Lebanon’s New May 17: Why the Washington Framework Is Built on an Old Illusion

The new Lebanese-Israeli framework is described as a first step. But beneath this diplomatic language lies a familiar problem: Israel keeps the power to decide when it feels secure enough to withdraw, the US presents itself as mediator while acting as Israel’s strategic protector, and Lebanon is asked to implement security obligations that its own political and social reality may not allow.

The Executioner’s Noose, Not the Scales of Justice: Crime and Punishment in Israel and Palestine

Israeli soldiers and settlers commit daily acts of violence in the occupied Palestinian territory with near-total impunity. By contrast, Palestinians are being arrested en masse, deprived of critical safeguards in detention, and subjected to torture and ill-treatment. In addition, recently introduced legislation will make it easier for Israeli courts to issue death sentences for Palestinians.

Archbishop of Canterbury vows to help Palestinians achieve ‘freedom you deserve,’ calls for end to Israeli occupation

Sarah Mullally, the head of the Church of England, has a powerful message after a pilgrimage in which she met Palestinians attacked by settlers and others detained without trial (2 articles).