Israel-Gaza War Updates

UCLA Urged to Strengthen Protest Preparedness Amid Growing Protests: External Review

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) has been advised to improve its protest readiness, with a focus on developing clear plans, policies, communication strategies, and decision-making protocols ahead of major protests, such as those against Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza. This recommendation comes from an external review published on Thursday by 21st Century Policing Solutions, a leading law enforcement consulting firm.

The report details UCLA’s chaotic response to protests that took place in late April and early May. The review highlights critical shortcomings in the university’s preparedness, including significant communication failures. These gaps contributed to escalating tensions during the protests, which saw violent clashes between protesters and counterprotesters on campus.

As a result of the confrontations, over a dozen individuals sustained injuries, and more than 200 people were arrested during a subsequent demonstration, after hundreds ignored orders to disperse. The review was commissioned following UCLA’s controversial handling of these protests, emphasizing the need for a more robust strategy moving forward.

Israeli Army Completes Third Round of Airstrikes on Beirut’s Southern Suburbs

The Israeli army has announced the completion of a third wave of airstrikes targeting Beirut’s southern suburbs, including Ghobeiry, as part of ongoing military operations.

According to the army’s statement, earlier attacks also struck the Burj al-Barajneh and Ghobeiry neighborhoods, areas identified as Hezbollah strongholds.

The military claims these airstrikes successfully targeted Hezbollah command centers, dismantled a rocket stockpile, and destroyed 15 launchers in southern Lebanon. Some of these launchers were allegedly used to fire rockets toward central Israel on Wednesday.

UN Calls for Unrestricted Humanitarian Aid Access in Gaza

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has emphasized the importance of allowing unhindered humanitarian aid to reach civilians in Gaza. According to international humanitarian law, civilians must have access to essential assistance “wherever they are,” reiterated a spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General.

Stephane Dujarric, the spokesperson, highlighted ongoing challenges faced by aid organizations, stating, “The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that Israeli authorities continue to deny their requests to access Kamal Adwan and al-Awda hospitals in the northern Gaza governorate.”

Dujarric also disclosed that all three attempts made last week to deploy an international emergency medical team were blocked, underscoring the urgent need for immediate access to address critical healthcare shortages.

Israel Limits Gaza Medical Evacuations to 25% of Needs, Says UN

The United Nations has revealed that Israel has permitted the evacuation of only 25% of the 21,000 patients in need of urgent medical care in Gaza since October 2023.

UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric provided updates during a press conference, stating that on Wednesday, the World Health Organization (WHO) and its partners facilitated the medical evacuation of eight children and six accompanying individuals from Gaza to Jordan. These patients are set to receive specialized treatment in the United States.

Dujarric emphasized the urgency of establishing secure evacuation corridors. “We once again urge the creation of evacuation routes to ensure the safe and timely passage of all patients requiring specialized care,” he said.

This situation highlights the dire medical crisis in Gaza, underscoring the need for international action to support healthcare access in conflict zones.

Eight Humanitarian Organizations Report Israel’s Failure to Meet US Law Compliance on Gaza Relief

Eight major humanitarian organizations have stated that Israel has not met any of the required metrics for compliance with US law regarding humanitarian aid to Gaza, at the 30-day deadline set following the Blinken-Austin letter.

The organizations — Refugees International, Anera, Care, Mercy Corps, NRC, Oxfam, MedGlobal, and Save the Children — released a joint report, presenting a scorecard that evaluates Israel’s adherence to US demands for humanitarian access to Gaza. According to the scorecard, the Israeli government has failed to meet the expectations outlined by both US and international law concerning relief efforts in the besieged Gaza Strip.

The findings highlight ongoing concerns over the obstruction of vital aid to Gaza’s civilian population amid the ongoing crisis.

Read the full scorecard report here: https://t.co/A24Z8OyN5Y

— Jeremy Konyndyk (@JeremyKonyndyk) November 12, 2024

US State Department: Israel Not in Violation of US Law on Gaza Aid

The US State Department has confirmed that Israel has not been found in violation of US law regarding humanitarian aid to Gaza. This follows a letter sent by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin last month, in which they expressed concern over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The letter included a deadline of November 13 for Israel to comply with US law governing humanitarian assistance.

State Department spokesman Vedant Patel addressed inquiries about whether Israel had met these demands, stating, “We have not made an assessment that they are in violation of US law.”

Patel acknowledged that the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, but highlighted that recent actions by Israel were seen as positive steps. However, he emphasized that further efforts are needed: “We want to see more steps, and we want to see these steps sustained over a significant period of time. Ultimately, we want to see these steps lead to a positive impact on the situation.”

Holocaust Survivor Advocates for Palestinian Rights at 87

Stephen Kapos, an 87-year-old Holocaust survivor who lost 15 family members during one of history’s darkest times, is now a passionate advocate for Palestinian rights. Reflecting on his experiences, Kapos asserts that anti-Semitism is being used to justify actions against Palestinians, which he describes as a “genocide.” His perspective sheds light on the ongoing debates around Israel-Palestine relations, with Kapos calling for greater awareness of the humanitarian implications.

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U.S. Confirms No Suspension of Military Aid to Israel Despite Calls for Humanitarian Action in Gaza

The United States has confirmed that it will not halt military assistance to Israel, stating that there is no violation of U.S. law in the ongoing situation. This announcement follows concerns raised by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin regarding the urgent need for increased humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Deputy Spokesperson for the U.S. State Department, Vedant Patel, emphasized that no violations of U.S. law have been identified in the current assessments. “We at this time have not made an assessment that Israelis are in violation of U.S. law,” Patel stated.

The U.S. continues to monitor developments closely, highlighting positive steps taken over the past 30 days, such as the opening of key border crossings, including Erez and Kissufim, and the suspension of customs requirements that had previously hindered humanitarian deliveries. “We’ve also seen some additional delivery routes open within Gaza, along with the resumption of deliveries in the north and expansion of humanitarian zones,” Patel added.

This ongoing evaluation of Israel’s actions reflects the U.S.’s commitment to balancing support for Israel’s security with the need for humanitarian relief to the people of Gaza.

US Pressures Israel to Improve Humanitarian Aid Flow to Gaza

October 13 – In a significant move, the US administration, led by President Joe Biden, issued a 30-day deadline to Israel to increase humanitarian aid into Gaza. The directive warned that failure to do so would prompt Washington to reconsider its level of military support for its close ally.

Today’s Developments: The US State Department reported that Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently discussed the humanitarian crisis in Gaza with Israel’s Minister of Strategic Affairs, Ron Dermer. Blinken stressed the critical need for measures that would lead to real improvements in Gaza’s severe humanitarian conditions.

Adding to the urgency, eight international human rights organizations released a joint statement today, highlighting Israel’s alleged failure to meet the US-imposed deadline for aid improvements in Gaza.

Grave Humanitarian Crisis in North Gaza as Israeli Strikes Continue, Reports UN

The United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR) in the occupied Palestinian territory reports that intensified Israeli military strikes in north Gaza over the past five weeks have caused significant civilian casualties. The ongoing siege has isolated the population, blocking access to essential humanitarian aid, medical assistance, and emergency rescue services.

According to the OHCHR, numerous strikes targeted residential buildings where entire families sought refuge, leading to extensive fatalities. “The strikes have disproportionately impacted women, elderly individuals, and people with disabilities, many of whom remain trapped due to restricted mobility and attacks on evacuation routes,” stated the office.

Additionally, the OHCHR highlighted that Israeli attacks have forced Palestinian civil defense workers to suspend operations as of October 24, leaving north Gaza residents without critical recovery support. Families are left to endure devastating losses as loved ones remain buried under rubble with no means of rescue.

This dire situation underscores the urgent need for international humanitarian assistance and intervention to protect civilians in north Gaza.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken Urges Israel to Address Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

In a recent Washington meeting, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed the urgent need to improve Gaza’s humanitarian conditions with Israel’s Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, according to the US State Department.

During the meeting, Dermer informed Blinken of operational changes and new policy decisions Israel has implemented in response to a US letter sent in October, aimed at alleviating the crisis. Blinken stressed the importance of these steps in addressing the escalating humanitarian challenges faced by Gaza’s residents.

Ethnic Cleansing Claims in North Gaza Amidst Media Blackout: Report

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), based in New York, has raised alarm over intensified Israeli actions against journalists and media facilities in northern Gaza. The organization reports a concerning rise in targeted attacks on press professionals and infrastructure since the onset of Israel’s operations in the area.

In October, Israeli airstrikes reportedly claimed the lives of at least five journalists, and a media disinformation campaign has targeted six Al Jazeera journalists covering northern Gaza, according to CPJ.

The CPJ statement highlighted that “almost no professional journalists remain in northern Gaza to document what several global organizations have labeled an ethnic cleansing campaign.” Since the escalation 13 months ago, Israel has restricted independent media access to Gaza, further intensifying concerns over information flow and transparency.

Carlos Martinez de la Serna, CPJ’s Program Director, condemned the escalating attacks on the press, saying, “The deliberate targeting and discrediting of remaining journalists seems aimed at preventing the world from witnessing Israel’s actions in Gaza.”

Journalists play a vital role in documenting conflict, and CPJ warns that a lack of media presence in the region threatens to obscure critical historical records.

Gaza Crisis Deepens as Israeli Airstrikes Target Shelter, Civilians and Journalists Killed

The humanitarian situation in Gaza is worsening by the day. I am currently inside the Fahd al-Sabah school, located in the Tuffah neighborhood of northeast Gaza City. This school, which has been serving as a shelter for displaced Palestinians, was targeted by Israeli fighter jets at midnight. The attack struck while civilians, who have been enduring 400 days of the ongoing Israeli offensive, were sleeping.

At least six Palestinians have been killed, and dozens more have been injured. Among the victims are two journalists, with their press jackets and helmets scattered across the scene. Blood stains cover the walls, and the overwhelming smell of blood fills the air.

The dire situation is exacerbated by the continued blockade of humanitarian aid to northern Gaza, leaving the already struggling population with little hope. As Israeli airstrikes relentlessly target hospitals, essential medical services are being disrupted, and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is rapidly deteriorating.

The scale of the devastation in Gaza continues to escalate, with no end in sight to the suffering of civilians caught in the crossfire of this long-standing conflict.

Gaza’s Suffering Extends Beyond Death Toll, Says Doctor on the Ground

Dr. Bara Zuhaili, a US-based surgeon who volunteered in Gaza earlier this year, describes the unimaginable suffering in the besieged Gaza Strip, where Israel’s ongoing military operations have left deep scars that go beyond the death toll.

In an emotional account shared with Al Jazeera, Dr. Zuhaili recounts the devastating realities of working in Gaza’s overburdened hospitals. Despite witnessing the aftermath of Israeli airstrikes, with plumes of smoke rising from the destroyed areas, the hospital often could not receive the wounded for up to 12 hours.

“Even when patients finally arrive, it doesn’t feel like a safe haven,” Dr. Zuhaili explained. “With extremely limited resources, we had to make heartbreaking choices about who would receive care.”

The shortage of medical supplies and personnel meant that many victims, unable to receive immediate treatment, faced agonizing deaths. “We were forced to let some patients die, allowing them to literally breathe to death, as we prioritized those with a chance of survival,” he added.

Dr. Zuhaili revealed that these difficult decisions were often made for children, with 80 percent of the patients impacted being young victims of the conflict. For a doctor committed to saving lives, making such life-and-death decisions was an unimaginable burden.

At Least 14 Palestinians Killed in Israeli Airstrikes on Gaza, Rescuers Report

Israeli airstrikes overnight in Gaza have left at least 14 Palestinians dead, including women and children, according to the Gaza Civil Defence Agency. The Israeli military confirmed that numerous militants were neutralized in northern Gaza during the strikes.

In the southern Gaza city of Khan Yunis, a strike targeted temporary shelters housing displaced Palestinians, resulting in the deaths of at least nine people, including women and children. Mahmud Bassal, a spokesperson for Gaza’s Civil Defence, shared these details with AFP.

The Palestinian Red Crescent has corroborated the fatalities and confirmed that 11 individuals who were injured in the attack were transported to Nasser Hospital for medical treatment.

Palestinians in North Gaza Endure Severe Food Shortages Amid Israeli Siege

Palestinians in northern Gaza are facing extreme hunger and hardship as they are forced to ration their food amidst an ongoing siege by Israeli forces. Widowed mother Um Saber, along with her six children, fled a school-turned-shelter in Beit Lahiya after it was attacked by the Israeli army. They are now seeking refuge in her father-in-law’s home, sharing limited food supplies, including lentils and pasta, with 40 other displaced individuals, primarily women and children. “We are like animals scavenging for food in the rubble,” she said.

In Jabalia, 28-year-old father Ahmed Abu Awda, who lives with 25 relatives, explains how their only meal each day consists of lentils and bread, with strict rationing to ensure the children are fed. “Sometimes, we go without eating entirely,” he added.

In late October, the Israeli government admitted that it has not allowed aid into Jabalia due to “operational constraints” tied to military operations.

Currently, approximately 70,000 people in northern Gaza remain trapped, as Israeli forces block the entry of critical food and water supplies. With warnings of an impending famine, the humanitarian crisis continues to escalate.

Israel’s Foreign Minister Responds to Clashes Between Football Fans and Protesters in Amsterdam

On Thursday night, violence erupted in Amsterdam ahead of and after a European football match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ajax, involving clashes between Israeli football fans and pro-Palestinian protesters.

An Amsterdam city council member stated that the violence was sparked by Israeli fans, who allegedly attacked Palestinian supporters upon arriving in the city prior to the match.

In response to the incident, Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Saar, condemned the violence, emphasizing that Israel would not tolerate what he termed “the persecution of Jews and Israelis on European soil.”

Saar’s comments followed a meeting with Dutch Prime Minister, who described the clashes involving Israelis in Amsterdam as a significant “turning point” in the situation.

Palestinians in Northern Gaza Face Imminent Risk of Death from Disease, Famine, and Violence

Stephanie Tremblay, associate spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, has warned that the entire population in northern Gaza is at “imminent risk of dying” due to escalating conditions. The ongoing siege by Israel, which has been in place since last month, has left over 1,500 people dead, with no aid entering the region.

Tremblay emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that Palestinians in northern Gaza are exposed to extreme dangers, including disease, famine, and continued bombardment. “There is no protection for civilians, and humanitarian workers continue to call for immediate action to safeguard those in northern Gaza and across the wider region,” she said.

The international community has called for an end to the violence and greater protection for civilians, but conditions remain dire for the people of Gaza, with humanitarian assistance stalled amid the ongoing conflict.

Israeli Knesset Confirms Israel Katz as Defense Minister and Gideon Sa’ar as Foreign Minister

Following the dismissal of Yoav Gallant from his role as Defense Minister, the Israeli Knesset has approved the appointments of Israel Katz to take over as Defense Minister and Gideon Sa’ar as Foreign Minister. With the cabinet reshuffle complete, the coalition government is expected to push forward with new legislation on conscription. However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has assured leaders of the ultra-Orthodox parties that if the conscription bill does not pass, a law to subsidize daycare will be advanced as an alternative.

This live news update offers timely insight into Israel’s latest political developments, enhancing your understanding of shifts within the government and legislative priorities.

Displaced Palestinians Among Casualties in Gaza School Bombing

In Gaza City, a school converted into a shelter for displaced Palestinians was bombed, resulting in numerous casualties. This school, now an evacuation center, was sheltering families seeking refuge from the ongoing conflict.

Many of the victims were recently displaced individuals who had sought safety within the school’s walls in the past few days. Tragically, these individuals—predominantly women and children—were among the casualties when the building was hit.

Reports reveal an urgent situation as the injured are transported to hospitals in Gaza using civilian vehicles or even animal-drawn carts, many suffering severe burns and critical wounds. With limited access to essential medical supplies, Gaza’s medical facilities are struggling to provide the necessary care to save lives.

Yoav Gallant Warns Israel of High Costs if Military Presence in Gaza Persists

Former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant recently cautioned that maintaining a prolonged military presence in Gaza could have significant repercussions for Israel. In a meeting with families of Israeli captives held in Gaza, Gallant expressed concerns about the ongoing situation.

According to Days of Palestine, Gallant revealed, “I don’t know if it is possible to persuade [Prime Minister] Netanyahu into a ceasefire. I tried and failed.” Gallant added that his stance was supported by the Shin Bet, the chief of staff, and the Mossad, who also agreed on the urgency of reaching a diplomatic solution.

Gallant emphasized that Netanyahu’s position on Gaza was influenced by neither “security nor political” reasoning. He mentioned that back in July, Hamas had offered terms for a prisoner swap, which, in his opinion, were favorable. However, Gallant highlighted that ongoing disagreements have prevented the deal’s finalization. “I still believe that we should be ready to negotiate a prisoner exchange and consider a withdrawal from the Philadelphi Corridor,” he stated.

Hamas Urges Three Days of Global Protests Against Gaza Conflict

In a recent statement, Hamas has called upon “the Palestinian people, the masses of our Arab and Islamic nation, and supporters worldwide” to join in three days of protests. The demonstrations are intended to show solidarity with Gaza, condemn the large-scale violence, and pressure for a halt to ongoing military actions. The statement also denounces American and Western support for what it describes as “horrific massacres” in the Gaza Strip.

Since October 7, 2023, ongoing violence in Gaza has reportedly claimed at least 43,469 Palestinian lives and injured over 102,561 individuals. On the same day, Hamas-led attacks in Israel resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,139 people, with over 200 individuals taken captive.

Israeli Forces Block Gaza Rescue Operations in Jabalia, Says Civil Defence

Gaza’s Civil Defence has reported severe obstructions by Israeli forces in northern Gaza, impeding rescue and medical efforts in the area. According to Civil Defence spokesperson Mahmoud Basal, Israeli occupation forces are actively preventing emergency teams from responding to urgent calls in bombed residential zones, particularly impacting civilians trapped beneath the rubble.

The incident involves casualties at a collapsed residence belonging to the al-Mabhouh family, located close to Abu Hussein schools in the Jabalia refugee camp. Civil Defence says several individuals remain trapped under the debris, underscoring the urgent need for unobstructed access for rescue and medical personnel in northern Gaza.

Israeli Attacks in Gaza Result in 35 Fatalities Since Dawn

In the early hours of today, Israeli military operations across the Gaza Strip have led to the deaths of at least 35 individuals, according to medical sources reported by Al Jazeera. Among the casualties, 19 Palestinians lost their lives in the central and southern regions of the enclave.

