Israel - Hamas War And The Calls To Level Gaza

 In a recent turn of events, certain Republican figures are advocating for a forceful response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, with South C...

 In a recent turn of events, certain Republican figures are advocating for a forceful response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, with South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham at the forefront of this perspective.

Senator Graham, known for his staunch support of Israel, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "We're in a religious war here. I am with Israel. Do whatever it takes to defend yourself. Level the place."

However, it's important to note that not everyone shares this viewpoint. Advocacy group Jewish Voice for Peace has urged the U.S. to take a more measured approach. They have expressed concern that escalating the violence further and sending more weapons to Israel may not be the most effective solution. Instead, they emphasize the need to address the root cause of the ongoing violence, pointing to the long-standing issues of Israeli military occupation and apartheid.

As the conflict in Gaza continues, the humanitarian crisis deepens. The Palestinian territory is experiencing relentless Israeli airstrikes, causing extensive damage and loss of life. To date, the attacks have resulted in the deaths of over 1,350 Palestinians and the injury of more than 6,000, including over 320 children. With homes reduced to rubble, survivors are left searching for essential supplies, such as food and shelter.

Adding to the dire situation, the power station in Gaza has run out of fuel, plunging the territory into darkness. This has dire consequences for hospitals, as power outages endanger patients who rely on incubators, oxygen, and other critical equipment. The humanitarian agency UNRWA reports that at least 340,000 Palestinians have been displaced in Gaza, with Israeli strikes damaging schools being used as makeshift shelters. UNRWA's own headquarters in Gaza City has also been affected by Israeli attacks.

Israel Should Level Gaza 

In Israel, the situation is no less dire, with the death toll climbing to 1,300 and over 3,300 Israelis injured in the wake of a surprise assault by Hamas. An estimated 150 Israelis are being held as hostages by the group. Israel's former defense minister, Benny Gantz, has joined an emergency wartime government and a war cabinet, vowing to take a hardline stance. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that every Hamas member is "a dead man," and there are reports of Israeli troops amassing for a potential ground invasion of Gaza.

The conflict has spilled over into the occupied West Bank, where Israeli settlers have killed at least two Palestinians during a funeral procession for four Palestinians previously killed by settlers and Israeli soldiers. Israeli forces have imposed a lockdown in the West Bank and have killed at least 27 Palestinians since the weekend. Meanwhile, Israel's National Security Minister has announced the purchase of 10,000 assault rifles, helmets, and body armor to arm settler militias.

As the violence continues, international support and condemnation are pouring in from various corners of the globe. While Arab League members have called for an immediate halt to Israeli attacks on Gaza, European leaders have expressed solidarity with Israel. However, pro-Palestinian protests have also emerged, defying bans in various European cities.

The humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan is worsening, exacerbated by recent earthquakes. The World Food Programme is calling on the international community for support, highlighting a dire situation with 15 million people unsure of where their next meal will come from. Unfortunately, the World Food Programme can currently only support 3 million people due to a substantial funding shortfall.

In the United States, House Republicans have nominated Majority Leader Steve Scalise as the next Speaker of the House. However, he faces challenges in securing the position as not all members appear to support his candidacy. A new Speaker of the House must be elected to resume legislative business, including work on a bill to fund the government beyond November 17.