Benny Gantz, leader of the National Unity Party and war cabinet minister, has threatened to leave the emergency government if a draft bill exempting ultra-orthodox from military service is passed in the Knesset. The Supreme Court has challenged the government to justify the exemption, with a deadline approaching. Defence Minister Yoav Gallant of the Likud party also opposes the bill. The issue has been contentious since a 2017 Supreme Court ruling declared the exemption unconstitutional. Opposition Leader Yair Lapid has called for Gantz and Gadi Eisenkot to resign if the bill passes, citing security concerns. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists the bill's passage is crucial for the government's survival.

Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has called for the international community to designate the Houthi rebels and their Iranian backers, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, as terrorist organizations. This follows Western airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen in retaliation for Red Sea shipping attacks. Gallant emphasized the threat posed by Iran's nuclear ambitions and its use of proxies like the Houthis, Hamas, and Hezbollah to distract from this goal. The UK and US have responded to Houthi aggression, and Israel may also take action. Gallant revealed ongoing military efforts against Hamas in Gaza and the intention to target Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. The article also touches on the civilian death toll in Gaza, US frustration with Israel's response, and the pressure on the Israeli government to resolve the hostage situation with Hamas. Hezbollah's intensified attacks on Israel's northern border are also mentioned, with Gallant warning of readiness for both diplomatic and military options.

Israel's defence minister and the IDF chief both acknowledged responsibility for the mistaken killing of three Israeli hostages by IDF forces in Gaza. The hostages were shot despite appearing unarmed, leading to a preliminary IDF investigation that concluded the soldiers acted against rules of engagement. IDF chief Herzl Halevi and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant addressed the incident, emphasizing the complexity of the environment in which soldiers operate. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed sorrow but did not take personal responsibility. Following the incident, protests erupted in Tel Aviv demanding the return of the remaining hostages in Gaza.

The Israeli government has approved a deal with Hamas to release 50 women and children held hostage in Gaza in exchange for a four-day ceasefire and the release of 150 Palestinian prisoners. The deal, brokered by Qatar and Egypt, includes increased humanitarian aid to Gaza. The ceasefire will allow for the daily release of hostages, facilitated by the Red Cross, and their transfer to Israeli hospitals for medical checks. The agreement has been welcomed by various international leaders, including President Herzog, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron. Despite the ceasefire, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that the war with Hamas will continue until all objectives are achieved.

The Israeli army reported the deaths of 12 soldiers in Gaza, with 10 killed by an anti-tank missile. Defence Minister Yoav Gallant expressed condolences and emphasized the ongoing, complex campaign against Hamas. The IDF claimed to have struck over 11,000 Hamas targets, including a significant strike on the Jabaliya refugee camp, killing a senior Hamas commander and 50 terrorists, though Hamas disputes the number. The strike was condemned by Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia. The Rafah border crossing opened for wounded Palestinians and foreign nationals, while humanitarian aid into Gaza increased. Israel's northern and southern borders faced attacks from Houthi rebels and Hezbollah, prompting Israeli military responses.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Israel to discuss the Gaza situation, the release of hostages, and the threat of regional war. He emphasized the need for humanitarian assistance in Gaza and preventing further escalation with Hezbollah. Blinken's visit follows his meetings in several Middle Eastern countries. The conflict has led to significant evacuations on both sides of the Israel-Lebanon border, with Hezbollah intensifying attacks following the assassination of its leaders by Israel.

U.S. President Joe Biden opposes an Israeli ground operation in Rafah, urging Prime Minister Netanyahu to find alternative ways to target Hamas. Biden emphasized the need for a ceasefire to facilitate hostage release and humanitarian aid. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan warned that a ground operation would exacerbate civilian casualties and humanitarian crises. Despite U.S. opposition, Netanyahu insists on the necessity of a ground operation to eliminate Hamas battalions. An Israeli delegation is in Qatar for ceasefire and hostage negotiations with Hamas, which demands a permanent ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urges Hamas terrorists to surrender, declaring the beginning of the end for Hamas. Israeli forces have arrested numerous Palestinians in Gaza, with a significant portion identified as terrorists. Videos of detainees in humiliating conditions have sparked outrage, while Israeli officials defend the procedures as necessary for security. Former Hamas communications minister Yousef al-Mans reveals internal dissent against Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, accusing him of delusions of grandeur and unilateral decision-making.

