Israeli spy chief ‘threatened’ ICC prosecutor over war crimes inquiry | First Thing
Revelation comes as Spain, Norway and Ireland prepare to officially recognise Palestine on Tuesday. Plus, how our gardens and balconies can boost biodiversity
Good morning.
The former head of Israel's spy agency, the Mossad, allegedly threatened a chief prosecutor of the international criminal court and tried to coerce her into dropping a war crimes investigation, the Guardian can reveal.
How high up did it go? Cohen's activities were authorised at a high level, a senior Israeli official said. Another source said he acted as Netanyahu's unofficial messenger".
What did Israel say? It responded that the questions put to its prime minister's office contained false and unfounded allegations".
What is the latest on the conflict? Spain, Norway and Ireland are due to officially recognise a Palestinian state on Tuesday, while Israel continues to attack Rafah despite international outrage towards its attack on a tent camp for displaced people that killed at least 45.
What other advances are being made? Poland's foreign minister has said the country should not rule out sending troops to Ukraine - but has not specified what role they could play.
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