West Bank Settlements & International Law: The Philippines urged Israel to halt actions that erode conditions for a future Palestinian state, citing the E1 settlement push and rising settler violence, while a Belgian rights group warned E1 could make statehood “impossible” if tenders proceed. NGO & Human Rights Claims: B’Tselem released “The Elimination Project,” alleging Israel is dismantling Palestinian collective life in the West Bank; Israel and the IDF rejected the report’s core claims. Election Politics: Netanyahu kicked off his campaign with a security-focused message and framed the race as Right vs Left, attacking Gadi Eisenkot and warning against a coalition that would include Arab parties. Lebanon Escalation: Israel’s strikes across southern Lebanon continued as Lebanese leaders said the attacks obstruct a “framework formula,” with reports of airstrikes, artillery, bulldozing, and home burnings. UN Access & Diplomatic Pressure: The U.S. again denied Palestinian President Abbas a visa for the UN General Assembly, allowing him to speak by video, while UN members backed his virtual appearance. U.S.-Israel Arms Sale Fight: A senior House Democrat put a hold on a proposed $2.8B heavy-bomb transfer, citing insufficient assurances on civilian protections. Regional Diplomacy: The U.S., Morocco, and Israel agreed to upgrade ties—embassies, ambassador exchanges, and restored direct flights—before year-end. International Backlash on Settlements: Iraq’s foreign ministry welcomed new restrictions by multiple countries on settlement goods, calling them a step to deter illegal settlement policy.