Israel has initiated a major ground offensive on Gaza City, following intense airstrikes and prompting a mass exodus of Palestinians southward. According to reports, a significant number of residents have already been displaced, joining hundreds of thousands who had previously fled. Amidst this, the UN commission of inquiry has found that Israel was committing genocide in Gaza. The operation has garnered considerable international criticism, with many world leaders condemning the actions.
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Facing international criticism over the war in Gaza, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged the diplomatic and public relations challenges, emphasizing the need for new strategies. A planned discussion about a new public diplomacy unit was delayed due to disagreements between Netanyahu and the Foreign Minister over its implementation. Netanyahu asserted that victory over enemies is prioritized over public relations, echoing comments from former US President Donald Trump. Israel’s public diplomacy efforts have suffered since the war began, with the breakdown in its image resulting from internal dysfunction, complex war zones, and government policy.
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France condemned Israel’s seizure of the Golan Heights demilitarized zone, deeming it a violation of the 1974 disengagement agreement. The Israeli action, following Syrian rebel advances, has drawn international criticism, including from the UN, which noted Israeli occupation of seven positions within the buffer zone. France urged Israel to withdraw its forces and respect Syrian sovereignty. This follows similar condemnations from several nations, with only the US calling for a temporary Israeli presence.
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John Q. Hosedrinker