Israel and Hamas at War – Days 41 to 64

The United States has refrained from setting a definitive deadline for Israel to conclude major operations against Hamas in Gaza, according to White House national security aide Jon Finer. Emphasizing that the conflict is Israel’s responsibility, Finer noted the US wields influence over the situation but lacks ultimate control. 

While acknowledging Israel’s dual objectives—to neutralize Hamas governance in Gaza and eliminate threats post the October 7 attack—Finer stated that, if the conflict ceased now, Hamas would persist as a threat. 

The US contends that there are still valid military targets in southern Gaza, including much of the Hamas leadership. Despite urging Israel to exercise greater caution in its military actions, Finer clarified the US hasn’t demanded an immediate cease-fire. 

In a call between President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, discussions centered on the conflict’s conduct, particularly in southern Gaza. The situation remains complex, with Israel responding to Hamas incursions, resulting in civilian casualties and ongoing violence.

This morning, the IDF reported the tragic loss of two reserve soldiers in yesterday’s Gaza conflict, bringing the total military casualties from the ground offensive against Hamas to 91. 

Among the fallen are Sgt. Maj. (res.) Kobi Dvash, aged 41, hailing from Tiberias and serving in the Combat Engineering Corps’ 271st Battalion, as well as Master Sgt. (res.) Eyal Meir Berkowitz, aged 28, from Jerusalem, a member of the 551st Brigade’s 699th Battalion. 

Dvash lost his life in southern Gaza, while Berkowitz fell in the Strip’s northern region. Additionally, an officer from the Oketz canine special forces unit sustained serious injuries during the skirmish in northern Gaza, necessitating urgent hospitalization for treatment.

In a somber announcement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has confirmed the deaths of two reserve soldiers, bringing the toll to 89 in the ongoing ground offensive in the Gaza Strip. Among the fallen is Master Sgt. (res.) Gal Meir Eisenkot, 25, of the 551st Brigade’s 699th Battalion, hailing from Herzliya. As the son of former Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot, a minister in the current emergency government, Gal was an integral part of the war cabinet overseeing decisions in the Gaza campaign.

Gal died when a bomb exploded in a tunnel shaft in the Jabaliya camp in northern Gaza. Despite being rushed to an Israeli hospital in critical condition, he succumbed to his injuries. Another soldier, Sgt. Maj. (res.) Jonathan David Deitch, 34, from the 55th Brigade’s 6623rd Reconnaissance Battalion, was killed in a firefight in the south of Gaza.

The Israeli government, including Defense Minister Benny Gantz and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, expressed their condolences. Gantz, deeply moved by Gal’s sacrifice, praised his unwavering devotion to the country. The loss of these soldiers underscores the gravity of the situation, reminding us of the human cost in the pursuit of peace and security.

In a recent Senate vote, an attempt to pass a $106 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel, and other national security needs faced resistance from Republican senators. The Senate eventually voted against the proposal, citing objections to the United States’ immigration policy on its border with Mexico.

The aid package included $14.3 billion for Israel’s war efforts, but Democratic lawmakers, led by Senator Bernie Sanders, are demanding concrete measures from Israel to reduce civilian casualties in Gaza.

This shift in the traditionally bipartisan support for Israel reflects growing concerns about the humanitarian impact on Palestinian civilians. Meanwhile, the Senate’s deadlock over foreign aid jeopardizes crucial support for Ukraine and other allies, with Republicans insisting on significant changes to border security policies.

The failed vote, falling short of the 60-vote threshold, underscores the ongoing struggle to find a bipartisan resolution before the year-end recess, with both sides emphasizing the urgency of supporting Ukraine rather than backing further backing Israel.

Fierce battles continued to rage on the ground in the Gaza Strip, and the Israeli Air Force carried out more than 250 strikes in one day, according to the Israel Defense Forces.

The IDF said 83 Israeli soldiers have now been killed in combat since the ground offensive began on Oct. 27.

Meanwhile, the number of hostages believed to be in Gaza has been raised by one to 138, based on new military intelligence that a person previously declared as missing is actually a Hamas captive. The count includes 134 people taken hostage in the murderous Oct. 7 attacks by Hamas, as well as two civilians and the bodies of two soldiers taken to Gaza in 2014 and 2015.

Of the 105 hostages released in the recent cease-fire deal (plus a further five freed earlier), one, 78-year-old Chana Katzir of Kibbutz Nir Oz, is said to be in serious condition, with her health having deteriorated since her release on Nov. 24. Her daughter said she had developed “severe heart problems” that she did not have before she was taken hostage, and which were caused by near-starvation and the harsh conditions in captivity.

President Biden condemned Hamas on Monday for using sexual violence against Israelis, urging global condemnation. 

Speaking in Boston, he stressed collective responsibility to unequivocally denounce Hamas’s sexual violence. Biden referenced documented cases of rape as a weapon of war during Hamas’ October 7 attacks, highlighting survivors’ harrowing testimonies. 

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre echoed the president’s strong stance, labeling Hamas’ actions “reprehensible.”

Widespread criticism has emerged, with over 80 lawmakers accusing the UN Women of overlooking Hamas’ attacks on women in a bipartisan letter. The lack of public outrage has sparked concerns about addressing sexual violence perpetrated by Hamas.

The Palestine Red Crescent Society lost contact with its teams in Gaza due to Israel cutting telecommunications networks, hindering emergency services during heavy shelling. 

The Palestine Telecommunications Company reported a complete communication blackout in Gaza. This raises concerns about the safety of medical teams amid ongoing  Israeli attacks. 

