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- Two more soldiers killed in Gaza | Tikva International
Two more soldiers killed in Gaza 17 January 2024 By: Jewish Breaking News IDF announces the deaths of two soldiers killed yesterday in northern Gaza, bringing the toll of slain troops in the ground offensive against Hamas to 192: Master Sgt. (res.) Zechariah Pesach Haber, 32, of the 14th Armored Brigade's 87th Battalion, from Jerusalem. Sgt. Maj. (res.) Yair Katz, 34, of the 14th Armored Brigade's 87th Battalion, from Holon. <- Previous Read full article Next -> More Insights 7 Ways Hamas Exploits Palestinian Civilians in Gaza Antisemitism defined: Why opposing the Jewish people's right to self-determination is antisemitic What You Need to Know About Israel’s Humanitarian Aid To Gaza Fatah responds to Hamas criticism of new formation of PA government ‘without consulting Hamas’ Surprise jump in Gazan support for 2-state solution, while still in favor of Oct 7 attack Hamas' Most Horrific Weapon of War: 5 Takeaways from UN Report on Sexual Violence Against Israelis Latest Video Clips The History of Israel This Muslim Israeli Woman Is the Future of the Middle East Natasha Hausdorff responds to the content of the House of Commons Gaza Debate. Its time to face the hard truth that you're being played as a sacrificial fool by terrorists. Peace cannot be achieved with those who desire war and jihad instead. 'Awful Things Happening In Israel Nothing To Do With British Jews'
- Hamas' Most Horrific Weapon of War: 5 Takeaways from UN Report on Sexual Violence Against Israelis | Tikva International
Hamas' Most Horrific Weapon of War: 5 Takeaways from UN Report on Sexual Violence Against Israelis 16 March 2024 By: AJC Just days before International Women’s Day and five months after the Hamas terror attacks on Israel, the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict issued a report validating the heinous and sadistic crimes committed against women during the October 7 terror attacks and against hostages held by Hamas since that day. This report, the first UN assessment to affirm, and not only recount, allegations of sexual violence committed on October 7 , found that there are “reasonable grounds” to believe Israeli women were victims of rape , “sexualized torture,” and other cruel and inhumane treatment during the terror attack. The 23-page report also concluded that there is “clear and convincing information” that sexual violence continues to be committed against hostages and called for Hamas to immediately and unconditionally release them. Since the October 7 attack, when Hamas murdered more than 1,200 Israelis and took more than 240 hostages, Israeli women have faced doubts and questions about the brutality and sexual violence they suffered. The UN report counters those deniers’ appalling claims with details that leave no room for doubt. “Horrific crimes took place on the 7th of October,” said the UN envoy, Under-Secretary-General Pramila Patten. Really, really horrific crimes.” Here are five things to know about the report. 1. Examiners found evidence that conflict-related sexual violence took place on October 7. The UN envoy’s 17-day mission to Israel included meetings with Israeli national institutions, Israeli security forces, and witnesses and visits to the Israeli National Center of Forensic Medicine, the Shura military base, the morgue that received victims’ bodies, and sites targeted by Hamas on October 7. What did she and her team find there? A pattern of victims, mostly women, fully or partially naked, bound and shot across Hamas’ killing fields that day. In addition, the team found “reasonable grounds to believe that conflict-related sexual violence occurred,” including rape and gang-rape at the Nova Music Festival , where 360 festivalgoers were massacred and dozens taken hostage, Road 232 (the route many festivalgoers took to try to escape), and Kibbutz Re’im, where residents were trapped for more than 24 hours during the Hamas rampage. In most of the incidents, there were no survivors to testify. Victims were raped and then murdered. The report distributed to the public did not recount some of the confidential and graphic details shared with the UN from the more than 5,000 photographs and 50 hours of footage reviewed. But publicly available videos, some filmed and disseminated by the terrorists themselves, do bear witness. Video recordings show 22-year-old German-Israeli Shani Louk half-naked in the back of a pickup truck being paraded through Gaza amid cheers. Sadly, Louk has been confirmed dead. 2. There is “clear and convincing information” that sexual violence continues and hostages are still at risk. The UN envoy found “clear and convincing information” that sexual violence, including rape, sexualized torture, cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment, has been committed against hostages and “reasonable grounds” to believe that such violence may be ongoing against those still held in captivity by Hamas. Israel believes that 134 hostages remain in Gaza, including two children and up to 19 women. Although Israeli officials estimate that Hamas has murdered at least 32 of the remaining 134 hostages. Another publicly available video not specified in the report shows 19-year-old Naama Levy, a resident of Kibbutz Nahal Oz, being dragged into a vehicle by an armed terrorist, her gray