This week saw Israel attempt a new plan to distribute food in Gaza, bypassing the UN and using American private contractors known as the Gaza Humanitarian Fund. The result, it was suspended on day one: after looting, chaos and security measures were overwhelmed by desperate crowds. Meanwhile, the once steadfast support of Israel’s key allies has seen a diplomatic erosion, private outrage turning to public condemnation.
It’s been a week that’s seen a French doctor, Joel Le Scouarnec, thought to be the country’s most prolific paedophile, sentenced to a further 20 years in jail. He’s already in prison for other crimes. The 74 year old former surgeon admitted abusing almost 300 people. Many were children under sedation in hospital who didn’t know they’d been assaulted until they were told by police. Advocacy groups say that it’s exposed serious failings of French health authorities, accusing them of not caring to act when first made aware of his conviction for downloading images of child rape, two decades previously.
It’s been the week that Elon Musk said goodbye to the Trump Administration and left his role at the White House. The world’s richest man said his time has come to an end at the department of government efficiency just days after his public critique of Trump’s so called Big Beautiful tax bill, calling it too expensive and undermining the point of Doge. Washington insiders say it was his time, quoting sources suggesting he’d been seen as a bit of nuisance in the Trump inner circle. White House officials tell reporters he was quote “off boarded” on Wednesday night.
And it was a week that created an inadvertent legacy moment for Emmanuel Macron, on manoeuvres in south east Asia. A moment likely to be included in every future look back at the President’s career. A push in the face from the First Lady. Pay no attention to the couple behind the plane’s curtain. “Play fighting” said the President.
Produced by Siobhan Silke, Aurore Laborie and Gavin Lee.
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Angela DIFFLEY FRANCE 24 journalist
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Rina BASSIST International correspondent for the Israel Public Broadcasting Corporation
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Elizabeth PINEAU Reuters political correspondent
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Laura KAYALI Defence Correspondent, Politico Europe
English (US) · 