This is the fourth time telecom services have been cut since the Israel-Hamas war began on Oct. 7.  Communication disruptions impact emergency response and public access to ambulance service, a vital component to saving lives and limiting the number of causalities

According to a report in The Guardian, Hamas executed the October 7 massacre with assistance from spies within Israel. The report, citing an IDF source, revealed that Hamas spent years mapping out their attack using information from sources inside Israel. This was concluded from data extracted from phones, notebooks, and documents seized from terrorists, which contained guides to hostage-taking and Arabic-to-Hebrew phrasebooks. One translated phrase was notably, “Put your hands up and spread your legs.” The UK-based outlet also reported that the plans included a detailed map, indicative of inside knowledge. IDF lookouts had previously raised concerns about unusual activities along the Gaza border, but their warnings were dismissed, and they were threatened with court-martial.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed grave concern over the renewed hostilities between Israel and Palestinian groups in the Gaza Strip, his spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, said. The escalation, marked by rocket fire from Gaza and intensified Israeli airstrikes, prompted Guterres to urge all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law. The UN chief appealed to Israel to mitigate further exacerbation of Gaza’s humanitarian crisis and protect civilians, including health workers and journalists, Dujarric said. Guterres emphasized the need for continuous humanitarian aid in Gaza and expressed alarm over escalating violence in the West Bank.

Qatar has announced the donation of 65.7 million Qatari riyals (approximately $18 million) to the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for 2023 and 2024. The Qatari Foreign Ministry stated that this contribution is aimed at supporting the Palestinian people amid challenging humanitarian conditions and helping bridge the funding gap faced by UNRWA.

The Israeli military has announced the deaths of three more soldiers in combat in the Gaza Strip, bringing the total number of Israeli soldiers killed since the ground offensive began on Oct. 27 to 75.

Two of the soldiers were killed in the northern Gaza Strip: Sgt. 1st Class (res.) Ben Zussman, 22, of Jerusalem, and Sgt. Binyamin Yehoshua Needham, 19, of Zichron Yaakov. The third soldier, Sgt. Maj. (res.) Neriya Schaer, 36, of Yavne, was killed in the central Gaza Strip.

The announcement came after their families were notified.

As well as the 75 soldiers killed in combat since Oct. 27, 326 Israeli soldiers were killed fighting the Hamas terrorists who attacked Israel in a murderous rampage on Oct. 7.

A 26-year-old French national known to authorities as a radical Islamist with documented mental health problems fatally stabbed a German tourist and injured two others near the Eiffel Tower before being taken into police custody, 

The attack took place on Saturday shortly before 9 pm local time in a crowded area known for attracting tourists. The attacker shouted “Allahu akbar” before being arrested. 

France is on its highest alert as tensions soar against the backdrop of the Israel-Gaza war. 

Following the attack, Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne stated on X (formerly Twitter) that the government would not succumb to terrorism. President Emmanuel Macron extended his condolences to the family of the victim of what is being characterized as a terrorist attack.

The assailant, who previously spent four years in a French prison for a different violent offense, lamented that “so many Muslims are dying in Afghanistan and in Palestine,” adding that he was upset about the Israel-Hamas war and that he viewed France as an accomplice, according to the French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin. 

In addition to yielding a knife, the attacker also used a hammer to injure the two surviving victims.

Hamas is expected to release eight Israeli hostages and three bodies later today after a nerve-wracking night in which the terrorist group submitted a list acceptable to Israel just 20 minutes before the 7 am deadline, when Israel said it would resume its ground war in the Gaza Strip if it did not receive an acceptable list.

On Monday, Israel agreed to extend the initial four-day cease-fire by one day for every 10 hostages released, all women and children. Yesterday, Hamas submitted a list of seven women and children, plus three dead hostages whom the terrorist organization claimed had been killed by Israeli airstrikes. The identities of the dead hostages have not been made public.

Hamas claimed that the seven women and children it listed were the only hostages it was holding in that category, although Israel believes that at least 10 women and four children are still being held. Israel said it would resume the ground operation, on hold since the cease-fire went into effect last Friday, if it did not receive an acceptable list.

Ultimately, shortly before the deadline, Hamas revised the list to include eight women and children and Israel agreed to accept this instead of 10, given that on Wednesday 12 women and children were released, including an “extra” two with dual Israeli-Russian citizenship who were released in a gesture to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Channel 12 journalists said on Wednesday they were told by one of the recently released Thai foreign workers that the Israelis with whom he was held in captivity were beaten by their captors.

The Thai worker is quoted by Channel 12 as saying: “The Jews who were held with me were treated very harshly; sometimes they were beaten with electric cables,” and that “they were guarded very closely.”

He also noted that the hostages had very little access to food, being given only a piece of pita bread or a small can of tuna to share between four people. The Thai worker also alleged that the captives were permitted to shower only once during the seven weeks of captivity.

The Thai national’s claim has not yet been independently verified. The claim that food was sparse and eating minimal has been repeated by other released hostages as well, with Israeli medical officials reporting that many of the released arrived in chronically poor nutritional health.

As the current cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas conflict approaches its deadline, the families of Israeli hostages set for release Wednesday night have been informed of their impending liberation. However, the Israeli government has remained noncommittal about extending the cease-fire beyond its original terms, with a potential extension of four additional days on the table. The resumption of hostilities looms if an agreement to extend the truce is not reached by Thursday morning.

Sources close to the negotiations indicate that the extension of the cease-fire is contingent upon Hamas’ adherence to the truce’s terms, which include releasing all remaining hostages. To date, 31 children who were held hostage in Gaza have been freed as part of the agreement with Hamas. However, nine hostages, including the youngest, 10-month-old Kfir Bibas, and his 4-year-old brother Ariel, remain in captivity.

Hamas announced on Wednesday that the Bibas brothers and their mother were killed in an Israeli airstrike. This claim has prompted an investigation by the Israeli military, seeking to verify the circumstances surrounding their alleged deaths.

Parallel to these developments, 30 Palestinian prisoners are scheduled for release tonight, marking the fifth phase of the ongoing exchange agreement.

Martin Griffiths, the UN aid chief, is set to hold crucial talks in Amman, Jordan, about opening the Kerem Shalom crossing for humanitarian aid into Gaza. This move aims to supplement the current aid flow through the Rafah crossing, which is ill-equipped for large-scale truck deliveries.

Kerem Shalom, a vital passage for Gaza’s supplies, has been underused since the start of the recent conflict. While a fragile truce has allowed some aid through, the scale remains insufficient for Gaza’s needs. Griffiths emphasizes the urgency of expanding access points and engaging more humanitarian partners, including NGOs, to meet the escalating demands in Gaza. Despite Israel’s current reluctance to open Kerem Shalom, citing security concerns, Griffiths remains focused on enhancing aid delivery to the beleaguered coastal enclave.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of the World Health Organization, has issued a stark warning: The health crisis in Gaza may soon eclipse the immediate dangers of the conflict. Overcrowded shelters, compounded by severe shortages in essential supplies like food, water, sanitation, and medication, are setting the stage for a potential disaster.

