*) Israeli aggression in Gaza signals failure of army — Hamas

The Palestinian group Hamas said that the madness directed against Palestinian civilians in Gaza reflects the failure of the Israeli army.

Hamas leader Izzat al Rishq said in a statement, "The Nazism of the occupation army was revealed in some images at Al Shifa Medical Complex in Gaza City, where the worst massacre against the health sector in the world was committed'' and that "the Zionist madness against civilians signals the complete failure of the occupation army in front of the resistance and is a reflection of Zionist terror from larger developments.’'

*) Türkiye-Iraq relations to shift positively after upcoming visit: Erdogan

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has emphasised that relations between Türkiye and Iraq will be grounded on a different basis ahead of his upcoming visit to Baghdad.

Erdogan said "The Iraqi side attaches great importance to this visit," further highlighting the significance of enhancing relations with Iraq during the briefing held with press members in Ankara. The Turkish president underscored the water issue as a key agenda item, noting that Iraq has raised concerns and requests regarding water resources.

*) Outrage as US university cancels Muslim valedictorian's commencement speech

A top US university has cancelled its plans for a graduation speech by a meritorious Muslim student after pro-Israel groups criticised her selection and the varsity reportedly received threats by email, phone and letter.

The decision announced by the University of Southern California is the latest controversy to roil American higher education since Israel's war on Gaza began in October last year.Asna Tabassum, who has been attacked online for being "anti-Zionist", had been selected as class valedictorian — an honorary role whose holder traditionally gives a speech in front of up to 65,000 people.

*) Dubai airport diverts flights amid widespread flooding in UAE, Oman

Dubai's major international airport diverted scores of incoming flights as heavy rains lashed the United Arab Emirates, causing widespread flooding around the desert country.

The world's busiest air hub for international passengers confirmed a halt to arrivals before announcing a "gradual resumption".

And finally…

*) X blocks India election posts after takedown orders

Social media platform X blocked several posts in India containing political speech after authorities ordered their takedown ahead of the general election that starts Friday.X, formerly known as Twitter, said the posts would be withheld from Indian audiences until the election was over despite its disagreement with the order.

The posts by elected politicians, political parties and candidates made unverified claims about the private lives of their opponents, which India's election commission said violated its code of conduct.