Tonight, our top story is from Israel and Gaza, marking one month since the Hamas terror attack that shook the world. Israelis are mourning their losses and holding hope for the safe return of the hostages being held by Hamas. Currently, Israel’s forces are engaged in a ground campaign to defeat Hamas in Gaza City.
Although it is still early in the campaign, Israeli leaders are considering the future of the battle territory, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggesting that Israel might assume security responsibility in Gaza for a period of time. The Israeli military states that it is currently fighting inside Gaza City, as depicted in a video released tonight. Netanyahu has proposed that Israel takes overall security responsibility in Gaza to prevent future Hamas attacks.
However, the White House disagrees, maintaining that reoccupation by Israeli forces is not the solution. In Jerusalem, at the Western Wall, Israelis are mourning those killed by Hamas a month ago. Among those gathered are families of the 240 hostages still held by Hamas.
Rachel Goldberg, whose son Hirsch is among the hostages, emphasizes the 240 people who are buried but still alive under Gaza. Eli David, whose family we joined for a Shabbat dinner, speaks in hope for the safe return of his brother. Palestinian perspective in Gaza is starkly different, as Israel’s offensive has led to the destruction of cities.
Many Palestinians believe that Israel is seeking revenge on 2.3 million people who are trapped in Gaza. Our camera crew witnessed more grief and injured children today, as Ahmed Al naar shares the loss of his family members due to an Israeli airstrike. He emphasizes that they are civilians who have nothing to do with the situation, except for being Palestinians.
One month into the war, it seems to still be in its early stages. Additionally, it was reported today by the UN that 70% of Gazans have been displaced from their homes since the war started, which amounts to about 1.2 million people.
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