The statistics are already alarming. Respiratory infections are affecting 111,000 people, while another 75,000 suffer from diarrhea, alarmingly affecting children under five the most. Ghebreyesus warned that disease threatens to claim more lives than the violent conflict itself.

“It’s a matter of life or death for civilians,” he said.

The chief of Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency David Barnea, and US Central Intelligence Agency Director William Burns met with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani in Qatar on Tuesday to discuss “[building] on the progress of the extended humanitarian pause agreement and to initiate further discussions about the next phase of a potential deal,” according to a source familiar with the deal. 

Reports on the visit emerged the day after the announcement that the truce between Israel-Hamas, which began on Friday, would be extended by two days. 

The outcome of the meetings has not been publicly commented upon however a U.S. official familiar with the negotiations, who spoke to the press on the condition of anonymity, said that the visit “included discussions on hostages.” 

Both Barnea and Burns also met with the Qatari PM on November 9.

President Isaac Herzog and German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier visited Kibbutz Be’eri, a community devastated in the Hamas attack on Oct. 7. During their visit, they met with survivors and toured the ruins, including the destroyed art gallery. President Steinmeier announced a €7m contribution from the German Parliament for the gallery’s reconstruction.

In his speech, President Herzog expressed gratitude for Germany’s support and commitment to rebuilding the kibbutz and its symbolic art gallery. He emphasized the gallery’s role in spreading light and hope amid regional challenges. President Steinmeier reflected on the impact of witnessing the destruction firsthand and the importance of the kibbutz in Israel’s history and soul. He also mentioned plans for German and Israeli craftsmen to collaborate in the rebuilding efforts, providing a beacon of hope even in mourning. This initiative aims to revive Kibbutz Be’eri as a vibrant community in southern Israel.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu led controversial US billionaire Elon Musk on a tour of Kfar Aza, an Israeli kibbutz heavily impacted by Hamas’s attack on October 7. The visit, organized by the Prime Minister’s Office, aimed to expose Musk to the extent of the devastation caused by Hamas. During the tour, Musk was briefed by a local council leader and an IDF Spokesperson’s Unit representative on the tragic events in the kibbutz, including the brutal attacks on families and the kidnapping of numerous civilians.

Musk visited the home of the late community security chief, Ofir Libstein, who lost his life in a confrontation with the attackers. Additionally, Musk learned about the harrowing experience of 4-year-old Israeli-American Avigail Idan, who was recently released from captivity in Gaza as part of the hostage exchange deal.

Soroka Hospital in Beersheba has issued an update on the health of 84-year-old Alma Avraham, recently released from Hamas captivity in the Gaza Strip. According to the hospital, Avraham’s condition remains serious and she is currently in the general intensive care unit, with her life still at risk. This update comes a day after her release, highlighting the critical nature of her health situation following the period of captivity.

Wolfson Hospital in Holon has announced a significant improvement in the health of Aviva Siegel, 62, who was recently released from Hamas captivity in Gaza. Siegel’s medical condition has been upgraded to good following her recovery overnight. According to hospital reports, she is now alert and relaxed. Siegel is one of four women receiving care at the hospital after their release from captivity.

The Israeli government says it is “evaluating” the fourth list of hostages slated for release from captivity in the Gaza Strip, which it received overnight. It was unclear whether there were problems with the list, which was expected to contain 11 names of women and children to be released later today.

“Additional information will be issued when possible,” the Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement.

Under the four-day truce agreement, Hamas agreed to free 50 Israeli women and children in exchange for 150 Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails. Three groups of hostages have been released so far, comprising 39 Israeli women and children agreed to under the deal, as well as an Israeli-Russian man and 18 Thai and Filipino foreign workers released under separate deals. The truce may be extended in exchange for the release of additional hostages.

On the third day of the hostage-for-truce deal, 17 people—14 Israelis and three Thai citizens—were released from Hamas captivity and arrived in Israel. The Israeli group included nine children, two mothers, two other women, and one man. Among the released was 4-year-old Avigail Idan, an Israeli-American whose parents were killed in the October 7 attacks. Another notable release was Israeli-Russian citizen Roni Krivoi, freed at President Putin’s request.

The hostages, handed over to the Red Cross, were in good condition, though one elderly Israeli was immediately taken to Soroka Medical Center. The group was transferred to Hatzerim Airbase near Beersheba before reuniting with their families in hospitals.

The release, which occurred without the delays that threatened the truce deal on Saturday, saw 10 hostages from Kibbutz Kfar Aza return.  Krivoi and the three Thai nationals were the only ones released through the Rafah crossing, separate from the Israel-Hamas exchange framework.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, during a security assessment with Major General David Zini near Mount Dov, emphasized the military’s success in creating improved conditions for residents returning home after operations against Hizbullah. Gallant, addressing the situation in Gaza, affirmed that military action and strikes against Hamas would resume following the current ceasefire. His comments highlight Israel’s strategic efforts to enhance regional stability and ensure the safety of its citizens.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a visit to the northern Gaza Strip today, marking his first trip to the area since the war’s onset. Amidst the ongoing truce with Hamas, Netanyahu addressed the troops, emphasizing Israel’s commitment to the war’s objectives. In a video released by his office, Netanyahu stated, “We are making every effort to return our hostages, and eventually we will return them all. We have three goals for this war: eliminating Hamas, returning all our hostages, and ensuring that Gaza does not become a threat to Israel again.” He assured the troops of their continued efforts until victory, highlighting Israel’s power, strength, will, and determination.

The Prime Minister’s Office reported that Netanyahu also visited a Hamas tunnel discovered by Israeli forces. Accompanying him were his chief of staff Tzachi Braverman, National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi, military secretary Maj. Gen. Avi Gil, and deputy IDF chief of staff, Maj. Gen. Amir Baram.

