Top Trending News on October 18

1.    Israel’s Impending Ground Offensive in Gaza Threatens Catastrophic Consequences, as political restraints collide with the potential to significantly damage Hamas. Source: Bilal Y. Saab, Chatham House (17 Oct).

2.    Mounting Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza as US Support for Israeli Retaliation Risks Provoking Regional War, with over 1,300 casualties and 400,000 displaced. Source: The Century Foundation (16 Oct).

3. Biden’s Critical Mission in Israel: Urgent Talks for Humanitarian Corridor and Rebuilding Trust, as a canceled meeting with Egypt’s el-Sisi adds to the urgency. Source: Aaron David Miller, Carnegie (17 Oct).

4. Beijing’s Belt and Road Forum Decides BRI’s Fate amidst Heightened Geopolitical Strain, with Russia’s increased involvement shaping the Moscow-Beijing LNG deal’s future. Source: Stratfor (16 Oct).

5.  Biden’s Urgent Visit to Tel Aviv amid Escalating Tensions, signaling strong support for Israel and potential US intervention against an Iranian attack, while attempting to minimize fallout from Israel’s Gaza operations. Source: Sit Rep, Stratfor (17 Oct).

6. Rising Influence of Asian Americans Linked to National Security Concerns, highlighting a strategic foreign policy shift in response to the growing China threat. Source: Carnegie (17 Oct).

7. Arab States Struggle to Calm Israel-Gaza Crisis, Urgently Seeking Ceasefire and Hostage Release through Diplomatic Backchannels, as tensions remain high. Source: Stimson (17 Oct).