Israel's War with Hamas
The latest updates and developments in the conflict between Israel and Hamas
Prime Minister Netanyahu Plans for Evacuation of Palestinians in Rafah
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed the Israeli military to plan for the evacuation of the more than 1.3 million Palestinians in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. The US State Department has expressed concerns and warned that a military operation in Rafah without proper planning for civilians could have disastrous consequences. A refugee organization has also warned that the action could lead to a bloodshed in the city. The UN's main relief agency in Gaza has stated that half of its aid requests have been denied, and people in the area are on the brink of famine. UN investigators have also raised concerns about an Israeli undercover operation on a hospital in the occupied West Bank, which they say may amount to a war crime.
Palestinians in Rafah Fearful of Israeli Entry
Palestinians in Rafah, a city in southern Gaza, have expressed fear and concern over the possibility of Israeli forces entering the city. Many say they have nowhere else to go if Israel were to enter, and they worry about the safety and well-being of their families. The majority of the population in Rafah is already displaced from other parts of Gaza. The living conditions in the city are dire, with limited access to water and money. There are also concerns about the mental and emotional toll that the ongoing conflict has taken on the residents. They are exhausted from the constant threat of violence and have become accustomed to living in fear.
Moody's Warns of Potential Credit Downgrade for Israel
Moody's Investors Service has warned that it may downgrade Israel's credit rating due to the severity of the military conflict with Hamas. A downgrade could make borrowing more expensive for the country, which is already facing the challenges of a prolonged war. Moody's will be assessing the impact of the conflict on Israel's economy, institutions, and public finances. The review may take longer than the typical three-month period. This warning comes after a previous warning from Moody's about Israel's judicial system overhaul potentially causing turmoil and economic risks.
