Hezbollah’s Role in the Israel-Hamas War

Hezbollah Official: “We are in the Heart of the Battle”

Lebanon’s Hezbollah deputy leader Sheikh Naim Kassem has declared that his group is already deeply involved in the Israel-Hamas war. As Israel continues its airstrikes on Gaza and Hezbollah retaliates by firing rockets towards Israel, Kassem warns that Israel will pay a high price if it initiates a ground offensive in the Gaza Strip. Hezbollah’s main objective in heating up the Lebanon-Israel border is to weaken the Israeli enemy and demonstrate their readiness to fight. In fact, Kassem suggests that if Israel does launch a ground offensive, Hezbollah will join the fighting to support Hamas.

Due to concerns that Hezbollah, backed by Iran, may open a new front in the war by launching a large-scale attack on northern Israel, Kassem’s group aims to keep three Israeli army divisions occupied in the north. By doing so, they believe they can significantly impact the course of the conflict and achieve their goals. Kassem emphasizes the interconnectedness of the resistance fighters in the region, warning that crushing the Palestinian resistance will not go unanswered.

Biden’s Support for Hostages Released by Hamas

President Joe Biden has expressed his joy over the release of two U.S. citizens held hostage by Hamas. In a video call shared from the Oval Office, Biden can be seen speaking with Judith and Natalie Raanan. While the content of their conversation is not audible, Biden’s post on social media conveys his relief and happiness at their safe return.

Web Summit CEO Resigns

Paddy Cosgrave, the CEO of Web Summit tech conference, has announced his resignation following the backlash over his comments condemning Israel’s counterattacks. Cosgrave, who co-founded the conference, faced criticism and decided to step down from his position.

Secretary Blinken Calls for Humanitarian Aid

Secretary of State Antony Blinken has welcomed the arrival of critical humanitarian aid in Gaza and has expressed gratitude to Egypt, Israel, and the United Nations for facilitating the safe passage of these shipments through the Rafah border crossing. Blinken acknowledges the urgency of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where residents face severe shortages of food, water, medical care, and safe shelter. He urges all parties to keep the Rafah border crossing open to allow for the continuous delivery of supplies and humanitarian convoys.

The Human Toll of the Israel-Hamas Conflict

The Israel-Hamas war has reached its 15th day, making it the deadliest conflict between the two sides. According to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry, the death toll has now exceeded 4,300, with over 13,500 people wounded. On the Israeli side, more than 1,400 people have been killed, primarily during the initial attack by Hamas militants. The Israeli military has also reported that 203 people were captured by Hamas and taken into Gaza during the incursion.

UNICEF’s Efforts to Provide Clean Water

UNICEF has delivered over 44,000 bottles of drinking water to civilians in Gaza through the Rafah border crossing. This water supply is expected to meet the needs of 22,000 people for a day. UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell emphasizes the critical nature of this delivery, as one million children in Gaza are facing a protection and humanitarian crisis. Without consistent humanitarian supplies, there is a real risk of life-threatening disease outbreaks.

China and Russia Solidify Ties Amid Conflict

As tensions escalate in the Israel-Hamas conflict, China and Russia appear to be strengthening their relationship. The ongoing conflict has provided an opportunity for both countries to deepen their alliance.

Gaza’s Water Crisis and Health Risks

The situation in Gaza is putting residents, especially children, at risk of waterborne bacterial illnesses and other viruses. Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, warns that Gaza is running out of water and, as a result, running out of life. The lack of access to clean water exacerbates the already dire humanitarian crisis in the region.

Global Protests Demand End to Israeli Actions

Thousands of pro-Palestinian demonstrators have taken to the streets in cities around the world to demand an end to Israel’s bombardment of Gaza. In London, protesters gathered near Marble Arch before marching to the government district, Whitehall, waving Palestinian flags and calling for an end to Israel’s blockade and airstrikes. Similar protests have taken place in Sydney, Australia, highlighting the international outrage and concern over the ongoing conflict.

Read More of this Story at www.cnbc.com – 2023-10-21 17:11:00

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