Apple has been criticised for automatically suggesting the Palestinian flag emoji when users type “Jerusalem” on their iPhones, sparking controversy amidst the sensitive political status of the city. This issue was highlighted by TV presenter Rachel Riley, who noted the absence of similar emoji suggestions for other capitals. Apple acknowledged the feature as unintentional and promised a corrective update in future software releases. The company’s mistake has refocused attention on the ongoing regional tensions surrounding Jerusalem, a city claimed by both Israel and the Palestinians.

In a separate incident, the University of Cologne rescinded a professorship offer to Jewish American philosopher Nancy Fraser after she expressed solidarity with Palestinians and criticised Israeli actions in Gaza. The university cited her support for the academic and cultural boycott of Israeli institutions as conflicting with its Israeli partnerships. Fraser, describing the university’s decision as “philosemitic McCarthyism,” insisted on delivering her lectures in Germany despite the withdrawal. This case has sparked debate over academic freedom and the handling of Israel-Palestine issues within academia, with fellow scholars and institutions weighing in on the matter.