Israel is prepared for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza to secure the release of 239 hostages held by Hamas, according to Israeli minister Gideon Sa’ar. Sa’ar emphasized the ongoing military efforts to dismantle Hamas infrastructure and highlighted the importance of achieving security and reconstructing Gaza. He criticized the UN's role in Gaza and stressed the need for partnerships with moderate Arab regimes. Despite daily attacks from Hezbollah in the north, Israel's current objective remains defeating Hamas, with no immediate interest in escalating the conflict into a full-scale war.

Israel is attempting to remind the world of the events of October 7 by showing journalists video recordings of the massacre at Kibbutz Be'eri, one of the targets of Hamas' attack. This effort aims to counteract the shift in international focus towards the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The article contains strong descriptions and images.

Israel is combating both terrorism and disinformation, with the Israeli Defence Force showing journalists harrowing footage of Hamas atrocities to counteract propaganda. The spread of false information has endangered Jewish lives globally, with various nations supporting Israel's stance. The article highlights the disturbing nature of the footage, the impact of disinformation, and the challenges faced by the Israeli government in proving the reality of the atrocities committed by Hamas.

Israel is combating both terrorism and disinformation, with the Israeli Defence Force showing journalists harrowing footage of Hamas atrocities to counter false narratives. The spread of disinformation has endangered Jewish lives globally, with false claims about Israel's actions in Gaza. The article highlights the emotional impact of witnessing such footage and questions the global skepticism towards verified reports of these events.

Israel attributes a deadly explosion at a Gaza hospital to a failed rocket launch by Islamic Jihad, countering initial claims by the Hamas-run health ministry that blamed Israeli airstrikes. The IDF presented evidence, including videos and intercepted communications, to support their assertion. Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Herzog, condemned the international media for allegedly propagating Hamas' narrative. Despite the lack of evidence from Hamas and Islamic Jihad, the incident sparked riots and demonstrations across the Middle East. Islamic Jihad dismissed Israel's evidence, while tensions in the region escalated.

U.S. President Joe Biden visited Israel to show support against Hamas and Islamic Jihad in Gaza, marking the first visit by a U.S. president during a war. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Biden's commitment to Israel. Biden condemned Hamas's actions and emphasized U.S. support for Israel. The visit also aimed to pressure Hamas to release hostages and discuss humanitarian aid for Gaza. Biden's presence signals a warning to Iran and Hezbollah against escalating the conflict.

Israel's Supreme Court struck down the government's controversial 'reasonableness law,' maintaining judicial oversight over government decisions. The ruling, supported by eight justices and opposed by seven, was part of a broader judicial overhaul that had sparked widespread protests. Justice Minister Yaniv Levin and Prime Minister Netanyahu's Likud party criticized the decision, while National Unity party leader Benny Gantz called for respect for the ruling and unity. The decision underscores the ongoing tension between the judiciary and the government in Israel.

The United Nations Security Council approved a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and the release of 134 hostages in Gaza. The resolution also demands humanitarian access and compliance with international law. U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield expressed partial support but noted the absence of a condemnation of Hamas. Prime Minister Netanyahu criticized the resolution, stating it diverges from the U.S.'s previous stance. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby denied any policy shift. This marks the first successful resolution after four failed attempts, though its impact on the ground remains uncertain.

On October 7, Omri Almog's family in Kibbutz Kfar Azza was attacked by Hamas terrorists, resulting in the deaths of Nadav and Yam, and the kidnapping of Chen and her three children. Omri, along with other Israeli families, is working tirelessly to secure the release of hostages from Gaza, expressing disbelief in the government's initial response but recognizing its current prioritization of the issue. Omri emphasizes the need to share these personal stories globally to highlight Israel's struggle and the atrocities committed by Hamas. He has left his home to support his now homeless parents, who were abroad during the attack.

