Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Thursday that weapons deliveries to Ukraine have decreased since fighting erupted between Israel and Hamas last month. Specifically, Zelensky said supplies of 155mm artillery shells, which are widely used by Ukraine on the frontlines, have declined. He attributed the drop to countries prioritizing their own stockpiles during conflicts. Despite the decreased arms support recently, Zelensky praised efforts in the U.S. to increase production. The news comes as fighting in Ukraine has ground to a stalemate after nearly a year of war with Russia. Both sides have struggled to maintain artillery stockpiles during the drawn-out conflict.

A recent Reuters/Ipsos survey indicates a significant shift in American sentiment regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict. Conducted between November 13-14, 2023, the poll reveals a decline in support for Israel, with only 32% of Americans favoring continued backing, down from 41% in mid-October. The survey of 1,006 American adults highlights a growing desire for the U.S. to assume a "neutral mediator" role, rising from 27% in October to 39% in November. President Joe Biden's call for "humanitarian pauses" instead of a "ceasefire" sparked disagreement, with 77% of Democrats advocating for a ceasefire. The survey reflects a nation seeking a balanced approach amid evolving sentiments. On the other hand, Israeli President Isaac Herzog emphasized the necessity of a robust Israeli presence in Gaza after the conflict to prevent the resurgence of Hamas. Discussing potential mechanisms for governance, Herzog highlighted the 'avoidance of a vacuum' and envisions U.S. and regional involvement. Amid international and domestic pressure, U.S. President Joe Biden emphasized the two-state solution and warned against occupying Gaza.

During his inaugural visit to Ukraine as Foreign Secretary, David Cameron pledged comprehensive backing to President Zelensky. Discussions centered on supplying frontline weapons, reinforced air defense systems, and safeguarding critical infrastructure. Zelensky expresses gratitude for the UK's commitment to provide "moral, diplomatic, economic, and military support." Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces successfully intercepted 16 of 18 attack drones and a missile launched by Russian troops, causing damage in Kharkiv. The UK's Ministry of Defence reports Russian attempts at a strategic "pincer" movement near Avdiivka. As tensions heighten, Cameron commended support for Ukraine, emphasizing unity in the face of adversity.

Israeli troops targeted the residence of prominent Hamas figure Ismail Haniyeh, sharing a video of fighter jets bombing the house in Gaza. Haniyeh, head of Hamas' political bureau, is accused by Israel of using the house as a hub for planning terror attacks against civilians and IDF soldiers. The IDF also located and destroyed a Hamas naval forces weapons cache. The recent military actions are part of Israel's response to the October 7 attacks, resulting in over 11,500 reported deaths. International calls for a truce intensify amid escalating tensions and civilian casualties. On Thursday, Israeli forces also dropped leaflets warning Palestinians to evacuate parts of southern Gaza, signaling a possible expansion of ground operations to areas where hundreds of thousands of people who heeded earlier evacuation orders are gathered now. 

Israeli forces dropped leaflets warning Palestinians to evacuate parts of southern Gaza, residents said Thursday, signaling a possible expansion of ground operations to areas where hundreds of thousands of people who heeded earlier evacuation orders are gathered into UN-run shelters and family homes. Amid ongoing conflict, 40 patients, including three infants, have perished since al-Shifa Hospital's generator ran out of fuel, with 36 babies at risk due to power shortages in incubators. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant vows to strike Hamas across the region. Conditions worsen in southern Gaza, with a fuel shortage paralyzing humanitarian services. Israel allows limited fuel for UN aid, but it covers less than 10% of needs. Over 1.5 million people have been internally displaced in Gaza, with most having fled to the south, where food, water and electricity are increasingly scarce.

Qatari mediators are actively engaged in brokering a deal between Hamas and Israel, aiming to secure the release of approximately 50 civilian hostages from Gaza. Coordinated with the U.S., the proposed agreement includes a three-day ceasefire and involves Israel releasing Palestinian women and children from its jails. While Hamas has agreed to the deal's general outlines, Israel, amidst ongoing military operations, is still in negotiations over specific details. The Qatari-led initiative represents a significant shift in the negotiation scope, with hopes for a substantial breakthrough in the release of hostages held by Hamas. 

As the US denies approving Israel's operation at Gaza's Al-Shifa Hospital, Israeli forces assert uncovering a Hamas arsenal within the hospital's premises. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby refuted claims of US endorsement for the military actions. Israeli troops released a video showcasing alleged Hamas weapons and gear found in the hospital. Ongoing negotiations mediated by Qatar aim for a ceasefire, involving the release of civilian hostages and increased humanitarian aid. The Health Ministry reports over 11,200 Palestinian deaths in the conflict, with diplomatic complexities surrounding the disputed hospital raid. [ photo courtesy: Screengrab from IDF/X ]

Ukrainian forces secure a vital foothold on the left bank of the Dnipro river, according to President Zelensky's chief of staff. Russia acknowledges Ukrainian presence in a village but minimizes the impact, anticipating their defeat. The development holds significance, potentially enabling the transfer of armoured vehicles and air defense systems across the river. Despite President Zelensky noting increased fighting near Avdiivka, Russia claims Ukrainian counteroffensive struggles to reclaim substantial territory. The situation remains tense, with implications for the ongoing conflict and the demilitarization efforts towards Crimea.    

In a discreet move, the Pentagon has increased military assistance to Israel, fulfilling requests for additional weaponry, including laser-guided missiles, bunker-buster munitions, and army vehicles. The aid comes as the Biden administration urges Israel to minimize civilian casualties in the Gaza Strip. Criticism has arisen over the supply of artillery shells, with NGOs expressing concerns about their indiscriminate nature. Additionally, a surprising turn sees U.S. weapons initially intended for Ukraine making a reverse trip to Israel. The conflict unfolds as Israel employs Apache helicopters against Hamas, supported by an influx of advanced munitions.  

  Britain's Supreme Court has declared Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's government's proposal to send migrants to Rwanda as illegal, citing the risk of "real ill-treatment." The plan, aiming to process asylum claims in Rwanda, faced opposition from critics who deemed it unethical. The court highlighted Rwanda's poor human rights record, including torture and enforced disappearances, questioning its reliability. Although the UK government argued the thorough assessment of risks, the court's decision emphasizes concerns over the mistreatment of asylum-seekers. The ruling could impact the government's broader strategy on migration and potential deals with other nations.