A tanker connected to Israel, the Central Park, managed by Zodiac Maritime, has been seized off the coast of Aden, Yemen, presumably by Houthi rebels. Zodiac Maritime expressed their primary concern for the safety of the 22 crew members onboard, comprising Russian, Vietnamese, Bulgarian, Indian, Georgian, and Filipino nationals. The vessel, carrying a cargo of phosphoric acid, is linked to a UK-based company with ties to Israel. Maritime security firm Ambrey reported the incident, noting that US naval forces are currently involved in responding to the situation. This seizure is the latest in a series of incidents affecting shipping routes in the region.

Egypt has received the names of 13 Israelis and 39 Palestinians set for release as part of the third batch in the ongoing 4-day truce, brokered by Egypt and Qatar. Diaa Rashwan, head of Egypt’s State Information Service, confirmed the smooth progression of the truce in a statement. He also noted that 120 aid trucks, including fuel and cooking gas supplies, successfully crossed from Egypt to Gaza, marking a significant step in the truce’s implementation and humanitarian efforts.

The Israel Defense Forces and the Shin Bet security agency eliminated five senior Hamas military leaders. This action, announced via a joint statement, occurred before the implementation of an operational pause linked to the recent hostage release deal. The eliminated figures include Ahmed Ghandour, Aiman Siam, Wael Rajeb, Farsan Halifa, and Rafet Salman. Ghandour, a key member of the Hamas Military Council and commander of the Northern Gaza Brigade, was particularly notable for overseeing terrorist activities in northern Gaza. He was identified as a primary orchestrator of the Oct. 7 attacks.

Israeli security officials have issued a stern warning regarding the delay in the release of hostages by Hamas: “If the captives are not released by midnight, the Israeli Defense Forces will resume the ground offensive in the Gaza Strip.” The officials criticized Hamas for trying to manipulate the situation, noting that the group had previously altered the travel routes and transfer of the captives, deviating from the agreed-upon plan. Despite these challenges, more than 61 aid trucks, including fuel and gas supplies, have already been successfully transferred to the northern Gaza Strip, out of the 200 scheduled.

The Israel Prison Service has begun preparations to release 39 Palestinian prisoners, identified in reports as “terror convicts,” as part of an exchange agreement that includes the release of 13 hostages from Gaza. This marks the beginning of a four-day exchange process, with potential extensions and additional prisoner swaps contingent on Hamas releasing more hostages. The prisoners, predominantly women and teenagers, are being transferred to Ofer Prison in the West Bank before their scheduled release to either the West Bank or East Jerusalem. This exchange is a significant component of ongoing efforts to de-escalate the current conflict.

A four-day cease-fire, brokered by Qatar and the US, has begun between Israel and Hamas. The truce, which started at 7 am, includes the scheduled release of 13 Israeli hostages at 4 pm today. This exchange is the first of several planned over the cease-fire period, with hopes of releasing 50 hostages in exchange for 150 Palestinian prisoners.

The cease-fire also allows for humanitarian aid to enter Gaza. The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office has confirmed receiving a list of hostages and families have been notified. Although Israel has pledged to avoid military action during the truce, it retains the right to respond if Hamas breaches the cease-fire terms.

Humanitarian aid trucks were seen entering Gaza from Egypt, carrying essential supplies and bearing messages of solidarity. Israeli officials are optimistic about releasing more hostages, potentially extending the cease-fire.

Officials from moderate Arab countries and influential Palestinian figures have recently advised Hamas to disarm in the Gaza Strip. They warned the leadership of the organization, recognized as a terror group, that it might not withstand the ongoing Israeli offensive. This suggestion aims to prevent further destruction in Gaza.

The sources of this advice were not specified, but it is unclear if they include members of the Palestinian leadership in Ramallah. Top Hamas leaders, both within Gaza and abroad, have been cautioned that Israel could defeat the organization. The recommendation is for Hamas to surrender its arms and potentially join the Palestine Liberation Organization as a political entity.

Fatah members Nasser al-Qudwa and Samir al-Mashrawi met with Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Qatar, possibly discussing this disarmament proposal. However, Hamas has not yet responded to these suggestions.

Yahya Sinwar, Hamas’s Gaza leader and a key figure in the Oct. 7 attacks, was not mentioned in the context of these discussions. Sinwar is known as one of the most hardline members of the organization.

A spokesperson for Qatar’s Foreign Ministry says the Israel-Hamas cease-fire will go into effect tomorrow at 7 am.

He also says the first group of 13 hostages will be freed tomorrow at 4 pm.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a meeting with the UK’s Foreign Minister David Cameron, focusing on the recent delays encountered in the hostage release deal with Hamas. Netanyahu expressed cautious optimism, stating, “We hope to successfully release our captives despite numerous challenges. Our commitment remains strong to bring every hostage back home.”

Israeli President Isaac Herzog met with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem.

Herzog expressed gratitude for their support during Israel’s challenging times, marked by widespread atrocities and violence.

Herzog emphasized the urgent need for global action against gender violence and sexual abuse, highlighting the silence of international organizations on these issues. With the International Day Against Violence Against Women approaching, he called for a firm stance against such crimes.

The President also discussed the critical phase of awaiting the return of hostages and the implementation of the ceasefire agreement involving Israel, Qatar, Hamas, and the United States. Herzog stressed the importance of Hamas adhering to the agreement’s strict rules.

Herzog outlined Israel’s efforts to improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza, mentioning plans for field hospitals and ensuring the flow of essential supplies through humanitarian corridors.

Prime Minister Sánchez shared Spain’s empathy with Israel and its condemnation of the Oct. 7 terrorist acts. He expressed support for the ceasefire agreement and the release of hostages.

Prime Minister De Croo echoed these sentiments, standing with Israel against antisemitism and terrorism.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) detained Mohammad Abu Salmiya, the director of Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, along with several other medical personnel. Khalid Abu Samra, a department chief at the hospital, confirmed the arrests, including that of senior doctors. Abu Salmiya was apprehended while evacuating to the southern part of the Gaza Strip through an IDF-established humanitarian corridor.

Abu Salmiya is reportedly currently undergoing questioning by the Shin Bet and IDF intelligence. Medhat Abbas, director of the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry, corroborated the arrest.