sweatpants soaked with blood below her waist. Levy is still a hostage. Patten called on Hamas to immediately and unconditionally release all individuals held in captivity and to ensure their protection, including from sexual violence. Every government should demand the same. 3. The UN report should put to rest deniers’ appalling claims that allegations of sexual violence by Hamas on October 7 are unsupported. Israeli and Jewish women felt utterly betrayed when the obscene crimes committed by Hamas terrorists were initially met with silence from many human rights and feminist advocates. Amid dozens of Instagram posts condemning Israel’s retaliation since October 7, UN Women – the official arm of the UN focused on promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment – posted twice: once to say the group was “alarmed by reports of gender-based violence” on that day and again two months later to condemn gender-based violence in general. The group notoriously deleted a post condemning the Hamas terror attacks , before posting a statement on its website. Today, some public figures continue to expressly deny that Hamas engaged in acts of sexual violence on October 7; others who have not denied the allegations have simultaneously refused to condemn them, even as more details of witnesses’ testimony have been made publicly available. This denial not only deepens Israeli victims’ trauma but also contributes to the spread of antisemitic hostility that has occurred worldwide following Israel’s military response to Hamas’s attacks. The silence sparked outcry from celebrities and on social media, much of it branded with the hashtag #MeTooUNlessURaJew. Author and former Meta COO Sheryl Sandberg has teamed up with an Israeli filmmaker to create a one-hour documentary about Hamas’ sexual atrocities in which she interviews eyewitnesses, freed hostages, and first responders. During her visit to Israel, Under-Secretary-General Patten acknowledged the betrayal many women felt, saying “I saw things here that I have not seen anywhere in the world. … Only when I am here do I understand the magnitude of the pain, the insult and the anger of Israel regarding how the world did not sufficiently understand and treat the atrocities that happened to you.” Her report should make it undisputable that no reasonable person can deny that Israelis were victims of sexual violence on October 7. 4. Hamas’ use of sexual violence as a weapon of war is clear. The UN team that accompanied SRSG Patten to Israel and prepared the report were not charged with identifying the identities or affiliations of the perpetrators of the sexual violence accounts they reviewed. A task of this complexity would have required a far longer mission. However, the UN team found, and the SRSG’s report asserts, that the horrific crimes committed in Israel on 10/7 followed similar patterns and were committed simultaneously in multiple locations during Hamas’s meticulously planned operation. Thus, the UN report leaves little doubt that Hamas not only committed sexual violence, but that it deliberately undertook a campaign of sexual terror against Israelis, both the immediate victims and the Israeli public at large. Israel’s President Isaac Herzog commended the UN report for substantiating “with moral clarity and integrity the systematic, premeditated, and ongoing sexual crimes committed by Hamas terrorists against Israeli women.” “Therefore, now the world must react strongly by condemning and punishing Hamas,” Herzog posted to X , formerly known as Twitter. “We must all continue our relentless efforts to bring all the hostages home to their families. As we can learn from the report, they are constantly under clear and present danger.” 5. Hamas must be held accountable. Rather than wait for the UN envoy to present the findings as part of her annual report on conflict-related violence later this year, the UN Security Council convened a formal meeting on March 11 at the request of the U.S., United Kingdom, France, and Japan. The responsibility now falls to governments to amplify its disturbing conclusions and hold Hamas accountable for its horrific atrocities on October 7, including but not limited to the sexual violence affirmed in the report. Their most immediate priority, though, must be to bring the remaining hostages home. There are 19 women still being held in Gaza . Fourteen are presumed alive: Liri Albag, Noa Argamani, Karina Ariev, Agam Berger, Shiri Bibas, Amit Buskila, Emily Damari, Carmel Gat, Daniella Gilboa, Romi Gonen, Naama Levy, Doron Steinbrecher, Arbel Yehud, and Eden Yerushalmi. Five are confirmed dead, but their bodies are still being held: Maya Goren, Ofra Keidar, Shani Louk, Inbar Heiman, and Judith Weinstein-Haggai. The UN report expresses grave concern that the hostages face an ongoing risk of sexual violence for as long as they remain in captivity. “The families and relatives of hostages are enduring a nightmare,” Patten told the Council. “I saw the pain in their eyes and as a mother I could feel their anguish and heartache. I invite you all for a few seconds to put yourselves in the shoes of these families … What do we tell them?” At that meeting, Hamas’ use of sexual violence as a weapon of war was condemned by several representatives of Security Council’s 15 member states, but none more stridently than U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield. “The evidence before us is damning and devastating,” she said. “Now, the only question is: How will we respond? Will this Council finally, finally, finally condemn Hamas’ sexual violence? Or will we continue to stay silent?” She also called on Hamas to accept the terms of the U.S.