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Archive June 8, 2025

‘Clearly an excuse’: Does Netanyahu really want Hamas gone?

Israel’s war on Gaza rumbles on, even as international condemnation grows.

Hamas has expressed that it is ready for a deal to end the war, even offering to turn over the administration of Gaza to a technocratic government. United Nations Security Council members have overwhelmingly voted in favour of a ceasefire, a resolution blocked from passing only by a United States veto.

But Israel, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is adamant in its refusal of any agreement that does not include what it calls the “defeat of Hamas”, even if that means endangering the Israeli captives still held in Gaza.

“Hamas is already the weakest it’s ever been, and there’s nothing they can do that is remotely comparable to what Israel possesses,” writer and researcher on Israel-Palestine and founder of The Fire These Times podcast Elia Ayoub told Al Jazeera.

“There’s ample evidence by now that the only reason this genocide is ongoing is because Netanyahu wants it to continue. It’s clearly just an excuse to keep the war going.”

Netanyahu is ‘reliant upon Hamas’

But why would Netanyahu want the war – which is Israel’s longest since 1948, and is causing economic crisis – to continue?

One answer is that the war provides a distraction from Netanyahu’s own problems.

Israel’s longest-serving prime minister has well-documented legal troubles; he is being tried for corruption.

And, aside from that, should a permanent ceasefire be realised, some analysts believe Israeli society will hold Netanyahu accountable for security shortcomings that led to October 7.

“He’s afraid once it’s done, eyes will rightfully turn to him over corruption and the failures of October 7,” Diana Buttu, a legal scholar and former adviser to the Palestine Liberation Organization, said.

And so, Netanyahu has two main tasks. The first is to prolong the war, allowing him to continue using it as an excuse to avoid accountability. The second is to prevent the breakup of his government, while somehow setting himself up for another successful election, which must happen before October 2026.

Netanyahu has been “reliant upon Hamas throughout the war”, Mairav Zonszein, an expert on Israel and Palestine for the International Crisis Group, told Al Jazeera.

“The far right and Netanyahu have consistently used Hamas as an excuse not to negotiate or plan for a day after,” she said.

Israel’s goal has nothing to do with Hamas

The Israeli refusal to negotiate a final end to the war stands in stark contrast to Hamas’s willingness to hand over all captives held in Gaza.

Over the last 20 months, much of Hamas’s leadership has been killed. Ismail Haniyeh, Hamas’s political leader, was assassinated in Tehran on July 31, and Yahya Sinwar, his successor, was killed in Gaza on October 16.

Israel is now claiming it killed Sinwar’s successor and younger brother, Mohammed, though Hamas has yet to confirm his death.

Militarily, analysts say, Hamas is estimated to have lost significant strength. It is still conducting some attacks, but fewer and further between than the ambushes it was able to carry out earlier in the war.

In a sign that Hamas perhaps understands that it is no longer in a position to rule Gaza, it has also offered to step down from the administration of the Palestinian territory, which it has controlled since 2006, and hand over to a technocratic government.

“The technocrat offer is not new,” Hamzé Attar, a Luxembourg-based defence analyst from Gaza, said.

“It was on the table since before the invasion of Rafah [which occurred on May 6, 2024]. They want Hamas to give up their arms and give up everything, and Hamas has responded by saying: ‘We’re stepping aside.’”

That has been firmly rejected by Israel, which has not endorsed any vision for post-war Gaza.

Instead, over the last nearly 20 months, Israel has killed more than 54,300 Palestinians and wounded more than 124,000 in Gaza, according to the territory’s Health Ministry.

Ethnic cleansing: The deeper goal

In addition, Gaza is now “the hungriest place on Earth”, according to the UN, all its inhabitants at risk of famine after Israel strangled aid delivery throughout its war, then completely blocked it from March 2 until May 27.

Israel has also turned 70 percent of the enclave into no-go zones.

All the while, Israel’s bombing of Gaza continues.

Discounting the pretext of destroying Hamas and returning the captives, some analysts believe there is a deeper goal: pushing Palestinians out of Gaza.

“Neither Hamas nor the hostages are the targets,” Meron Rappaport, an editor at Local Call, a Hebrew-language news site, said.

“The goal is to push the people of Gaza into very few, small and closed areas where food will be delivered scarcely, hoping that the pressure on them will get them to ask to leave the Strip.”