The article provides an in-depth look at the largest Hamas tunnel discovered by the IDF in Gaza, highlighting its advanced infrastructure and its use for transporting military equipment. IDF officials describe the tunnel as a 'terrorist city' and criticize Hamas for investing in terror networks instead of the residents of Gaza. The article also covers the aftermath of Hamas' attack on the Erez border crossing, revealing significant security gaps and the destruction caused by the attack. Key figures mentioned include Yahya Sinwar, Muhammed Sinwar, Daniel Hagari, Doron Spielman, Isaac Herzog, and Herzl Halevi.

Israel's parliament, the Knesset, has approved a new government, ending Benjamin Netanyahu's 12-year tenure as prime minister. The vote was narrow, with Naftali Bennett becoming the new prime minister as part of a coalition agreement that includes eight parties. Bennett, a former aide to Netanyahu, will serve for two years before Yair Lapid takes over. The coalition is diverse, including right-wing factions, center-left parties, and for the first time, an Arab party, Raam. Bennett's speech emphasized domestic issues and maintaining a hardline stance against the Iran nuclear agreement, similar to Netanyahu's. However, he also promised a less partisan approach to U.S. relations. President Biden has expressed his intention to work closely with the new Israeli government. Netanyahu, now in the opposition and facing corruption charges, vowed to work towards returning to power. The new coalition plans to focus on domestic matters, avoiding divisive issues like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The article discusses the impact of the recent conflict between Israel and Hamas on civilians, particularly focusing on the experiences of Ghaith Alrayyes, an 18-year-old from Gaza City. It highlights the fear and normalization of violence among residents due to the constant threat of Israeli airstrikes. The conflict, which began on May 10 and ended with a cease-fire announced on Thursday, involved hundreds of Israeli airstrikes and 4,000 rockets launched by Hamas, many of which were intercepted by Israel's Iron Dome defense system. The violence resulted in at least 230 Palestinian deaths, displacement of 58,000 individuals, and 12 deaths in Israel.

The article discusses the situation in Gaza through the perspective of Najla, a Palestinian humanitarian worker from Gaza City. Najla is currently engaged in efforts to raise awareness about COVID-19 in the region. The article highlights the complexity of the desires and needs of the people living in Gaza when asked about their current wants, indicating a sense of uncertainty and difficulty in articulating their immediate priorities amidst the pandemic.

The article discusses the rising possibility of Marine Le Pen becoming the President of France. Recent opinion polls indicate that Le Pen has gained a lead over the current President, Emmanuel Macron, by three percentage points. The article highlights the significant progress Le Pen has made in the political landscape, as she is also showing a strong performance in second-round polling, closely trailing Macron.

The article discusses the rise of the far right in the Netherlands as of February 2020. It highlights the political landscape at the time, where two main far-right parties, led by Geert Wilders and Thierry Baudet, were gaining significant traction in polls, with a combined support of 23 percent. The article also notes the potential shift in far-right leadership, with the younger Baudet poised to possibly overtake Wilders as the leading figure of the far-right movement in the Netherlands.

Israel has vaccinated over a third of its population, leading the world in vaccination rates, but is also experiencing high infection rates. As Israel prepares to lift its latest lockdown, the effectiveness of the vaccines in keeping society open will be tested. Meanwhile, Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza are still waiting for vaccines. In Denmark, Inger Støjberg has resigned from the center-right Liberal Party, Venstre, after disagreements with party leader Jakob Ellemann-Jensen. Denmark is also planning to build an energy island in the North Sea, which will be the country's largest construction project, providing power to three million European households.

Despite Israel leading the world in COVID-19 vaccinations, the government extended the lockdown, which prohibits gatherings of more than 10 people. On the same day, thousands of ultra-Orthodox Jews defied restrictions at a funeral in Jerusalem. The ultra-Orthodox community, making up a tenth of the population but a third of all confirmed cases, has resisted closing schools. Police face violence when enforcing restrictions in these areas. Defense Minister Benny Gantz criticized the unequal enforcement of the law and called for equal treatment. He and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu agreed to extend the lockdown and discussed increasing fines for violations. Over five million vaccine doses have been administered in Israel, with two million Israelis fully vaccinated.

