Israel News for 7-29-2024
News Update
Yesterday, Hezbollah fired an Iranian made rocket that hit a soccer field in the Druze village of Majdal Shams in the Golan, killing 12 children and injuring over 20 others. The IDF presented conclusive proof that the missile was fired by Hezbollah, despite Hezbollah’s attempt to deny responsibility for the horrific strike. The Security Cabinet has approved a retaliatory strike against Hezbollah in Lebanon. The response is expected to be significant but not aimed to escalate into an all-out war, though several days of fighting may follow. The U.S. and other countries are urging a measured response to avoid escalation into a broader conflict.
A riot broke out at the Sde Teiman detention facility after military police detained nine IDF reservists suspected of abusing a Hamas terrorist detained at the base. The confrontation escalated when several Knesset members, along with dozens of protesters, breached the base’s gate, leading to physical clashes with military police. No arrests were made. Israel’s military prosecutor, who is representing six of the nine reservists suspected of sexually abusing terrorists at Sde Teiman, said that they had no reason to believe there is a basis for the accusations against them. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a statement calling for “an immediate calming of passions in the Sde Teiman base.” He also said he “strongly condemns” the break-in into the IDF base where Hamas terror suspects are held. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant also criticized the break-in, saying that “even in times of anger, the law applies to everyone.” President Herzog also condemned the incident. For more, click here.
The UK Labour government is expected to suspend issuing export licenses for arms sales to Israel. The decision is believed to be influenced by the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) opinion that Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories in the West Bank and East Jerusalem violates international law.
