Israel-Gaza Violence Erupts
Israel mounted airstrikes in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday in response to incendiary balloons launched from the Palestinian territory. The flare-up followed a march in East Jerusalem on Tuesday by Jewish nationalists. The Israeli military said it attacked Hamas armed compounds and the southern town of Khan Younis.

US, Russia Relations
For the first time since taking office, US President Joe Biden met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Geneva on Wednesday. The disagreements between the two parties were wide and expectations low for any breakthroughs. Both have said they hope their talks can lead to more stable and predictable relations.

Iran Presidential Election
Iranian media reported that Mohsen Mehralizadeh, one of the two reformists running in Iran's presidential election, withdrew his candidacy on Wednesday. A spokesman for his campaign said an official statement would be issued. The move leaves six candidates in the race for Friday's election.

Risk of Chaos in Sudan
Sudan’s Prime Minister, Abdalla Hamdok, warned on Tuesday of the risk of chaos and civil war fomented by loyalists of the previous regime. The comments came days after young men carrying clubs and sticks blocked roads in Khartoum following the removal of fuel subsidies.