Violent confrontations at Jerusalem’s Al‑Aqsa Mosque on Friday left at least 13 dead and more than 100 wounded, sparking a joint condemnation from eight Muslim-majority countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Jordan... At the same time, the U.S. House of Representatives is preparing to vote on a package that would provide over $1 billion in defense aid and up to $8 billion in loans to Ukraine.

Eight Muslim Nations Condemn Al‑Aqsa Storming

In a coordinated statement, the eight states denounced what they described as Israel’s "storming" of the Al‑Aqsa compound, calling for an immediate halt to the actions that triggered the bloodshed. The United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan and four others emphasized the need to protect the sanctity of the holy site, marking one of the most unified diplomatic reactions from the Muslim world in recent years. According to the joint communiqué, the condemnation reflects “strong disapproval” of the Israeli security forces’ tactics.

13 Dead and Over 100 Injured in Jerusalem Clashes

The clashes erupted after Israeli police entered the mosque’s courtyard during the holy month of Ramadan, leading to a rapid escalation that resulted in at least 13 fatalities and more than 100 injuries, as reported by local health officials. Witnesses described tear gas, rubber bullets,and live ammunition being used, while Israeli officials claimed they were responding to violent protesters. The death toll has heightened tensions across the region, prompting protests in several Arab capitals.

U.S. House to Vote on $1 B Defense Aid and $8 B Loans for Ukraine

Congressional leaders scheduled a vote on a bipartisan bill that would allocate just over $1 billion for Ukrainian defense equipment and up to $8 billion in direct loans to sustain the war effort. The measure faces an uncertain path in the Senate, where partisan divisions could stall or reshape the package. as the House prepares to act , a senior State Department official testified before the Foreign Affairs Committee that “the prospects of a negotiated settlement between Ukraine and Russia don’t look great,” underscoring the urgency felt by U.S. policymakers.

Zelensky Offers Direct Talks with Putin Amid Grim Outlook

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told reporters he is ready to engage in “any format,” including direct negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, to end the conflict. While Zelensky expreessed willingness, he also acknowledged that a broader diplomatic settlement remains unlikely at present. His remarks came as the U.S. aid package moves forward , suggesting Kyiv hopes additional resources will strengthen its bargaining position.

Will the Senate Pass the Ukraine Aid Package?

The decisive question now is whether the Senate will approve the House’s Ukraine aid proposal. Democrats and Republicans remain split over the size of the loan component,and some senators have signaled they may demand stricter oversight. If the Senate stalls, the aid could be delayed for months, potentially weakening Ukraine’s defense at a critical juncture.