As the situation in Gaza remains dire, the ongoing violence continues to escalate, prompting urgent calls for international intervention. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.

Activists Hold Symbolic Funeral in Oslo to Honor Gaza Journalists

Pro-Palestinian activists organized a significant march in Oslo, Norway, to honor journalists who have lost their lives in conflicts in Gaza. The demonstration featured protesters carrying a coffin draped in the Palestinian flag, symbolizing the immense toll of violence that has claimed tens of thousands of lives due to Israeli military actions over the past year.

Participants in the march expressed their outrage over the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, advocating for the liberation of Palestine. Many demonstrators held photographs of fallen journalists, while others proudly waved Palestinian flags, emphasizing their solidarity with those affected by the violence.

This poignant event took place on the 107th anniversary of the Balfour Declaration, a pivotal moment that solidified the Zionist goal of establishing a Jewish state in Palestine. The declaration, issued by UK Foreign Secretary Arthur Balfour, promised to create “a national home for the Jewish people” in the region, marking a significant turning point in the historical conflict.

UN Official Alleges Palestinian Children “Targeted” Amid Ongoing Conflict

The United Nations Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese has raised serious concerns about the treatment of Palestinian children, claiming they face targeted attacks in various forms. According to Albanese, Palestinian children suffer through “killing, maiming, starvation, torture, terror, and deprivation of education, dreams, and hope for a future.”

In a statement posted on X, she highlighted Israel’s actions across “the entirety of the land it unlawfully occupies,” noting how children are especially impacted. Albanese added that these acts seem to reflect a “destructive intent” rooted in a longstanding plan.

Her comments were prompted by a recent incident in the Jaber neighborhood of Hebron, located in the occupied West Bank. In this incident, Israeli forces reportedly used barbed wire to block the road, preventing children from reaching the Haj Ziad Jaber School.

Israeli Bombardment in Gaza Claims Over 30 Lives, Medical Sources Confirm

Israeli airstrikes across the Gaza Strip have resulted in over 30 fatalities today, according to Palestinian medics. Nearly half of the casualties occurred in northern Gaza, an area heavily impacted by a prolonged military siege over the past month.

Medical sources report that at least 13 individuals lost their lives in separate attacks on residential areas in Beit Lahiya and Jabalia. Jabalia, the largest of Gaza’s historic refugee camps, has become a focal point in Israel’s intensified offensive in the northern regions.

Additional airstrikes in Gaza City and southern locations, such as Khan Younis, claimed more lives, with health officials confirming eight casualties in Khan Younis, including four children.

The Israeli military has not yet issued a statement regarding today’s operations in Gaza.

Blinken Discusses Israel’s Humanitarian Efforts in Gaza with Minister Dermer

In a recent call with Israel’s Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reviewed Israel’s initiatives aimed at increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza, according to the US State Department.

During the conversation, Blinken emphasized the need for Israel to implement additional measures to ensure that aid reaches civilians effectively, particularly as northern Gaza continues to experience critically low aid supplies. The United Nations Inter-Agency Standing Committee has previously issued warnings, stating that the population in northern Gaza faces an “imminent risk of dying from disease, famine, and violence.”

The urgency of this situation follows a warning from the US on October 13, which indicated that Israel has 30 days to address the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The failure to take action could have significant legal ramifications for US military aid, as recipients of such assistance are prohibited from obstructing humanitarian aid efforts.

As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza escalates, the international community is watching closely for Israel’s response to ensure that vital aid reaches those in need.

Senior Hamas Official Killed in Khan Younis; Israeli Commander Injured in Lebanon

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Shin Bet announced the elimination of a senior member of Hamas’s political bureau, who was responsible for national relations within the organization. Additionally, Major General Uri Gordin sustained minor injuries due to a vehicle rollover in Lebanon but has since resumed his duties.

In the northern region, dozens of rocket launches have been reported since morning, resulting in a serious injury and eight others suffering minor wounds from shrapnel in the Karmiel area.

Meanwhile, a senior advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader has issued a warning, stating, “Tehran will respond to Zionist aggression at a time and place of its choosing.”

Last night, seven drones targeting Israel were intercepted from multiple launch sites.

At Least 10 Dead in Gaza’s Nuseirat Refugee Camp School Shelter Amid Israeli Strike

An Israeli airstrike targeting the entrance of a school sheltering displaced individuals in Gaza’s Nuseirat refugee camp has killed at least 10 Palestinians. This tragic incident took place in central Gaza, where the Nuseirat camp is located, and the school was serving as a shelter for those forced to leave their homes.

According to reports from Al Jazeera Arabic, the area has been heavily targeted, with widespread shelling in the Nuseirat region causing numerous casualties and injuries since early dawn. The situation remains critical as residents face ongoing dangers.

Bombing of Northern Gaza Hospital Destroys Critical Medical Supplies, UN Reports

A bombing at Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza on Thursday led to the destruction of essential medical supplies, according to United Nations Secretary-General spokesperson Stephane Dujarric. The supplies, delivered just five days prior through a UN and WHO mission, were crucial for patient care in the conflict-impacted region.

Dujarric reported that hospitals across northern Gaza are under relentless attack, impeding the work of rescue teams. Medical personnel face arrests, and essential equipment like ambulances and fire trucks have been confiscated. “The destruction is widespread, impacting nearly all areas in northern Gaza,” he said.

IDF Response: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated they were “unaware” of a specific strike on Kamal Adwan Hospital and are investigating the incident. The IDF also claimed that Hamas has “embedded terrorist infrastructure” within the hospital.

Kamal Adwan Hospital is one of the few remaining operational facilities in northern Gaza and has been overwhelmed by casualties from nearby conflict zones, including Beit Lahiya and the Jabalya Refugee Camp. Health authorities in Gaza urgently call for additional supplies as they struggle to treat a rising influx of injured civilians.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs recently reported that humanitarian access to northern Gaza remains severely restricted, further compounding the crisis.

Bill Clinton Criticized for Comments on Israeli Actions in Gaza

Former President Bill Clinton is facing significant backlash from Muslim and Arab American communities in the United States after asserting that Israel was “forced” to kill civilians in Gaza. His remarks included the controversial claim that Israel was present in the Holy Land “first” before Palestinians.

While Clinton expressed understanding of the public’s outrage over the ongoing bloodshed in Gaza, he maintained that Israel feels compelled to cause substantial civilian casualties amidst accusations of genocide at the International Court of Justice. His comments have reignited debates over the complex dynamics of the Israel-Palestine conflict, especially in the context of rising tensions following recent military actions in the region.

As the situation continues to evolve, the implications of such statements by prominent figures like Clinton underscore the deep divisions and sensitivities surrounding this issue in the United States and beyond.

EU Criticizes Israel’s Legislation to Halt UNRWA Activities in Palestinian Territories

The European Union has expressed its concern regarding Israel’s recent legislation affecting the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), as stated in an official announcement. The EU strongly condemned any efforts to undermine the 1967 agreement between Israel and UNRWA, emphasizing that such actions obstruct the agency’s ability to fulfill its humanitarian mandate.

This statement follows Israel’s adoption of two controversial bills aimed at prohibiting UNRWA’s operations within Israeli territories and regions under its control. The EU warned that if these laws are enacted, they could have significant repercussions, effectively halting all UNRWA activities in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. This would severely impede the agency’s vital work in Gaza and hinder its provision of essential health, education, and social services across the region.

Furthermore, the EU noted that the legislation could revoke UNRWA’s diplomatic privileges and immunities in Israel, jeopardizing the agency’s mission. The proposed ban is set to take effect in 90 days, potentially leading to the closure of UNRWA facilities in the occupied Palestinian territories, including the West Bank and Gaza. This move threatens to paralyze the agency’s ability to carry out its mandate, as outlined by the UN General Assembly in 1949.

As the situation develops, the EU continues to advocate for the importance of UNRWA’s role in providing critical support to Palestinian refugees and upholding international humanitarian standards.

Israel Lifts Ban on Medical Teams Entering Gaza

Glia Announces Reinstated Access to Gaza
Glia, a medical group previously barred from entering Gaza, confirmed it has been informed by Israeli authorities that the ban has been lifted. The organization described the decision as a “positive step” that came about thanks to the “incredible efforts of governments, organizations, and activists advocating for access.”

WHO Highlighted the Initial Restrictions
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that, since August, more than 50 medical professionals and eight humanitarian organizations were blocked from entering Gaza. This included both Glia and the Palestinian American Medical Association, a US-based nonprofit providing medical support in the region.

Glia Expresses Concern Over Arbitrary Bans
Despite the lifted ban, Glia criticized the lack of transparency from Israeli authorities.
“We remain extremely concerned that so many organizations, including ours, were arbitrarily banned. No explanation was given for either the initial ban or its sudden reversal,” the group said in an official statement.

The organization further emphasized, “Blocking medical access is part of a growing campaign to deny Palestinians in Gaza and elsewhere their fundamental right to healthcare.”

US Criticizes Israel for Lack of Response on Deadly Gaza Strikes

The United States has expressed frustration with Israel’s insufficient response to inquiries about a deadly airstrike in northern Gaza that killed nearly 100 people, including many children.

According to State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, Israel has not provided adequate answers regarding the attack in Beit Lahiya on Tuesday. “They are not doing enough to get us the answers that we have requested,” Miller told reporters.

The strike demolished a residential building, killing at least 93 Palestinians, including a significant number of children. Miller described the incident as “horrifying” and stressed that the US is actively seeking clarification from Israel, a close ally that receives substantial American diplomatic and military backing.

When asked if there had been any updates, Miller stated, “We reiterated that call with them today. We do not yet have an explanation. They have told us the same thing they said publicly—that they are investigating the matter.”

This development adds to the growing international scrutiny over Israel’s military operations in Gaza. The US, while providing significant support to Israel, is now facing pressure to hold its ally accountable for civilian casualties.

Israel’s Ban on UNRWA Will Worsen Crisis for Palestinians, Warns Islamic Relief

Islamic Relief, a prominent humanitarian organization, has condemned Israel’s decision to block the operations of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in Palestinian territories, warning that the move could lead to a severe humanitarian catastrophe.

The UK-based aid group stressed that the ban would deprive millions of Palestinians of essential aid, potentially resulting in more deaths. UNRWA has been a lifeline for vulnerable families, providing food, healthcare, and other critical services in Gaza and the West Bank.

“This decision should not come as a surprise to world leaders, who have continuously failed to act while Israel disregards international law,” Islamic Relief stated. “Starvation and blocking humanitarian aid are being used as tools of war.”

The organization urged the international community to respond swiftly, emphasizing:
“There must be consequences for the denial of aid while civilians starve. Governments worldwide must demand that Israel reverse its ban on UNRWA and use every diplomatic, economic, and political means to ensure compliance with international law.”

Islamic Relief’s call comes amid growing concerns that the escalating crisis will push more Palestinians into extreme poverty and worsen the humanitarian situation across the region.

Israel Yet to Provide US with Answers on Deadly Gaza Airstrike, Says State Department

Gaza Airstrike Under Scrutiny: The United States is still awaiting an explanation from Israel regarding Tuesday’s deadly airstrike on northern Gaza, according to State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller. Miller noted during a press briefing on Wednesday that Israel has not sufficiently responded to US inquiries about the strike.

“Israel has told us what they’ve said publicly—that they are investigating the matter,” Miller stated. However, he added, “We’ve made it clear that the answers we’ve requested are still outstanding.”

US Criticizes Israel for Insufficient Humanitarian Support in Gaza Amid Ongoing Offensive

October 30, 2024 – The United States has voiced concern over Israel’s efforts to assist Palestinians in Gaza, asserting that more must be done to address the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region.

Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the US Ambassador to the United Nations, told the UN Security Council on Tuesday that Washington rejects “any Israeli efforts to starve Palestinians in Jabalia or anywhere else in Gaza.” She emphasized the need for Israel to follow through with actions that align with its commitments, stating, “Israel’s words must be matched by action on the ground. Right now, that is not happening. This must change – immediately.”

The United States has reportedly urged Israel, in a letter dated October 13, to take measurable steps within 30 days to alleviate the humanitarian situation in Gaza or face potential restrictions on US military assistance.

Israel’s military launched a large-scale offensive in northern Gaza earlier this month. On October 16, Thomas-Greenfield reaffirmed that the US is closely monitoring Israel’s actions, emphasizing that Washington will not tolerate policies that effectively starve Palestinian civilians in northern Gaza.

Meanwhile, Palestinian Civil Emergency Services reported Monday that approximately 100,000 residents remain trapped in Jabalia, Beit Lahiya, and Beit Hanoun. The civilians are facing acute shortages of food and medical supplies, further complicating the already dire situation.

This statement highlights growing pressure on Israel from its key ally, the United States, as international concern mounts over the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

US Expresses Concern Over ‘Horrifying’ Israeli Strike in Northern Gaza

The United States has voiced serious concerns over a deadly Israeli airstrike in northern Gaza. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller confirmed that U.S. officials have contacted Israel seeking clarity on the incident, which took place in Beit Lahiya and reportedly resulted in at least 109 Palestinian deaths.

Miller noted that initial reports indicate a significant number of the victims were children, though he refrained from confirming the total death toll.

He further suggested that Israel’s recent decision to ban the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) could have repercussions under U.S. law and policy, potentially impacting diplomatic relations and aid frameworks.

Four Soldiers Killed in Gaza; Fatal Rocket Strike in Ma’alot-Tarshiha

It has been cleared for publication that four soldiers from the multi-dimensional unit were killed in Jabalya, located in northern Gaza. In a related incident, Muhammad Yasser Naim, a 22-year-old resident of Ma’alot-Tarshiha, was killed by a direct rocket hit during a barrage of around 50 rockets launched from Lebanon.

In the morning, a drone from Yemen exploded near Ashkelon, while three others crossed the border from Lebanon. One of the drones was intercepted over the Upper Galilee.

UNRWA Ban Risks Collective Punishment of Gaza’s Population, Warns UN

The United Nations warns that Israel’s decision to ban the operations of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in Gaza could constitute collective punishment, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Jens Laerke, spokesperson for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), emphasized the severe implications of such a move.

“If fully implemented, this would contribute to the collective punishment already inflicted on the people of Gaza,” Laerke stated.

Collective punishment—considered a war crime under international law—refers to punitive actions targeting entire populations in retaliation for offenses committed by specific individuals. Humanitarian experts argue that limiting the role of UNRWA, which provides essential services such as healthcare, education, and food aid, would significantly worsen conditions for civilians trapped in the ongoing conflict.

This warning comes amid rising international concerns over Gaza’s deteriorating humanitarian situation, as essential resources dwindle due to continued restrictions and conflict.

Heartbreaking Aftermath of Israeli Airstrike on Beit Lahiya: 93 Dead, Dozens Trapped Under Rubble

An intense airstrike devastated a crowded area in Beit Lahiya, resulting in the tragic deaths of over 93 Palestinians, with more than 40 people still trapped beneath the rubble.

According to eyewitness accounts, more than 200 Palestinians had gathered in the area seeking refuge. Survivors describe harrowing scenes, with widespread destruction and bodies scattered across the ground. Many of the dead, including women and children, were found with their faces covered in dust and blood, reflecting the scale of devastation.

Reports reveal that many of the affected families had fled their homes in the Jabalia refugee camp and sought safety in the building that was destroyed. The extent of the damage highlights the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Beit Lahiya as rescue efforts continue to search for survivors beneath the debris.

This tragic event underscores the ongoing plight of displaced families in Gaza as the conflict escalates.

Qatar Commits to Working with Biden Administration for Gaza Ceasefire

Qatar has announced its dedication to collaborating with the Biden administration “until the last minute” before the upcoming U.S. presidential election to secure a ceasefire deal in Gaza. The Gulf nation, in partnership with the United States and Egypt, has taken a leading role in negotiating an end to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which escalated in October 2023.

As the U.S. approaches a pivotal election, the dynamics of these talks could shift in January, depending on whether Kamala Harris or Donald Trump assumes the presidency. However, Qatar remains optimistic about the continuity of the mediation efforts. “We don’t foresee any negative outcome from the elections affecting the mediation process itself,” stated Majed Al-Ansari, spokesperson for the Qatari foreign ministry. “In the United States, the institutions are committed to resolving this crisis.”

Recent developments have seen a resurgence in ceasefire discussions in Doha, following a month-long pause in dialogue among the involved parties. Egypt has proposed a 48-hour ceasefire aimed at facilitating the release of four Israeli hostages held in Gaza, alongside the release of several Palestinian prisoners. However, Benjamin Netanyahu’s office has denied any receipt of this proposal, asserting that Israel would have promptly accepted it had it been presented.

This ongoing effort highlights Qatar’s critical role in mediating peace talks, showcasing its influence in regional diplomacy amidst the escalating violence in Gaza.

UN Expert Accuses Israel of Genocide Against Palestinians

Francesca Albanese, a prominent UN human rights expert, has reiterated her assertion that Israel is committing “genocide” against the Palestinian people in Gaza. Albanese charged that the Israeli government’s actions are aimed at the “eradication of Palestinians” from their ancestral land.

In her latest report, the independent expert on human rights in the occupied Palestinian territories highlighted that the ongoing violence and systematic policies against Palestinians seem to serve a larger agenda: the complete removal or eradication of Palestinians from their homeland. She emphasized that this territory is not only integral to Palestinian identity but is also sought after by Israel through illegal and overt means.

Albanese’s statements come amidst a backdrop of heightened tensions and conflict in the region, raising critical questions about human rights violations and the international community’s response to the ongoing crisis.

Netanyahu Denies Reports of Hostage Deal with Egypt

Benjamin Netanyahu’s office has refuted claims that Israel was presented with a proposal to release four hostages in exchange for a 48-hour ceasefire in Gaza. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi revealed that Egypt had suggested a two-day truce, which would involve the exchange of four Israeli hostages for a number of Palestinian prisoners.

Al-Sisi also emphasized the need for negotiations to resume within ten days following the temporary ceasefire to advance towards a permanent resolution.

In a statement issued last night, Netanyahu’s office stated, “Israel has not received any proposal regarding the release of four hostages in exchange for a 48-hour ceasefire in Gaza.” They added, “If such a proposal had been made, the Prime Minister would have accepted it without hesitation.”