The IDF’s operation at Shifa Hospital, which has become a focal point in their campaign against Hamas in Gaza, involves searching for evidence of Hamas activity. IDF troops have been inspecting the hospital since Nov. 15, discovering weapons and uncovering underground tunnels believed to be used by Hamas. The US has corroborated Israel’s claims regarding Hamas’ use of the hospital. Recently released IDF surveillance footage from the hospital depicts the movement of hostages and Hamas militants within the premises.

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron, accompanied by Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen, visited Kibbutz Be’eri, underscoring the need for global leaders to witness firsthand the impact of the conflict with Hamas in Gaza. Cameron, having previously served as Prime Minister, received thanks from Cohen for his consistent support of Israel since the onset of the war. Cohen stressed the necessity for world leaders to observe the severity of Hamas’ actions, comparing the terrorist organization’s threat level to that of ISIS. He further reiterated Israel’s commitment to the ongoing battle against Hamas, emphasizing that even after the temporary truce for releasing hostages, Israel’s objectives remain firm: the dismantlement of Hamas’ rule in Gaza and the safe return of all hostages.

Cameron has expressed support for the four-day ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, describing it as a “crucial step” towards peace. He emphasizes the importance of both parties fully adhering to the terms of the agreement to ensure its success.

In a significant diplomatic exchange, Qatar’s Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani held talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, focusing on the delayed commencement of the hostage release agreement. The discussions revolved around initiating the agreement’s implementation, the intricacies of the hostage release process, and the critical need for uninterrupted humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip. The Qatari PM stressed the urgency of halting the ongoing war, advocating for a two-state solution as the path to lasting peace. In response, Blinken expressed gratitude for Qatar’s mediation efforts and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to the two-state solution as a framework for resolving the conflict.

The Israeli Defense Forces reported that around 30 rockets were launched toward Israel from Lebanon, escalating tensions along the northern border. This latest barrage was confirmed following the activation of rocket sirens in Israeli communities near the border on Thursday. In a contrasting claim, the militant group Hizbullah asserted responsibility for the attack, stating that it had fired 48 rockets at communities in the Upper Galilee. This discrepancy in numbers highlights the ongoing volatility and uncertainty in the region, with both sides reporting differing accounts of the cross-border aggression.

National Security Council chairman Tzachi Hanegbi announces the delay, stating that the first hostages will not be released until Friday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made it clear that the recent hostage release deal with Hamas is not an indicator of the war’s end. “Our mission is far from over,” Netanyahu declared in a press conference. He emphasized Israel’s unwavering commitment to achieving multiple key objectives: the safe return of all hostages, the total eradication of Hamas, and ensuring no terror-supporting entities gain control in Gaza. Netanyahu underscored the nation’s resolve to eliminate the threat from Gaza and restore security across all regions of Israel, including both southern and northern fronts.

In a stern warning, Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen stated that Israel’s patience is wearing thin over continuous attacks from Hizbullah in Lebanon. Addressing a foreign media briefing, Cohen emphasized that if these hostilities persist, it could escalate into a full-scale war. He highlighted Hizbullah’s role as an Iranian proxy in the region, stressing that Israel, while not seeking another conflict, cannot indefinitely endure such aggression. Cohen urged the international community to enforce Resolution 1701 effectively to avert a war in Lebanon, underlining the critical role of global actors in maintaining regional stability.

The IDF reports that the Israeli Paratroopers Brigade targeted Hamas’ intelligence headquarters and military outposts in the neighborhood of Tel Al-Hawa in Gaza. “The fighters gathered intelligence materials, technological data, and significant information about the underground infrastructure of Hamas. During the raids on the outposts and terrorist infrastructure, the soldiers eliminated terrorists, and identified a workshop for producing explosive devices like bombs, missiles, mortars, and other means of warfare,” said the IDF’s spokesperson.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is planning to visit Israel early next week for talks with senior Israeli and Palestinian officials about the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

Hamas announced a breakthrough agreement with Israel, facilitating the exchange of 50 hostages for 150 Palestinian prisoners. This arrangement, crucial in easing tensions, includes a four-day ceasefire, allowing unrestricted movement in the Gaza Strip and a daily six-hour respite from aerial activities.

Concurrently, the Israeli government clarified the scope of this agreement, stating it will last no more than 10 days following the initial release of a group comprising women and children. Despite plans to free 300 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for 100 hostages, those approved for release will remain detained until all 50 hostages are safely returned.

The government also emphasized that mothers and children among the hostages will not be separated during this process.

Senior Hamas official Moussa Abu Marzuk said that the ceasefire with Israel will go into effect on Thursday at 10 am.

Israeli military forces have exposed and destroyed some 400 tunnel shafts to date, according to an Israel Defense Forces update. The IDF said that Yahalom (“Diamond”) combat troops were playing a significant role in finding and destroying the tunnels through various means. The IDF said Hamas had built an extensive underground tunnel network in the heart of civilian neighborhoods, next to homes, schools, hospitals, cemeteries, and agricultural lands.

The Palestinian Authority is welcoming the humanitarian truce agreement between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip that will allow for the release of hostages, according to a senior PA official.

“President Mahmoud Abbas and the leadership welcome the humanitarian truce agreement, value the Qatari-Egyptian effort made, and reaffirm the call for a comprehensive cessation of the Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people and the entry of humanitarian aid,” Hussein al-Sheikh, secretary general of the  Palestine Liberation Organization Executive Committee, posted on X, formerly Twitter.

A hostage agreement is underway for the release of 30 children, eight mothers, and 12 women held by Hamas in Gaza. This follows the Oct. 7 attacks where approximately 240 hostages, including around 40 children, were taken. Currently, Hamas claims to have 210 hostages but faces difficulties in locating an additional 10 children. Islamic Jihad is reportedly holding many of the remaining captives. Israeli authorities are hopeful that Hamas will manage to find and release up to 30 more Israeli women and children.

