AGP Executive Report

Protest Crackdown: London student marchers marking the Oct 7 anniversary say they’ll go ahead despite police ordering “robust conditions,” including a ban on face masks that conceal identity, with a fixed route and dispersal by 2pm. Campus Incitement: Swarthmore SJP reposted a video showing an effigy of an Israeli soldier set on fire, prompting the college to stress it’s committed to an environment free of intimidation and discrimination. Humanitarian Health: A Royal Humanitarian Foundation team inspected a new three-storey health centre project in Jalazone Camp, West Bank, with clinics for pediatrics, midwifery, dentistry, radiology, emergency care, physiotherapy and pharmacy for about 17,000 refugees. Gaza Elections: Palestinians in Gaza are preparing for their first legislative elections in 20 years, set for Nov 28, as young candidates push for new political roles amid ongoing attacks. Chemical Weapons Oversight: Qatar took part in the OPCW Executive Council session, urging dialogue and warning that attacks on occupied Palestinian territories heighten risks to civilians and energy supplies. War’s Environmental Toll: A Gaza report describes “double tap” strikes that target survivors and first responders, underscoring how violence keeps destroying lives and essential services.

Gaza Winter Crisis: UNICEF marks three years since the Gaza war escalated, warning that children still face killings, injuries, and a collapsing living environment as winter nears—overcrowded shelters, failing water and sanitation, and last year’s hypothermia deaths. Humanitarian & Shelter: Reports highlight Gaza displaced families pleading for shelter supplies as aid dwindles and freezing temperatures and flooding risks grow. Palestinian Water & Environment Under Pressure: A new report alleges soil-based biological tracking tests using modified bacteria, raising fresh fears about how conflict is turning the environment into a surveillance tool. Solidarity Through Labor: Palestinian unions call for a global day of strikes and protests on Oct. 30 by dockworkers and port staff, linking Gaza solidarity with the fight against militarisation and climate devastation. Local Impact: A Palestinian arrested over sewage dumping points to ongoing environmental harm tied to governance and conflict-era infrastructure breakdown.

War’s Environmental Toll: UN-linked reporting highlights how Gaza’s three-year bombardment has devastated land and ecosystems, with massive crop and tree losses since 2023, showing environmental destruction is inseparable from human survival. Water & Pollution Crime: A Palestinian man was arrested in the West Bank for allegedly dumping sewage into stream channels and posting videos online, raising fresh alarm over groundwater pollution. Human Cost in the Strikes: A Palestinian academic was killed in a targeted Gaza airstrike, underscoring how war continues to hit families and education. Arms Race Pressure: SIPRI’s director warned that global military spending is rising and arms-control is weakening, increasing risks for the Middle East as new military technologies spread. Climate-Justice Lens: Friends of the Earth frames Palestine as a climate justice issue, tying environmental harm to political responsibility. UK Green Party Fallout: The UK Green Party’s “Zionism is racism” motion sparked backlash across Europe, with concerns about antisemitism and political hostility—an echo of wider tensions affecting public life.

Gaza Winter Watch: UN warns Gaza displaced families face another winter with shelter shortages and dwindling aid as displacement drags on. West Bank Pressure: Reports highlight Israeli strikes and continued settler expansion in the occupied West Bank, adding to daily insecurity. Climate Justice in Palestine: Friends of the Earth says Palestine is a climate justice issue, tying environmental harm to the wider struggle for rights and survival. Local Protection for Farmers: As the olive harvest nears, Palestinian farmers urgently need international protection amid ongoing threats. UK–Israel Political Fallout: Israel bans UK Green Party leader Zack Polanski after his party adopted a motion equating Zionism with racism, intensifying debate over Palestine and free speech. Humanitarian Education in Sinai: A Gazan teacher builds a school for displaced children in Egypt’s Sinai, offering stability as families wait for safer futures. Jerusalem Peacebuilding: Sisters of Mercy run a kindergarten in Jerusalem for Muslim and Christian children, describing “artisans of peace” work amid conflict’s impact on children. UN Leadership Question: Coverage ahead of the next UN chief spotlights a world in crisis and the need for a stronger, better-funded UN to tackle wars including Gaza.