77 Killed or Missing in Israeli Strike on Northern Gaza, Health Ministry Reports

The Gaza health ministry reports that 77 people were killed or are missing following an airstrike targeting a five-story building in Beit Lahiya, northern Gaza. The strike occurred at approximately 6:30 a.m. local time (12:30 a.m. ET) on Tuesday.

Videos from the scene show extensive destruction, with the building nearly leveled. Additional footage reveals more than a dozen bodies wrapped in shrouds, either placed on the ground or transported in a cart.

Gaza Civil Defense confirmed that numerous displaced families had taken refuge in the building, hoping for safety. The health ministry further stated that Kamal Adwan Hospital, which has also faced Israeli shelling in recent days, is overwhelmed and unable to treat the injured.

According to Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, the hospital director: “We urgently need a secure corridor for medical teams to arrive. Children in the intensive care unit require amputations, and we cannot operate under these conditions.”

The government media office in Gaza, led by Hamas, claimed that many of the victims in the Beit Lahiya strike were women and children. Efforts to confirm the casualty numbers remain ongoing, as communication lines with northern Gaza are heavily disrupted.

Meanwhile, Israel’s military operations have intensified in northern Gaza since the beginning of the month, combining airstrikes and ground incursions. The Israel Defense Forces have not yet commented on the incident.

This latest strike underscores the growing humanitarian crisis, with medical facilities and civilian shelters becoming increasingly vulnerable targets amid the escalating conflict.

Gaza Media Office Condemns Israeli Attack in Beit Lahiya as ‘Massacre Against Civilians’

The Gaza media office has strongly condemned an Israeli airstrike on a residential building in Beit Lahiya, northern Gaza, labeling it a “horrific massacre” targeting civilians, including children and women.

In a statement shared on Telegram, the office called on the global community to denounce the attack. “We demand all countries of the world to condemn this horrific massacre,” the message said. It further criticized the ongoing assaults as part of Israel’s broader strategy to dismantle the healthcare infrastructure in northern Gaza.

The media office has urged for the urgent entry of medical teams and essential supplies into the affected region to address the growing humanitarian crisis.

So far, the attack has resulted in 93 deaths, with many others injured or reported missing, according to medical sources in Gaza.

Nearly 12,000 Students Killed in Gaza Since Start of Israel-Gaza War: Education Ministry Report

The Ministry of Education in Gaza reports that 11,852 students have lost their lives, and 18,959 others have been injured since Israel’s war on Gaza began on October 7, 2023.

The ministry highlighted that violence has also extended to the occupied West Bank, where 114 students have been killed and 594 injured.

In addition to student casualties, the education system has suffered significant losses. At least 560 teachers and administrators have been killed, 3,729 injured, and 148 detained across Gaza and the West Bank.

The report further states that 362 educational institutions, including schools, universities, and administrative buildings, along with 65 facilities run by UNRWA, have been targeted and damaged.

Over 718,000 students in Gaza are currently unable to attend school or university due to the ongoing conflict. Many are also grappling with severe psychological trauma and health challenges as a result of the war.

This devastating impact on Gaza’s education sector adds to the mounting humanitarian crisis in the region, leaving students and educators in dire conditions.

Knesset Approves Law to End UNRWA Operations in Israel

The Knesset has officially passed a law to halt the activities of UNRWA (the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees) within Israel. The legislation, which received its second and third readings on Monday evening, aims to prohibit any UNRWA operations on Israeli territory. According to the new law, UNRWA will not be permitted to establish any offices, provide services, or conduct activities—whether directly or indirectly—within Israel’s sovereign borders.

Boaz Bismuth, a member of Knesset from the Likud party and the bill’s initiator, stated, “UNRWA is not a refugee assistance agency; it is a support agency for Hamas! UNRWA employees have been complicit in the horrific and unimaginable massacres perpetrated against us. We cannot forget the chilling footage of Jonathan Samrano, who was captured by an ‘UNRWA social worker.'”

MK Yuli Edelstein also commented on the legislation, saying, “That’s it; it’s over. UNRWA IS OUT! After extensive efforts in the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, we succeeded in leading a historic and significant initiative for the security of the state, effectively dismantling one of the arms of terrorism operating under the auspices of the UN. The Knesset has just voted on the UNRWA laws.”

He further emphasized, “UNRWA is no longer a humanitarian aid agency. Beyond being integral to promoting terror and hatred, it perpetuates poverty and suffering. The logic is straightforward: to survive, UNRWA creates demand for the services it provides. Today, this cycle of horror comes to an end. They are out!”

Netanyahu: Israel to Pursue Peace Deals with Arab Nations Post-Gaza Conflict

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to overcome its primary adversary, Iran, while also signaling plans to enhance its relationships with Arab countries once the conflict in Gaza concludes.

Speaking before the Knesset on Monday, Netanyahu articulated a bold vision for Israel’s future, emphasizing that Iran’s strategy hinges on destabilizing Israel: “If Israel falls, the entire Middle East will fall into its hands.”

In a strategic shift, Netanyahu announced that Israel aims to establish peace agreements with additional Arab nations. “I intend to continue the process I led and achieve peace with more Arab countries,” he stated, highlighting a collaborative approach with nations sharing a commitment to a “safe, stable, and prosperous Middle East.”

Biden Calls for End to Gaza Conflict Amid Ceasefire Efforts

In a recent statement, U.S. President Joe Biden emphasized that the ongoing war in Gaza “should end.” This announcement comes as Biden renews efforts to establish a ceasefire, following a two-day ceasefire proposal from Egypt.

“We need a ceasefire. This war should end—it should end, it should end, it should end,” Biden declared to reporters after casting his early vote in the U.S. presidential election. He expressed his intention to “get on a secure line and follow up on that.”

According to a report from Brown University’s Watson Institute, the U.S. has allocated $22.76 billion in support of Israel’s military operations in Gaza and against Houthi forces in Yemen. Notably, the $17.9 billion in military aid provided to Israel since the conflict escalated a year ago marks the highest annual total in history.

The report highlights that a significant portion of U.S. military assistance consists of munitions, including artillery shells and 2,000-pound (907 kg) bombs. Additionally, an investigation by Al Jazeera has revealed that the United States and the United Kingdom have been instrumental in sustaining the intensity of the war on Gaza by establishing an air bridge to deliver military support to Israel.

UN Urges End to Humanitarian Crisis in Northern Gaza Amid Israeli Offensive

UN humanitarian chief Joyce Msuya has condemned the ongoing actions of Israeli forces in besieged northern Gaza, stating that the situation is intolerable. “What is happening cannot be allowed to continue,” she asserted, highlighting reports of hundreds of Palestinian fatalities and the displacement of tens of thousands of civilians.

In her statement, Msuya detailed the dire conditions in northern Gaza, noting that hospitals have come under fire and health workers have been detained. “Shelters have been destroyed or set ablaze. First responders are being obstructed from rescuing individuals trapped beneath the rubble. Families are being torn apart, and men and boys are being taken away in large numbers,” she reported.

“The entire population of northern Gaza faces a life-threatening situation. This blatant disregard for fundamental human rights and international humanitarian law must come to an end,” Msuya concluded, calling for immediate action to alleviate the crisis.

This urgent appeal underscores the critical need for humanitarian access and protection for civilians amidst escalating violence in the region.

Israel’s Anti-UNRWA Campaign Linked to Ethnic Cleansing, Says Former UN Official

Chris Gunness, a former spokesperson for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), has claimed that Israel’s push to dismantle the agency in Gaza is part of an ongoing effort to carry out ethnic cleansing in Palestine.

Gunness speaking , criticized the move, stating:

“This is another serious assault by Israel on the international rule of law and the international system itself. It is completely illegal.”

He further highlighted the agenda of far-right Israeli politicians, who assert that the territory from the River Jordan to the Mediterranean Sea—referred to as “Judea and Samaria” by Israeli leaders—should belong exclusively to Jewish people, leaving no space for Palestinians.

Gunness argued that the existence of UNRWA, which provides essential services to Palestinian refugees, obstructs these efforts.

“If UNRWA continues to operate—an organization established by the international community to support Palestinians—then the ethnic cleansing cannot proceed,” he emphasized.

This controversy surrounding Israel’s campaign against UNRWA raises concerns about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the broader implications for Palestinian refugees, international law, and regional stability.

Netanyahu Expresses Desire for More Peace Deals with Arab Nations After War Ends

Netanyahu Expresses Desire for More Peace Deals with Arab Nations After War Ends

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed his intention to pursue additional peace agreements with Arab countries following the conclusion of the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon.

“I aspire to continue the process I led a few years ago with the signing of the historic Abraham Accords and achieve peace with more Arab countries,” Netanyahu said during a speech in the Knesset.

While Israel is actively engaged in military operations in Gaza, Lebanon, and the occupied West Bank, it has also expanded airstrikes in recent weeks to targets in Iraq, Syria, and Iran, escalating regional tensions.

Key Takeaways:

• Netanyahu aims to expand on the Abraham Accords and secure more peace deals with Arab nations.
• Israel’s military operations currently span Gaza, Lebanon, the West Bank, and extend to Iraq, Syria, and Iran.

This update highlights Netanyahu’s vision for regional diplomacy post-conflict, reflecting the dual strategy of military operations and long-term peace-building with neighboring countries.

Gaza’s Kamal Adwan Hospital Devastated After Israeli Raid and Arrests

Gaza’s Kamal Adwan Hospital lies in ruins following an Israeli military raid, with dozens of medics and patients detained and critical infrastructure severely damaged. The attack has crippled one of the last operational hospitals in northern Gaza, leaving the region’s healthcare system on the brink of collapse.

The raid is part of Israel’s ongoing military offensive, which has spanned over three weeks, targeting northern Gaza. Reports indicate that the hospital was shelled, causing widespread disarray and destruction.

“The stench of death fills the air,” said Marwan al-Hams, Director of Field Hospitals at Gaza’s Health Ministry. He confirmed that Israeli forces not only detained medical staff but also destroyed vital supplies, preventing life-saving treatments for the wounded.

This assault on Gaza’s healthcare facilities highlights the escalating humanitarian crisis in the region, as essential services are being systematically dismantled.

Mass Casualty Attack Strikes Beit Lahiya Again Amid Ongoing Israeli Airstrikes

In another devastating escalation, multiple Israeli airstrikes have destroyed residential buildings in Beit Lahiya, a town in northern Gaza, resulting in at least 35 fatalities, according to eyewitness reports. Officials fear the death toll will rise as many victims remain trapped under the rubble.

Israeli authorities have yet to comment on the latest strikes. This attack comes just a week after another air assault targeted a different part of Beit Lahiya, leaving at least 87 people dead or missing beneath debris.

Beit Lahiya, located in the northern Gaza Strip near Jabalia and Beit Hanoun, has been heavily bombarded by Israeli forces over the past three weeks, along with nearby towns. All three areas have faced continuous military operations, resulting in widespread destruction and civilian casualties.

Meanwhile, Gaza’s Civil Defence agency reported that its rescue crews recovered the body of one individual and two injured survivors following an airstrike on a residential house in the al-Nafaq neighborhood, north of Gaza City.

Intensified Rocket Fire in Northern Israel; Reports of 35 Palestinian Casualties in Gaza Strike

Northern Israel experienced heavy rocket barrages throughout the day, with hundreds of projectiles targeting the Golan Heights and Galilee regions. Four drones were intercepted by Israel’s air defenses. Following the recent strike on Iranian targets, the Home Front Command eased restrictions in the north, allowing schools to reopen in certain areas.

According to reports, Iran has communicated indirectly with Israel, stating that it will not retaliate for the attack. Meanwhile, Palestinian sources report that at least 35 people were killed in an Israeli airstrike on Beit Lahia, located in northern Gaza.

MedGlobal Condemns Israeli Arrest of Staff Member at Kamal Adwan Hospital in Gaza

Gaza under Siege: MedGlobal Highlights Targeting of Healthcare Workers Amid Escalating Conflict

MedGlobal, a leading humanitarian organisation operating in Gaza, has strongly condemned the Israeli military’s arrest of Mahmoud Lubbad, the nursing director at Kamal Adwan Hospital. Lubbad, alongside several other medical professionals, was detained despite the critical role healthcare workers play during the ongoing conflict.

In an official statement, MedGlobal urged world leaders, humanitarian groups, and the global community to push for an immediate halt to attacks on healthcare personnel. The organisation called for adherence to international protections that ensure the safety of medical staff working in war zones.

The arrest comes amid growing concern for the safety of Gaza’s medical community. MedGlobal also mourned the death of Ibrahim Abu Safia, the teenage son of Dr. Hussam Abu Safia, Kamal Adwan Hospital’s director and MedGlobal’s lead physician in Gaza. The young boy was killed during an Israeli airstrike on the Jabalia refugee camp.

MedGlobal emphasized the devastating human cost of the ongoing violence, demanding an end to actions that put healthcare services and workers in jeopardy.

Northern Gaza Population Faces ‘Risk of Dying,’ Warns UN Humanitarian Chief

Gaza Strip, October 26, 2024 – The United Nations humanitarian chief has issued a grave warning that the entire population in northern Gaza faces the imminent risk of death as Israeli military operations continue to escalate. According to the UN, Israel is executing what has been described as the “generals’ plan” — a strategy aimed at clearing northern Gaza by tightening the blockade and cutting off all forms of humanitarian aid.

“The entire population of North Gaza is at risk of dying,” Joyce Msuya, the UN Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator

Healthcare Crisis Deepens as Hospitals Struggle Amid Airstrikes

The World Health Organization (WHO) has also raised alarms about the catastrophic situation in northern Gaza. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned on Saturday that intensive military activities around healthcare facilities are depriving civilians of essential care.

“The situation in northern Gaza is catastrophic,” Tedros said, emphasizing that severe shortages of medical supplies and restricted access to facilities are preventing life-saving treatment.

In a particularly distressing incident, Kamal Adwan Hospital — the last operational medical center in northern Gaza — reported scenes of suffering as it struggled to cope with dozens of wounded patients in critical condition. Following an Israeli military raid, the hospital was left in devastation, with staff scrambling to treat survivors after troops withdrew.

Reports of Ethnic Cleansing in Jabalia and Beit Lahia

Israeli military actions in Jabalia, Beit Hanoun, Beit Lahia, and surrounding areas have drawn condemnation, with local sources describing the offensive as an ethnic-cleansing campaign.

• Nearly 900 civilians have been killed since the offensive began in early October.
• Hundreds of homes have been destroyed, and food, water, and medicine have been blocked from entering the region.
• The ongoing bombardment has forced thousands of civilians to flee south, compounding the already dire humanitarian crisis.

On Friday, Israeli forces raided Kamal Adwan Children’s Hospital in the Jabalia refugee camp, detaining patients, staff, and displaced civilians seeking shelter. Tragically, two children in the intensive care unit died when Israeli fire struck the hospital’s generators and oxygen supplies. Video footage shared by Gaza’s health ministry showed extensive damage to hospital buildings following the Israeli withdrawal.

Death Toll Surges Amid Israeli Airstrikes

According to Gaza’s health ministry, Israeli airstrikes on northern Gaza have killed nearly 900 Palestinians over the last three weeks. Since the war began on October 7, 2023, the death toll across Gaza has surged to 42,924, with more than 100,833 people injured. A large proportion of the casualties are women and children, underscoring the conflict’s devastating impact on civilians.

Egypt and Hamas Leaders Hold Talks on Gaza Ceasefire

A high-ranking Egyptian security delegation met with Hamas leaders in Cairo to discuss efforts aimed at easing tensions in Gaza, according to Egyptian state-affiliated Al-Qahera News on Thursday. The talks focused on overcoming challenges to achieving calm in the region.

Egypt is reportedly leading efforts to revive ceasefire negotiations. During the meeting, Egyptian officials emphasized their continued commitment to facilitating humanitarian aid for residents of Gaza, as per the same report.

Further negotiations are expected to take place in Qatar this weekend, where discussions will revolve around a potential ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement. Qatar has reinitiated contact with the Hamas political bureau in Doha, following the reported death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar in Gaza last week, Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani confirmed during a press conference on Thursday.

Israeli Air Strike Kills 16, Including Four Children, at School in Nuseirat Refugee Camp

An Israeli air strike has killed 16 Palestinians, including four children, at a school in the Nuseirat refugee camp located in the central Gaza Strip. The targeted site, the Shuhadaa (Martyrs) of Nuseirat school, was sheltering hundreds of displaced families when it came under direct attack, according to reports from local sources.

The air strike, which occurred around noon during a busy period, caused significant casualties and devastation. Those injured in the attack are being rushed to nearby hospitals, including Al-Awdan and Al-Aqsa.

Eyewitnesses confirmed that more than one missile was deployed in the area, which lies near a local market. The incident has raised concerns about the growing number of civilian casualties, particularly as schools and markets come under fire amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Over 50 Killed in Gaza in the Past 24 Hours, Health Ministry Reports

Gaza Death Toll Update Amid Ongoing Conflict

The Hamas-controlled health ministry in Gaza has reported that 55 Palestinians were killed within the last 24 hours due to Israel’s military operations.

Since the conflict began on October 7, 2023, the total death toll in Gaza has reached 42,847, with 100,544 people reported injured, according to ministry figures.

Accuracy of Casualty Figures

While Israeli officials have raised concerns about the reliability of these numbers, independent organizations indicate the figures align closely with those reported by the United Nations and, at times, by Israel itself. Historical analyses of previous conflicts show that Gaza’s health ministry reports are largely accurate, with discrepancies typically falling within a 10-12% range compared to post-war UN assessments.

The health ministry’s data does not distinguish between combatants and civilians, a critical factor in assessing the humanitarian impact.

Israeli Forces Target and Arrest Rescue Teams in Northern Gaza, Says Civil Defence Official

Israeli forces have reportedly targeted rescue teams operating in northern Gaza, with several members being detained and attacked, according to a civil defence official. Muhammad al-Mughair, director of the supply department for Gaza’s civil defence, confirmed that rescue workers were instructed by Israeli forces to evacuate northern areas and move toward the Indonesian Hospital.

“Many of our teams refused to comply with the orders. Five of our teams have been arrested, and Israeli forces assaulted them even before the evacuation deadline,” al-Mughair stated. He added that three workers were injured and five rescue vehicles were damaged during the attacks in Beit Lahiya.

Meanwhile, civil defence crews continue to combat fires in central Gaza despite significant challenges. Al-Mughair emphasized that operations are severely hindered due to a shortage of fuel and essential spare parts, limiting the teams’ ability to respond effectively.