The article discusses the challenges Israel faces with ultra-Orthodox Jews flouting COVID-19 restrictions, the disproportionate influence they wield in Israeli politics, and the secular population's frustration. It also touches on the EU's complexity and the need for a stronger, more unified approach to health crises like the pandemic. Additionally, it addresses the Western perception of composer Dmitri Shostakovich as a dissident, arguing that this view is a myth and that his music should be appreciated without political overtones.

The article discusses the Jewish faction within the German far-right political party, Alternative for Germany (AfD). Despite officially having only 24 members, the co-chair Artur Abramovych claims that there are many Jews who support and vote for the AfD. This statement is notable as it comes from a representative of a minority group within a party known for its far-right stance, which often raises questions about its position on issues related to ethnicity and religion.

Israel has vaccinated approximately one-fifth of its population with the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and aims to vaccinate all citizens over 16 within two months. The country's swift vaccination campaign is attributed to its preparedness for pandemics, logistical capabilities for mass vaccinations, and strategic agreements with Pfizer and Moderna. In contrast to the EU's more thorough vaccine approval process, Israel expedited agreements by exempting Pfizer-BioNTech from liability. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has expressed interest in Israel's vaccination strategy, and while there is no plan for Denmark to receive vaccines from Israel, both countries agreed to increase bilateral cooperation.

The article discusses the challenges faced by journalists when interviewing Geert Wilders, a prominent far-right leader in the Netherlands known for his provocative stance on immigration and Islam. Wilders has been a controversial figure due to his outspoken criticism of Muslim immigration and has advocated for a complete ban on immigration from Muslim-majority countries to Europe. The article explores the accusations of racism that have been directed at Wilders over the years and the implications of his political views on European society.

The article discusses Israel's covert operations against Iran's nuclear program. The journalist, Jotan Confino, notes that Israel has repeatedly demonstrated its willingness to use force to halt or slow down Iran's nuclear ambitions. The article references the assassination of Iranian nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh on November 30, 2020, suggesting it as an example of Israel's actions in the ongoing shadow war between the two nations.

Noam Chomsky, a renowned linguist and intellectual, expressed his stance on the U.S. election, stating that he would vote for Joe Biden. Chomsky emphasized the importance of voting against President Donald Trump and pointed out that, due to the nature of the American two-party system, voting against Trump necessitates voting for the Democratic candidate. His comments were directed at U.S. progressives, encouraging them to follow his lead in the election that took place on November 3.

In Israel, a conflict over the role of religion in society has escalated, with a new law prohibiting supermarkets from opening on the Jewish Sabbath causing protests in Ashdod. The law, catering to ultra-orthodox parties, disrupts the balance previously found in secular-majority cities. The ultra-orthodox influence extends beyond Sabbath observance to education and military service exemptions. With ultra-orthodox projected to make up 40% of Israel's Jewish population by 2065, the urgency to resolve these religious conflicts grows. The issue has caused internal government strife, with Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman opposing the ultra-orthodox demands. A compromise was reached on the finance law, but the conscription issue remains unresolved. In Ashdod, the movement 'Free Ashdod' has organized demonstrations, and the local shopping center BIG has pledged to pay fines for businesses opening on the Sabbath. The conflict reflects a broader debate on whether Israel is primarily a Jewish or a democratic state.

The article discusses Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's long-standing warnings about Iran's nuclear ambitions and regional influence. It covers Netanyahu's initial advocacy for a military strike against Iran, his disagreements with the Israeli military establishment, and his opposition to the Iran nuclear deal brokered by the Obama administration. The article also touches on the shifting political landscape in Israel, with public opinion polls indicating a decline in support for Netanyahu's Likud party. It highlights Netanyahu's potential use of the Iranian threat as a strategy to gain support in the upcoming elections, especially given the current alignment with President Trump's administration and the possibility of forming a Sunni coalition led by Saudi Arabia. The article concludes by suggesting that the Golan Heights could become a battleground if tensions with Iran and Hezbollah escalate.