In what has become the deadliest of the five Gaza conflicts, the Israel-Hamas conflict has now entered its 19th day. Recent developments and key updates in this ongoing crisis are as follows:
Israeli Ambassador Calls for UN Secretary-General's Resignation: In a contentious UN Security Council session, the Israeli ambassador has called for the resignation of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Guterres had suggested that Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7th was not isolated, sparking a fierce debate about the root causes of the conflict. He emphasized that the Palestinian people have endured decades of occupation, underscoring the complex history behind the crisis.
Israel's Foreign Minister's Stance: Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen presented a strong stance at the UN Security Council, advocating for a complete destruction of Hamas. He argued that this was not solely Israel's war but a battle for the "free world."
Israel's Airstrikes Continue: Israel reported conducting 400 airstrikes in the last 24 hours, targeting Hamas commanders, militants preparing rocket launches, and command centers, including a Hamas tunnel shaft.
Australia Deploys Planes for Potential Evacuations: Australia has dispatched two additional air force transport planes to the Middle East in preparation for the possible evacuation of Australian citizens should hostilities escalate. Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles confirmed this deployment.
European Leaders Express Solidarity: Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala and Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer are set to visit Israel to express solidarity following the October 7th attacks and in response to the ongoing conflict with Hamas.
S&P Alters Israel's Credit Rating Outlook: Standard & Poor's (S&P) has downgraded Israel's credit rating outlook from "stable" to "negative" due to concerns over the ongoing conflict with Hamas. S&P cited worries about the potential for the crisis to escalate into a broader regional conflict and its potential economic impact on Israel.
Israel Rejects Calls for Ceasefire: Israel remains committed to defeating Hamas and has declined calls for a ceasefire from various parties, asserting that the conflict in Gaza is not only its own but a fight for the "free world."
French President Macron Visits Israel: French President Emmanuel Macron visited Israel to express support during the conflict with Hamas, emphasizing that Israel is not alone in its fight against terrorism.
UN Health Agency Urges Humanitarian Pause: The United Nations health agency has called for an urgent humanitarian pause in Gaza to facilitate the distribution of essential health supplies to major hospitals in the northern part of the Gaza Strip. The situation is described as desperate, with potential catastrophic consequences without safe passage for fuel and medical supplies.
India Sends Humanitarian Aid: India's Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador R. Ravindra, highlighted India's active involvement in sending humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza. India has dispatched 38 tons of food and critical medical supplies to the region in support of those affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Read More Updates:
Hamas Releases Israeli Women Hostages, US Advises Delay in Ground Assault: 18th Day Updates
Hamas Releases Israeli Women Hostages, US Advises Delay in Ground Assault: 18th Day Updates