Palestinians in Gaza Allegedly Used as Human Shields by Israeli Military, Sources Claim

The Israeli military is facing serious allegations of using Palestinians as human shields during operations in Gaza. According to testimony from an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldier and five former Palestinian detainees, the military reportedly compelled civilians to enter potentially booby-trapped buildings and tunnels to shield troops from harm.

Soldier Admits to Use of Human Shields

A soldier from the IDF disclosed that his unit held two Palestinian prisoners to use them as human shields in high-risk situations. “We told them to enter the building before us,” the soldier stated. “If there are any booby traps, they will explode and not us.” He added that this practice, known within the military as the “mosquito protocol,” was widely used during operations in Gaza.

Widespread Reports Across Gaza

The extent of the use of human shields by the IDF remains unclear, but the testimonies from both the soldier and five former detainees suggest the practice was common across the territory. These accounts raise significant concerns about the treatment of Palestinian civilians during military operations.

IDF Denies Allegations, Citing Strict Protocols

In response to the allegations, the IDF denied the use of human shields, stating: “The IDF’s directives and guidelines strictly prohibit the use of detained Gaza civilians for military operations. These protocols are routinely clarified to soldiers during active conflicts.”

Violation of International Law

Using civilians as human shields or involving them in military operations violates international law, which explicitly forbids forcing non-combatants to participate in military actions or shield troops from danger.

This report has sparked renewed debate over the conduct of military forces in conflict zones and raises concerns about compliance with international humanitarian standards.

Northern Gaza’s Last Operational Hospital Runs Out of Medicine and Blood Amid Escalating Crisis

Kamal Adwan Hospital, the only fully operational medical facility remaining in northern Gaza, has depleted its supplies of medicine, blood, and essential equipment, according to its director, Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya. The hospital is currently treating more than 150 patients, including 15 in intensive care, among them newborns.

Critical Medical Shortages

The hospital is facing a dire shortage of essential supplies. According to Dr. Abu Safiya, the following items are no longer available:

• Blood units
• Medications
• Basic medical equipment, such as chest drainage tubes

“We have nothing left to offer patients who come to us,” Dr. Abu Safiya said. “The situation is catastrophic.”

The Palestinian Centre for Human Rights (PCHR) warned that health services across the northern Gaza Strip are on the brink of collapse.

Ambulances and Hospital Targeted by Gunfire

The situation outside the hospital is equally perilous. Ambulance crews attempting to transport the injured to Kamal Adwan Hospital have come under direct attack from Israeli forces, according to Dr. Abu Safiya.

The hospital director accused the Israeli military of targeting the hospital, stating that artillery shells were fired at the facility and that shots were directed at the entrance. “This is a deliberate targeting of a health organization,” he said.

The collapse of northern Gaza’s healthcare system highlights the urgent need for international intervention to ensure safe access to medical services in the conflict zone.

Gaza Woman Rescued Alive After 5 Days Under Rubble Following Airstrike

A 42-year-old woman, May El Helou, has been rescued alive after being trapped for five days beneath rubble in the Tal al-Hawa neighborhood of Gaza City, following an airstrike on October 15. According to Gaza Civil Defense, she had been sheltering with her family in the targeted home after being displaced from another area in Gaza.

Rescue efforts initially uncovered one dead body and several injured individuals. However, the team returned to the site on Sunday after locals reported sounds coming from under the debris.

“Our crews returned and managed to dig her out using bare hands and basic tools, including a jackhammer,” said Mohammad Al Maydaneh, head of public relations for Gaza Civil Defense. “God has granted May a second chance at life, but sadly, some of her family members did not survive.”

El Helou is currently recovering at Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. The Civil Defense continues efforts to assist other victims as search operations persist in affected areas.

Ongoing Forcible Displacement of Palestinians in Northern Gaza

Palestinians are continuing to face forced displacement from northern Gaza, particularly from Beit Lahiya, as they seek refuge in Gaza City amid a prolonged Israeli siege that has persisted for nearly three weeks.

Mohamed Al-Kahlout, a resident of northern Gaza, described the harrowing experience of being uprooted. He recounted waking up at 5 a.m. to the sounds of shelling, which resulted in numerous casualties.

“The Israeli forces ordered us to evacuate the shelters and leave the entire area, directing us towards the Sheikh Zayed region,” Al-Kahlout explained. “Upon arrival, they allowed women to proceed but instructed men to line up. Some of us were detained, enduring two hours in the scorching sun.”

He further shared, “We were compelled to keep our gaze fixed on the ground, standing with our heads bowed. Our IDs were taken for verification, leading to the arrest of over ten individuals, while the others were eventually released.”

The situation remains dire as Palestinians continue to navigate the challenges of displacement and insecurity amid the ongoing conflict.

Displaced Palestinians Report Arbitrary Arrests Amid Northern Gaza Crisis

Displaced Palestinians in northern Gaza are sharing harrowing accounts of forced displacement and arbitrary arrests as Israel’s military operations continue. Families fleeing the violence describe encounters with Israeli forces marked by chaos, fear, and violence.

Kamal Abu Hulailel, a young Palestinian boy displaced from his home in Beit Lahiya, recalls how his family was jolted awake when Israeli forces targeted their house and nearby buildings. “We were rescued by some people,” he said, explaining that they fled without time to collect any belongings.

Abu Hulailel reported that the Israeli military arrested his brothers and cousins during the evacuation, and tanks surrounded the area, intensifying the fear among residents. “I saw dead and wounded people during the two-week siege in northern Gaza,” he recounted, describing scenes of destruction and despair.

He also claimed that Israeli soldiers mistreated many men. “They beat several men and forced others to stay in only their underwear,” Abu Hulailel added. The accounts highlight the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where civilians face severe hardships as they flee the ongoing conflict.

Massive Evacuation of Jabalya Refugee Camp Amid Intensifying Conflict in Northern Gaza

October 22, 2024 – Thousands of displaced Palestinians were forced to evacuate the Jabalya refugee camp in northern Gaza on Monday, following intensified Israeli military operations that have devastated the area over the past two weeks.

Death Toll and Humanitarian Impact

The Gaza Civil Defense reports that over 400 people have died in the ongoing military campaign in and around the camp. Spokesperson Mahmoud Basal stated that residents had been enduring “extremely difficult humanitarian conditions” for days, with limited access to essential resources and services.

Drone footage released by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) shows large groups of Palestinians moving through bombed-out streets, guided along specific evacuation routes. The IDF claimed that it organized these corridors to facilitate the safe movement of civilians, adding that several suspects affiliated with terrorist groups were detained during the ongoing operations.

UNRWA Disputes Israeli Narrative

However, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) challenged the IDF’s account, stating that Israeli forces had “forcefully evacuated” seven UNRWA-operated schools in Jabalya, which had served as shelters for displaced families.

In a troubling report, UNRWA confirmed that one of these schools was hit by artillery shells during the evacuation process, killing seven people and injuring several others.

Aid Blockades Worsen Crisis at Kamal Adwan Hospital

Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, speaking from Kamal Adwan Hospital—the only operational medical facility in northern Gaza—described the situation as “extremely difficult.” Attempts by the World Health Organization (WHO) to deliver vital supplies, including blood and food, were reportedly blocked by Israeli forces.

The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate in northern Gaza, where aid deliveries have been almost entirely halted since the beginning of October.

Massive Destruction in Gaza City Following Israeli Bombardment

Jan Egeland, the head of the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), has released images highlighting the severe devastation in Gaza City after sustained bombardment by Israeli forces.

According to Egeland, NRC staff on the ground reported harrowing accounts from displaced residents who fled northern Gaza due to the ongoing siege.

Some of the most heart-wrenching testimonies included:

• Elderly parents unable to retrieve the bodies of their deceased children for burial.
• Critically ill individuals left without access to essential medicines in the midst of the humanitarian crisis.
• Families spending their entire life savings just to survive, now left destitute and desperate.

The situation underscores the growing humanitarian challenges, with Gaza residents struggling to meet basic survival needs amid the siege and bombardment.

This crisis in Gaza has drawn attention from international organizations calling for immediate humanitarian intervention.

Hundreds, Including Top Israeli Ministers, Push for Jewish Settlements in Gaza

In a high-profile event near the Gaza border on Monday, hundreds of Israelis, including government ministers, rallied in favor of re-establishing Jewish settlements in Gaza. This gathering featured several prominent members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government, underscoring growing pressure from right-wing factions.

Top Ministers Advocate Settlements Despite Government’s Stance
Among the senior officials attending were National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, and Minister for Social Equality and Women’s Empowerment May Golan. While Prime Minister Netanyahu previously stated that Israel has no intention to resettle Gaza, Golan, along with members of Ben Gvir’s Otzma Yehudit (Jewish Power) and Smotrich’s Religious Zionist Party, openly supported the call for settlements.

Calls for Settlement and Population Expulsion
Daniella Weiss, a prominent figure in the Zionist settler movement, drew cheers by advocating for the expulsion of Gaza’s Palestinian population, citing the events of October 7.

“After the brutal massacre, the Gaza Arabs lost the right to remain here,” Weiss declared. “Our purpose is clear: to resettle the entire Gaza Strip, from north to south—not just a part of it.”

Celebration and Symbolism at the Border
The event was held in the desert near Kibbutz Be’eri, offering symbolic views overlooking Gaza. Participants danced, sang, and distributed flyers promoting settlement efforts as essential to Israel’s security.

As the gathering took place, artillery fire targeting Gaza could be heard in the background, underscoring the ongoing conflict and tension.

Israel’s Strategy: ‘Emptying Northern Gaza,’ Warns Palestinian Rights Group

The Palestinian Centre for Human Rights (PCHR) has condemned Israel’s actions in northern Gaza, accusing Israeli forces of forcing civilians to abandon their homes and shelters. The organization reported mass arrests of Palestinian civilians amidst ongoing military operations.

According to PCHR, the 16-day siege on northern Gaza appears to be part of a deliberate strategy to empty the region. The group asserts that the goal is to impose a strict blockade, leading to starvation and suffering that compels residents to move towards southern Gaza.

The humanitarian group has repeatedly warned that this escalation not only aims to displace the population but also worsens the humanitarian crisis, raising concerns of further civilian casualties.

UN Faces Criticism for Failing Gaza Amid Worsening Humanitarian Crisis

Francesca Albanese, UN Special Rapporteur, Criticizes Inaction on Gaza Crisis

Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories, has condemned the international community’s response to the Gaza crisis, calling it “the collective shame of the century.” Her remarks highlight the escalating humanitarian situation in Gaza and the lack of meaningful intervention from global powers.

In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), Albanese criticized the United Nations for failing to protect Palestinians in the besieged enclave. She accused Israel of carrying out summary executions, engaging in mass forced displacements, and committing other serious human rights violations.

Albanese described the situation as a “disgraceful testament to global failure in safeguarding basic human rights.” She further emphasized that the UN, once viewed as a symbol of peace and hope, is now “crumbling under the weight of shame” due to inaction and the complicity of influential member states.

This pointed criticism adds to growing international pressure on the UN and its leading members to take decisive action to address the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza.

Oxfam Condemns Israeli Airstrike That Killed Water Engineers in Gaza

Oxfam has strongly condemned the recent Israeli airstrike that resulted in the deaths of four water engineers and workers in Gaza. The humanitarian organization reported that the individuals were targeted while en route to repair critical water infrastructure in Khuzaa, located east of Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip.

According to Oxfam, the engineers were traveling in a clearly marked vehicle and had coordinated their mission with Israeli authorities beforehand. “Despite prior coordination, their vehicle was bombed,” Oxfam stated in a press release.

The organization emphasized that these tragic deaths exacerbate the already dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where access to clean water is severely compromised.

The victims were affiliated with the Coastal Municipalities Water Utility (CMWU), a partner organization of Oxfam. “Oxfam expresses solidarity with the CMWU, their partners, and the families of the deceased,” the statement concluded.

Israel’s Beit Lahia Attack Mirrors Early Days of Ongoing Conflict

The recent assault on Beit Lahia starkly resembles the initial weeks of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, marked by intense and widespread violence. This attack highlights a troubling pattern seen over the past 15 days, characterized by relentless bombings and an escalation of horror across the northern regions of Gaza.

Residents have suffered greatly, enduring 15 days without adequate access to essential resources such as food, water, and medical supplies. Many have been forced to flee their homes, seeking refuge in increasingly dangerous areas like the Project region.

As the ground invasion of northern Gaza intensifies, civilians are now facing the dire consequences of this military campaign. The toll of this aggression continues to weigh heavily on the population, compounding their struggles and suffering.

Israeli Airstrikes in Beit Lahiya, Gaza, Claim 73 Lives

Israeli airstrikes targeting Beit Lahiya in Gaza have resulted in the deaths of at least 73 individuals, as reported by the Gaza Health Ministry on Saturday evening. The airstrikes not only caused significant fatalities but also led to the destruction of several residential buildings. Additionally, numerous injuries have been reported as details continue to emerge from the scene.

Anti-Government Protests Erupt in Israel Over Hostage Situation

Massive crowds of demonstrators took to the streets in multiple cities across Israel on Saturday, demanding that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his administration prioritize the release of hostages held in Gaza.

In Tel Aviv, protesters gathered outside the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) headquarters, effectively blocking traffic while voicing their discontent through chants and slogans directed at the government.

Eran Nissan, a peace activist associated with the progressive group Mehazkim, participated in the rally and distributed T-shirts and stickers criticizing far-right security minister Itamar Ben Gvir. He emphasized that a ceasefire-for-hostages deal was the primary focus of the protests. “The issue of hostages is the first, the second, and the third priority,” he stated, referencing the recent killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar as a potential turning point for negotiations.

Nissan highlighted that there is a strong consensus among the Israeli public regarding this issue, pointing to a previous hostage exchange where 105 hostages were successfully returned during a ceasefire last November. Israeli authorities report that 101 hostages remain in Gaza, with estimates suggesting that up to one-third may no longer be alive.

He also expressed concerns about the current government’s motives, suggesting they might want to extend the conflict. “They know that once the war ends, they will face scrutiny over their role in the events leading to the October 7 terror attack, along with calls for a national inquiry and elections,” Nissan noted. Current polls indicate significant potential backlash against the government.

These large-scale protests marked one of the first significant public demonstrations since the government restricted gatherings due to security concerns following the Iranian ballistic missile attack on October 1, which Iran claimed was retaliation for the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.

IDF Unveils New Footage of Hamas Leader Yahya Sinwar Hours Before October 7 Attacks

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have released new video footage they claim captures Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar in underground tunnels just hours before the October 7 attacks last year.

In the footage, Israeli military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari discusses what the IDF asserts are images of Sinwar and his children, stating that the Hamas leader spent the night concealed with his family in tunnels beneath Khan Younis, a city in central Gaza.

“This was a luxury that the people of Gaza did not have, as Sinwar consistently prioritized his own safety, wealth, and the interests of Hamas terrorists over the welfare of Gaza’s residents,” Hagari emphasized.

This release follows a similar video shared by the IDF in February, which appeared to show Sinwar walking through a tunnel with his family shortly after the October 7 attacks.

Palestinians in Gaza Facing Dire Conditions Amid Israel-Hamas War, Says UNRWA Official

In an update from Gaza, Sam Rose, the deputy director of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), described the worsening humanitarian crisis as Israel’s conflict with Hamas continues into its second year.

Speaking from central Gaza, Rose painted a grim picture of the ongoing situation.

“Every 10 minutes, there are loud explosions, bombardments, people screaming outside, and drones constantly overhead,” Rose said

The military operation launched by Israel in Rafah in May has exacerbated the situation, with regular supplies now almost non-existent. “People in Gaza are suffering from hunger, and sanitary conditions are deteriorating rapidly,” Rose stated.

Rose emphasized the urgent need for humanitarian aid, noting that trucks carrying essential supplies are still waiting to be allowed entry into Gaza. “The crisis is entirely man-made, and the solution lies in getting food trucks into the strip,” he added.

The escalating humanitarian emergency underscores the pressing need for immediate international intervention to provide food, medical aid, and other vital resources to the region.

UN Calls for Urgent Access to North Gaza as Hospitals Face Critical Conditions

The United Nations has issued an urgent appeal for humanitarian and rescue teams to be allowed into northern Gaza, citing life-threatening conditions caused by the ongoing conflict. Muhannad Hadi, the UN’s humanitarian coordinator for the occupied Palestinian territories, stressed that the tightening blockade on Jabalia and surrounding areas poses severe risks to civilians.

Hospitals Under Attack in North Gaza

On Friday, the al-Awda and Indonesian hospitals, two of the last three operational healthcare facilities in the North Gaza governorate, were hit by airstrikes, escalating the humanitarian crisis in the region. Hadi reported that Israeli forces have increased pressure over the past two weeks to evacuate these hospitals. However, patients, staff, and displaced individuals had nowhere to go, resulting in injuries to several people.

Power Outages and Medical Supply Shortages

According to Hadi, two patients at the Indonesian Hospital lost their lives due to power outages and a critical shortage of medical supplies.

“Since yesterday, the United Nations has urgently requested access to North Gaza to help rescue injured civilians trapped under rubble. The delay in receiving permission from Israeli forces continues to endanger lives,” Hadi emphasized in a statement.

UN Urges Immediate Humanitarian Access

The UN is calling for immediate and unrestricted access for humanitarian teams to provide life-saving aid. “Every minute counts, and these delays are putting lives at risk,” Hadi warned.

The international community is closely watching the unfolding crisis, as pressure mounts on Israeli authorities to permit rescue efforts and prevent further civilian casualties.

Sinwar’s Remains: A Potential Bargaining Chip in Hostage Negotiations

The remains of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar could play a crucial role as a bargaining chip in the ongoing negotiations for the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza. Following his death at the hands of Israeli forces in southern Gaza on Wednesday, local media reports indicate that his body is currently secured in a covert location in Israel.

Israeli officials suggest that prioritizing the release of hostages will likely influence how the remains of Sinwar, accused of orchestrating the October 7 attacks last year, are utilized in negotiations. Over 100 individuals taken captive during these Hamas-led attacks are still believed to be held in Gaza, prompting Israeli authorities to strategize on creating immediate pressure for their release.

An Israeli diplomatic source stated, “If Hamas wishes to exchange his remains for Israelis, whether dead or alive, we are open to that.” Both sources involved in the discussions concur that Sinwar’s remains could indeed function as a bargaining tool.

The prospects of returning Sinwar’s remains to Gaza hinge on a potential hostage swap, as it is unlikely to occur otherwise. “Returning him without a deal is not an option,” the source emphasized. Furthermore, concerns have been raised about the implications of such a return. According to the diplomatic source, if Sinwar were buried in Gaza, it could become a rallying point for Hamas supporters, potentially leading to a shrine.

In light of Sinwar’s death, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog convened a security meeting on Friday to discuss the “significant window of opportunity” for advancing the hostage negotiations. In comments made Thursday, Netanyahu urged Hamas members still holding Israeli captives to surrender their weapons and return the hostages, assuring them that they would be allowed to “go out and live.”

This development marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict, highlighting the intricate dynamics of hostage negotiations amid escalating tensions in the region.

US Indicts Sudanese Brothers for Cyber Attacks on Israel’s Missile Alert Systems

The U.S. Department of Justice has filed charges against two Sudanese brothers for their involvement in cyber attacks targeting U.S. infrastructure and Israel’s missile alert systems on October 7. According to the indictment, the hackers were affiliated with a group named Anonymous Sudan, which has conducted approximately 35,000 cyber attack attempts over the past year.

The indictment details that the brothers specifically targeted applications operated by private companies designed to alert citizens of missile sirens and threats, temporarily disrupting these crucial systems. However, it is noted that there is no evidence linking their activities with Hamas.

These cyber attacks not only affected missile alert apps in Israel but also targeted various websites belonging to government agencies and media outlets. This case highlights the growing threat of cyber warfare and its implications for national security.

Trump Suggests Sinwar’s Death Could Facilitate Peace in Gaza

Former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed that the death of Yahya Sinwar may enhance the prospects for peace in Gaza. During his arrival in Detroit, Trump was approached by reporters who inquired about the implications of Sinwar’s killing for regional stability.

“I think it makes it easier,” Trump stated, indicating his belief that this development could pave the way for negotiations. He also revealed plans to speak with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the near future.

Israeli Defense Forces Eliminate Hamas Commander Responsible for Sinwar’s Security

In a significant development, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have successfully eliminated the commander of the Tal-Sultan Battalion, who was responsible for the security of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. This operation underscores ongoing efforts to enhance security and stability in the region.

In related news, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog convened for a security briefing, discussing a potential “window of opportunity” to advance the return of hostages.

Additionally, a shooting incident near the Dead Sea has resulted in moderate injuries to a soldier and a reservist, while two assailants attempting to cross from Jordan were neutralized by IDF forces.

Tragically, three Golani Brigade soldiers sustained serious injuries due to friendly fire from an IDF tank in southern Lebanon. Further incidents reported include two additional soldiers injured in Gaza and along the northern border.

Gaza’s Health System on the Brink: Urgent Plea from Health Ministry Official

Dr. Marwan Al-Homs, the director of field hospitals within the Gaza Strip’s Health Ministry, has issued a grave warning regarding the health crisis unfolding in the besieged enclave. He states that the region’s health system is facing “destruction and annihilation.”

During a recent press conference, Dr. Al-Homs highlighted the dire situation, noting that wounded patients in Gaza are dying without medical intervention. “Our injured individuals cannot access treatment, and they are losing their lives due to a lack of care,” he lamented.

Dr. Al-Homs made an urgent “call for help” to the international community, imploring them to “save Northern Gaza before it’s too late.” He accused Israeli forces of systematically destroying the northern Gaza governorate, describing their actions as “massacres and acts of genocide against our people.”

He further explained the overwhelming burden on hospitals, stating, “Our healthcare facilities are unable to cope with the surge in casualties. Intensive care units are at capacity with severe cases, and we are forced to prioritize care based on urgency.”

The neonatal units are particularly affected, with no available space for newborns or premature infants. “Some cesarean sections have been postponed until a bed can be allocated for an infant in critical need,” he added.

The health crisis extends beyond medical care; Dr. Al-Homs revealed that medical staff, civil defense teams, and civilians in Gaza are struggling to find food. “We have nothing to eat,” he emphasized, highlighting the severe humanitarian conditions faced by the population.

He also pointed out that Israeli forces are deliberately obstructing the entry of fuel into Gaza, and the limited amounts that are allowed in fall far short of the population’s needs.

DNA Testing Identifies Body of Hamas Leader Yahya Sinwar

Tel Aviv, Israel – Israeli forces discovered a body resembling Yahya Sinwar on Wednesday, with a finger amputated for DNA testing to confirm his identity, according to Dr. Chen Kugel, the chief pathologist at the Israel National Center of Forensic Medicine in Tel Aviv. Kugel explained that they compared the DNA profile from the severed finger with records from Sinwar’s previous imprisonment, leading to a conclusive identification.

Yahya Sinwar, a prominent leader of Hamas, had spent over 20 years in Israeli prisons before his release in 2011 as part of a prisoner exchange for an Israeli soldier. Initially, forensic experts attempted to identify Sinwar using dental records from photographs, but the results were deemed insufficient for confirmation.

Following the identification, Sinwar’s body arrived at the forensic center in Tel Aviv around 9:30 p.m. on Thursday for comprehensive DNA analysis. Dr. Kugel stated that the examination yielded a 100% certainty that the body belonged to Sinwar.

Amid the developments, videos and images circulating on social media depicted Sinwar’s body initially showing all five fingers on his left hand. However, subsequent images revealed one finger missing. The geolocated photographs, taken at the site of the operation that reportedly killed Sinwar, displayed a man wearing a watch on his left wrist, a military vest, and a scarf, matching descriptions provided by the Israeli military. Additionally, the deceased showed signs of head trauma, and his right hand appeared battered.

Further social media footage indicated that the position of the body had been altered post-mortem, with the watch, military vest, and scarf removed, and the severed finger no longer visible.

This significant development raises further questions regarding the circumstances of Sinwar’s death and the ongoing conflict in the region.

Six Palestinians Killed in Israeli Strikes on Gaza City and Jabalia: Reports

Gaza City, October 18 — At least six Palestinians have been killed in separate Israeli airstrikes across Gaza, according to the Palestinian news agency Wafa, citing medics from the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS).

The latest strike targeted the al-Nusra neighborhood in the northwest of Gaza City, where four Palestinians reportedly lost their lives due to an Israeli drone attack.

In a separate incident near the Al-Awda Hospital in Jabalia, two Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes.

Earlier today, three more Palestinians were confirmed dead following an Israeli assault on the Jabalia refugee camp, located in northern Gaza.

The situation in northern Gaza remains dire, with the area under a complete communications blackout and facing an ongoing military siege by Israeli forces.

Potential Successors to Lead Hamas Following Yahya Sinwar’s Death

Who Will Lead Hamas After Sinwar? Key Contenders to Watch

Following the death of Yahya Sinwar, the long-time leader of Hamas, speculation is mounting about who could take the reins of the organization. Sinwar was reportedly killed by Israel on Wednesday, marking the culmination of a year-long effort to eliminate him. He had been accused of orchestrating the deadly October 7, 2023 attacks.

Despite this significant loss, Hamas has vowed to continue its fight, emphasizing that the death of its leaders does not mean the end of the movement. In a Friday statement, Hamas’ political office affirmed:

“Hamas each time became stronger and more popular, and these leaders became an icon for future generations to continue the journey towards a free Palestine.”

Below are the top contenders who could succeed Sinwar:

1. Mohammed Sinwar – Brother and Military Leader

Mohammed Sinwar, Yahya’s younger brother, is widely viewed as a natural successor. A hardline militant like his brother, Mohammed has recently taken on a prominent role as Hamas’ military commander.

His whereabouts are currently unknown, but Israeli officials have stated that they are actively searching for him. Reports suggest that the two brothers spent much of the past year together, with their most recent encounter documented in August.

2. Mousa Abu Marzouk – Co-founder of Hamas

Mousa Abu Marzouk, the deputy chief of Hamas’ political bureau, is another strong candidate. With deep ties to Hamas since its inception, Marzouk lived in the United States for five years before being deported after being designated as a terrorist by the FBI. His long-standing influence makes him a viable contender for the top leadership role.

3. Khaled Meshaal – Former Political Chief

Khaled Meshaal, the former head of Hamas’ political wing, is well-known internationally and has held meetings with high-profile leaders such as Jimmy Carter, Jordan’s King Abdullah II, and Iran’s Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. However, Meshaal’s support for a Sunni-led uprising against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad could complicate his candidacy, as Hamas maintains support from Iran, a Shia-majority state.

4. Khalil Al Hayya – Chief Negotiator Based in Qatar

Khalil Al Hayya, Sinwar’s deputy, has been instrumental in negotiating ceasefires, most recently during Cairo talks. Al Hayya is currently based in Qatar, and his diplomatic experience could position him as a strategic choice for Hamas’ future leadership.

What’s Next for Hamas?

While it remains uncertain if Yahya Sinwar left clear instructions regarding his successor, Hamas’ internal structure is designed to withstand the loss of key leaders. The new leader, whoever it may be, will likely shape the group’s strategies as it navigates its next steps amidst ongoing regional tensions.

Biden: Ceasefire in Gaza Will Be Tougher Than in Lebanon

Berlin, Germany – U.S. President Joe Biden has indicated that while a ceasefire in Lebanon is possible, achieving one in Gaza will be significantly more challenging. His comments come amid ongoing efforts to ease tensions in both regions, where Israel has intensified military operations.

American officials have publicly supported ceasefires in Lebanon and Gaza but recently stressed that Israel’s actions against Hezbollah are justified as “appropriate.”

In addition, a report from Brown University highlights that the U.S. has spent $22.76 billion supporting Israel’s war efforts in Gaza and its operations against the Houthis in Yemen.

The pursuit of a ceasefire in Gaza has encountered several roadblocks. Both Israel and the U.S. hold Hamas responsible for the ongoing conflict, especially following the death of the group’s former leader, Yahya Sinwar. Just a day after Israel confirmed Sinwar’s killing, U.S. officials urged for a ceasefire, suggesting that his death should pave the way for de-escalation.

Biden, currently visiting Berlin, told reporters that he is aware of Israel’s planned response to Iran’s recent missile strikes but declined to provide further details.

Israeli Military Claims Drone Footage Captures Sinwar Moments Before His Death

The Israeli military has released drone footage on Thursday, claiming it shows Yahya Sinwar, a senior Hamas leader, moments before his death. The video captures a drone flying into a building in Rafah, southern Gaza, where a man, identified as Sinwar, sits on a chair. According to the Israeli military, the footage documents the final moments before his “elimination.”

In the video, the man—covered in dust—can be seen observing the drone for about 20 seconds before throwing an object, potentially a stick, at it. However, independent verification of the man’s identity remains inconclusive.

The visuals in the video align with earlier photographs obtained by media sources, showing the body of a man resembling Sinwar in the same room. The photos reveal new structural damage, suggesting an explosion occurred after the drone encounter. Additionally, the corpse is dressed in a green kaffiyeh, matching the garment worn by the individual in the footage.

The building where the footage was captured is located on the second floor of a residential structure in Tel al-Sultan, a neighborhood in southern Rafah. The Israeli military had earlier released multiple videos of soldiers operating near the site after Sinwar’s reported death. Geolocation analysis confirmed that these videos were recorded near the same house.

Israel has recently intensified military activities in Rafah, including patrols documented since September. In one earlier patrol video, Israeli soldiers are seen passing by the same building where Sinwar was later killed, although it remains unclear if he was inside during the earlier footage.

This incident is part of Israel’s broader campaign targeting key figures in Gaza as military operations continue to escalate.

US Threatens to Reassess Support for Israel Over Gaza Aid Restrictions: What to Know

Top US officials have warned Israel that continued delays in allowing humanitarian aid into Gaza could result in reduced American support. The letter, signed by Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, urges Israel to take “urgent and sustained actions” to facilitate aid delivery.

The warning comes as Gaza faces severe food shortages and disease outbreaks amid Israel’s prolonged military campaign in the region. Advocates argue that blocking essential aid exacerbates the humanitarian crisis, putting additional pressure on the Biden administration to intervene.

Explore our detailed explainer to learn more about the letter, reactions from global leaders and experts, and what may unfold next.

Biden Expresses Optimism About Securing Ceasefire Amid Gaza-Israel War

Berlin Summit: Biden Pushes for Ceasefire Discussions
US President Joe Biden has arrived in Berlin for a 24-hour diplomatic mission, where he will meet with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and French President Emmanuel Macron. Biden’s focus is on rallying support to end the ongoing war between Israel and Gaza.

Biden Calls for End to Hostilities and Release of Captives
The US president emphasized the importance of ending the war and ensuring the safe return of Israeli captives. “It’s time for this war to end,” Biden said, signaling a clear shift toward ceasefire efforts.

Blinken to Visit Israel for ‘Day After’ Strategy Talks
Biden announced that Secretary of State Antony Blinken would travel to the Middle East, including Israel, within the next four to five days. Blinken’s mission will involve discussing what the United States terms the ‘day after’—a strategy focused on post-conflict recovery and stability in the region.

Biden Optimistic About Ceasefire Prospects
When asked by reporters about the likelihood of securing a ceasefire, Biden expressed optimism. “I’m hopeful,” he stated, underscoring the US administration’s commitment to diplomatic solutions.

Hamas Leader Yahya Sinwar’s Death Marks Key Milestone, Israeli Military Chief Declares

The world is “now a better place” following the elimination of Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas, according to the Commander-in-Chief of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Herzi Halevi. Speaking on Thursday, Halevi shared insights from his meeting with the soldiers responsible for the operation, commending their “professionalism, precision, and unwavering determination” in neutralizing Sinwar.

“Our troops acted correctly—not because they knew Sinwar was present, but because our soldiers excel in every encounter with terrorists, across all sectors,” Halevi emphasized.

US Defense Secretary Highlights Counterterrorism Achievement

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin called Sinwar’s death a “major counterterrorism success.” Austin expressed hope that this development brings “some measure of justice and peace to the families affected by Sinwar’s cruelty.” He also reiterated calls for a ceasefire, urging swift efforts to secure the release of remaining hostages, including American citizens.

Austin’s statement aligns with recent calls from President Joe Biden, emphasizing the need to end hostilities while focusing on humanitarian objectives.

This development marks a significant shift in the ongoing conflict and is expected to have lasting geopolitical ramifications.

US Special Forces Assist in Tracking Hamas Leaders During Gaza Hostage Recovery Efforts

The mission to recover hostages in Gaza is closely connected with tracking Hamas leaders, according to US officials. While special operations forces deployed in Israel have primarily focused on hostage recovery, their efforts often overlap with finding key Hamas figures, given the group’s practice of keeping hostages near their leadership.

“The goal is to recover the hostages, but to do that, you often have to target high-value individuals (HVI),” a US defense official said. “The two activities are almost inseparable.”

US Forces Supporting Israel’s Efforts

US special forces have been operating in Israel since last year, supporting hostage recovery missions. President Joe Biden confirmed on Thursday that he had directed these personnel to assist Israel following Hamas’ attacks on October 7, specifically targeting senior Hamas leaders, including Yahya Sinwar.

Sinwar’s Death and Israel’s Operation

Israel announced on Wednesday that Sinwar was killed in Gaza during a military operation. Officials believe Sinwar was hiding underground and likely using hostages as human shields. An Israeli military spokesperson revealed that Sinwar was killed near the location where the remains of six hostages were discovered last month.

US Not Involved in the Operation

Despite close collaboration with Israeli forces, US officials clarified that American intelligence was not directly involved in the operation that led to Sinwar’s death. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan stated that the mission was carried out by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). Sullivan acknowledged the role of US special operations forces and intelligence professionals in applying counterterrorism pressure alongside the IDF, which forced many Hamas leaders to flee.

Escape Attempt Foiled

Israeli officials believe Sinwar was killed while attempting to move north from the Rafah area in southern Gaza. His death marks a significant blow to Hamas leadership amid ongoing efforts to recover hostages and dismantle the group’s operations in Gaza.

Israeli Army and Shin Bet Confirm Killing of Hamas Leader Yahya Sinwar

In a coordinated statement, the Israeli army and domestic security agency Shin Bet announced the death of Yahya Sinwar, a senior leader of Hamas. According to the statement, Sinwar was killed yesterday during an operation conducted in the southern Gaza Strip.

The statement read: “A force of the 828th Brigade, which operated in the area, identified and eliminated three terrorists. After completing the process of identifying the body, it can now be confirmed that [Sinwar] was eliminated.”

This confirmation aligns with an earlier statement by Israel’s Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, who claimed that Sinwar was killed during the operation.

Hamas has yet to respond to Israel’s claims regarding the death of its leader.

Record High of Palestinian Children Arbitrarily Detained by Israel, Report Finds

A recent report by Defence for Children International Palestine (DCIP) reveals alarming statistics regarding the detention of Palestinian children by Israeli authorities. The number of children held in Israeli administrative detention has surged nearly fourfold over the past year, reaching a staggering 85 as of September 30. This administrative detention allows Israel to imprison individuals without trial or formal charges, often for indefinite periods.

According to DCIP, this figure represents the highest number of child detainees since the organization began monitoring in 2008. “Israeli forces are arbitrarily detaining Palestinian children without charge or trial at an unprecedented rate,” stated Ayed Abu Eqtaish, the accountability program director at DCIP.

The report highlights the psychological toll of such detentions. Palestinian children subject to administrative orders issued by Israeli military commanders face uncertainty about their release dates, leading to significant stress, anxiety, and depression. The impact of these detentions extends beyond the individual children, affecting their families and communities as well.

UK’s UN Envoy Describes Conditions in Northern Gaza as ‘Harrowing,’ Criticizes Israel for Blocking Food Aid

Barbara Woodward, the United Kingdom’s Ambassador to the United Nations, has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in northern Gaza, calling the conditions “harrowing.”

Woodward pointed to Israel as being responsible for restricting the movement of essential food aid. “During the first half of October, no food aid reached northern Gaza, with Israeli authorities obstructing the vast majority of humanitarian efforts between the northern and southern regions,” she stated.

The envoy also warned that aid deliveries in October could drop to their lowest levels since the start of the conflict, potentially falling below the already reduced numbers seen in September.

In a stern message, Woodward urged Israel to comply with international humanitarian law, emphasizing the urgent need for unhindered humanitarian access.

