The Latest Breaking News from Simon Tisdall

The former president’s sudden passing would create an unprecedented, certainly unpredictable and possibly anarchic political vacuum, says foreign affairs commentator Simon Tisdall

Both Netanyahu and Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar gain from stoking the fires of war, says the Observer’s foreign affairs commentator Simon Tisdall

Guardian Australia’s weekend wrap of essential reads from the past seven days, selected by Kris Swales

The killing of Hamas’s political leader has raised tensions yet again. Only a ceasefire in Gaza offers any prospect of peace, says the Observer’s foreign affairs commentator Simon Tisdall

Whoever wins the nomination, a fresh choice will be on offer – a far better scenario than a grudge match between two grumpy old men, says Simon Tisdall, the Observer’s foreign affairs commentator

Kim enjoys the recognition. Putin’s war, meanwhile needs North Korean weapons. It’s a dangerous alliance, says Simon Tisdall, the Observer’s Foreign Affairs Commentator

Benjamin Netanyahu and his associates are already doubling down against these allegations. They must be made to answer them, says foreign affairs commentator Simon Tisdall

The Israeli PM has rejected the latest deal. Both he and Hamas’s leadership must stop playing politics with people’s lives, says Simon Tisdall, the Observer’s foreign affairs commentator

Sixteen senior psychologists reveal how their profession failed young people at Gender Identity Development Service clinics

Letters: Ruth Rosenthal reflects on Tehran’s mission to dominate the Middle East, Adrian de León has little faith in diplomatic channels, Phil Tate takes issue with David Cameron’s remarks, Alfredo Louro fears the game is rigged, and the Rev Graham Murphy says the UK’s position is hypocritical

Netanyahu wanted a wider conflict, and Tehran has walked into his trap. The major powers must immediately head this off, says foreign affairs commentator Simon Tisdall