LGBTQ Refugee Rights: A Palestinian man in Israel says his family beat and imprisoned him after he was caught with another man, and now fears deportation to the West Bank where he believes he’ll be killed; his temporary residency permit hasn’t been renewed since September and he’s fighting a legal battle. Ethiopia Peace Tensions: The TPLF rejects a planned Addis Ababa rally, accusing organizers of serving a federal agenda, while the Tigray Peace and Change Council frames it as a peaceful push to enforce the Pretoria Agreement and stop forced conscription. Middle East Strikes: The US and Iran trade escalating drone and missile attacks, with Iran claiming hits on civilian infrastructure across the region and the US saying it targets logistics and surveillance sites. Tech & Connectivity: Iraq grants Starlink a satellite internet licence after a Washington summit deal, aiming to expand access in remote areas. Sudan-Linked Health & Conflict: A UN-linked report warns Sudan’s war economy fuels conflict and taints supply chains, while concern grows over Gen. Moses Ali’s health as he remains hospitalised. Arts & Film: Documentary filmmaker Pietra Brettkelly’s new film Crocodile follows young Nigerian filmmakers amid kidnapping risks. Music Spotlight: Palestinian oud player Huda Asfour discusses Naqus, using oud, voice and looping to explore memory and resistance.