US Struggles to Secure Increased Humanitarian Aid for Gaza Amid Crisis

US officials have been urging Israel for months to facilitate more humanitarian aid to Gaza, but efforts have largely fallen short as the situation on the ground continues to deteriorate.

The US ambassador recently acknowledged that the administration has been pressing Israel to commit to opening additional aid corridors. She indicated that some progress is being made, with a limited number of trucks now starting to pass through.

However, despite these assurances, UN reports reveal that the aid delivered so far is severely inadequate. Officials warn that the conditions, particularly in northern Gaza, remain dire, with civilians facing acute shortages of food and essential supplies.

The US continues to push for expanded access, but aid agencies emphasize that far more needs to be done to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in the region.

Israeli Ambassador to UN Claims Hamas Is Obstructing Gaza Aid, Not Israel

Danny Danon, Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations, has accused Hamas of hijacking humanitarian aid efforts in Gaza, asserting that the terrorist organization, not Israel, is responsible for obstructing relief efforts. Speaking during today’s UN Security Council (UNSC) session, Danon criticized the international community for “missing the real issue at hand” and insisted that sufficient aid has entered Gaza to support civilians.

Danon alleged, without presenting evidence, that Hamas is diverting aid for its own gain, claiming the group steals and even sells supplies meant for civilians. “Hamas turns humanitarian relief into a profit machine,” he stated during the UNSC meeting.

He further reiterated Israel’s unverified claims that UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) employs Hamas fighters and disrupts humanitarian operations. “How many times have we raised concerns about Hamas infiltrating UNRWA? How many months have passed since we submitted lists of terrorists employed by UNRWA? No reply,” he remarked.

However, an April report from a former French foreign minister concluded that Israel has not substantiated its accusations against the refugee agency operating in Gaza.

Despite the ongoing criticism, Danon emphasized that Israel is still cooperating with international partners to facilitate aid.

“We remain committed to ensuring humanitarian assistance reaches Gaza, even in these dangerous and morally reprehensible circumstances,” he said.

Palestine’s UN Envoy Urges Security Council to Break Silence on Gaza Crisis

Riyad Mansour, Palestine’s representative to the United Nations, has made a powerful appeal to the Security Council, urging immediate action to halt Israel’s escalating military campaign in Gaza. Mansour condemned what he described as “genocide” taking place in Gaza, calling on all members to acknowledge the humanitarian crisis and take meaningful steps to address it.

“What is happening in northern Gaza now is another level of monstrosity,” Mansour declared, referring to the intensified airstrikes on the northern region.

Mansour criticized the global community’s inaction, questioning whether the Council would “surrender” while Palestinians continue to resist, even in the face of “collective capital punishment.”

He emphasized the responsibility of the UN Security Council, urging members to leverage the tools of international law to counter what he described as violations of the UN Charter. “The massacres must end—ceasefire now,” Mansour concluded.

Gaza Reporter Faces Paralysis After Being Shot by Israeli Forces

A 24-year-old Palestinian journalist may face paralysis after being shot by Israeli forces while covering the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The incident occurred on October 9 near the Jabalya refugee camp, where the reporter was documenting the Israeli incursion.

Fadi Wael Abdel Karim Al-Wahidi was critically injured when he was shot in the neck. Dr. Fadel Naim, a physician at Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza City, described Al-Wahidi’s condition as “very serious.” He explained that a piece of shrapnel struck the journalist’s neck, severing vital veins. Due to severe shortages in medical supplies in northern Gaza, there are not enough resources available to stabilize Al-Wahidi until he can receive surgery. Dr. Naim expressed concern that Al-Wahidi is likely to suffer from paraplegia as a result of his injuries.

In response to the incident, the Israeli military stated that they were “not aware of IDF (Israel Defense Forces) troops in the specified area” during the shooting.

The ongoing Israeli offensive in Gaza has led to unprecedented casualties among journalists, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists. As of Tuesday, at least 128 journalists and media workers—primarily Palestinian—have lost their lives since the Hamas-led attacks on October 7.

US Warns Israel: Aid to Northern Gaza Must Resume or Military Support Will Cease

The United States has issued a clear warning to Israel, stating that if humanitarian aid is not allowed into northern Gaza, military assistance to Israel could be halted. This development has sparked significant concern, as no aid has reached Gaza since the beginning of October.

Aid Levels Drop by 30%

Recent data shows that aid to Gaza has declined by approximately 30% since summer, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region. The US Secretary of State now holds the authority to initiate the suspension of military aid to Israel if these conditions are not met, following both US law and specific directives.

A Stern Message to Israel

The warning from the US was unexpected but is being interpreted as a firm stance toward Israel. Washington has expressed concern that Israel might be employing a strategy suggested by former military generals, aiming to cut off supplies to weaken Hamas forces, particularly in northern Gaza.

Mixed Messages from US Officials

While some American officials have denied the existence of such a strategy, the lack of aid delivery since the start of the month raises concerns. US policymakers fear the situation could damage humanitarian efforts and strain diplomatic relations if immediate actions are not taken.

This unfolding situation highlights growing tensions between the US and Israel over Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, with military aid now linked to the resumption of vital humanitarian relief.

Woman in Gaza Chooses to Stay with Her Mother Despite Evacuation Orders

In northern Gaza’s Jabaliya, Amna Soliman faces a heartbreaking dilemma as Israeli forces continue operations nearby. With tanks advancing, shrapnel hitting her home, and airstrikes booming, the 42-year-old former teacher cannot heed evacuation warnings issued by the Israeli military. Her mother, who uses a wheelchair, is unable to travel, leaving Soliman with no choice but to stay behind.

Evacuation Challenges Amid Ongoing Military Operations

Soliman’s neighbors warned her more than a week ago about Israeli forces entering Jabaliya, a town heavily bombarded earlier in the conflict. The military has stated that the operation aims to prevent Hamas militants from regaining a foothold in the area. While many of her neighbors fled, Soliman stayed with her 7-year-old child and several other women, saying:

“I simply cannot take her out… I cannot leave her either. So we all stayed.”

Her situation reflects the struggle of countless civilians in northern Gaza. U.N. data estimates around 400,000 residents remain, including those who are sick or disabled and cannot evacuate. Some fear they face greater danger on the road or at new locations.

Rising Civilian Casualties and International Concern

The International Committee of the Red Cross has reported mass displacement and increasing casualties, describing the situation as one of “unimaginable fear.” UNRWA, the U.N. agency assisting Palestinian refugees, said an Israeli tank shell hit a food distribution center in Jabaliya, killing at least 10 people. The Israeli military is investigating these claims, which remain unverified.

Palestinian civil defense crews recovered 12 bodies and rescued three wounded civilians from various sites in Jabaliya on Tuesday, according to spokesperson Dr. Mohammed Al Moghayer. Since October 5, at least 69 people have been killed in northern Gaza as the Israeli operation intensifies.

Risks for Rescue Workers

The conflict has become perilous even for rescue workers. On Tuesday, Dr. Ahmed Talab al-Najjar was killed while attempting to evacuate wounded individuals in Jabaliya’s al-Falluja neighborhood. In response to safety concerns, the Palestinian Red Crescent withdrew its staff from Jabaliya, focusing instead on calls to retrieve bodies and evacuate the injured. However, damaged roads and restrictions imposed by the Israeli military have complicated rescue efforts, according to spokeswoman Nebal Farsakh.

Reports of Civilians Blocked from Evacuating

The U.N. Human Rights Office expressed concern that Israeli forces appear to be sealing off northern Gaza by constructing sand barriers at key crossings. There are also unverified reports of Palestinians being shot while trying to evacuate to safer areas in the south.

Meanwhile, Israel’s military and COGAT, the organization responsible for coordinating policies in Gaza, have highlighted efforts to provide food and medical support to civilians in the region.

Soliman’s Story of Survival

Amna Soliman shared that Israeli soldiers called her three times, urging her to evacuate, but she explained that she could not leave due to her mother’s condition. She also confirmed that the Red Cross contacted her and notified the Israeli military about her situation.

“We have some canned food and water stored,” she said. “We are using as little water as possible because we cannot get any more.”

Soliman’s plight exemplifies the harsh realities facing civilians trapped in the conflict, as they navigate life-threatening conditions, limited resources, and difficult choices.

Israel Increases Raids in West Bank Amid Global Focus on Gaza and Lebanon

With global attention directed toward escalating conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, Israel is intensifying its operations in the occupied West Bank. Areas like Beit Furik have become recurring targets of Israeli military raids, adding to the mounting tension in the region.

The northern West Bank has witnessed daily incursions, with several hot zones emerging, particularly in cities such as Jenin, Tulkarem, and Nablus. Today, clashes erupted between Israeli forces and armed fighters, leading to injuries among civilians. The Palestinian Red Crescent confirmed that two individuals, including a child, were wounded during the confrontations.

Observers highlight that as global media shifts its focus to the unfolding crises in Gaza and southern Lebanon, Israel is exercising what many describe as a “free hand” in the West Bank. This includes increased military raids, targeted assassinations, and efforts to control key areas, while minimizing international scrutiny.

The escalation of these West Bank operations reflects a concerning trend, with fears growing that the situation may deteriorate further amid heightened regional instability.

Israeli Airstrike Hits School Shelter in Northern Gaza, Causing Casualties

Israeli forces have conducted an airstrike on a school sheltering displaced individuals in northern Gaza, resulting in several Palestinian casualties, as reported by the Palestinian news agency Wafa. The attack specifically targeted Hafsa School located in the Jabalia refugee camp. Eyewitnesses confirmed the impact of the bombing, raising concerns over the safety of civilians amid ongoing conflict in the region. This incident underscores the escalating violence and humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where many are seeking refuge in designated shelters.

Israel Resumes Humanitarian Aid Supply to Northern Gaza Strip

In a significant shift, Israel has restarted the flow of humanitarian aid to the northern Gaza Strip after a two-week pause aimed at pressuring residents to evacuate and encouraging Hamas to negotiate the release of hostages.

On Monday, Israel resumed the delivery of essential aid following Vice President Kamala Harris’s strong condemnation of the aid blockade during a recent conversation with President Biden. Harris emphasized the urgent need for humanitarian assistance, stating, “The UN reports that food has not entered the Strip for two weeks. Israel must urgently facilitate the delivery of aid to those in need. Citizens must be protected and have access to food, water, and medicine. Humanitarian laws must be respected.” This statement was shared via Twitter.

In response to the renewed aid efforts, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced that they had complied with directives from the political leadership. Today, 30 trucks carrying flour and food, organized by the World Food Programme (WFP), were transported from the Port of Ashdod through the Erez West crossing to the northern Gaza Strip. This action marks a commitment to improving humanitarian conditions in the region amid ongoing conflict.

Israeli Military Blocking Northern Gaza, Says UN, Amid Ongoing Airstrikes

The United Nations Human Rights Office has expressed alarm over the intensifying conflict in northern Gaza, where relentless Israeli airstrikes have persisted for 10 consecutive days. According to the UN, tens of thousands of civilians remain trapped in the area with no access to food, water, or essential supplies.

In a recent statement, the UN accused the Israeli military of isolating northern Gaza from the rest of the territory, raising grave concerns about the safety of Palestinian civilians. “The military operation appears to cut off North Gaza entirely, showing a blatant disregard for civilian lives and security,” the UN stated.

Reports suggest that Israeli forces have erected sand barriers at critical junctions, effectively blocking escape routes and preventing civilians from leaving the conflict zone. Witnesses also claim that Israeli troops are firing on those attempting to flee.

As the broader conflict in the Middle East escalates, the humanitarian situation in northern Gaza continues to deteriorate, with the UN calling for immediate international intervention to ensure civilian protection and access to aid.

A Gaza Medical Student’s Determined Quest for Education Amid Conflict

Gaza, October 12, 2024 – Iman Ayad, a 22-year-old medical student from Gaza, is facing significant obstacles as she pursues her education in the midst of ongoing conflict. Currently studying in a makeshift tent, Iman exemplifies resilience as she adapts to the harsh realities of war.

Utilizing a friend’s laptop, she participates in online classes, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to becoming a medical professional. Her motivation stems from a deep-seated desire to provide essential healthcare to the people of Gaza, especially during these trying times.

Despite the numerous challenges she encounters, Iman remains steadfast in her pursuit of knowledge. She believes that completing her studies will empower her to make a meaningful impact on her community’s health and well-being.

Latest Update on the Situation in Northern Gaza: Key Developments

Significant developments have emerged regarding the ongoing crisis in northern Gaza:

• The Israeli military is implementing a strategy to isolate northern Gaza from Gaza City by deploying military vehicles, drones, and constructing sand barriers.
• Israeli forces have utilized explosive robots to demolish numerous houses in the Jabalia refugee camp, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
• Currently, tens of thousands of families remain trapped within the Jabalia camp, with estimates indicating that over 400,000 individuals are affected in northern Gaza.
• A substantial number of bodies remain unrecovered in the northern regions due to ongoing attacks targeting medical teams and ambulances.
• The Israeli army has restricted the entry of food and humanitarian aid into northern Gaza, worsening the dire situation for residents.

Fuel Delivered to Northern Gaza Hospital Prevents Crisis—For Now

Northern Gaza’s Kamal Adwan Hospital narrowly avoided disaster on Saturday as fuel was delivered after prolonged warnings that the facility was at risk of shutting down. The fuel is crucial to keep life-saving equipment operational, ensuring continued medical care in a region under severe strain.

Fares Afana, the head of emergency services in northern Gaza, confirmed that a fuel truck arrived at the hospital and began refueling the facility’s generators. The delivery comes after several warnings from hospital officials about the dire consequences of energy shortages.

Dr. Hussam Abu Saifiya, the hospital’s director, highlighted the critical need for fuel, stating that patients were at risk of dying without a reliable energy supply. He accused the Israeli military of blocking multiple attempts to bring in fuel, exacerbating the crisis.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF), addressing the allegations, said a planned medical convoy to transfer patients from Kamal Adwan Hospital to Gaza City was delayed for security reasons over the past three days. However, they confirmed that the convoy arrived at the hospital on October 12, bringing essential fuel supplies.

This temporary reprieve ensures the hospital can continue operating, but the situation remains fragile as the region faces ongoing humanitarian challenges.

Tensions Escalate Ahead of Yom Kippur: Rocket Barrages Target Northern Israel; UAV Intercepted

On the eve of Yom Kippur, multiple rocket barrages were launched towards northern Israel, triggering alarms across the Sharon region. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) successfully intercepted a drone (UAV) that was fired from Lebanon, while investigations are underway to determine if another UAV exploded over the sea.

Throughout the day, dozens of rockets were aimed at communities in the Galilee, with air raid sirens sounding in Akko and the Krayot area. Tragically, a 42-year-old foreign worker lost his life due to an unexploded ordnance explosion near Kibbutz Yar’on.

Additionally, one rocket that crossed from the northern Gaza Strip was intercepted near Sderot. In a separate incident, a commander from the anti-tank unit of the Radwan force was eliminated in southern Lebanon.

The military operation continues in Tulkarem, where a leader of the Islamic Jihad terror organization has been killed. The IDF has also confirmed the death of Sergeant Itay Fogel, 22, from Yikir, during operations in southern Gaza.

Kippur Eve Escalation: Rocket Barrages in the North, Drone Intercepted in Central Israel

On the eve of Yom Kippur, tensions escalated with rocket barrages targeting northern Israel and a drone launched from Lebanon intercepted over central Israel. Alarms were triggered in the Sharon area as the IDF successfully downed the drone, while investigations are ongoing regarding a potential second drone that may have exploded over the sea. Throughout the day, dozens of rockets were fired at Galilee communities, with alarms also sounding in Acre and the Kiryat area. Tragically, a 42-year-old foreign worker was killed by an unexploded ordnance in Kibbutz Yiron. Meanwhile, a rocket fired from northern Gaza was intercepted near Sderot. In southern Lebanon, a commander from Hezbollah’s Radwan Force was eliminated by Israeli forces. The ongoing operation in Tulkarem also saw the elimination of an Islamic Jihad terror leader. It was further revealed that Staff Sergeant Itay Fogel, a 22-year-old from Yakir, fell in action in southern Gaza.

Northern Gaza Becomes ‘Uninhabitable Ruins’ Amid Israeli Strikes

Northern Gaza, particularly the Jabalia refugee camp, is rapidly deteriorating into what many are calling “uninhabitable ruins” as Israeli forces intensify their attacks, according to Doctors Without Borders (MSF).

Thousands of civilians remain trapped in the camp, with no safe passage in or out. “Nobody is allowed to get in or out, anyone who tries is getting shot,” said Sarah Vuylsteke, MSF project coordinator, in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

On October 7, the Israeli army issued evacuation orders to residents in the Jabalia camp. However, as MSF reports, these orders coincided with ongoing attacks, preventing people from safely fleeing the area.

“Evacuations, combined with relentless bombing, are turning northern Gaza into uninhabitable ruins,” MSF emphasized.

One witness, Haydar, an MSF driver, shared the grim reality inside the camp: “We were staying at the Al-Yemen Al-Saeed Hospital, but it was bombed. About 20 people were killed. At any moment, we could die.”

Haydar added, “People are starving. I am afraid to stay, and I am also afraid to leave.”

UNICEF Announces Humanitarian Pauses in Gaza for Polio Vaccination Efforts

UNICEF has confirmed that humanitarian pauses in the ongoing Gaza conflict have been agreed upon to facilitate a crucial second round of polio vaccinations. These efforts aim to immunize approximately 590,000 children under the age of 10 in the Gaza Strip, with the vaccination campaign set to begin on October 14.

Catherine Russell, Executive Director of UNICEF, emphasized the importance of these pauses, stating, “Area-specific humanitarian pauses have been agreed. It is critical that these pauses are respected by all parties. Without them, it is impossible to vaccinate the children.” The successful implementation of these pauses is essential to ensure the safety and health of children in the region during this challenging time.

UN Inquiry Accuses Israel of Committing War Crimes in Gaza

A recent report from a United Nations commission of inquiry has accused Israel of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity in its military actions in Gaza. The independent investigators, led by former UN human rights commissioner Navi Pillay, assert that Israel’s attacks on healthcare facilities and its treatment of Palestinian detainees constitute severe violations of international law.

According to the report, Israel has engaged in a “concerted policy to destroy Gaza’s healthcare system” as part of a broader military assault. The findings highlight “relentless and deliberate attacks on medical personnel and facilities,” which the UN defines as war crimes and acts of extermination.

