Students in Haifa honored Yaroslava Levitska, Israel's last Righteous Among the Nations, on her ninety-first birthday. Levitska was celebrated for her bravery in saving Jews during the Holocaust. The ceremony highlighted the ongoing importance of Holocaust remembrance and education.

Andy Burnham will not stand in the Gorton and Denton by-election, prompting speculation over new candidates for the closely contested seat. Reform UK and the Greens are expected to announce prominent contenders, while Labour has yet to reveal its shortlist. The by-election is set for February 26.

Jennifer Mnookin has been named Columbia University's new president, drawing criticism from anti-Israel groups for her past actions at Wisconsin. University leaders praised her leadership, while Mnookin pledged to uphold Columbia's values amid ongoing campus challenges.

Over 25 countries have joined the Board of Peace, which will first focus on Gaza. Several nations have declined or are still considering participation, while the United States says the board may expand its role in the future.

The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt is expected to reopen soon with new security coordination among the United States, Israel, and Egypt. Israel completed its operation to retrieve the last hostage remains, clearing the way for the reopening. The Palestinian Authority's role in Gaza remains limited amid ongoing reforms and financial challenges.

Qatar will give Lebanon $434 million in financial support, mainly for the energy sector and the Lebanese army. The aid aims to help Lebanon recover from recent conflict and ongoing economic struggles.

The Israeli military has recovered the remains of Ran Gvili, the last hostage held in Gaza since the October 2023 attack. His return marks a significant moment in the ongoing efforts to address the aftermath of the conflict.

Iran's ongoing internet blackout, imposed after recent protests, is crippling businesses and drawing criticism from business leaders and officials. Economic losses are mounting, and uncertainty persists over when full access will be restored.

A United States official says Hamas cooperated in locating the last Israeli hostage's body in Gaza. The search involved collaboration between Israel, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey. The official stressed that regional cooperation is essential for progress.

President Trump has sent a large naval force to the region near Iran, signaling both military readiness and openness to negotiations. The White House says diplomacy is still possible, but military action remains on the table amid ongoing tensions. United States and Israeli officials are coordinating closely as Iran's nuclear capabilities face new scrutiny.

Jennifer Mnookin will become Columbia University's next president in July 2026, making history as its first Jewish leader. She steps into the role during a tumultuous period marked by campus protests and leadership changes. Mnookin is expected to focus on healing divisions and strengthening Columbia's commitment to open inquiry.

Former government spokesman Eylon Levy warns that Israel's handling of the recent hostage crisis may encourage future kidnappings. He urges the country to develop new strategies to prevent more Israelis from being taken hostage.