Winter Shelter Crisis in Gaza: Displaced families in southern Gaza are pleading for tents, tarpaulins, blankets and basic supplies as winter nears, warning that shelter shortages and dwindling aid could expose tens of thousands to rain, cold and strong winds. West Bank Settlement Pressure: The Wall and Settlement Resistance Commission says Israel is accelerating a massive settlement plan in the Ramallah area, warning that villages like Al-Mughayyir could face displacement and isolation to connect settlement blocs. Climate Justice, Palestine Link: Friends of the Earth chief Asad Rehman says Palestine is a climate justice issue, framing climate breakdown as “fossil fuel colonialism” tied to the wider struggle for justice. Green Politics and Palestine: UK Green Party members passed “Zionism is racism” as party policy and backed a single Palestinian state, triggering backlash and leading Israel to bar Green leader Zack Polanski from entering the country. Olive Harvest Under Threat: As olive harvest approaches in the occupied West Bank, Palestinian farmers report worsening raids, road closures and settler attacks, with anxiety that this season could be even worse.

Shelter Crisis in Gaza: Displaced families in southern Gaza staged protests in Khan Younis, demanding tents, blankets, tarpaulins, food and health supplies as winter nears and aid dwindles under Israel’s blockade. Winter Risk: Residents warn torn tents and weak shelter have led to flooding, cold deaths (including children) and collapses in past seasons. Humanitarian Pressure: One camp overseer said 35 displacement camps in Fash Farsh shelter about 6,000 families (~40,000 people), but shortages of basic essentials remain severe. Gaza Destruction Spotlight: Angelina Jolie shared satellite images showing large parts of Gaza reduced to rubble, saying 94% of people will need shelter and essential supplies as colder weather arrives. Education Amid Displacement: In Egypt’s North Sinai, a Palestinian teacher in El-Arish runs the region’s only Palestinian school for nearly 400 displaced Gazan children, built after war disrupted schooling. Ceasefire Violations: An Israeli airstrike in Gaza City killed four women, including a Christian mother and daughter and a university lecturer, according to reports. Diplomacy & Two-State Push: UK’s high commissioner said the Oct. 7 attack can’t justify Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank, urging action on illegal settlements and renewed UN diplomacy. Climate, Conflict, and Aid: Commentary links NATO-style military spending and climate chaos to rising displacement and food insecurity, arguing humanitarian action must match the scale of crises.

Gaza Ceasefire Breach: An Israeli airstrike in Gaza City killed four Palestinian Christian women, including a university lecturer and her mother, as they served displaced families near the Al-Asala 1 building in Rimal. Palestine Solidarity in Public Life: Country star Zach Bryan wore a “Free Palestine” shirt at Robert Kraft’s Gillette Stadium, where Macklemore had been barred earlier over pro-Palestinian remarks; band members also wore Palestine-themed jerseys, including a tribute to Hind Rajab. Diplomacy & Climate Cooperation: In Lahore, Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz invited Spanish business delegations to visit Sialkot and Lahore and discussed joint work on forest fires, pollution, and heatwaves, while welcoming Spain’s decision to recognize Palestine. Sports Politics: Ireland’s Nations League press conference before facing Israel in Serbia ended abruptly after Israeli journalists pushed questions tied to the Flydubai incident and a racism claim, escalating tensions around the match.

Humanitarian Education in Gaza: Gaza school principal Rana Muslim launched a volunteer-run learning initiative in Al-Zawaida for displaced children, offering kindergarten through seventh grade plus psychosocial support as many have been out of school for years. Environment & Land Conservation: Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation secured 650 acres on Lake Palestine for a future state park, protecting habitat and expanding public access after a $10M purchase, with transfer expected in late 2027. UN Climate & Justice Lens: UNGA 81’s general debate wrapped up with countries pressing for a UN that can deliver amid wars and climate disasters, with climate framed as justice and development for smaller states. Local Climate/Water Planning: Blue Earth County released a Rapidan Dam removal environmental assessment worksheet and seeks public feedback on impacts to rivers, wetlands, and wildlife. Security & Regional Risk: A Red Sea diplomatic rupture between Ethiopia and Eritrea, plus Ethiopia-Egypt expulsions, raises concerns about maritime enforcement and shipping safety. Culture & Resilience: In central Gaza, artist Maysa Yousef decorated aid backpacks for children returning to school, using limited paint to turn plain bags into personal, joyful designs.

