The Israel-Hamas conflict has caused immense destruction in Gaza, with estimates of $18.5 billion in damage. This staggering figure highlights the immense potential for growth and development that could have been realized if this money had been invested in Gaza during peacetime. This article explores how $18 billion could have transformed Gaza’s housing, healthcare, education, infrastructure, and economy, leading to a more prosperous and stable future for its people.
In her first formal interview for the 2024 US Presidential election, Vice President Kamala Harris addressed key issues, slamming former President Donald Trump and emphasizing her commitment to a ‘two-state solution’ for the Israel-Hamas conflict. She also highlighted economic achievements and outlined her plans for strengthening the middle class.
Despite the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, Palestine has selected six athletes to compete in the Paris Olympics. The athletes will represent Palestine in boxing, judo, swimming, shooting and taekwondo. The selection comes despite the devastating impact of the conflict on Palestinian sports, with many athletes forced to flee and training facilities destroyed.
In a remarkable show of support, 93 nations have signed a joint statement pledging to safeguard the International Criminal Court (ICC) from political interference and intimidation. The statement follows reports of Israeli intelligence efforts to undermine the court and recent warnings from ICC chief prosecutor Karim Khan about threats faced by the institution. The signatories, who are parties to the Rome Statute of the ICC, reaffirm their commitment to the court’s independence and impartiality. They vow to stand united against impunity and defend the principles enshrined in the Rome Statute. The move is seen as a strong message to countries, including Israel and the United States, who have sought to manipulate the court for political gains.
At least eight Israeli soldiers have been killed in a blast that ripped through an armored vehicle in Southern Gaza, marking the biggest loss of life for the IDF in a single incident since January. The tragic incident occurred on Saturday in the Tal al-Sultan area, when combat engineers were returning from a mission. The IDF is investigating whether the vehicle was targeted or it was an accidental detonation. The attack is expected to fuel calls for a ceasefire and heighten public anger over ultra-Orthodox exemptions from the military.
The fate of 120 Israeli hostages remains uncertain in Gaza, casting doubt over a purported ceasefire plan between Israel and Hamas. A Hamas official claims ignorance of the hostages’ well-being, alleging Israeli actions have endangered their lives. Negotiations on a US-backed ceasefire proposal have hit a snag, with Hamas rejecting Israel’s short-term ceasefire and demanding a permanent end to hostilities, among other conditions.
Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert believes the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict should have ended months ago. He criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s handling of the conflict, stating that while the war was inevitable, Netanyahu’s rhetoric and actions have been unnecessary and counterproductive. Olmert also expressed concern about the lack of a political plan for the future of Gaza and the potential for further instability in the region.
Today’s political events include the Congress Working Committee meeting to discuss Lok Sabha election results, a meeting between French President Emmanuel Macron and US President Joe Biden, and a directive for Delhi hospitals to conduct fire safety audits. Additionally, pro-Palestinian protesters plan to demonstrate near the White House, and Israel’s war cabinet minister threatens to resign over the Gaza conflict.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s upcoming address to the US Congress on July 24 highlights the mounting pressure for a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas militants. The visit follows President Joe Biden’s proposed three-phase plan to end the conflict and address the devastating toll in Gaza. Despite expressions of solidarity with Israel, some progressive Democrats have condemned Netanyahu’s handling of the situation and plan to boycott his speech. Amidst international scrutiny, US, Qatari, and Egyptian mediators continue efforts to secure a truce and hostage swap.
Russia, China, and Algeria have expressed reservations about a US-backed draft resolution at the UN Security Council that supports President Joe Biden’s proposed ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The resolution, which requires nine votes in favor and no vetoes to pass, has raised questions about whether Israel has genuinely accepted the plan. Russia has proposed amendments calling for an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire respected by all parties. Negotiations for a ceasefire have been ongoing, with Hamas demanding an end to the war and Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, while Israel retaliates against Hamas over previous attacks.
