The IDF has questioned a United Nations Relief and Works Agency report that fuel will soon run out in Gaza, stating electricity remains and Hamas prioritizes fuel for the military over civilians. Earlier, the UN and WHO warned Gaza hospitals are overwhelmed and only taking emergency cases amid fears of an imminent fuel shortage. Israel is blocking new fuel deliveries, alleging diversion by Hamas which it says is stockpiling fuel reserves. Gaza hospitals claim they are near collapse and must conserve fuel for ventilators and other critical equipment. The competing claims over fuel access come as Israel considers a ground invasion of Gaza while calling for a ceasefire. [Photo Courtesy: AFP]

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced preparations for a ground invasion of Gaza to eradicate Hamas, the controlling terror group, following their unprecedented attacks on October 7. Netanyahu, addressing the nation, emphasized the gravity of the situation, describing it as a "fight for our existence." He highlighted Israel's efforts to eliminate terrorists while refraining from divulging specific operation details. The conflict has led to over 6500 casualties in Gaza, prompting the Biden administration to push for a 'humanitarian pause' to address the growing crisis with dwindling essential supplies in the Palestinian enclave.

As reported by The Wall Street Journal, Iran's elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps provided specialized combat training to 500 members of Palestinian terror groups Hamas and Islamic Jihad. The training occurred in Iran before a coordinated attack on Israel, involving land, air, and sea operations. Senior members of Hamas and Hezbollah confirmed Iran's involvement, disclosing that Iranian officers collaborated with Hamas since August. The plan aimed to create a multi-front threat, encircling Israel from all sides. In response, Israel conducted airstrikes in Gaza, resulting in over 6,500 casualties claimed by Palestinian authorities. International pressure mounts as world powers urge a temporary halt to the conflict and increased aid to Gaza.

President Joe Biden expressed skepticism about the over 6,500 death toll in Gaza reported by Palestinian authorities, saying he has "no confidence in the number that the Palestinians are using." Biden said he is sure innocents have been killed but it's the "price of waging war." He urged Israel to be careful in targeting only militants propagating the conflict. Hamas reports over 6,500 Palestinians killed, including 2,700 children. Biden stated Israel should minimize civilian casualties but asserted that Hamas is also hiding behind Palestinians, burdening Israel's military response. His comments drew criticism from Palestinians who insist the numbers are accurate and show the impact on civilians. 

A massive manhunt is underway in Maine after a gunman identified as Robert Card killed 22 people and injured dozens more in a shooting rampage across Lewiston. The 40-year-old former military officer opened fire in a bowling alley and restaurant before fleeing in a white SUV. Police have warned Card is armed and dangerous and have urged residents to shelter in place. Card has a history of mental health issues and domestic violence. The back-to-back shootings have shocked the community, with the mayor saying he is "heartbroken." The incident has renewed calls for tighter gun control amid opposition from Republicans.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan staunchly defended Palestinian group Hamas, labeling them a "liberation group" and not a terrorist organization, during his address to lawmakers. Erdogan called for an immediate Israeli-Palestinian ceasefire, urging Muslim nations to unite for lasting peace. His comments, which diverge from many NATO allies' stance, elicited strong reactions. Italy's Deputy Prime Minister condemned Erdogan's remarks as "grave and disgusting," prompting plans for a formal protest. Turkey, while condemning civilian deaths in Israel, criticized Israel's Gaza bombardment, offered mediation, and sent humanitarian aid. Erdogan, citing Israel's actions, canceled a planned trip, emphasizing Turkey's support for a two-state solution.          

The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) warns international students and newcomers in Canada to be vigilant against rising fraud activities. IRCC emphasizes that they will never contact individuals by phone to confirm personal information provided on forms, collect fees or fines, or threaten deportation or other consequences. They caution against impostors posing as government officials and engaging in telephone scams. Additionally, individuals are advised to delete unsolicited emails, avoid giving personal information, and be cautious of computer virus and fake prize scams. Staying informed and following IRCC guidelines can help prevent immigration fraud.

Israel's Ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, announced the denial of visas to UN representatives following Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' comments, perceived as justifying Hamas' attacks on Israel. Guterres' remarks, acknowledging the context of the conflict, sparked outrage among Israelis. Foreign Minister Eli Cohen criticized Guterres at the Security Council, leading to a canceled meeting. Erdan called for Guterres' immediate resignation, expressing disappointment over his understanding of terrorism. Israel's response underscores the deepening controversy surrounding the conflict's narrative at the international level.

Tens of thousands of Icelandic women, including Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir, participated in a 24-hour strike, protesting gender inequality, pay gaps, and gender-based violence. Schools, libraries, and hospitals were affected as female staff stayed home. Organized under the slogan "Do you call this equality?" the strike marked the first full-day strike since 1975 when 90% of Icelandic women protested. Despite Iceland's progressive gender equality stance, disparities persist, with some women earning 20% less than men. The strike, emphasizing unpaid work like childcare, aimed to draw attention to ongoing gender disparities and call for urgent action.

A rift between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the military leadership has stalled the planned ground invasion of Gaza following October 7 attacks by Hamas. Disagreements have led to a "crisis of confidence," hindering decision-making. Hostage complications further complicate plans, prompting Israel's Defense Forces (IDF) to air-drop leaflets urging Palestinians for information on hostages in exchange for security, financial rewards, and confidentiality. Hamas reportedly holds 222 Israelis captive, releasing four hostages recently. Tensions persist as Israel seeks resolution amidst internal discord and ongoing hostage crisis.