Gaza’s long ceasefire wait: Three years into war, Gaza families say “survival” is not progress—airstrikes and restrictions keep homes unrepaired, food scarce, and basic services fragile, with 1.4 million people still not getting enough to eat. Humanitarian funding: The UN released $160M in emergency aid for 12 underfunded crises, including the Occupied Palestinian Territory, warning that access barriers—not just money—are blocking help. West Bank pressure on livelihoods: Israeli forces and settlers continue attacks on Palestinians, including olive harvesters, as winter threatens displaced communities. Conservation with a Palestine link: Texas secured 650 acres on Lake Palestine for a future state park, protecting pine forests, ponds, and wildlife habitat—an environmental win for public access. UN diplomacy & climate/water: UAE’s UNGA delegation highlighted climate action and sustainable water solutions alongside conflict resolution and UN reform. Local activism: Pro-Palestine protesters plan to defy police over an Oct 7 march in London, raising concerns about distress and route impacts.

West Bank & Gaza Humanitarian: UN warns Gaza’s winter could bring catastrophe as Israeli restrictions and ongoing aggression block aid and shelter, with rubble clearance potentially taking up to a decade. Settlements & Sanctions: Greens leader Zack Polanski urges Labour to block Rosebank oil field financing tied to Israeli settlements, arguing it’s a “red line” for any sanctions regime. Education for Evacuees: Qatar’s Education Above All helps young Palestinians evacuated from Gaza resume studies at Al Fakhoora House in Al Thumama, offering guidance, skills training, and pathways back into learning. Climate & Disasters: Mozambique’s floods caused losses around 2% of GDP, underscoring how extreme weather strains public budgets—an urgent reminder for the region’s climate resilience. Environment & Food Systems: Mozambique and China signed a deal to expand cassava exports, aiming to boost production and processing while integrating small farmers. Activism & Rights: Activists and a Greens MP plan legal action after WA police banned entry to a security zone near Perth’s weapons expo, challenging expanded stop-and-search powers.

Gaza Education Support: Qatar’s Education Above All Foundation says young Palestinians evacuated from Gaza are resuming studies at Al Fakhoora House in Al Thumama, offering university guidance, skills training, and community support. West Bank Violence: Israeli settlers shot two Palestinians in Yasuf in the occupied West Bank, killing one, as UN figures point to a surge in settler and force-related killings this year. US Deportation Fight: A judge ruled Palestinian-born Salah Sarsour, head of Wisconsin’s Islamic Society, can be deported, with supporters saying it targets pro-Palestinian advocacy. Campus Pressure in the US: UCLA asked a judge to dismiss a DOJ lawsuit alleging it enabled antisemitism during pro-Palestine protests, calling the case “political coercion.” Arms & Accountability: UK campaigners say the government’s “double lock” on arms sales to Israel has not stopped new licenses, arguing it’s “hot on talk but cold on action.” Community Aid at Home: A Denton, Texas carnival fundraiser raised support for Gaza families via local partners and the Gaza Circus School model of keeping hope alive.

Gaza Winter Crisis: The UN says Israeli restrictions on access are blocking aid and shelter work for displaced Palestinians, with 65% of Gaza households still in tents or makeshift shelters as cold weather and flooding risks rise. Humanitarian Access: UN teams are assessing displacement camps and possible shelter zones, but say they need heavy machinery and key supplies—yet access is limited to just part of Gaza’s land. West Bank Escalation: In Tulkarm area, reports describe raids and attacks on a village school, desecration of shrines, home destruction, and use of tear gas and toxic canisters during arrest campaigns. Arab Environment Diplomacy: Kuwait hosted the 37th Council of Arab Ministers Responsible for Environmental Affairs, with Gaza’s damaged water, soil, air and ecosystems kept on the agenda alongside climate financing and biodiversity protection. Palestinian Innovation: PIEC Scaleup launched in Ramallah to back Palestinian startups from early venture building through market entry and investment readiness. Power and Politics: A major Israel–Europe electricity link faces a roadblock as Turkey blocks parts of the Great Sea Interconnector project, raising new regional tensions around energy and infrastructure.