The White House condemned the Houthis’ capture of a British-owned, Japanese-operated cargo ship in the southern Red Sea, labeling it a clear breach of international law. National Security Spokesperson John Kirby highlighted Iran’s involvement in the incident, underscoring the gravity of the situation. Kirby’s statement was a direct response to the Houthis’ recent actions, which the US views as an escalation of regional tensions. In his address, Kirby emphasized the urgency of the situation and called for the immediate release of both the ship and its crew. He also disclosed that the United States is reassessing its “terrorist designations” in light of these developments.

In an unprecedented move following the Oct. 7 massacre by Hamas, Israel’s Chief Rabbinate has advised the burial of vehicles as a last resort due to the absence of identifiable remains of many victims. According to ZAKA Tel Aviv, the decision came after the disaster victim identification unit faced immense challenges in locating all remains within the vehicles where the victims were attacked. To maintain the sanctity of the deceased, this unique approach was agreed upon following consultations with the Military Rabbinate and the Chief Rabbinate. The forthcoming days will see the burial of hundreds of vehicles in Jewish cemeteries across Israel, marking a somber first in the nation’s history.

Former Israeli President Reuven Rivlin arrived at the Elysee Palace in Paris for discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron. Prior to their meeting, Rivlin contributed an opinion piece to a French newspaper. In the article, he called on President Macron to resist the International Criminal Court’s investigation into alleged war crimes by Israel in East Jerusalem, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip. The meeting between the two leaders is seen as a significant diplomatic engagement amidst ongoing international scrutiny over Israel’s actions in the region.

Israel’s Cabinet is scheduled to convene at 8:00 pm to finalize an agreement, facilitated by Qatar, for the release of dozens of hostages from Gaza. This deal, according to a source close to the negotiations speaking to Reuters, is in its final stages and is the closest to completion it has ever been. The proposed agreement entails a multi-day ceasefire and includes the release of approximately 50 civilian hostages currently held by Hamas. In return, Israel will release Palestinian women and minors from its custody.

Gulf nations have set conditions for their participation in Gaza’s reconstruction, tying financial aid to significant changes in the Palestinian Authority (PA), as per a report by Israel’s public broadcaster Kan. International officials, including those from the US, are coordinating efforts for Gaza’s post-conflict rebuilding, seeking financial and practical support from Gulf states. These nations have expressed willingness to aid the PA, contingent upon leadership changes and a clear roadmap from Israel. The specifics of the demanded civil reforms remain undisclosed. This development aligns with US President Joe Biden’s recent op-ed in the Washington Post, emphasizing the need for a revitalized, stable PA capable of governing Gaza.

Jordan has dispatched a field hospital to the Gaza Strip, marking the first such initiative since the outbreak of hostilities between Israel and Hamas, the territory’s ruling group, on October 7. Set to be established in Khan Yunis, the hospital aims to alleviate the strain on southern hospitals, overwhelmed by the daily influx of hundreds of wounded amidst ongoing aerial and artillery strikes, according to Mohammed Zaqout, the director-general of Gaza hospitals. The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza reports approximately 30,000 wounded across the region. The ministry claims a death toll of 13,000, predominantly civilians, highlighting the devastating human cost of the conflict.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have issued a statement allowing residents of communities located more than 4 kilometers (approximately 2.5 miles) from the Gaza border to safely return to their homes. This announcement comes after a mandatory evacuation for those living within a 7-kilometer (4.3 miles) radius following the attack by Hamas on October 7. The IDF’s decision marks a significant step towards normalcy for these communities, signaling a decrease in immediate threats or hostilities in the area.

Hamas, the group designated as a terrorist organization by many countries, including the US and the EU, has outlined the terms of a hostage release agreement. The deal, set to last five days, involves exchanging fifty non-military captives and foreign nationals for 300 child and female prisoners held in Israel. Additionally, it calls for a cessation of Israeli flights over Gaza, with limited exceptions in the north. The agreement also allows 300 trucks of food, medical aid, and fuel into Gaza. The release of Israeli hostages is planned to occur in phases, with ten people being freed daily.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have made significant progress in capturing the Zeitoun neighborhood in Gaza City. The elite Golani Brigade, supported by the 188th Armored Brigade and engineering units, have breached the Hamas battalion’s stronghold in the area. This advancement comes four days into the military operation in this sector. Commanders from the 36th Division, overseeing the operation, predict that completely securing Zeitoun from terrorist elements will require an additional 72 hours. Following this, the IDF forces are expected to continue their offensive eastward towards parts of Jabalia in northern Gaza, extending their operational reach in the region.

The Knesset is moving forward with a bill allowing the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Shin Bet to discreetly access security camera systems to prevent misuse by harmful entities. This emergency legislation, which has passed its first reading, is designed to safeguard national security and IDF operations amid the ongoing war. The bill permits such interventions only in cases where the footage poses a threat to national security or IDF activities. Set to be effective for an initial six months, the measure includes an option for extension.

Israeli Police, in collaboration with the Shin Bet security agency, successfully apprehended two Hamas terrorists from Gaza in Rahat, a city in southern Israel. The suspects had infiltrated Israeli territory during the Oct. 7 terror attack. The operation, led by the Border Police Southern Command’s undercover unit, was executed without any injuries to Israeli officers. The arrest, a result of precise intelligence, led to the capture of the individuals who have since been transferred for further investigation by the Shin Bet.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported a barrage of rocket launches directed at Israeli territory, triggering widespread alarm across central Israel. The rockets were successfully intercepted by the Iron Dome and David’s Sling missile defense systems. The incident prompted over a million Israelis to seek shelter in response to the sounding alarms. The swift action of the missile defense systems averted potential damage, but the widespread alarm underscores the ongoing tension in the region. This latest development highlights the ever-present threat of rocket attacks in Israel and the critical role of its defense systems in protecting civilian areas.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to join a virtual BRICS summit on Tuesday, focusing on the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Hosted by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, the summit aims to formulate a unified response to the six-week-long crisis. The Kremlin announced Putin’s participation in this meeting, which also includes Brazil, India, China, and South Africa. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is expected to attend, with a joint statement to conclude the summit. Russia sees potential in mediating the conflict. The summit follows the APEC group’s unsuccessful attempt to reach a consensus on the war.

