THE EARLY PHOENIX
★ Israel Hamas War
Evacuation in Gaza and Ties with Iran
August 9, 2024
Khan Younis Mass Evacuation In Response to Hamas Rocket Fire
As reported by The Early Phoenix on the 303rd day, the Israel Hamas war continues to inflict severe pain and despair upon Palestinian civilians. On Thursday, August 8, the IDF announced targeting Hamas command centers near two schools in Gaza, allegedly used for attacks against Israeli forces. Palestinian civil defense reported 12 deaths from these strikes. Israel claims to have hit numerous military targets in Gaza over the past 24 hours.
IDF Announces Assassination of Nael Sakhl
The Israel Defense Forces also announced the assassination of Nael Sakhl, which happened on July 24 in the Judea and Samaria region. Sakhl, who was involved in directing and financing terror activities, had been financing suicide attacks since 2003 and was released in the Gilad Shalit prisoner exchange in 2011.
Hamas Pledges Stronger Ties with Iran Under New Gaza Leadership
Yahya Sinwar, Hamas’s new political chief in Gaza, has committed to maintaining and strengthening ties with Iran, following the assassination of former leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Sinwar, the mastermind and inititor of the Israel Hamas war, emphasized that Hamas would not sever its relations with Iran, one of its major sponsors, providing $100 million annually along with military support. Rejecting peace talks with Israel, Sinwar asserted Hamas’s mission to fight for Palestinian liberation and strengthen its military capabilities. Meanwhile, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi stated that Sinwar’s new role as head of the group’s politburo will not protect him from Israeli security forces. Sinwar, believed to be hiding in Khan Younis, is seen as the mastermind behind the October 7 massacre, and Halevi emphasized that Sinwar remains responsible for the planning and execution of the attack.
ICC Urged to Arrest Israeli Minister for Statements on Gaza
The European Union, Egypt, France, and Britain are denouncing Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich’s remarks at the Knesset. They are also calling for the International Criminal Court to arrest him. Smotrich has advocated for the starvation of two million Palestinians in Gaza. He described it as morally justified. The Palestinian Foreign Ministry labeled his remarks as genocidal and violating international humanitarian law. The situation has drawn widespread condemnation, further highlighting issues within Israel and the Knesset.
US Calls for Israel to Probe Alleged Assaults on Palestinians
The U.S. has urged Israel to investigate allegations of sexual assaults by soldiers on Palestinian detainees. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasized zero tolerance for such abuses in the activities of the Israel Hamas war. This follows a Channel 12 video showing soldiers allegedly committing abuses away from cameras. U.S. officials reviewed the footage amid broader claims of detainee mistreatment.
Police Captain Investigated for Abuse of Power Against Protesters
The Justice Ministry’s Police Investigation Department (PID) announced an investigation into Chief Superintendent Amit Pollak of Hadera police station for alleged abuse of power, assault, and obstruction of justice. Pollak and other officers are accused of unlawfully using violence while arresting citizens who placed a tank model on a truck during demonstration preparations near the Prime Minister’s house in Caesarea. Investigators seized Pollak’s phone from his home after failing to find him at his station or residence.
Netanyahu’s Coalition Shaken by Defense Ministry Dispute
Talks for Gideon Sa’ar to rejoin Prime Minister Netanyahu’s coalition collapsed due to Sa’ar’s demand for the defense ministry. Netanyahu’s advisers rejected Sa’ar for the role, offering other positions instead. Despite rumors of replacing Defense Minister Gallant due to trust issues, Sa’ar’s spokesman denied any negotiations. Sa’ar hinted at considering the defense role but confirmed no contact from Netanyahu. Internal discussions in Netanyahu’s circle suggest plans to replace Gallant and other security officials, reflecting ongoing leadership conflicts.
Netanyahu Talks Israel Hamas War, Iran and Hezbollah
In an interview with TIME, Netanyahu discussed Israel’s security and regional stability. He emphasized Israel’s readiness against threats from Iran and Hezbollah. Netanyahu highlighted Israel’s commitment to stopping Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. He defended financial support to Gaza to prevent humanitarian collapse despite benefiting Hamas. He stressed military pressure to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas. Netanyahu dismissed claims that judicial changes weakened Israel’s deterrence. He remained optimistic about normalization deals with Saudi Arabia. He outlined a vision for a demilitarized, civilian-led Gaza. Netanyahu underscored bipartisan U.S. support for Israel’s security.
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