“Israel is no longer fighting Hamas,” he added.

Netanyahu said in late May that Israel would control the entirety of Gaza by the end of its latest offensive, while many foreign officials and experts have warned either directly or implicitly that Israel’s actions amount to ethnically cleansing Gaza.

A recent report in Haaretz, the Israeli newspaper, cited 82 percent of Jewish Israelis supporting the expulsion of the people in Gaza.

To do so would have a historic impact, Buttu said, one that Netanyahu might feel he can portray as protecting Israel from a Palestinian state – something he has repeatedly promised to prevent.

“He recognises he will be the fall guy or the hero,” Buttu said. “If he is the one who ethnically cleanses Gaza, he becomes the hero.”

Until that happens, analysts believe, Palestinians will continue to die at the hands of the Israeli military. Hamas is the pretext and their willingness to negotiate or succumb is of secondary importance.

“Benjamin Netanyahu has no intention of ending this war,” Zonszein said. “It doesn’t matter what Hamas offers. They can offer to return all the hostages or give up governance.

“This war is going to continue until Netanyahu is forced to stop it, and that can only come from Trump.”

Today’s horoscope for June 8 as Aries is left disappointed

Today’s horoscope for Sunday, June 8 sees one star sign enjoy positive energy, as another does someone a favour

Find out what’s written in the stars with our astrologer Russell Grant(Image: Daily Record/GettyImages)

It’s Sunday, June 8, and one star sign puts the brakes on a project, while another refuses to get serious.

There are 12 zodiac signs – Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces – and the horoscopes for each can give you the lowdown on what your future holds, be it in work, your love life, your friends and family or more.

These daily forecasts have been compiled by astrologer Russell Grant, who has been reading star signs for over 50 years. From Aries through to Pisces, here’s what today could bring for your horoscope – and what you can do to be prepared.

Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

You’re disappointed with a friend or neighbour who is passing on gossip without thinking of the consequences. You usually enjoy their company but you disapprove of their actions and will not want to be involved. Stand your ground until all this tittle-tattle and nastiness stops.

Taurus (Apr 21 – May 21)

You’re impressed by the way a close friend or neighbour has been helping sort out a family related issue. What has caught you off guard is how you never expected this person to be so confident and assertive. You are both impressed and thankful for their support.

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

You don’t want to get too serious today. The most fun will be when you are mixing with lively and outgoing friends. Get involved in group activities or start a new hobby. Enjoy this opportunity to add a little variety into your daily routine.

Article continues below

Cancer (June 22 – July 23)

You will be grateful for the chance to enjoy a laid-back and lazy day. This gives you a chance to consider your recent accomplishments and you might be surprised by all you have achieved so far, this year. Send some time pampering a pet. This too, will be relaxing.

Leo (July 24 – Aug 23)

An early morning event will give you a huge boost in happiness. Someone close, like a partner or best friends, has a reason to celebrate and their positive energy will uplift you too. The effort and excitement you are putting into a home project will soon pay off. Your zest for life will be contagious.

Virgo (Aug 24 – Sept 23)

An imaginative friend or housemate will try to encourage you to join them in a project they haven’t thoroughly thought through. While you understand their enthusiasm, you may have to point out the more practical aspects of this venture, including the likely cost and the time it’s going to take.

Libra (Sept 24 – Oct 23)

You won’t think twice about offering to do someone a favour even though you aren’t sure how you will manage this. If you’re unable to fit it into your schedule or you lack the time to keep that promise, this will not only let others down but it can make you seem untrustworthy.

Scorpio (Oct 24 – Nov 22)

You’re focused on achieving your goals. You know what you want and the next step is to decide on how you are going to do this. By being more assertive in pursuing your own aims, you are increasing the likelihood of success.

Sagittarius (Nov 23 – Dec 21)

Whether it is a political theme or a good cause, you won’t hold back from taking the lead. You have a way of stirring up interest in any setting, formal or informal. Attracting the attention of the right people will benefit this endeavour.

Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 20)

Helping your friends and family will give you a lot of pleasure. Keeping busy will also keep restlessness at bay. You might also tap into your imagination and experiment with some creative ideas to beautify your surroundings.

Aquarius (Jan 21 – Feb 19)

Joining forces with other talented people is the secret to your success. Partnering with friends and workmates who share your vision will keep you motivated and focused on reaching your objectives. People are impressed by the enthusiastic way you promote your interests and you’re likely to receive helpful support.

