Israel-Hamas War
THE EARLY PHOENIX
Comprehensive Israel Conflict Briefing
August 19, 2024
To read in Arabic
Severe Health Crises in Gaza and Israel: Polio and West Nile Virus Surge
Gaza is experiencing a severe health crisis, with the resurgence of polio after 25 years, confirmed in a 10-month-old child at Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital. Out of seven sewage samples, six tested positive for the virus, underscoring critical sanitation failures, with 4,000 people sharing one toilet. Additionally, antibiotic-resistant viruses have emerged, significantly elevating public health risks. Concurrently, Israel is enduring its most severe West Nile virus outbreak in over 20 years, with more than 800 cases and 61 fatalities since June. The outbreak’s escalation is attributed to climate-driven increases in mosquito breeding, prompting the Environmental Protection Ministry to intensify monitoring and public health interventions.
Israel’s Security Debate Fuels Tensions in U.S. Elections
Former President Donald Trump accused Kamala Harris of aligning with antisemitic elements within the Democratic Party and criticized her advocacy for a Gaza ceasefire, arguing it would benefit Hamas. He explained that the ceasefire proposed by the Biden administration does not adequately ensure Israel’s security. President Trump disclosed his advice to Prime Minister Netanayu urging him to achieve a swift victory.
Meanwhile, Kamala Harris struggles to gain support from both Jewish and Arab communities. Despite launching Hebrew pun merchandise, her approval among Arab Americans has declined. Arab leaders are dissatisfied with her stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict and her rejection of an arms embargo. Harris’s campaign remains unchanged despite meetings with pro-Palestinian activists. As the Democratic National Convention nears, the “uncommitted” movement may influence the outcome. Furthermore, Harris continues to be under legislative scrutiny regarding concerns about her top advisor’s alleged Iranian connections.
Biden’s Ceasefire Efforts Face Hamas Rejection, Israeli Skepticism
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken departed for his ninth visit to Israel on Sunday to push for a cease-fire in Gaza. Blinken’s visit follows recent negotiations in Doha, Qatar, involving U.S., Israeli, Qatari, and Egyptian officials. President Biden expressed cautious optimism about a cease-fire, but Hamas dismissed his claims, calling them illusions imposed by American pressure. Israeli officials believe Hamas will reject the new U.S. truce proposal for Gaza, viewing it as aligned with Israel’s position. Significant progress has been reported in ceasefire talks with mediators, aiming to finalize terms by Wednesday. The proposal grants Israel flexibility and control in the Philadelphi corridor but doesn’t ensure continuous border presence or prevent militants’ return.
West Bank Violence Escalates with Settler Attack and Israeli Airstrikes
Violence escalated in the West Bank on August 15 when settlers attacked the village of Jit, killing one Palestinian and destroying several homes and cars. Dozens of masked settlers, some armed, stormed the village, setting fires and threatening further violence. The Palestinian Authority labeled the attack as “organized state terrorism,” while Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Netanyahu, condemned the violence. On August 17, an Israeli airstrike in Jenin, West Bank, killed two Palestinians after targeting a car. The Israeli military used a drone to strike a group suspected of planning imminent attacks. Violence in the West Bank has intensified, with over 600 Palestinians killed by the Israeli army and settlers since the Gaza conflict began, while at least 18 Israelis, including soldiers, have died in Palestinian attacks. In other related news about the West Bank, Norway closed its office after Israel revoked eight diplomats’ accreditation, responding to Norway’s recognition of Palestine. Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide condemned Israel’s decision but affirmed support for a two-state solution.
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For more on the current Israel-Hamas tensions, read: Israel’s Control of the Philadelphi Corridor
For an in-depth exploration of regional instability and assassination risks, read our analysis: Middle East: A Region At War – MBS Under Risk of Assassination.