-facilitated ceasefire deal to which Israel already has agreed. All governments should reiterate the UN report’s central recommendation to Hamas: release the hostages, unconditionally and immediately. They also should affirm that the use of sexual violence as a weapon is a war crime that will not be tolerated, no matter where it occurs. In addition, governments that have not yet designated Hamas as a terror group and have prevented the UN Security Council from doing so should urgently reconsider. No government should be permitted to provide support of any kind to an entity capable of carrying out the brutal sexual violence Israelis experienced on and since October 7. The new UN report’s confirmation of the graphic terror inflicted by Hamas on Israelis should ensure Hamas is never again able to launch such an attack. <- Previous Read full article Next -> More Insights 7 Ways Hamas Exploits Palestinian Civilians in Gaza Antisemitism defined: Why opposing the Jewish people's right to self-determination is antisemitic What You Need to Know About Israel’s Humanitarian Aid To Gaza Fatah responds to Hamas criticism of new formation of PA government ‘without consulting Hamas’ Surprise jump in Gazan support for 2-state solution, while still in favor of Oct 7 attack Hamas' Most Horrific Weapon of War: 5 Takeaways from UN Report on Sexual Violence Against Israelis Latest Video Clips The History of Israel This Muslim Israeli Woman Is the Future of the Middle East Natasha Hausdorff responds to the content of the House of Commons Gaza Debate. Its time to face the hard truth that you're being played as a sacrificial fool by terrorists. Peace cannot be achieved with those who desire war and jihad instead. 'Awful Things Happening In Israel Nothing To Do With British Jews'
- Hamas Official On Al-Jazeera Website: October 7 Was Scaled-Down Model Of Palestine's Final War Of Liberation. | Tikva International
Hamas Official On Al-Jazeera Website: October 7 Was Scaled-Down Model Of Palestine's Final War Of Liberation. 24 January 2024 By: MEMRI Hamas Official On Al-Jazeera Website: October 7 Was Scaled-Down Model Of Palestine's Final War Of Liberation; Palestinians Have Proved 'With Blood And Bodies' That Their Only Option Is To Resist Until Liberation And Return Are Achieved. On January 16, 2024, Bassem Na'im, a member of Hamas' political bureau and former health minister in the Hamas government, published an article on the Al-Jazeera website about the October 7 terror attack by Hamas. He stated that the attack was a critical turning point for the Palestinian cause on national, regional, and international levels. Na'im described the attack as a "scaled-down model of the final war of liberation" against Zionist occupation, demonstrating the feasibility of Israel's defeat, the liberation of Palestine, and the return of refugees. According to Na'im, the October 7 attack showed that resistance is the only option for Palestinians, necessitating new leadership that moves away from the "disastrous experience" of the Oslo Accords. He claimed the attack had significant achievements regionally and internationally, including thwarting the normalization plan between Saudi Arabia and Israel, raising global awareness of the Palestinian cause, and exposing Israel as "a merciless and murderous monster." Na'im argued that no security or stability would be achieved in the region or beyond until the Palestinian conflict is resolved and Palestinians receive their rights. He stated that the attack provided the Arab and Islamic nation with a strategic opportunity to present a different model for managing global affairs, contrasting Western failures. He emphasized the shift from a unipolar to a multipolar world order and the role of the Global South in this new landscape. The article suggested rebuilding Palestinian political institutions and national enterprise to reflect recent changes and represent the aspirations and sacrifices of the Palestinian people. Na'im also mentioned a potential political process leading to the elimination of Zionist occupation, establishment of an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital, and return of refugees in accordance with international resolutions. <- Previous Read full article Next -> More Insights 7 Ways Hamas Exploits Palestinian Civilians in Gaza Antisemitism defined: Why opposing the Jewish people's right to self-determination is antisemitic What You Need to Know About Israel’s Humanitarian Aid To Gaza Fatah responds to Hamas criticism of new formation of PA government ‘without consulting Hamas’ Surprise jump in Gazan support for 2-state solution, while still in favor of Oct 7 attack Hamas' Most Horrific Weapon of War: 5 Takeaways from UN Report on Sexual Violence Against Israelis Latest Video Clips The History of Israel This Muslim Israeli Woman Is the Future of the Middle East Natasha Hausdorff responds to the content of the House of Commons Gaza Debate. Its time to face the hard truth that you're being played as a sacrificial fool by terrorists. Peace cannot be achieved with those who desire war and jihad instead. 'Awful Things Happening In Israel Nothing To Do With British Jews'
