Israel Committing Genocide in Gaza Says UN Commission

In this episode of Newscast, the hosts discuss the findings of a United Nations commission that accused Israel of committing acts of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. This report, developed by a specific UN body, found evidence indicating that four out of five categories of genocidal acts were being perpetrated against the Palestinian population. The Israeli government quickly rejected these findings, calling them biased and politically motivated. The discussion also covers the evidence presented by the commission, which included statements from Israeli officials and personal testimonies from people in Gaza.

The conversation transitions to a recent debate in the UK Parliament triggered by an emergency procedure regarding the hiring and firing of Lord Mandelson as the UK ambassador to Washington DC. This three-hour debate saw strong criticisms from opposition members, particularly focusing on the Prime Minister's judgment in appointing Mandelson, given his controversial connections. The discussion highlighted the complexity of political decisions, the bureaucratic handling of the appointment and vetting process, and the confusion surrounding who was responsible for Lord Mandelson's vetting.

As the episode wraps up, the hosts touch on the political climate in Westminster, hinting at the upcoming state visit from President Trump and the scrutiny it will receive amidst ongoing tensions in UK politics, particularly with respect to immigration and relationships with external powers.