Article continues below

Pisces (Feb 20 – Mar 20)

Stay positive even if some plans don’t go as expected. If someone succeeds where you fail, try not to let your jealousy show. What’s important is that you find your own style rather than imitate others. Embrace your originality and you will find happiness.

READ MORE: Father’s Day gift guide for 2025: Handpicked presents from £7 to suit every kind of dad

Primark’s ‘stylish’ £5 bag could be mistaken for £90 Ted Baker version

The Primark handbag looks similar to one by a designer brand, but there’s a significant price difference

Primark’s bag resembles a luxury alternative (stock photo)(Image: Getty)

Primark is selling a “stylish” £5 bag that could easily be mistaken for a more expensive version by a designer label. Popular with shoppers looking for budget-friendly fashion, the high street retailer could have another hit with its latest handbag. Its Textured Zip Top Crossbody Bag resembles Ted Baker’s Stina Double Zip Croc Effect Mini Camera Bag, yet has a much smaller price tag.

The Ted Baker bag is currently fetching £89 online, offering Primark shoppers a hefty saving on a similar style. Both black bags share key features such as a croc-effect finish, a cross-body strap, a zip fastening across the top of the bag, and gold hardware.

The style is so similar that shoppers could pair the black Primark bag with any outfit they’d plan to wear with the Ted Baker bag. While both bags are small and sleek, they differ somewhat in shape.

Both bags have a rectangular shape with rounded edges, but the Ted Baker style is more angular, with a flat front panel. It also has two zipped compartments, and it features the luxury brand’s logo.

According to the product descriptions, neither bag is real leather. Primark’s bag is made from 100% PVC-coated textile, and Ted Baker’s alternative is 100% polyurethane.

Textured Zip Top Crossbody Bag from Primark
Textured Zip Top Crossbody Bag from Primark(Image: Primark)
Article continues below

Primark describes its style as a “textured crossbody bag with zip closure and a compact shape for easy everyday wear.” The full description reads: “Add a sleek finish to your look with this textured zip top crossbody bag. Its stylish, raised texture gives it a modern, elevated feel.

“The secure zip top closure keeps your essentials safe, while the crossbody strap makes it easy to go hands-free. Compact but roomy enough for your phone, keys and everyday bits, it’s a great pick for day-to-night plans. Whether you’re heading out for errands or dressing up for the evening, this bag adds an effortless style boost!”

Meanwhile, John Lewis’ description reads: “From Ted Baker, this cross-body bag features an adjustable strap. Complete with two zipped compartments.” It adds that the bag has one internal slip pocket.

Stina Double Zip Croc Effect Mini Camera Bag from Ted Baker
Stina Double Zip Croc Effect Mini Camera Bag from Ted Baker(Image: John Lewis)

Unlike Primark, the retailer’s website allows shoppers to leave reviews. The bag has an average rating of 4.6 out of five. One happy reviewer said: “Beautiful Bag. Good size to put phone keys make up and small purse in. Its like the Tardis. Small on the outside, big inside. Comfortable straps. Easy, smart and great price.”

A second thought: “This really is a perfect ‘little black bag’. Just large enough for the bare essentials – keys, phone and a comb – the two sections ensure things are easily accessible. The bag is very well finished off, with gold trim on the inside. As well as being stylish, it seems robust, with quality zips and a good length strap.” But another wrote: “Although outer dimensions are available and I thought would be suitable for my needs the inside is very small.

Article continues below

Today’s horoscope for June 8 as Aries is left disappointed

Today’s horoscope for Sunday, June 8 sees one star sign enjoy positive energy, as another does someone a favour

Find out what’s written in the stars with our astrologer Russell Grant(Image: Daily Record/GettyImages)

It’s Sunday, June 8, and one star sign puts the brakes on a project, while another refuses to get serious.

There are 12 zodiac signs – Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces – and the horoscopes for each can give you the lowdown on what your future holds, be it in work, your love life, your friends and family or more.

These daily forecasts have been compiled by astrologer Russell Grant, who has been reading star signs for over 50 years. From Aries through to Pisces, here’s what today could bring for your horoscope – and what you can do to be prepared.

Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

You’re disappointed with a friend or neighbour who is passing on gossip without thinking of the consequences. You usually enjoy their company but you disapprove of their actions and will not want to be involved. Stand your ground until all this tittle-tattle and nastiness stops.

Taurus (Apr 21 – May 21)

You’re impressed by the way a close friend or neighbour has been helping sort out a family related issue. What has caught you off guard is how you never expected this person to be so confident and assertive. You are both impressed and thankful for their support.

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

You don’t want to get too serious today. The most fun will be when you are mixing with lively and outgoing friends. Get involved in group activities or start a new hobby. Enjoy this opportunity to add a little variety into your daily routine.

Article continues below

Cancer (June 22 – July 23)

You will be grateful for the chance to enjoy a laid-back and lazy day. This gives you a chance to consider your recent accomplishments and you might be surprised by all you have achieved so far, this year. Send some time pampering a pet. This too, will be relaxing.

Leo (July 24 – Aug 23)

An early morning event will give you a huge boost in happiness. Someone close, like a partner or best friends, has a reason to celebrate and their positive energy will uplift you too. The effort and excitement you are putting into a home project will soon pay off. Your zest for life will be contagious.

Virgo (Aug 24 – Sept 23)

An imaginative friend or housemate will try to encourage you to join them in a project they haven’t thoroughly thought through. While you understand their enthusiasm, you may have to point out the more practical aspects of this venture, including the likely cost and the time it’s going to take.

Libra (Sept 24 – Oct 23)

You won’t think twice about offering to do someone a favour even though you aren’t sure how you will manage this. If you’re unable to fit it into your schedule or you lack the time to keep that promise, this will not only let others down but it can make you seem untrustworthy.

Scorpio (Oct 24 – Nov 22)

You’re focused on achieving your goals. You know what you want and the next step is to decide on how you are going to do this. By being more assertive in pursuing your own aims, you are increasing the likelihood of success.

Sagittarius (Nov 23 – Dec 21)

Whether it is a political theme or a good cause, you won’t hold back from taking the lead. You have a way of stirring up interest in any setting, formal or informal. Attracting the attention of the right people will benefit this endeavour.

Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 20)

Helping your friends and family will give you a lot of pleasure. Keeping busy will also keep restlessness at bay. You might also tap into your imagination and experiment with some creative ideas to beautify your surroundings.

Aquarius (Jan 21 – Feb 19)

Joining forces with other talented people is the secret to your success. Partnering with friends and workmates who share your vision will keep you motivated and focused on reaching your objectives. People are impressed by the enthusiastic way you promote your interests and you’re likely to receive helpful support.

Article continues below

Pisces (Feb 20 – Mar 20)

Stay positive even if some plans don’t go as expected. If someone succeeds where you fail, try not to let your jealousy show. What’s important is that you find your own style rather than imitate others. Embrace your originality and you will find happiness.

READ MORE: Father’s Day gift guide for 2025: Handpicked presents from £7 to suit every kind of dad

Primark’s ‘stylish’ £5 bag could be mistaken for £90 Ted Baker version

The Primark handbag looks similar to one by a designer brand, but there’s a significant price difference

Primark’s bag resembles a luxury alternative (stock photo)(Image: Getty)

Primark is selling a “stylish” £5 bag that could easily be mistaken for a more expensive version by a designer label. Popular with shoppers looking for budget-friendly fashion, the high street retailer could have another hit with its latest handbag. Its Textured Zip Top Crossbody Bag resembles Ted Baker’s Stina Double Zip Croc Effect Mini Camera Bag, yet has a much smaller price tag.

The Ted Baker bag is currently fetching £89 online, offering Primark shoppers a hefty saving on a similar style. Both black bags share key features such as a croc-effect finish, a cross-body strap, a zip fastening across the top of the bag, and gold hardware.

The style is so similar that shoppers could pair the black Primark bag with any outfit they’d plan to wear with the Ted Baker bag. While both bags are small and sleek, they differ somewhat in shape.

Both bags have a rectangular shape with rounded edges, but the Ted Baker style is more angular, with a flat front panel. It also has two zipped compartments, and it features the luxury brand’s logo.

According to the product descriptions, neither bag is real leather. Primark’s bag is made from 100% PVC-coated textile, and Ted Baker’s alternative is 100% polyurethane.