The Biranit army base in northern Israel suffered severe damage from a new Hizbullah rocket attack launched from Lebanon. Footage reveals extensive destruction at the military facility, highlighting the impact of the assault. Hizbullah, the Lebanon-based terrorist group, utilized heavy ‘Burkan’ rockets, reportedly improvised versions of the Iran-made 333mm ‘Falagh-2’ rockets, in this attack.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) responded with artillery fire against multiple targets in Lebanon, following rocket attacks aimed at its military outposts. The strikes were initiated as a direct reaction to several rocket and missile launches from Lebanese territory, which fortunately resulted in no reported injuries.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) revealed new footage showing Shifa Hospital in the Gaza Strip as a site of hostage operations by Hamas. The video, presented by IDF spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, captures the moment when Hamas guerrillas abducted a Nepalese and a Thai civilian, both kidnapped from Israeli territory, and brought them to the hospital. This evidence shows that the hospital was used as a base for terror activities, not just a medical facility.

Turkey is preparing to welcome over 100 evacuees from Gaza, including a significant number who require medical treatment. According to Turkey’s Health Minister Fahrettin Koca, 61 patients, along with 49 family members, arrived in Egypt from Gaza. They are scheduled to travel to Ankara after an overnight stay at Al Arish hospital. In a parallel development, a group of 87 individuals, comprising Turks, Turkish Cypriots, and their relatives, also arrived in Egypt from Gaza on Sunday. This group is slated to depart for Istanbul on Monday evening, as confirmed by a source from Turkey’s foreign ministry. These arrivals highlight Turkey’s role in providing aid and medical support to those affected by the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Israeli authorities have confirmed that Hamas has resumed discussions through Qatari mediators for a prisoner exchange deal. This development aims at securing the release of Israeli captives held in Gaza.

However, a military source indicated that, due to deliberations by Israel’s war cabinet on the proposed deal, a final resolution is not expected until late Monday. This development marks a significant step in ongoing negotiations between the two parties, mediated by Qatar.

Yair Lapid, Israel’s opposition leader, has publicly supported Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s strong condemnation of the Palestinian Authority (PA) Foreign Ministry’s denial of Hamas’ involvement in the recent Re’im massacre. In a statement on his social media account, Lapid criticized the PA’s position as both “abhorrent and false,” asserting that denying the massacre equates to complicity in a grave crime against the Jewish people. His remarks follow the PA’s controversial statement issued Sunday, which disputed Hamas’ role in the deadly attack at the Nova music festival near Kibbutz Re’im.

A top health official in the Hamas-run Gaza Strip said Sunday all 31 premature babies at Shifa Hospital had been evacuated from the facility which the WHO has described as a “death zone.”

Mohammed Zaqut, director general of hospitals in Gaza, told AFP “all 31 premature babies in Shifa hospital … have been evacuated” along with three doctors and two nurses, and “preparations are underway” for them to enter Egypt.

Top foreign policy officials from the Palestinian Authority and four Muslim-majority countries will visit China on Monday and Tuesday, Beijing announced, as the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas claims thousands of civilian lives.

The visiting delegation is set to include the foreign ministers of the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt, and Indonesia, as well as the secretary-general of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

“During the visit, China will have in-depth communication and coordination with the joint delegation of foreign ministers of Arab and Islamic countries to promote a de-escalation of the current Palestinian-Israeli conflict, protecting civilians, and justly resolving the Palestinian issue,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said in a statement.

A deal to free the hostages that Hamas seized in its Oct. 7 attack on Israel now hinges on “minor” practical issues, Qatar’s prime minister said, without giving details or a timeline.

“The challenges that remain in the negotiations are very minor compared to the bigger challenges, they are more logistical, they are more practical,” Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani told a joint press conference with EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell. 

Qatar has helped broker talks aiming to free some of the 240 hostages in return for a temporary cease-fire, a mediation effort that has so far led to the release of four hostages. 

“The deal is going through ups and downs from time to time throughout the last few weeks,” the premier said. 

“I think that I’m now more confident that we are close enough to reach a deal that can bring the people safely back to their homes.”

Saudi media outlets reported on Sunday that Yemeni Houthi rebels have seized an Israeli-owned cargo ship, the Galaxy Leader, along with its non-Israeli crew of 22.

In a coordinated operation, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have conducted a series of raids in the affluent neighborhoods of Sheikh Ijlin and Rimal in the southern Gaza Strip. Comprising elements from the paratrooper brigade, armored, engineering, and air force units, the IDF successfully uncovered approximately 35 tunnel shafts and a cache of weapons, significantly disrupting terrorist activities in the region. The operation also targeted a camp utilized by Hamas’ military intelligence technical department. During the raid, IDF soldiers seized anti-tank missiles and seven rocket launchers.

Israel, the United States, and Hamas have reportedly agreed to a tentative deal involving the release of hostages in exchange for a five-day cease-fire, according to the Washington Post. The agreement, detailed in a six-page document, proposes the cessation of combat operations for a minimum of five days. This period is aimed at facilitating the release of at least 50 hostages, held by Hamas since the deadly October 7 attacks in Israel that claimed 1,200 lives. These releases are planned to occur in smaller groups every 24 hours.

The deal also includes provisions for overhead surveillance to oversee ground activities and ensure adherence to the cease-fire terms. This break in hostilities is expected to allow for the entry of significant humanitarian aid into the region. As of now, there has been no official statement from the White House or the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office regarding the Washington Post’s report.

The hostage release process could begin within the next few days, according to sources close to the agreement. Since the initial attack by Hamas, families of the 240 Israelis taken into captivity have been actively campaigning for their release. Demonstrations demanding action from the government and international entities have been ongoing, with prominent participation from thousands, including former President Reuven Rivlin and singer Shlomo Artzi.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu acknowledged the situation, stating, “Our hearts are with the abductees and their families. We have been tirelessly working to secure their release since the war’s onset.”

In a telephone conversation Saturday, Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sisi and French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the urgency of resolving the escalating conflict in the Gaza Strip. Both leaders concurred on the necessity of immediate humanitarian aid delivery to the besieged area and the initiation of a comprehensive political process aimed at a fair resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict based on the two-state solution.