The investigation also reveals that thousands of individuals, including children, have been detained and subjected to “widespread and systematic abuse.” This abuse reportedly includes torture, rape, and other forms of sexual violence.

Furthermore, the report details the mistreatment of Israeli and other hostages held in Gaza. They have faced physical and sexual violence, forced isolation, and restricted access to essential hygiene facilities, water, and food, along with threats and humiliation.

While the report primarily focuses on Israeli actions, it also notes that Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups have been implicated in committing war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Up to 51,000 Unaccompanied Children in Gaza Amid Escalating Conflict, Human Rights Group Warns

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) reports that the number of unaccompanied children in Gaza has surged to a staggering 51,000 since Israel’s military operations began. This figure represents a dramatic rise from the estimated 17,000 unaccompanied children recorded by the charity in June. The IRC’s latest research, published Wednesday, highlights the growing risks faced by children who have been separated from their families amid the ongoing conflict.

The humanitarian organization attributes the increase to several factors, including repeated displacements, arrests, evacuation orders, and fatalities. Some children have been found living alone in hospitals, raising fears of child exploitation, neglect, and severe mental health impacts.

The ongoing Israeli offensive in Gaza, following the Hamas-led attacks on October 7, has intensified a humanitarian crisis, with widespread hunger, disease, and displacement affecting the region. According to the United Nations, at least 11,355 children have lost their lives in the conflict. Medical professionals have shared the heartbreaking reality of “wounded children with no surviving family,” a phrase used to describe Palestinian children orphaned by the violence.

Bart Witteveen, IRC’s country director for the occupied Palestinian territory, emphasized the urgent need for international intervention. He called for immediate actions to protect children, not only in the short term but also with a focus on their long-term health, education, and mental well-being.

“Children in Gaza are running out of time,” Witteveen warned. “Ongoing restrictions on humanitarian aid and relentless fighting mean a generation of children faces lifelong developmental and health challenges.”

WHO: Israel Obstructing Evacuation of Northern Gaza Hospitals

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that efforts to evacuate critical patients from three major hospitals in northern Gaza—Kamal Adwan, Al-Awda, and the Indonesian Hospital—are being hindered by Israeli military actions. WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus confirmed that the UN agency’s missions to relocate these patients were obstructed both yesterday and earlier today.

Despite the Israeli military’s call for the evacuation of these hospitals, doctors have struggled to transport patients to safer facilities such as Al-Ahli and Al-Shifa hospitals in Gaza.

Tedros expressed grave concern over the situation, stating, “Another mission is planned for tomorrow. We urge Israel to allow critical humanitarian missions and ultimately work towards a ceasefire.”

Urgent US-Israel Discussions on Humanitarian Crisis in Northern Gaza

The United States has engaged in “very urgent discussions” with Israel regarding the escalating humanitarian crisis in northern Gaza, as highlighted by State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller during a press briefing on Wednesday.

Miller emphasized the US government’s deep concern for the humanitarian conditions throughout Gaza, particularly in the north. He stated, “Our discussions have centered on the urgent need for compliance with international humanitarian law, specifically regarding the delivery of essential aid.”

The spokesperson reiterated that the Israeli government has a legal obligation under international humanitarian law to facilitate the entry of food, water, and other vital humanitarian assistance into all areas of Gaza. “We fully expect Israel to honor these commitments,” Miller added.

Importantly, Miller clarified that the US does not currently believe Israel is intentionally blocking humanitarian aid, which would contravene both US and international law. However, he noted that there may be a need for policy changes, stressing, “It is crucial that Israel rectify this situation and enable humanitarian aid to flow freely.”

While Miller did not disclose how the Israeli government has responded to these urgent discussions, the humanitarian situation remains dire. Recent reports indicate that Israeli airstrikes have resulted in at least 41,965 Palestinian deaths and over 97,590 injuries, according to the Gaza Ministry of Health, contributing to a severe humanitarian crisis. Many of the strikes have targeted civilian infrastructure, raising further concerns about the protection of non-combatants.

Israel has consistently accused Hamas of using civilian sites, including mosques and hospitals, as shields for their operations, a claim that Hamas denies.

Israeli Special Forces Kill 5 Palestinians in Nablus, Says Palestinian Health Ministry

In a targeted operation by Israeli special forces in Nablus, located in the occupied West Bank, five Palestinian men were killed, according to a report from the Palestinian Ministry of Health. The incident occurred when Israeli forces opened fire on a car in the city.

Footage from the scene shows armed men behind a vehicle firing at another car. Following the attack, bystanders rushed to the area. Graphic images reveal the interior of the vehicle covered in blood.

A joint statement from Israeli police and the Shin Bet security agency confirmed the deaths of five individuals, including the leader of the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades, a well-known Palestinian armed faction in the Balata refugee camp. According to Israeli authorities, those killed were wanted for alleged terrorist activities and involvement in planning attacks against Israeli civilians and military personnel.

The Palestinian Ministry of Health identified the victims as Abdul Halim Muhammad Nasser, Salim Izz al-Din Mahmoud Abu Saada, Naeem Muhammad Raji Abdul Hadi, and Issam Muhammad Suleiman Salah.

In response, Hamas issued a statement condemning the attack and called for widespread protests across the West Bank. The group urged residents to escalate confrontations with Israeli forces and settlers.

This incident comes amid a surge in Israeli settler violence in the West Bank since the onset of Israel’s war on Gaza. The West Bank, home to 3.3 million Palestinians living under Israeli military occupation, has seen rising tensions. The region also hosts hundreds of thousands of Israeli settlers, who have established communities in the area over the last 57 years.

Israel’s Economy Struggles Amid Gaza Conflict, While the US Profits

Israel’s economy is facing significant challenges due to the ongoing war on Gaza. The sheer volume of bombs dropped in this conflict has now surpassed the scale of those used during World War II, a remarkable development.

While US military aid has been essential, Israel has still managed to inflict substantial damage on its own. Israel’s “militarised society” and “militarised economy” play key roles in this capacity. However, the war has not had a positive effect on Israel’s economy, which is stagnating and possibly slipping into recession.

The large-scale mobilisation of Israeli citizens aged 18 to 30 for military service has created a critical loss of workforce, further exacerbating economic woes.

In contrast, the US, which is providing weapons, is seeing a different outcome. American private companies manufacturing these weapons are profiting from the war, highlighting a stark difference in the economic impact between the two nations.

Israel Orders Northern Gaza Hospital to Evacuate Within 24 Hours, Director Says

The Israeli military has issued an evacuation order to Kamal Adwan Hospital, the only operational hospital in northern Gaza, demanding that it vacate within 24 hours, according to its director, Hussam Abu Safiya. He reported that the military used threatening language, warning that lives would be in danger if the evacuation did not occur.

Kamal Adwan Hospital is strategically located between Beit Lahiya and Jabalya, areas where Israel has already instructed residents to leave ahead of impending air and ground offensives. Safiya described the situation as “arbitrary and clear displacement of northern Gaza residents.”

The hospital has already begun transferring some patients to other medical facilities due to fuel shortages, but Safiya emphasized the critical need to keep the hospital running. “Kamal Adwan is still the only hospital operating in the north, and shutting it down would be disastrous for those in need of care,” he said. The neonatal unit, in particular, remains full of infants, making evacuation extremely difficult.

Despite the pressures, the hospital continues to receive new patients. The Gaza health ministry condemned Israel’s evacuation order, calling for the protection of all medical institutions.

Israeli Forces Open Fire on Gaza Hospital Administration Office Amid Escalating Threats

Israeli soldiers have intensified their operations in northern Gaza, targeting the administration office of Kamal Adwan Hospital, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. This development follows earlier reports of an Israeli-ordered evacuation of the hospital.

The situation in Gaza’s hospitals is becoming increasingly dire. The Health Ministry has warned that Kamal Adwan Hospital could cease operations within hours due to fuel shortages. In addition, Israeli forces have issued evacuation demands to the Indonesian and al-Awda hospitals, threatening them with the same fate as al-Shifa Hospital, which was recently destroyed. The attack on al-Shifa resulted in deaths and arrests of both patients and staff.

In a troubling turn, Israeli forces arrested a paramedic who had coordinated with the army to transfer an ICU patient from Kamal Adwan Hospital.

US NGO Calls on Biden to Support Ceasefire in Gaza and Withdraw from Regional Conflict

Washington, D.C. – The nonprofit organization Democracy for the Arab World Now (DAWN) has issued a pressing appeal to President Biden’s administration, urging it to cease its obstruction of a United Nations Security Council resolution aimed at establishing a ceasefire in the ongoing Gaza conflict.

In a public statement, DAWN Executive Director Sarah Leah Whitson emphasized that the current policies of the Biden administration have not only failed to facilitate a ceasefire to safeguard civilians in Gaza but have also contributed to escalating tensions. Whitson warned that U.S. support for Israel’s military actions could potentially draw the nation into a broader conflict with Iran.

DAWN has called for the United States to withdraw its support for what it describes as Israel’s war crimes and violations of human rights in Gaza. The organization demands an immediate suspension of arms transfers to Israel and the termination of combat operations that have entangled the U.S. in Israel’s conflicts, thereby inciting retaliatory attacks on American forces and heightening the risk of a regional war involving Iran.

Raed Jarrar, DAWN’s advocacy director, stated, “To prevent a full-scale war in the region, the U.S. must declare an immediate arms embargo on Israel and enforce a ceasefire in Gaza, with sanctions for any non-compliance. Without a ceasefire in Gaza, we cannot expect de-escalation in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, Iraq, or Iran.”

Palestinian Father in Jabalya Describes “Death Trap” as Israeli Forces Advance in Northern Gaza

Overnight, Israeli bombs rained down on Jabalya, causing buildings to shake violently, according to a father living in the besieged refugee camp in northern Gaza.

Mohammad Ibrahim, a father of two, spoke to CNN on Tuesday about the terrifying conditions he faces daily. “There is no difference between night and day due to the intensity of the explosions and the terror,” he stated. “We have come to accept death everywhere.”

The streets of Jabalya are largely deserted, with bodies reported scattered throughout the area as the Israeli military intensifies aerial and ground assaults to target what it claims is a renewed Hamas presence. Local Hamas militants have indicated that fierce fighting is occurring in the region.

Ibrahim, 36, described the overwhelming fear caused by the “deafening” sound of aircraft overhead, calling a critical roundabout in Jabalya a “death trap.”

“I woke up in my room to the sound of gunfire, fearing for my safety,” he recounted. “The explosion’s sound shook my body… It felt as if my blood wanted to escape from the pressure. Even the start of the war was not marked by such franticness and killing.”

Many residents in Jabalya have expressed a strong reluctance to abandon their homes, despite fresh evacuation orders from Israeli forces urging people to move south.

“There is no one in the streets; the city has turned into a ghost town,” said Ibrahim, who works as a history teacher. “We do not know where the soldiers are or where the points of ground invasion are… We cannot leave the house.”

He added, “The loss of communications makes it even more challenging. No one knows who has survived and who has been martyred.”

UN Urges Immediate Action to Prevent Lebanon from Descending into Crisis Similar to Gaza

UN humanitarian officials are raising alarms about the escalating conflict in Lebanon, warning that the situation could deteriorate into a catastrophic “spiral of doom” akin to the devastation witnessed in Gaza.

Matthew Hollingworth, the Lebanon country director for the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), emphasized the urgent need for intervention. “We must take decisive action to prevent this from happening,” he stated during a press briefing in Geneva, relaying insights from his recent experience coordinating WFP’s efforts in Gaza.

Hollingworth expressed deep concern over the alarming similarities between the two regions. “The thought of falling into a similar crisis occupies my mind constantly. We cannot allow this to happen,” he remarked.

In just under two weeks, Israel’s military actions in Lebanon have resulted in over 1,100 fatalities and displaced more than one million individuals.

James Elder, spokesperson for the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), highlighted the troubling parallels, noting that “the commonalities are painfully evident, from the displacement of families to the dire impact on children and the language used to describe the situation.”

Jeremy Laurence from the UN Human Rights Office echoed these sentiments, stating, “The devastation faced by people in Lebanon is comparable to that of Gaza. We must act to prevent history from repeating itself.”

Israel Responsible for Almost 17,000 Child Deaths in Gaza Over One Year: Rights Group Report

A shocking report from Defense for Children International-Palestine reveals that nearly 17,000 children have been killed in Gaza since Israel’s military operations began on October 7 last year. The report highlights the devastating impact of Israel’s actions on the besieged coastal enclave.

The rights group condemned Israeli policies, stating that constant bombardments and the ongoing ground invasion have forced children and their families to flee their homes. Schools were closed, leading to a collapse in education. According to the group, some children were starved to death, while others were detained, tortured, or injured, with many suffering permanent disabilities as a result of the military operations.

New US Sanctions Target Hamas Financial Supporters

The U.S. Treasury Department has announced new sanctions against three individuals and one charity identified as key international financial backers of Hamas, along with a Hamas-controlled financial institution in Gaza. Additionally, a longstanding supporter of Hamas and nine of his associated businesses have also been designated.

According to the Treasury, “These actors play critical roles in external fundraising for Hamas, often under the guise of charitable work, that finance the group’s terrorist activities.”

Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen emphasized the U.S. commitment to countering Hamas, stating, “As we mark one year since Hamas’s brutal terrorist attack, Treasury will continue relentlessly degrading the ability of Hamas and other destabilizing Iranian proxies to finance their operations and carry out additional violent acts.”

The sanctions will freeze any U.S. assets held by the designated individuals and entities and prohibit U.S. residents from engaging in business with them.

The Unfolding Crisis in Gaza – ‘No Way Out’ of the War

In the ongoing conflict in Gaza, now stretching into its second year, the global community is bearing witness to relentless bombings, widespread destruction, and the tragic loss of tens of thousands of Palestinian lives.

Despite the dangers, Gaza correspondent Hind Khoudary chose to remain in the region, even as her family found safety in the early days of the war. Each day, she confronts the harsh reality that it could be her last as she continues to provide critical updates on the unfolding crisis.

Hamas Leader Yahya Sinwar Reportedly Contacts Qatar Amid Uncertainty Over His Fate

In a recent report by Arabiya, Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas and one of the masterminds behind the deadly October 7 attacks, has reportedly reestablished contact with Qatari officials after weeks of silence. Sinwar, who had been untraceable following an Israeli airstrike on Gaza nearly three weeks ago, sparked widespread speculation about his potential death.

Israeli sources had initially claimed Sinwar was injured or killed during IDF airstrikes, as he had failed to respond to multiple communications regarding negotiations for the release of hostages and a potential ceasefire. His sudden reemergence has reignited attention on his role in Hamas’ leadership and ongoing regional tensions.

This update further underscores the ongoing complexities in mediating between conflicting parties in the Gaza conflict, with significant implications for both military operations and diplomatic efforts.

October 7 Massacre Anniversary: Live Broadcast from the Families’ Ceremony at Yarkon Park

As Israel marks one year since the tragic events of October 7, many across the country are tuning in from afar to join the bereaved families and relatives of the hostages gathering in Tel Aviv. This significant ceremony in Yarkon Park is a somber reminder of a day that changed Israel forever. Leading Israeli artists will perform, and the event will be broadcast live by dozens of international media outlets.

Qassam Brigades Spokesman Reflects on One Year of Unbalanced Battle

In a recent televised statement, the spokesman for Hamas’s military wing, the Qassam Brigades, emphasized that the group launched a “pre-emptive strike” on October 7. He claimed this attack was in response to an alleged “major offensive” planned by Israel targeting resistance forces in Gaza.

The spokesman also highlighted that the strike followed increased Israeli “aggression” at the Al-Aqsa Mosque, describing the situation as reaching an “unprecedented dangerous stage.”

“For a year now, our fighters have been engaged in an unequal struggle against a criminal enemy,” stated Abu Obeida, the spokesperson.

This statement sheds light on the ongoing tensions and the broader context of the conflict, underlining the Qassam Brigades’ perspective on the prolonged battle.

Escalation of the Middle East Conflict: A Year After Hamas Atrocities

The anticipated escalation of the Middle East conflict is now unfolding, nearly one year after the horrific attacks by Hamas on October 7. Israel is currently engaged in multiple confrontations, with Iran emerging as its primary adversary—a situation that Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, assert has always been the case. Netanyahu has long aimed for this decisive showdown.

Despite claims of victory following the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, the Israeli government is facing increasing calls to cease hostilities. The rhetoric surrounding a shift in the regional power dynamics appears hollow, as Netanyahu, his far-right allies, and military leaders struggle to present a viable long-term political strategy. Their reactive, short-term tactics could lead to an unending cycle of conflict for Israel and its neighbors.

The same critique applies to Iran’s Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the extremists who currently govern the Iranian regime, as well as the leaders of Iran’s proxies, Hamas and Hezbollah. Additionally, figures like former U.S. President Donald Trump bear responsibility for perpetuating this cycle of confrontation, violence, and suffering, which is intensifying yet again.

Moderate voices, such as Iran’s new president, are being drowned out, while U.S. President Joe Biden faces increasing humiliation on the global stage. The United Nations is being discredited, with its aid workers facing deadly attacks. The prospect of peace has become stigmatized, leading to the greatest suffering among ordinary people. Reports indicate that over 1 million individuals have been displaced in Lebanon, with at least 1,000 lives lost in the past two weeks. In Gaza, the death toll has surpassed 41,000, leaving nearly the entire population homeless. In Israel, citizens continue to face violence, as evidenced by recent murders in Jaffa, while over 101 hostages remain unaccounted for.

Protests in Tel Aviv: Families of Hostages Mark One Year Since October 7 with Blockades and Fires

In a significant demonstration amid rising security tensions, families of hostages are holding rallies in Tel Aviv and Karmi Gat, exactly 365 days after the events of October 7. Einav Tzengauker, a spokesperson for the families, stated, “Our loved ones remain in Gaza because of Netanyahu’s decisions. This past year has been one of neglect under the Prime Minister, who seems willing to sacrifice the lives of hostages for the sake of maintaining his power. If he remains in office, we may be marking two or three years of this tragic situation.”

As part of the protest in Tel Aviv, the Ayalon highway is blocked southbound, with a fire lit on the road to emphasize their message.

Families of Captives Protest Outside President Isaac Herzog’s Residence in Tel Aviv

Families of hostages held captive in Gaza by Hamas since October 7, 2023, staged a protest outside the residence of Israeli President Isaac Herzog in Tel Aviv. The demonstration, captured in a video shared by Israel’s public broadcaster Kan, featured demonstrators brandishing banners and signs while vocalizing their demands through loudspeakers.