Textured Zip Top Crossbody Bag from Primark
Textured Zip Top Crossbody Bag from Primark(Image: Primark)
Article continues below

Primark describes its style as a “textured crossbody bag with zip closure and a compact shape for easy everyday wear.” The full description reads: “Add a sleek finish to your look with this textured zip top crossbody bag. Its stylish, raised texture gives it a modern, elevated feel.

“The secure zip top closure keeps your essentials safe, while the crossbody strap makes it easy to go hands-free. Compact but roomy enough for your phone, keys and everyday bits, it’s a great pick for day-to-night plans. Whether you’re heading out for errands or dressing up for the evening, this bag adds an effortless style boost!”

Meanwhile, John Lewis’ description reads: “From Ted Baker, this cross-body bag features an adjustable strap. Complete with two zipped compartments.” It adds that the bag has one internal slip pocket.

Stina Double Zip Croc Effect Mini Camera Bag from Ted Baker
Stina Double Zip Croc Effect Mini Camera Bag from Ted Baker(Image: John Lewis)

Unlike Primark, the retailer’s website allows shoppers to leave reviews. The bag has an average rating of 4.6 out of five. One happy reviewer said: “Beautiful Bag. Good size to put phone keys make up and small purse in. Its like the Tardis. Small on the outside, big inside. Comfortable straps. Easy, smart and great price.”

A second thought: “This really is a perfect ‘little black bag’. Just large enough for the bare essentials – keys, phone and a comb – the two sections ensure things are easily accessible. The bag is very well finished off, with gold trim on the inside. As well as being stylish, it seems robust, with quality zips and a good length strap.” But another wrote: “Although outer dimensions are available and I thought would be suitable for my needs the inside is very small.

Article continues below

Trump deploys National Guard to quell protests against ICE in Los Angeles

Developing a Story
A second day of protests and clashes have erupted in Los Angeles, California, where US President Donald Trump will send 2, 000 National Guard troops.

In a statement released on Saturday, the White House claimed that Trump would employ the guardsmen to “address the lawlessness that has been allowed to fester” in the second-largest city in the country.

In addition, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reaffirmed that the Pentagon was ready to mobilize active-duty personnel in Los Angeles, citing Camp Pendleton’s Marines as being “on high alert.”

Tom Homan, the border czar for Trump, confirmed to Fox News that the National Guard would be stationed in Los Angeles on Saturday.

Governor Gavin Newsom of California described the action as “purposefully inflammatory.”

Trump’s National Guard is being deployed “not because there is a shortage of law enforcement, but because they want a spectacle,” he wrote on X, adding, “Don’t give them one.” Never engage in physical terrorism. sincerely and peacefully disagree.

As the crowds demanded that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents leave their city during the protests on Saturday, federal agents confronted dozens of protesters in the Paramount neighborhood of southeast Los Angeles and sprayed tear gas on a street full of overturned shopping carts.

Some of the protesters had their faces covered with respiratory masks as they waved the Mexican flag.

Protests were reported following rumors of additional immigration raids close to a neighborhood home improvement store.

The night before, ICE agents stormed several locations in Los Angeles and made arrests for at least 44 people for alleged immigration violations, which also led to verbal altercations.

In the evening after the arrests, protesters gathered outside a federal detention facility and chanted “Set them free, let them stay”!

Some erected graffiti on the building while others erected signs with anti-ICE slogans.

Mayor of Los Angeles Karen Bass blasted the immigration raids, calling them “terrorists” and saying they were meant to “sow terror” in the country’s second-largest city.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump also chided Bass and Newsom.

The Federal Government will intervene and solve the problem, RIOTS &LOOTERS, the way it should be solved, if Governor Gavin Newscum of California and Mayor Karen Bass of Los Angeles are unable to do their jobs, which everyone is aware of. he wrote.

Trump’s campaign includes a pledge to lock down the US-Mexico border and deport record numbers of people entering the country without identification. At least 3, 000 migrants will be detained daily by ICE, according to the White House.

However, the extensive immigration crackdown has also caused legal challenges for those who reside in the country legally, including some who have permanent residency.

According to Rosiland Jordan, a correspondent for Al Jazeera in Washington, DC, Trump’s decision to deploy the National Guard has sparked &nbsp, concern in the entire nation.

“The National Guard hasn’t been in Los Angeles since 1991, during the riots following Rodney King’s arrest by the police,” he said. This is a significant step, she said.