This discussion comes amid intensified military actions in Gaza by Israel, following the deadly Hamas attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, in which Hamas gunmen killed around 1,200 Israelis, mostly civilians, and took more than 240 hostages back to the Gaza Strip. The Palestinian death toll in Gaza has risen above 12,000 since the conflict’s onset, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry, while Israel says the Israeli death toll has risen to more than 1,300.

President Sisi underscored the critical need for an immediate cease-fire and expanding humanitarian aid in Gaza.

Intense Israeli airstrikes on the Jabalia refugee camp in north Gaza have resulted in over 80 fatalities, escalating concerns for the safety of civilians.

Airstrikes targeted crowded UN shelters in the camp, causing extensive casualties. Additionally, a separate attack near Khan Younis in southern Gaza claimed at least 26 lives.

The largest hospital in North Gaza, Shifa, now operates with minimal staff, caring for 120 of the most vulnerable patients amidst ongoing bombardment. The region is grappling with limited medical resources to handle the influx of new victims.

A devastating dawn attack on a UN-run school in the Jabalia camp resulted in at least 50 deaths, and another strike in the same area killed 32 members of a single family, including 19 children, as reported by officials from the Hamas-run Health Ministry.

Prime Minister Netanyahu said Saturday evening there were many rumors in the media but “there has not been a deal and the moment there is we will tell you.” 

He empathized with the families of the hostages. He spoke of Israel’s achievements in taking out Hamas leaders, the will of the courageous fighters and the unity of the people, singling out the female fighters of the Kerkel unit. He said this spirit is “the second way we’ll win.” 

Netanyahu thanked “our friend President Biden for sending the submarine and other naval assets.”

In a violent encounter in the West Bank, terrorists attacked soldiers at a checkpoint. The assailants opened fire on the troops, who responded with gunfire, resulting in the death of two terrorists.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the tragic discovery of the body of Yehudit Weiss, 65, in the Gaza Strip. Weiss, abducted by Hamas terrorists on October 7, 2023, was found by the IDF’s 603rd Battalion in a building adjacent to Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. The IDF also reported finding an array of military equipment, including Kalashnikov-type weapons and an RPG missile at the site, indicating the presence of armed operatives.

Weiss, a resident of Be’eri, situated along the Gaza border, was kidnapped during the Hamas massacre. Her body was brought back to Israel. Prior to the recovery operation, Israeli intelligence had information on Weiss’s location for several days.

Israel Police Commissioner Yaakov Shabtai revealed the extent of a thwarted terrorist plot in Jerusalem, indicating the attackers had planned a large-scale massacre. Speaking at the site of the foiled attack near the tunnel checkpoint, Shabtai noted the evidence found on the perpetrators, including two M16 weapons, two guns, hundreds of bullets, two axes, around ten cartridges, and clothing resembling IDF uniforms, suggested a significantly more devastating attack was intended. The dates for the planned attacks, found in the terrorists’ possession, further corroborated the scale of their intentions, according to Shabtai. This is after the attack by these terrorists at a checkpoint between West Bank and Jerusalem in which eight Israelis were wounded.

During his visit to Israel, European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell emphasized the need for restraint in response to recent hostilities. Speaking alongside Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen, Borrell, who had visited Kibbutz Be’eri, a site of the October 7 attack, expressed his understanding of Israel’s anger but urged caution. “I understand your rage but let me ask you not to be consumed by rage,” Borrell stated, highlighting the importance of a measured response even in the face of aggression.

Borrell affirmed the EU’s support for Israel’s right to self-defense, aligning with international law. He distinguished between defending the nation and addressing the needs of affected people, underscoring the necessity of balancing security concerns with humanitarian considerations.

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre expressed relief as the first group of Norwegian citizens safely crossed from Gaza into Egypt. This development follows Norway’s confirmation that 51 of its nationals were permitted to leave Gaza through the Rafah border crossing. Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide emphasized the dire situation in Gaza, describing it as a “humanitarian disaster” that has impacted Norwegians and others in the region.

Eide highlighted the lack of safe locations in Gaza and the traumatic experiences faced by those in the conflict zone. He stressed the urgent need for a cessation of hostilities and the importance of allowing humanitarian aid into Gaza. According to the Norwegian news agency NTB, approximately 270 individuals with Norwegian ties, including about half children, are currently in Gaza.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog emphasizes the necessity of maintaining a strong Israeli presence in Gaza. Citing concerns over leaving a power vacuum that could lead to the resurgence of Hamas in the region, Herzog outlined the critical need for a strategic approach. “If we pull back, then who will take over? We can’t leave a vacuum,” he stated, indicating that a withdrawal could potentially transform Gaza into a base for terrorism again. Herzog highlighted that while various strategies are under consideration, the primary goal remains to prevent Gaza from becoming a terror hub.

Opposition Leader Yair Lapid has called for the removal of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, proposing a leadership change within the Likud party itself.

In a recent Channel 12 interview, Lapid expressed a loss of public confidence in Netanyahu following the violent events in southern Israel on October 7. Emphasizing the nation’s need for trustworthy leadership, especially during ongoing military operations, Lapid suggested that Netanyahu’s position as Prime Minister is no longer tenable.

While Lapid refrained from naming specific alternatives within Likud, he indicated that several party members recognize the necessity for Netanyahu’s departure. He also mentioned that his Yesh Atid party is open to supporting a broad government led by a different Likud leader.

In response, Likud criticized Lapid’s timing, labeling his political maneuvering during a critical time of conflict as “sad and embarrassing.” They defended Netanyahu’s leadership, particularly in handling the current military operation.

Labor Party leader Merav Michaeli echoed Lapid’s sentiments, welcoming his support for replacing Netanyahu.

The BBC issued an apology on Wednesday for incorrectly reporting that Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers were targeting medical teams and Arabic speakers at Shifa Hospital in Gaza. The error occurred during a broadcast where a presenter, referencing a Reuters report, misstated that IDF soldiers entering the hospital were engaging in such targeted actions. The actual Reuters report stated that the IDF, alleging the hospital to be a Hamas command center, had entered with specially trained forces, including medical teams and Arabic-speaking soldiers, to ensure medical supplies reached those in need. This miscommunication led to a significant backlash, prompting the BBC to rectify the mistake and apologize on air.