Today, the U.N. Security Council finally passed a resolution demanding Hamas release all of the hostages. The resolution also calls for facilitating an increased flow of humanitarian goods into Gaza.
The U.S. led the diplomatic effort to improve the resolution. In her remarks after the vote, Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield condemned the council’s morally bankrupt refusal to condemn Hamas and its unprovoked attack on October 7.
“Why is it so hard to condemn Hamas for slaughtering young people at a concert, for butchering families alive, for the reports of widespread sexual violence,” asked Thomas-Greenfield. “I will never understand why some council members have remained silent in the face of such evil.”
Meanwhile in Gaza, the IDF today released incredible footage of a complex tunnel network in Gaza City. The video – click here to watch and share – was recorded by the IDF's canine unit.
Israel also urged residents from central Gaza to evacuate south to avoid ongoing combat operations. The IDF announced that it is making a humanitarian route available for civilians to safely move out of harm’s way.
The IDF also announced new daily tactical pauses in the fighting in neighborhoods near Rafah for humanitarian purposes.
While for many Israelis, this Shabbat is yet another painful reminder of loved ones who were killed or are still being held captive by Hamas, many families received a wonderful surprise of their sons and daughters returning home from the front lines in Gaza.
AIPAC will continue providing regular updates on the war throughout the holiday break via emails and our social media feeds. If you find yourself with extra time, below my signature is a list of recommended articles, podcasts and videos that may be of interest.
Shabbat Shalom,
Adam Harris Director of Communications
AIPAC This Week | 2.5-Minute Video Update
This week, the Biden administration continued to make clear that Hamas could end this war today if it wanted to. Watch and share this 2.5-minute recap of the week.
Sen. Marco Rubio with AIPAC Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) sat down with AIPAC Florida Political Director Evan Philipson to discuss the Israel-Hamas war and efforts in the Senate to counter Iranian aggression.
Congress Adopts Defense Bill with Major Pro-Israel Provisions In December, Congress passed one of the most important bills we support each year. Watch and learn about the pro-Israel provisions included in this year's National Defense Authorization Act.
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