the Christchurch mosque shootings that killed 50 people. Tarrant, who had traveled extensively and was influenced by white-nationalist ideology, trained with semiautomatic rifles and bulked up at a local gym. Despite his meticulous planning, his activities did not raise suspicion among locals or authorities. The New Zealand Police, with assistance from the FBI and Australian police, are investigating Tarrant's background and actions leading up to the attack. The incident has prompted discussions on racism, Islamophobia, and gun control in New Zealand and Australia.

Brenton Tarrant, the alleged gunman behind the Christchurch mosque massacres, lived a quiet and solitary life in Dunedin, New Zealand, where he meticulously planned the attack. Tarrant, an Australian, had a history of traveling to various countries and was influenced by white-nationalist ideologies. He obtained a gun license and trained with semiautomatic rifles at a local gun club. The investigation into the attack involves multiple international agencies, including the FBI and Australian police. The community in Dunedin is grappling with the revelation that Tarrant lived among them, and the incident has sparked discussions on Islamophobia and racism in Australia.

The article discusses the reaction of Australian leaders to the Christchurch mosque shooting, highlighting the condemnation of anti-immigration senator Fraser Anning's comments blaming Muslim immigration for the attack. Prime Minister Scott Morrison and opposition leader Bill Shorten denounced Anning's remarks, while prominent figures in Australia's Muslim community pointed out the pervasive nature of Islamophobia in the country. The article also references past controversial statements by Australian politicians and the experiences of Muslims facing racism and harassment. An anti-racism rally in Melbourne and the broader issue of rising Islamophobia in Australia are also covered.

Almas Nizamidin, an Australian citizen, is campaigning for the release of his wife, Bizainafu Abudourexiti, who was detained in China during a crackdown on the Uighur Muslim minority. Abudourexiti, pregnant at the time of her arrest, was sentenced to seven years in prison without legal support. Nizamidin, who fled Urumqi in 2009 due to violence, has been advocating for her release, highlighting the broader issue of human rights violations against Uighurs in Xinjiang. Amnesty International has called for her release, while the Australian government has expressed concerns but taken no direct action.

The NSW opposition is advocating for a statewide audit of traffic safety near schools after a tragic incident where two boys were killed by a car crashing into their classroom in western Sydney. Opposition education spokesman Jihad Dib emphasizes the need for comprehensive safety measures both inside and outside school grounds. Revenue NSW data reveals over 143,000 fines for dangerous driving in school zones last year, highlighting the urgency of the issue.

The estranged husband of NSW woman Gabrielle Maina and his cousin were released in Nairobi without charge a week after their arrest in connection with her murder. Gabrielle Maina, a 40-year-old school teacher, was shot dead in Nairobi on October 19. The Kenyan magistrate ordered their release due to lack of charges, despite police being granted a seven-day extension to gather more evidence. Both men maintain their innocence, and Maina's husband had a restraining order against him and an alibi for the time of the murder.

Dockless share bike companies oBike and Reddy Go have agreed to meet with Sydney's Randwick City Council, which has threatened fines for bikes left strewn across the city. Despite the council's demands, both companies insist they will not lock their bikes, citing the dockless model's convenience. oBike's Chethan Rangaswamy and Reddy Go's Donald Tang argue that locking bikes contradicts their business model, though oBike may consider designated parking areas. Randwick Mayor Lindsay Shurey and Councillor Harry Stavrinos emphasize the need for order and appropriate bike parking solutions, with the council unanimously supporting secure parking demands.

New Zealanders are set to vote in an election where the Labour Party, led by Jacinda Ardern, challenges the incumbent National Party of Prime Minister Bill English. Key policy differences include Labour's focus on reducing immigration and increasing refugee quotas, while National aims to tighten immigration rules. Labour proposes significant changes in education, child poverty reduction, and environmental policies, including free tertiary education and ambitious carbon emission targets. National emphasizes maintaining current policies with incremental improvements. Relations with Australia and trade policies, including stances on the Trans Pacific Partnership and Brexit, also highlight differences between the parties. Ardern advocates for decriminalizing abortion, contrasting with English's conservative stance.

New Zealand faces a silent epidemic of suicide, with the highest youth suicide rates in the developed world. The latest figures show an increase in suicides, with 606 deaths in the year ending June 30. Bereaved families have called for an independent inquiry into mental health and other measures. Labour Party leader Jacinda Ardern has pledged to review mental health services and increase funding, while the National Party's health minister Jonathan Coleman is seeking advice on a suicide reduction goal. Mental health advocate Mike King's school talks were labeled as 'dangerous' by a health board coordinator, sparking debate on how to address the issue. A public display of 606 pairs of shoes symbolized the annual suicide toll, highlighting the personal tragedies behind the statistics.

Under Jacinda Ardern's leadership, the New Zealand Labour Party has surged to a 10-year high in the polls, overtaking the governing National Party ahead of the September general election. Ardern, who became Labour's youngest leader on August 1, has revitalized the party's chances of forming the next government. The Labour Party now leads with 43% against the National Party's 41%. During a leaders' debate, Ardern was confident but cautious, while Prime Minister Bill English defended his party's record. The debate focused on housing, tax, and immigration, with Ardern challenging National's housing record and English criticizing Labour's policies as vague. Political analysts were divided on who won the debate, with some favoring Ardern's presentation skills.

