Ceasefire negotiations between Israel, Hamas, and other stakeholders are expected to resume in the coming days in Doha, with a focus on reaching a deal that could lead to the release of hostages and an end to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Officials from the US, Israel, and Qatar have confirmed that an Israeli delegation will travel to Qatar on Sunday to continue discussions.

One key development that may affect the negotiations is the recent death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, considered one of the group’s most hardline figures. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed cautious optimism, suggesting that Sinwar’s death might open the door to progress in the talks. Blinken emphasized the possibility of achieving both the return of hostages and a broader agreement to prevent Hamas from reorganizing.

The US has been actively working towards a ceasefire agreement, with President Joe Biden’s three-step proposal from May serving as a foundation for the current discussions. The plan includes a six-week ceasefire during which the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) would withdraw from populated areas in Gaza, followed by an increase in humanitarian aid and a potential exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners. The ultimate goal is a permanent cessation of hostilities and a comprehensive reconstruction plan for Gaza.

Although previous talks showed some signs of progress, Hamas has accused Israel of being the main obstacle to reaching an agreement. With the renewed talks on the horizon, it remains to be seen whether Hamas will participate directly, as this has not yet been confirmed.

Venice has announced plans to double the number of days it will charge tourists an entrance fee in 2025, following what city officials called a “successful” trial last year. The fee, introduced to help manage overtourism, aims to reduce the pressure on the city by discouraging visitors from coming on the same days.

Mayor Luigi Brugnaro emphasized that the goal remains to give Venice the respect it deserves by spreading out tourist visits. From April to July 2025, day visitors will need to pay €5 ($5.41) if they book more than four days in advance, or €10 if they book less than four days ahead. The fee will apply to tourists visiting on Fridays through Sundays and public holidays, covering a total of 54 days, a significant increase from the 29 days of the previous trial.

All visitors over the age of 14 will need to pay the charge via their phones and display a QR code to inspectors at key entry points like the train station. Those who fail to show proof of payment could face fines. However, exemptions remain for those staying in hotels, local residents, students of Venice universities, and visitors with family ties in the city.

City councillor Simone Venturini praised Venice for being proactive in addressing overtourism, highlighting that the city has gone from being one of the most criticized for mass tourism to taking bold action on a global stage. During the trial period last year, the city collected approximately €2.4 million ($2.5 million) in entrance fees, surpassing initial expectations.

However, not everyone is convinced of the program’s success. Opposition councillor Giovanni Andrea Martini criticized the initiative, claiming it failed to distribute tourist visits more evenly and risked turning Venice into a “museum.” Despite some skepticism, Mayor Brugnaro is awaiting further analysis to determine if the scheme’s budget will break even, as costs for the ticket platform and related communication campaign reached €3 million.

Venice’s efforts come at a crucial time, as the city continues to face challenges from mass tourism and climate change. Last year, Unesco recommended Venice be added to the list of world heritage sites in danger due to these ongoing threats. The city’s entry fee system is part of a broader attempt to preserve its unique cultural and environmental heritage.

Police in western Germany raided a pizzeria accused of discreetly serving cocaine alongside pizzas. Customers would order item number 40 on the menu to receive a side of drugs. A tip-off from food inspectors led drug squad officers to monitor the restaurant for months. The pizzeria manager, 36, was arrested after tossing a bag of drugs from his apartment window directly into the arms of waiting police officers. Further investigations led to the bust of a larger drug operation, with multiple arrests and the discovery of cannabis plantations.

Authorities seized 1.6kg of cocaine, 400g of cannabis, and a significant amount of cash. After being released initially, the manager resumed business before being rearrested while attempting to flee. Police continue investigating the broader drug supply network behind the operation.

The operation led to a crackdown on multiple drug-related activities in the region, with further raids yielding more illegal substances, weapons, and cash. The pizzeria’s “special” pizza, which was one of the top sellers, is now infamous for its hidden ingredient.