* Qatar officially withdrew from its role as mediator between Israel and Hamas. It cited frustration with both parties’ refusal to negotiate in good faith.
* According to the Council on foreign Relations website, “Puerto Rico is a political paradox: part of the United States but distinct from it, enjoying citizenship but lacking full political representation.” Puerto Rico recently voted (56%) to endorse statehood.
* The International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant against Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of crimes against humanity. It is beyond ironic that an Israeli leader should be on the wrong side of genocide.