- Civilians in Gaza Under Attack Israel’s war against Hamas is causing a significant toll on innocent lives in Gaza. The Israeli defense minister announced a “complete siege” of Gaza, violating international humanitarian law with impunity. Mass killings, relocation of huge groups of people and frequent attacks on residential areas are rationalized as targeting Hamas, with civilian deaths as collateral damage. (Source: Mona Jebril, Carnegie)
- The War in Gaza is Aligning Russia Against Israel. The new middle east war, weaken US support for Ukraine, also put an end to Moscow’s long-standing policy of balancing Israel and its neighbors. This shift in Russia’s stance towards Hamas and China aligns with the Arab street, creating alternatives in the international arena (Source: James Nixey, Chatham House)
- Considering the Future Terrorist Threat from the Israel-Hamas War. The risks of global Islamist terrorist attacks will only grow as Israel’s ground incursion into Gaza deepens. Strong US and European support for Israel will reinforce the narrative that the West oppresses Muslims. And if history is any guide, such upheaval may create a new Islamist extremist movement. (Source: Sam Lichtenstein, Stratfor)
- Israel Loses Much of the Support It Gained After Hamas’ Attack. Israeli attacks in Gaza have cost Israel early US public support, and those who want the US to lean toward the Palestinians have surged, a recent poll finds. (Source: Shibley Telhami, Brookings)
- An Expulsion of Afghans from Pakistan. The relationship between a large Afghan population in Pakistan and violence or terrorism is not clear. The policy is seen as inhumane and unnecessary. Pakistan could learn from the US and other Western countries’ practices in dealing with migrant populations. (Source: Sahar Khan and Caleb O. Brown, CATO)
The Curious Case of US Presidential Election. The US presidential contest is becoming more intriguing as incumbent President Biden tries to build passion and potential opponents struggle to gain court relief. (Source: Harsh V. Pant, ORF)