Politics
Israeli ground forces have advanced further into Gaza in their offensive against Hamas militants. The Israeli military claimed to have killed one of the leaders responsible for the October 7th terrorist attack, as well as several other Hamas members, in an airstrike on Jabalia, located north of Gaza city. However, the Hamas-run authorities reported that numerous civilians had also lost their lives. Amidst the operation, Israeli forces successfully rescued a female soldier who was being held captive by Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu dismissed calls for a ceasefire, stating that those advocating for one are essentially asking Israel to “surrender to barbarism”.
Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen. The Palestinian death toll has now surpassed 8,000, according to authorities in the enclave. Additionally, 1.4 million people have been displaced, and the available shelters are overwhelmed. Although more aid trucks have been permitted entry, the number still falls significantly short of the 500 per day that were entering the area prior to the outbreak of war. Under a negotiated agreement facilitated by Qatar, a small number of civilians have been allowed to leave Gaza through the Rafah border crossing into Egypt. However, only foreign nationals and severely wounded individuals are currently eligible for departure.
In response to potential attacks from Yemen, where the Houthi militia claimed to have launched rockets and drones at Israel, Israel has deployed missile boats to the Red Sea. The Israeli army reported intercepting an “aerial threat”. The Houthis, who are supported by Iran and control significant portions of Yemen, including the capital Sana’a, pose a security concern for Israel.
2023-11-02 09:17:57
Link from www.economist.com
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