The largest aid convoy since the Israel-Hamas war began entered Gaza Sunday with nearly three dozen trucks, but workers said it falls far short of dire needs as the Palestinian death toll passed 8,000. Communications were restored after intense Israeli strikes Friday knocked out networks. Israel has restricted aid entry since over 1,400 died in Israel after Hamas's October 7 attack. The International Criminal Court prosecutor visiting the Rafah crossing, called civilian suffering profound but didn't accuse Israel of war crimes, instead blaming Hamas for the egregious attack violating international law. Israel said it struck over 450 militant targets in 24 hours as its infantry pursues a "second stage," aiming to destroy Hamas. Plumes of smoke continue to rise over bombarded Gaza City amid the unrelenting Israeli bombardment and blockade leaving residents lacking essentials.

Israel Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant met with families of Israelis kidnapped by Hamas, pledging determination in the mission to bring them back. In the discussion, Gallant emphasized the paramount importance of returning hostages, stating, "Returning the hostages and tracking missing Israelis is a mission of utmost importance. I have two goals: returning those who were kidnapped and winning this war." He highlighted the psychological tactics employed by Hamas, stressing that military pressure is crucial for progress. Gallant affirmed his unwavering dedication to both ensuring security and securing the safe return of hostages. Meanwhile, On Saturday, Hamas's leader in Gaza offered an immediate prisoner swap, proposing the release of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for Palestinian resistance captives held by Israel. [ Photo Courtesy: Ariel Hermoni (IMoD) ]

Amid the raging conflict in Gaza, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the southern sector Navy base in Ashdod to commend naval commandos and fighters for their exceptional bravery. He praised their efforts in defending Israel's coast, clearing out communities near Gaza, and targeting terrorist infrastructure. Netanyahu acknowledged their vital role in thwarting multiple sea infiltrations. Meanwhile, the Gaza Health Ministry reported a tragic toll among Palestinians, surpassing 8,000, predominantly women and children, highlighting the gravity of the situation. The conflict, sparked by Hamas' October 7 incursion, has led to a devastating loss of life on both sides, with over 1,400 Israeli casualties, a figure unprecedented in recent history. [photo courtesy: Kobi Gideon (GPO)]

Israel urges Russia to safeguard its citizens and Jews after an angry mob, brandishing Palestinian flags and shouting antisemitic slogans, storms a Dagestan airport, reportedly targeting a flight arriving from Tel Aviv. The crowd broke into the airport terminal and runway, leading to injuries and chaos. Russia's aviation agency temporarily closed the airport until November 6, while Israel demanded decisive action against incitement to violence. Dagestan is a Muslim Russian republic in the North Caucasus, home to some 3.1 million people. Dagestan's governor condemned the incident, emphasizing the need for law enforcement action. International protests against Israel's Gaza bombings fuel tensions, prompting heightened security measures in the region.      

The White House issued a stern warning to Israel, emphasizing the need to distinguish between Hamas militants and civilians in Gaza. The warning came as Israel intensified operations against Hamas, resulting in over 8,000 Palestinian casualties, half of them children, since the October 7 attack. President Biden stressed Israel's obligation to protect civilians in a call with Prime Minister Netanyahu. World leaders, including Britain's PM Rishi Sunak and France's President Macron, urgently called for humanitarian support for Gaza. UN Chief Guterres declared the situation a "humanitarian catastrophe," urging all parties to step back from the brink.

Israeli Interior Minister Moshe Arbel has requested the Population and Immigration Authority to investigate the potential revocation of Israeli citizenship from prominent Arab-Israeli actor Maisa Abd Elhadi. She has been indicted for alleged support of Hamas, expressing it on social media after the terror group's October 7 attack. Abd Elhadi, known for her role in the 2013 film “World War Z,” as well as several Israeli TV shows, faces charges of identifying with a terror organization and incitement to terror in a broader crackdown on Israelis suspected of supporting the attacks online. It remains uncertain whether she holds residency rights or citizenship in another country, and the legal feasibility of stripping her of Israeli citizenship is unclear.  

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized his intelligence chiefs, alleging they failed to warn him about Hamas's large-scale October 7 attack. This caused political turmoil in Israel and a divide within his war cabinet. Despite admissions of failure by top officials, including military and intelligence heads, Netanyahu hasn't taken responsibility for intelligence and operational lapses during Hamas's intrusion into southern Israel. He suggested that tough questions, even about his own leadership, would be addressed post-war. Israel's military spokesperson declined to comment, citing the ongoing conflict. Netanyahu's deleted post asserted that no warnings about Hamas's war intentions were given to him, as security officials believed Hamas sought a peaceful resolution.

In a distressing turn, Gaza residents stormed United Nations Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA) facilities, seizing crucial supplies amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict. UNRWA expressed alarm over the breakdown of civil order after three weeks of war and Gaza's suffocating siege. Dwindling market resources and inadequate aid from Egypt intensified the crisis. UNRWA condemned the flawed convoy system, hindering essential deliveries. With over 50 staff casualties and restricted supplies, the agency struggles to meet soaring demands. Amid funding challenges, UNRWA, providing vital services in Gaza, West Bank, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon, faces an uphill battle in this dire humanitarian situation.      

Israel's military campaign against Hamas entered its 23rd day, with intense clashes continuing in the Gaza Strip. Israeli forces targeted Hamas operatives and infrastructure, including underground tunnels. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared the start of the "second phase" of the war, emphasizing a relentless pursuit of Hamas. The death toll surpassed 8,000 in Gaza, and Israel mourned 1,400 casualties due to Hamas attacks. Amidst escalating tensions, Israel recalled its diplomatic staff from Turkey after President Erdogan criticized Israel's actions. Pro-Palestinian protests erupted globally, and Qatar-led negotiations between Israel and Hamas persisted, albeit at a slower pace.

Dhaka was marred by political violence as clashes between Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Awami League supporters escalated, leading to the death of a BNP activist and a police officer. The US Department of State condemned the violence, expressing concern. Amid rising tensions ahead of the 2024 elections, the US Embassy in Dhaka called for calm. Yesterday over 100,000 supporters of Bangladesh's main opposition parties rallied in Dhaka, demanding the Prime Minister's resignation for impartial elections. Clashes resulted in injuries, torched vehicles, and vandalized property. Law enforcement intervened, firing tear gas and using firearms to disperse the crowds. Investigations are ongoing into the incidents.