The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict continues to capture the world’s attention with significant developments and efforts made to address the crisis. Here’s an overview of recent events:
- International Support for Israel: United States President Joe Biden visited Tel Aviv to show unwavering support for Israel in the aftermath of an attack by Hamas gunmen on Israeli villages and military bases. During his visit, President Biden announced a substantial aid package of $100 million for humanitarian assistance in Gaza and the West Bank. Additionally, Egypt agreed to open the Rafah crossing to allow aid into Gaza.
- UK Prime Minister’s Visit: UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also arrived in Israel to discuss the country’s war with Hamas, reinforcing international solidarity in the face of the conflict.
- Russian Humanitarian Aid: Russia pledged to deliver 27 tonnes of humanitarian aid for civilians in Gaza, contributing to relief efforts in the region.
- Chinese Involvement: Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed the hope to work with Egypt to bring more stability to the Middle East, acknowledging the importance of regional stability amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.
- Hamas Weaponry: Reports suggest that Hamas militants used North Korean weapons during their attack on Israeli settlements, although Pyongyang has denied selling arms to the militant group.
- Global Protests: Protests against Israel and the United States were witnessed in several countries, including Turkey, the US, Tunisia, Morocco, Greece, and Jordan, following a deadly explosion at a hospital in Gaza.
- US Advisory for Lebanon: The United States Embassy in Lebanon issued an advisory, recommending that US citizens in Lebanon consider making arrangements to leave the country due to the regional tensions.
- Israeli Counteroperations: Israeli forces carried out operations in the West Bank to target suspected Hamas members in cities like Ramallah and al-Bireh.
- US Veto at UNSC: The United States vetoed a UNSC resolution seeking “humanitarian pauses” to deliver aid to Gaza, citing the resolution’s failure to mention Israel’s right of self-defense as the reason for the veto.
- Malala Yousafzai’s Donation: Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai donated $300,000 to charities aiding Palestinians in Gaza, calling for humanitarian aid and a ceasefire.
- Fear of Refugee Crisis: Neighboring countries like Egypt and Jordan have been reluctant to accept refugees from Gaza, fearing potential Israeli efforts to force permanent Palestinian expulsion.
- Heroic Act in Israel: A story of resilience emerged as an Israeli woman, Rachel Edri, engaged Hamas militants in her home, offering them tea and Moroccan cookies until police arrived and neutralized the attackers.
- US Bases Attacked in Iraq: A drone attack targeted two US bases in Iraq, resulting in minor injuries.
- Russia’s Warning: Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, during a visit to North Korea, warned of the potential for the Israel-Hamas conflict to escalate further and cautioned against attempts to blame Iran for the crisis.
- US Vice President’s Statement: US Vice President Kamala Harris reiterated that Hamas does not represent the Palestinian people and expressed support for the aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians.
As the conflict continues to unfold, these developments underscore the complex international dynamics and humanitarian concerns surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict.