Australia Recognizes Palestinian State, Shifts Foreign Policy

## Overview Politico is a leading political journalism organization specializing in coverage of politics, policy, and the personalities shaping these arenas in the United States and globally[1]. Based in Arlington, Virginia, Politico delivers news and analysis through a variety of platforms, including a daily newspaper, website, newsletters, podcasts, and digital TV[2][3]. The organization is recognized for its rapid news reporting, in-depth policy analysis, and its influence in political and business circles. ## History Founded in 2007, Politico emerged as a disruptor in political journalism, capitalizing on digital media’s rise to challenge traditional outlets[1][3]. Its founders, including former Washington Post journalists, aimed to provide real-time, insider-focused political coverage. In 2021, Politico was acquired by Axel Springer SE, a major German media conglomerate, marking a significant expansion of its international footprint[2]. ## Key Achievements Politico is best known for breaking major political stories, setting the agenda in Washington, D.C., and beyond. It has built a reputation for scoops on presidential elections, congressional maneuvering, and policy debates. The launch of Politico Pro in 2011 further solidified its niche, offering subscription-based, policy-specific intelligence for professionals in healthcare, technology, and energy sectors[5][6]. This platform is lauded for its nonpartisan, fact-based reporting tailored to policy experts and businesses[5][6]. ## Current Status Today, Politico operates as a global news and information company with offices in Washington, D.C., New York, Brussels, and major U.S. state capitals, reflecting its ambitious expansion[4]. With over 1,000 employees and annual revenues exceeding $245 million, it remains a major player in digital and traditional political media[3]. Politico’s content is distributed across multiple platforms, ensuring wide reach among policymakers, business leaders, and engaged citizens. ## Notable Aspects Polit

The European Union (EU) is a unique economic and political partnership between 27 European countries, aiming to promote peace, stability, and economic cooperation. Established in 1993, the EU has evolved significantly since its inception, with key milestones including the introduction of the euro currency in 1999 and the expansion to include 27 member states. **History and Key Achievements:** - **Founding:** The EU's origins trace back to the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) in 1951, which evolved into the European Economic Community (EEC) in 1957. Over time, it expanded into the European Union with the Maastricht Treaty in 1992. - **Economic Integration:** The EU has fostered economic integration through the Single Market, allowing free movement of goods, services, and people among member states. - **Common Currency:** The euro, introduced in 1999, is used by 20 of the 27 member states, promoting economic stability and facilitating trade. **Current Status:** - **Challenges:** The EU faces ongoing challenges, including climate change, migration, and geopolitical tensions, particularly with Russia's aggression in Ukraine. - **Economic Outlook:** Euro area growth is forecast to remain weak in 2025, with GDP projected to expand by less than 1%[8]. - **Innovative Initiatives:** The EU is actively working on enhancing its technological and economic competitiveness, with initiatives like the Clean Industrial Deal and the Competitiveness Compass[4]. **Notable Aspects:** - **State of the Union Address:** The annual State of the Union address by the European Commission President outlines key priorities and initiatives for the year ahead, such as Ursula von der Leyen's 2025 address focusing on security, Ukraine support, and climate action[1][5]. - **Global Influence:** The EU is a significant player in global affairs, with initiatives like the Global Gateway aimed at sustainable development

**Hamas** is a Sunni Islamist Palestinian nationalist organization that functions both as a political party and a militant group, primarily operating in the Gaza Strip, which it has governed since 2007. Founded in 1987 by Ahmed Yassin amid the First Intifada, Hamas emerged from the Muslim Brotherhood and initially had covert Israeli support as a counterweight to the secular Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO)[3][1]. It combines political governance with an armed wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, committed to armed resistance against Israel, which it refuses to recognize as a legitimate state[1][3]. Hamas’s political rise culminated in a 2006 electoral victory in the Palestinian Legislative Council, campaigning on anti-corruption and resistance platforms. After violently seizing Gaza from the rival Fatah faction in 2007, Hamas has maintained de facto control there despite international isolation and blockades imposed by Israel and Egypt[3]. Its governance has been marked by repeated conflicts with Israel, including major wars in 2008–09, 2012, 2014, 2021, and the ongoing intense conflict triggered by Hamas’s surprise October 2023 attack killing nearly 1,200 Israelis and taking hostages[1][2][3]. Hamas benefits from regional support, especially from Iran, which supplies funding and weapons, as well as financial and political backing from Turkey and Qatar. These alliances form part of a broader "axis of resistance" against Israel, which includes groups like Hezbollah and Palestinian Islamic Jihad[2]. Hamas also operates fundraising networks globally, sometimes using charities as fronts to support its military activities[4]. The group is designated a terrorist organization by many countries, including the United States, which has increased military aid to Israel following recent escalations[2][6]. Despite modifying its 1988 charter in 2017 to soften some language, Hamas continues to reject Israel’s legitimacy and pursues all forms of resistance[1]. Its enduring political