Benjamin Netanyahu warned New Zealand's foreign minister that supporting a UN resolution condemning Israeli settlements would be seen as a 'declaration of war,' leading to diplomatic tensions. Despite Netanyahu's threats, New Zealand proceeded with the resolution, resulting in Israel recalling its ambassador and severing diplomatic ties temporarily. The resolution, which passed with the US abstaining, has led to international scrutiny of Netanyahu's aggressive diplomatic tactics. The article also touches on an upcoming speech by John Kerry, expected to outline the Obama administration's stance on the Middle East peace process.

In the midst of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, pockets of cooperation and humanity exist, such as at the Hadassah Ein Kerem hospital in Jerusalem where Jewish and Arab medical professionals work together. The hospital serves as a model of coexistence, with staff like Siham Sheble Masarwa and Rashad Rizeq exemplifying collaboration. Educational initiatives like the Max Rayne Hand in Hand school also promote peace by integrating Jewish, Christian, and Muslim students. Organizations like Sikkuy and Zaitoun Ventures further foster Jewish-Arab cooperation through cultural tours and support for startups. Despite external tensions, these efforts highlight the potential for peaceful coexistence.

Malka Leifer, former principal of Melbourne's Adass Israel School, accused of sexually abusing students, is living freely in Israel after evading extradition. Released from house arrest, she resides in the conservative Immanuel settlement, causing community outrage. Leifer faces 74 counts of sexual assault and rape, with her extradition delayed due to claims of unfitness for trial. Community members in both Melbourne and Immanuel express betrayal and concern for children's safety. A committee will reassess her fitness for trial in five months.

Malka Leifer, former principal of Adass Israel School in Melbourne, accused of sexually abusing students, is living freely in Israel after evading extradition. Released from house arrest, she resides in the conservative Immanuel settlement, causing outrage among locals. Leifer faces 74 counts of sexual assault and rape, with her extradition delayed due to claims of unfitness for trial. Community members express betrayal and concern for children's safety. A committee will assess her fitness to stand trial in five months.

The Iron Dome defense system, crucial in protecting Israel from Hamas rocket strikes, faces increased strain due to the surge in rocket attacks from Gaza. Despite its high interception success rate, the system is costly and not without faults, as evidenced by past failures. New interception batteries are being rushed into action to enhance coverage. Critics argue that the system sometimes fails to destroy rocket warheads, posing risks to civilians. While the Iron Dome has been effective, experts warn against complacency, emphasizing the need for a multi-layered defense strategy.

Economic despair grips Gaza as a wage freeze affecting 50,000 Hamas government workers threatens the Palestinian unity deal. The freeze has led to widespread financial hardship, protests, and a significant impact on the local economy. Despite promises from the new unity government, salaries remain unpaid, exacerbating tensions. The Qatari Government's offer to help has been blocked by Israel, further complicating the situation. The reopening of the Rafah Crossing into Egypt could provide economic relief, but political and logistical challenges remain. Key figures express frustration and concern over the ongoing crisis and the future of Palestinian unity.

Palestinians marked the 66th anniversary of the Nakba, emphasizing the concept of resistance through art and slogans. The symbolic significance of keys to original homes was highlighted, playing a central role in the protests. The Israeli barrier in the West Bank served as a canvas for Nakba-related phrases and symbols.

Thousands of Palestinians gathered in Ramallah and other areas to commemorate Nakba Day, marking the 66th anniversary of the displacement of nearly 800,000 Palestinians in 1948. The event featured a peaceful march, symbolic gestures like carrying giant keys, and a poignant street theatre performance. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas expressed hope for an end to suffering, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the commemorations. The day also saw a tragic contrast with the killing of two Palestinian youths by Israeli border police near Ofer Prison.

Abu Sabri, an 87-year-old Palestinian, recounts his displacement from the village of Allar during the Nakba, expressing a deep longing to return. The article highlights the ongoing impact of the Nakba on Palestinians, with Hanin Zoabi criticizing Israeli policies that she believes continue to oppress Palestinians. The piece also discusses the efforts of Zochrot, an organization that uses technology to remember destroyed Palestinian villages. Israeli historian Alex Yakobsen provides a balanced view, acknowledging the complexities of the 1948 events. The narrative underscores the enduring pain and unresolved issues stemming from the Nakba.

Yitzhar, a Jewish settlement in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, is notorious for its extreme violence towards Palestinians and Israeli soldiers. The settlement has illegal outposts and has been the site of violent clashes with the Israeli army, including the recent seizure of its yeshiva. The community is linked to the 'price tag' movement, responsible for attacks on Arab-Israeli targets. Despite internal opposition to violence against soldiers, tensions remain high, with some residents inciting violence. The Israeli government struggles to manage the settlers, who are predominantly rightwing and religious.

As the deadline for peace talks between Israel and the Palestinian Authority passes without progress, attention shifts to the recent reconciliation deal between Fatah and Hamas. The Palestinian Liberation Organization has initiated a five-week strategy to unify the two parties, split since 2007. In Gaza, the closure of smuggling tunnels with Egypt has strained Hamas financially, leading to concerns among government workers about job security. In Ramallah, the mood is more cautious, with less visible celebration and a focus on potential changes under President Mahmoud Abbas's leadership. Despite previous failed reconciliation attempts, there is cautious optimism about the current deal's potential to ease life in Gaza.

Yaser Alyan, a resident of Beit Safafa in southern Jerusalem, faces a dilemma regarding his children's education: whether to choose the Palestinian Authority curriculum to reinforce their Palestinian identity or the Israeli curriculum for better future opportunities in Israel. His older children study the Palestinian curriculum, while his younger son follows the Israeli curriculum, supplemented with Palestinian history at home. The article highlights the political and personal complexities of education choices for Arabs in Israel.