Gaza & West Bank Diplomacy: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman renewed support for Palestinian rights, condemning Gaza attacks and Al-Aqsa violations, and urged international action toward a lasting political solution. Security & Humanitarian Risk: A FlyDubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia after a copilot stabbed the captain and passengers stormed the cockpit; Israel says the attacker aimed to crash the plane. Campus & Rights Climate: Cornell’s rape case is reigniting debate as prosecutors reopen a criminal investigation and U.S. Title IX rules shift again, raising fears about how schools handle sexual misconduct. Local Politics & Language: In Los Angeles mayoral campaigning, candidates sparred over using “genocide” for Gaza, with Israel denying deliberate hospital targeting. Culture & Solidarity: Macklemore’s “Free Palestine” tour dates sold out immediately after Ed Sheeran’s shows were disrupted by severe weather.

Humanitarian Aid: South Korea pledged USD 5 million to WFP for cash and food support for 100,000+ Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank, as hunger remains widespread. Occupation & Environment: A new mapping effort highlights how 942 checkpoints and barriers fragment the West Bank, trapping residents and choking access to jobs, schools, and healthcare. Humanitarian Mine Action: UK-backed mine clearance teams received a Humanitarian Medal for lifesaving explosive ordnance disposal work in Gaza. Regional Diplomacy: Qatar’s PM says mediation remains central to its foreign policy, citing Gaza and Iran-US talks. Climate & Water Design: UAE curator Dalia Hamati was named for the Venice Architecture Biennale 2027, with an exhibition linking water knowledge to building in a warming climate. Security & Air Travel: A Dubai-to-Israel FlyDubai flight was diverted after a reported cockpit incident, with Israel treating it as a suspected terror attack.

Gaza Reconstruction & Environment: A new opinion piece argues environmental cooperation could help stabilize Gaza by creating shared, practical benefits for Israelis, Palestinians, and Jordanians—framing nature protection as a bridge when politics stall. Humanitarian & Climate Finance: UN leaders renewed calls to triple climate adaptation funding at UNGA 81, as crises deepen and displacement grows. West Bank Settlements & Accountability: Oman urged stronger oversight and accountability over illegal settlement activity, pointing to humanitarian suffering in Gaza and forced displacement in the West Bank. Data & Human Impact: A climate journalism award went to Capital B reporter Adam Mahoney for work on how data center expansion affects Black communities—highlighting environmental and quality-of-life costs. Biodiversity Conservation: In a conservation win, kiwi were translocated back to the hills around Wellington after stoat removal and community-led planning. Energy Transition: Ellomay announced a permit for battery storage connected to a solar project in Spain, aiming to boost grid flexibility.

UN diplomacy & Gaza: The EU extended the mandates of its Rafah border mission (EUBAM Rafah) and police mission in the Palestinian territories (EUPOL COPPS) until June 30, 2027, citing support for sustainable border management and Palestinian policing. UNGA spotlight on Palestine: UN General Assembly debate wrapped with AI, climate change, wars and inequality dominating speeches, while multiple countries pressed for Palestinian sovereignty amid ongoing Gaza war and West Bank settler violence. Two-state push: Liberia reaffirmed support for a negotiated two-state solution at the UN Security Council, urging Israel and Palestine to avoid unilateral steps that could derail statehood. Humanitarian strain: UNRWA warned that a funding shortfall could force further cuts to vital Gaza services. Climate & environment angle: Sri Lanka used UNGA to stress climate justice and the rising toll of disasters on countries hit hardest despite low emissions.