Police intervened during the protest, attempting to confiscate the loudspeakers from the demonstrators.

Earlier statements from President Herzog emphasized Israel’s commitment to securing the safe return of the captives. However, these assurances appear to have resonated little with the Israeli public, as frustration mounts among the families and supporters.

Mother’s Desperate Search After Israeli Airstrike Hits Gaza School Sheltering Orphans

An Israeli airstrike struck a school sheltering orphans in central Gaza, killing at least one child and injuring 15 others, according to health officials. The tragic incident took place on Friday, highlighting the ongoing toll of the conflict on Palestinian civilians.

Footage captured by CNN from Deir al-Balah reveals the devastation caused by the attack, with debris and shattered concrete walls scattered across the area. Young boys were seen kneeling barefoot, sifting through the rubble, recovering torn books, red backpacks, and remnants of basic necessities like plastic water bottles and canned food. One of the survivors, a mother named Asma, shared her harrowing experience of waking up to a nightmare.

“We were sleeping in a room meant for orphans,” Asma said, recounting the frantic moments she searched for her children. “We are still in shock. This room was filled with children.”

Asma found her son covered in blood and her daughter buried under the rubble. “I woke up to my son’s face soaked in blood, the same with my daughter. I just pulled her out of the debris.”

The Israeli military released a statement claiming the strike targeted “terrorists operating inside a command-and-control center” within the school. However, this statement remains unverified by CNN. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have accused Hamas of using civilian infrastructure, including schools, for military purposes and have hit over a dozen educational facilities in Gaza in the past month.

CNN video also captured dozens of injured children being treated on the floor of nearby Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital following the airstrike.

Impact on Children in Gaza

Humanitarian organizations, including UNICEF, have repeatedly emphasized the severe impact of Israel’s military campaign on Gaza’s children. The UN agency reported that between 17,000 to 18,000 orphans remain unprotected in the besieged enclave.

Since Hamas-led attacks on October 7, Israeli airstrikes have claimed the lives of at least 16,891 children, according to Gaza’s Ministry of Health. CNN has not independently verified these figures.

Wider Conflict Escalation

While global attention shifts toward Israeli bombardments in Lebanon, the Israeli military continues its offensive in Gaza. The ongoing war against Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, both of which are backed by Iran, has fueled concerns about a broader regional conflict.

Israeli Airstrikes Hit Central Gaza: 25 Killed Across the Strip

In a new wave of Israeli airstrikes, central Gaza has been heavily targeted, with attacks focusing on the Bureij and Nuseirat areas. Our on-the-ground correspondent reports a series of strikes causing significant damage.

While the exact number of casualties from these latest strikes remains unclear, medical sources have confirmed that at least 25 people have been killed by Israeli attacks across the Gaza Strip today.

Hamas Praises Iraqi Islamic Resistance Following Drone Strike on Israeli Military Base

Hamas has expressed strong support for the Iraqi Islamic Resistance after the group claimed responsibility for a drone strike on an Israeli military base. The attack, which took place yesterday, killed two Israeli soldiers and left 24 others injured at a military base in the Golan Heights. This incident marks the first time in decades that an Iraqi group has inflicted casualties on Israeli forces.

In a statement shared on Telegram, Hamas said, “We salute our brothers in the Iraqi Islamic Resistance for standing with our Palestinian people against Zionist aggression, and we commend their precision strike on the occupation forces in the Golan, which resulted in deaths and injuries.”

Hamas also issued a stern warning to Israel, stating, “Your continued aggression will only lead to more losses and setbacks, until you are ultimately defeated and driven from our land, God willing.”

Gaza Family Discovers Heartbreaking Will of Child Killed in Israeli Airstrike

In a tragic revelation, the family of 10-year-old Rasha Al-Ar’eer has uncovered her poignant last will, written shortly before her untimely death in an Israeli airstrike in northern Gaza. Rasha, along with her 11-year-old brother Ahmad, lost their lives in the devastating attack.

In her heartfelt note, Rasha expressed her wishes: “If I am martyred, please do not cry for me, as it pains me to see you in tears. I want my clothes to be given to those in need, and my accessories, bead boxes, allowance, books, notebooks, and toys to be shared with my cousins. Please do not shout at my brother Ahmad. I hope you honor my will.”

The Palestinian Foreign Ministry has reported that Rasha and Ahmad had previously survived an Israeli airstrike on their home just three months prior to this tragic event, highlighting the ongoing impact of the conflict on families in Gaza.

Attacks on Health Workers and Facilities in Lebanon Echo Gaza Crisis

Recent reports indicate a tragic escalation in attacks on healthcare workers and medical facilities in Lebanon, reminiscent of the ongoing crisis in Gaza. Four paramedics were killed at Marjayoun Hospital, a site with which many are familiar due to its importance in the region.

According to a Lebanese medical source speaking to Al Jazeera, the paramedics were targeted by Israeli fighter jets while attending to an ambulance belonging to the Islamic Health Authority near the hospital. Following this assault, officials made the difficult decision to close the hospital.

This incident contributes to a larger pattern of violence, with 38 out of 137 medical facilities along the 120-kilometre (75-mile) border now shut down. Many of these closures are concentrated in border areas, where healthcare professionals expressed concerns over their safety amid escalating airstrikes.

The closure of this major hospital significantly impacts healthcare access in the region. As the situation develops, the term “Gaza” frequently resurfaces in discussions about southern Lebanon. Observers are increasingly drawing parallels between the destruction of hospital infrastructure in Gaza and the potential for similar outcomes in Lebanon if the violence continues.

Nearly 42,000 Palestinians Killed Since October 7, Reports Gaza Health Ministry

The Ministry of Health in Gaza, which operates under Hamas, reported on Friday that the death toll in the Gaza Strip has risen to 41,802 since the conflict with Israel began on October 7, 2023.

In addition to the fatalities, the Gaza health ministry also confirmed that 96,844 individuals have been injured during the ongoing war between Gaza and Israel. The health crisis continues to escalate as the conflict intensifies.

Gaza Civil Defence Recovers Two Bodies in Khan Younis After Israeli Airstrike

In a tragic discovery, Gaza civil defence workers have recovered the bodies of a Palestinian child, Majed Montaser al-Farra, and a young man, Ahmed Saleh al-Farra, from the rubble of their home in the al-Manara neighbourhood of Khan Younis. The residence, located in the southeastern part of the Khan Younis governorate, was bombed by Israeli forces two days ago, as confirmed by the civil defence agency in a statement on Telegram.

Since the beginning of Israel’s war on Gaza on October 7, 2023, more than 41,802 Palestinians have been killed and 96,844 injured, according to a report by Gaza’s Health Ministry.

This tragic event adds to the rising civilian death toll in the ongoing Gaza-Israel conflict.

FIFA Postpones Decision on Palestinian Request to Suspend Israel

World football’s governing body, FIFA, has delayed a decision regarding the Palestinian Football Association (PFA)‘s request to suspend Israel from international competitions. During a meeting held in Zurich on Thursday, FIFA opted to launch further investigations into the matter before making a final ruling.

In May, at FIFA’s Congress in Bangkok, the PFA urged FIFA to suspend the Israeli Football Association and ban Israeli teams from participating in FIFA events. FIFA had initially planned to hold an extraordinary session before July 20 to review independent legal findings and issue a decision. However, the deadline was extended to allow legal experts additional time to complete their report.

On Thursday, FIFA’s Council adopted the legal recommendations and mandated its disciplinary committee to investigate allegations of discrimination raised by the PFA. Additionally, FIFA’s governance, audit, and compliance committee will examine the participation of Israeli football teams reportedly based in Palestinian territories and advise the Council on further actions.

This development highlights the ongoing tensions between Palestine and Israel within the world of sports, drawing international attention to the role of politics in football.

Israeli Army Rescues Iraqi Yazidi Woman Held Captive in Gaza

The Israeli army announced on Thursday that it successfully rescued an Iraqi Yazidi woman who had been held captive in Gaza. The woman was freed during an Israeli-led operation earlier this week, coordinated with the United States and Jordan.

The Iraqi government confirmed the woman’s safe return to Iraq on Wednesday.

This rescue follows the tragic history of the Yazidi community, who faced atrocities at the hands of Islamic State (IS) militants in 2014. Thousands from this religious minority were killed, and many Yazidi women were enslaved and subjected to horrific abuse during IS’s takeover of northern Iraq and eastern Syria.

The Israeli military explained that the woman, abducted by IS when she was just 11 years old, was later trafficked and eventually ended up in Gaza, likely arriving through the Rafah Crossing from Egypt. While the Israeli army and Iraqi government provided details about the woman’s identity, news outlets such as The Associated Press have chosen not to disclose her name to protect her privacy as a survivor of sexual violence.

Israeli Airstrike on UN School in Gaza Leaves 8 Dead, Including Children

At least eight people lost their lives following an Israeli airstrike on a United Nations school building in Gaza, according to hospital sources on Wednesday. The school, managed by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), was struck, with children among the wounded victims rushed to Al Aqsa Martyrs Hospital for urgent medical care.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the strike, targeting what they described as a “command and control center” allegedly operated by Hamas inside the former Nuseirat Girls’ School. The IDF justified the operation, stating it was essential to neutralize Hamas militants who were allegedly planning attacks against Israeli forces and civilians.

In a statement, the IDF emphasized that they took measures to avoid civilian casualties by using “precise munitions” and aerial surveillance to mitigate the risks.

Heartbreaking Scenes Unfold at Hospital

Disturbing footage from the scene showed children, including a 3-month-old infant named Hala, being treated for shrapnel injuries. Hala’s body was covered in wounds, and her head was wrapped in a bandage. The child’s grandmother, who fled with her grandchildren, expressed anguish as Hala’s mother remains missing after the attack.

Other victims, including injured children, were also rushed into the emergency room. Footage captured the chaos, with one man lying on the floor covered in blood while unconscious children were placed beside him in the overcrowded hospital.

Israel’s Military Actions in Gaza: 902 Families Affected, Says Government Media Office

The Government Media Office in Gaza has reported a staggering loss, revealing that 902 families have been entirely erased from the civil registry within the past year due to ongoing military operations.

The office detailed that in 1,364 cases, all family members, except for one survivor, were tragically killed. Additionally, in 3,472 cases, only two family members have managed to survive the conflict. This alarming data highlights the devastating impact of the violence in the region.

Israeli Airstrike in Gaza City Claims Lives of Eight Palestinians

In the midst of escalating tensions in the Middle East, an Israeli airstrike targeted a family home in the Shujayea neighborhood of Gaza City late Tuesday night, resulting in the tragic deaths of eight Palestinians, according to the Palestinian Civil Defence.

While global attention remains focused on the Iranian missile strikes on Israel, the Israeli military continues its ongoing assault on the Gaza Strip. The bombardment has intensified, bringing widespread destruction and loss of civilian lives in the densely populated region.

US Inaction on Israel-Gaza Conflict Raises Concerns of Escalating Regional War, Experts Warn

Analysts have been cautioning for months that the Biden administration’s failure to pressure Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, into agreeing to a ceasefire in Gaza could trigger a broader conflict in the Middle East.

According to Raed Jarrar, advocacy director at Democracy for the Arab World Now (DAWN), a Washington, DC-based think tank, “A regional war becomes inevitable when the US continues to provide financial and military support to Netanyahu, despite his war crimes, genocide, and attacks on neighboring countries.”

This growing concern underscores the potential consequences of ongoing US involvement without diplomatic efforts to curb the violence, heightening the risk of a regional conflict.

“This will not stop without the US putting its foot down and saying ‘we will not send more weapons to Israel, we will not fund and aid Israeli crimes’,” Jarrar said

Escalation in Gaza, West Bank, and Lebanon Amid Ongoing Israel-Hamas Conflict

As Israel’s missile strikes dominate global headlines, other regions are also facing intensified military action. Here’s a closer look at the current situation in Gaza, the occupied West Bank, and Lebanon:

• Occupied West Bank: According to the Palestinian news agency Wafa, Israeli forces have reportedly opened fire on Palestinian vehicles at the southern entrance of Al-Khader town, located south of Bethlehem in the occupied West Bank. Tensions continue to rise in this region amid ongoing confrontations.
• Lebanon Airstrikes: In Lebanon, Israeli airstrikes have targeted areas in Beirut. Strikes hit a building in Jnah, near Zahraa Hospital, and another near Kuwait’s Embassy in southern Dahiyeh, increasing concerns about escalating violence in Lebanon.
• Gaza Death Toll Rises: The Gaza Strip continues to face heavy bombardment. Israeli strikes have reportedly killed 11 people in a shelter at Nuseirat refugee camp, two more in a nearby house, seven in a tent west of Khan Younis, six in a car in the same area, and three individuals in Musabbeh, north of Rafah.

Eight are murdered in a shooting attack in Jaffa

Terror in the heart of the country: two terrorists got off the light rail and opened fire on several people on Jerusalem Boulevard in Jaffa. The police informed us that eight of them were murdered. Several other injured guests were transferred to the Wolfson hospitals in Holon and Ichilov in Tel Aviv. The two terrorists were killed at the scene. Scans at a hotel in Herzliya for fear of terrorists

Israeli Airstrike in Central Gaza Claims 11 Lives, Including Women and Children

In a tragic incident in the Nuseirat camp of central Gaza Strip, at least 11 Palestinians, including women and children, were reported killed following an Israeli airstrike on a residential home. Gaza medical officials confirmed the casualties to Reuters. This strike highlights the ongoing violence in the region and raises concerns over the impact on civilians amidst the ongoing conflict.

Israeli Strikes Halt UN Peacekeepers’ Patrols in Lebanon Amid Rising Tensions

United Nations peacekeepers from the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) have been unable to conduct their usual patrols due to the escalating Israeli airstrikes in the region, according to a statement by a UN spokesman.

Stephane Dujarric, spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, addressed the media, saying, “Our UNIFIL Blue Helmets are stationed in their designated area of responsibility, but the intensifying conflict is preventing them from carrying out their mandated operations.”

He further explained that, “Due to the heavy exchange of rocket fire, the peacekeeping forces, comprising around 10,000 personnel, are currently unable to patrol.”

UNIFIL has been operating in Lebanon since 1978, following its establishment by the UN Security Council. The mission plays a critical role in maintaining stability and peace along the Israel-Lebanon border.

EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell Urges Avoidance of Military Intervention in Lebanon

In a crucial statement, Josep Borrell, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, emphasized the importance of preventing further military interventions in Lebanon. Speaking from Mexico after an urgent video conference with EU foreign ministers, Borrell warned that additional military actions could severely escalate the current situation in Lebanon.

He stressed, “Any further military intervention would dramatically worsen the situation and must be avoided.”

Borrell’s comments come amidst heightened concerns over Lebanon’s stability and underscore the EU’s commitment to diplomatic solutions.

Imminent Israeli Ground Invasion of Lebanon: Growing Consensus Among Western Media

Reports from Western media suggest increasing concerns about an imminent Israeli ground invasion of Lebanon. These concerns were heightened today after statements from Israel’s Defense Minister, indicating a potential “new phase” in the country’s military offensive against Lebanon.

According to Reuters, a U.S. official, who remains unnamed, has pointed to the movement and deployment of Israeli troops along the Lebanese border as a sign that a ground invasion could be imminent.

Similarly, the Financial Times, also citing an unnamed U.S. official, reports that the U.S. expects Israel to launch a ground operation soon. The goal would reportedly be to dismantle Hezbollah’s military infrastructure along the Israel-Lebanon border.

Both The Washington Post and The New York Times have confirmed that Israeli reservists are on standby for potential military action inside Lebanon.

However, key international players, including the United States, have expressed strong opposition to any further escalation of the conflict in Lebanon, urging restraint from all parties involved.

This ongoing situation continues to develop, with global attention focused on the potential for further violence in the region.

Air France Suspends Flights to Beirut and Tel Aviv Until October 8 Amid Regional Security Concerns

Air France has announced the suspension of its flights between Paris and both Beirut and Tel Aviv, effective until October 8. The airline cites ongoing concerns over the regional security situation as the primary reason for the temporary halt in operations.

In addition to Air France, several other airlines have also paused their flights to the region, including Flydubai, Emirates, Iran Air, Air Algerie, and Turkish Airlines, reflecting widespread caution across the aviation industry.

Israel Strikes Residential Buildings in Central Gaza Amid Escalating Tensions

It has been a tumultuous day for civilians across the Gaza Strip as Israeli airstrikes target multiple residential buildings in central Gaza. The escalation continues with Israeli fighter jets also launching attacks in northern Gaza, focusing on the Jabalia refugee camp. A residential home was hit without prior warning, heightening concerns about civilian safety.

In a further development, the Israeli military distributed leaflets in central Gaza, urging residents not to return to northern Gaza, a region heavily bombarded over the last year. This warning signals ongoing hostilities and the potential for continued military action in the region.

President Biden Receives Briefing on Middle East Crisis

U.S. President Joe Biden held a call with Vice President Kamala Harris and his national security team to receive updates on the unfolding situation in the Middle East. The briefing included discussions on the status of American military assets in the region and ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions, according to the White House.

On Friday, Israel conducted heavy airstrikes on the southern suburbs of Beirut, reportedly killing Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, sparking concerns of a broader conflict in the region.

Former Israeli minister declares ‘Enough’ to war.

Yossi Beilin, Israel’s former justice minister, acknowledged the atrocities committed during the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and emphasized that further warfare is not the solution. “I fully support ending the war on Gaza,” he told Al Jazeera. “I was the one who initiated the Oslo process because I believe the Palestinians have the right to self-determination, and that the two-state solution is the only viable path for both sides.

I recognize the suffering of the Palestinians, just as I recognize our own suffering. We are both victims, and it’s time to stop. We are foolishly damaging our own future by perpetuating this conflict. Enough is enough.”

Casualties reported in northern Gaza following Israeli attack.

Recent Israeli airstrikes in northern Gaza have resulted in multiple casualties. Overnight, at least 15 people were killed in various attacks across the region, including in Beit Hanoun and Gaza City.

The airstrikes targeted residential areas, leading to significant destruction and loss of life. The ongoing conflict has caused widespread devastation, displacing around 90% of Gaza’s population. Israeli forces maintain that their targets are militants, but the strikes continue to impact civilians heavily​