What's happened
As violence escalates in Gaza and Syria, Israel's military operations continue against Hamas, resulting in significant casualties. Meanwhile, the ousted Syrian leader Bashar Assad has fled to Moscow, prompting international concern over the humanitarian crisis and potential political transitions in the region.
Why it matters
What the papers say
The Independent reports that Israeli airstrikes have resulted in significant civilian casualties, with hospitals in Gaza overwhelmed and calling for international protection. The New York Times highlights the dire situation at Kamal Adwan Hospital, where medical staff face severe shortages and casualties from nearby military actions. Meanwhile, the Independent notes the geopolitical shift with Assad's flight to Moscow, prompting international concern about the humanitarian situation in Syria and the need for a peaceful transition, as emphasized by New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters.
How we got here
The conflict intensified after Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, leading to Israel's ongoing military response. The situation in Syria has further deteriorated with Assad's recent flight to Moscow amid rebel advances in Damascus.
More on these topics
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Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni-Islamic fundamentalist militant organization. It has a social service wing, Dawah, and a military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades.
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Gaza may refer to:
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.