*) MSF urges blocking Israel’s Rafah assault

Doctors Without Borders chief Christopher Lockyear warns against Israeli war in southern Gaza's Rafah, citing a potential catastrophe that must not be allowed to happen.

His concerns stem from a recent visit to the Palestinian enclave, where he witnessed the urgent humanitarian needs at the densely populated Rafah crossing.

Lockyear urges diplomatic solutions to prevent further conflict escalation, emphasising the importance of stability.

MSF stands prepared to offer aid amidst ongoing tensions in the region.

*) Israel blocks UNRWA chief from entering besieged Gaza

UN's relief agency for Palestinians or UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini expressed frustration as Israel barred his entry into Gaza, a territory facing a looming famine.

During a press conference in Cairo, Lazzarini disclosed the denial, which disrupted his planned visit to Rafah.

He accused Israeli authorities of the denial on social media and underlined that Palestinian children are dying of dehydration and hunger.

*) US' Blinken travels to Saudi Arabia, Egypt for potential Gaza truce

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken embarks on a crucial trip this week, aiming to secure a ceasefire and boost humanitarian aid in Israel's Gaza war.

His journey begins in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, where talks with Saudi leaders in Jeddah are pivotal for regional stability.

Following Saudi Arabia, Blinken will fly to Cairo on Thursday for talks with Egyptian authorities.

*) 50 allies to meet as US funds for Ukraine's defence cease

US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin aims to reassure European allies of President Joe Biden's commitment to support Ukraine amid concerns over funding challenges.

Austin leads discussions at the Ukraine Defence Contact Group summit at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, where approximately 50 allies convene to provide military assistance, emphasising collective efforts to bolster defence capabilities.

Despite obstacles, Austin reaffirms US commitment to Ukraine's security, aiming to galvanise collective action and solidarity to address evolving challenges.

*) Nvidia unveils powerful 'superchip' for AI

Nvidia has unveiled its latest chip for powering artificial intelligence, known as Blackwell, as it seeks to consolidate its position as the major supplier to the AI frenzy.

The new chip has 208 billion transistors, more than double the 80 billion on the company's previous chip.

All of those transistors can access the memory attached to the chip at nearly the same time, improving productivity.