An independent review has cleared the United Nations Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) of allegations that its staff participated in terrorist activities, prompting Australia to reinstate funding. The accusations by Israel led to a suspension of funding while investigations took place.
Major-General Yehuda Fox, a senior Israeli military officer, plans to resign in August following the failure of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to effectively stop Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Fox’s resignation is the second high-profile departure of a military commander in recent days, following the resignation of Major-General Aharon Haliva, head of the IDF’s Military Intelligence Directorate.
The US State Department’s Country Reports on Human Rights Practices brings attention to concerns over human rights abuses in Gaza, particularly during the conflict between Israel and Hamas. The report documents allegations of extrajudicial killings, torture, arbitrary detention, and the punishment of family members for alleged offenses by relatives.
The head of Israel’s military intelligence, Major General Aharon Haliva, has resigned following the failure to prevent Hamas’s attack on October 7th. Haliva admitted that his division did not live up to its task and carries the responsibility for the attack. The resignation comes amid reports of bodies being recovered from a mass grave in Gaza by Al Jazeera.
Israel is ramping up its efforts to neutralize the remaining Hamas stronghold in Gaza, raising concerns about the safety of civilians seeking refuge in the south of the strip. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to increase military and diplomatic pressure on Hamas, hinting at a potential assault on Rafah, a city near the Egyptian border where approximately half of Gaza’s population has sought shelter.
Amidst the focus on Iran’s attack on Israel and the GOP’s attempt to scuttle a foreign aid package, a concerning development has emerged regarding Hamas’s uncertain knowledge of hostages seized during the October 7 attack. The group’s initial claim that it had 40 living hostages for an exchange with Israel has been cast into doubt, with fears that many more hostages may have died in captivity. The possible deaths of up to 30 hostages, including six American citizens, raise concerns about Hamas’s disregard for human life and the challenges facing negotiations for a cease-fire.
The United States’ top universities are facing a crisis as extremist groups infiltrate and spread hate. Faculty, students, and non-student extremists are promoting anti-American, anti-Israel, and anti-Jewish views, creating an unsafe and hostile environment for Jewish students. Notable incidents include Hamas-supporting demonstrations, the defacement of university property, and physical attacks on Jewish students. Despite these incidents, university administrations have often failed to respond adequately, allowing the extremists to continue their activities unchecked. The author calls for urgent action from universities and government to protect these critical institutions and ensure the safety and well-being of all students.
This Passover, Jews grappled with the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, reflecting on the historical significance of liberation while acknowledging the suffering endured by both Israelis and Palestinians. Despite the presence of armed security, the first night of Passover was observed with both celebration and a sense of guilt over the plight of hostages held by Hamas.
Uncertainty looms over the fate of Hamas’ political headquarters in Qatar, as the group faces pressure from the US and Israel to relocate. Hamas has been based in Doha for over a decade, but recent developments suggest a change could be imminent.
The Wall Street Journal reported that Hamas has approached two regional governments as potential new hosts, while Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Turkey already has a Hamas office and close ties with the Palestinian organization.
Republican lawmakers in the US have long opposed Hamas’ presence in Qatar, and recently Democratic Rep. Steny Hoyer called for Qatar to expel Hamas leadership if progress is not made on releasing Israeli hostages. Qatar has responded by saying that “threatening the mediator is not constructive.”
Qatar’s Prime Minister has indicated that the country is reassessing its role in mediation, citing “political exploitation.” Hamas leaders have hinted at flexibility on their location, which could undermine the assumption that relocation would pressure the group.
The outcome of the location debate will have significant implications for Hamas, the prospects for peace in Gaza, and the US’s engagement with the group.
Israel is planning to evacuate Palestinian civilians from Rafah, Gaza’s southernmost city, before launching an offensive against Hamas. The operation is expected to last six weeks and involve moving civilians to nearby areas with shelters and essential supplies. Egypt has expressed concern over the potential operation, while the Biden administration has opposed a mass invasion without proper evacuation and humanitarian care.