- Qatar Is The Trojan Horse In Washington, D.C. | Tikva International
Qatar Is The Trojan Horse In Washington, D.C. 12 February 2024 By: MEMRI Qatar has failed President Biden again: Hamas's answer to proposed deal was, as the immediate reaction from the president and Secretary of State Antony Blinken showed, "over the top"[1] and "absolute non-starters,"[2] respectively. This happened because Qatar is not pressuring Hamas. It sees itself as a mere go-between.[3] Qatar isn't pressuring Hamas despite the fact that in reality, Qatar is the lifeline of Hamas – its hope, its future, its power to continue to fight and to hold the hostages. Qatar built Hamas from a small organization into a military and political power. It took pride in its training of "Hamas security officials."[4] Attempting to justify its pro-terrorist policy, Qatar said that it was the Americans who had asked it to maintain lines of communication with Hamas. However, Qatar did something different, and above and beyond what it was asked: It opened an office and headquarters in Doha for Hamas, and gave Hamas leaders safe haven in the country. Without Qatar, Hamas is doomed. And why should Qatar pressure Hamas? The Biden administration is happy with it anyway. President Biden needs a political victory for his reelection: One such victory would be to finish the war with a peace process that begins with a new hostage release deal and allows for Biden's plan to take off with the participation of Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, Jordan, and the Palestinian Authority. This is the plan that the New York Times' Thomas Friedman and The Washington Post' s David Ignatius are promoting. But the administration and veteran journalists such as Friedman and Ignatius all seem oblivious to the fact that this formula cannot work with Qatar as the pillar of the American foreign policy and presence in the Middle East. The administration is even ignoring the violations of U.S. law by Qatar, which hired a former CIA official, Kevin Chalker, to spy on U.S. lawmakers Senator Ted Cruz, Senator Tom Cotton, Representative Mario Diaz-Balart, and Representative Ed Royce, who is former chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, due to their opposition to Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood.[5] The administration believes that Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt will join in a process in which Qatar is the leader. This will never happen. Saudi Arabia and the UAE are Qatar's sworn adversaries. In 2017, they declared a full boycott on Qatar, in an attempt to stop its pro-Iran and pro-terrorism policies. And America saved Qatar from that boycott. Qatar is the ticking bomb that will blow up any peace process, because it stands for Hamas. In fact, it is part of another bloc – the anti-U.S. bloc comprising Hamas, Hizbullah, the Houthis, Iran, Russia, and China (even on the issue of Taiwan, Qatar sides with China).[6] How can Qatar be regarded as a non-NATO U.S. ally with its record of supporting terrorist Islamic organizations and movements? The other bloc – Saudi Arabia, the UAE, the Palestinian Authority, Egypt, and Israel – does not even know it constitutes a bloc. Frustrated by America's alliance with Qatar and its building of its policy with it – Saudi Arabia and the UAE are gradually moving toward the anti-American bloc, BRICS, which includes Russia and China. Why would Saudi Arabia and the UAE stand by America when America is repeatedly betraying them? Qatar is the ticking bomb in Biden's hands. And even though his election campaign is focusing on other matters, the Israel-Hamas war and its regional repercussions are a major issue that can contribute significantly to either success or failure. Continued reliance on Qatar could tip the scale towards failure. This is not a political assessment. It is a Middle East studies assessment, and it is built on MEMRI's work over 25 years. Qatar is the Wahhabi sponsor of all Islamist terrorist organizations and movements, and of the Muslim Brotherhood in particular. Surely, President Biden and Secretary of State Blinken have heard this in private from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt. President Biden can ask Richard Clarke, counterterrorism advisor to Presidents Bill Clinton and George H. W. Bush, who revealed Qatar's role with regard to 9/11 through its hiding of Khalid Sheikh Muhammad (KSM), the future mastermind of those attacks, in Doha in 1996. When the FBI came to arrest him and told only the Emir, KSM disappeared within hours. He can ask David Cohen, the former U.S. Treasury undersecretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, who said that financiers of terrorism are in Qatar,[8] and ask also the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT), whose records show that Qatar is financing Islamist terrorism.[9] He can ask Egypt, where Qatar's tool of foreign policy, its Al-Jazeera network, brought down President Hosni Mubarak, to be replaced by the Muslim Brotherhood president, Mohamed Morsi. He can look at who Qatar stands with in Libya (the Islamist side). He can see who Qatar stands with in Tunisia (Tunisia's Muslim Brotherhood-linked Ennahda Movement). He can check where Qatar stands in Sudan (on the side of the pro-Muslim Brotherhood general). He surely remembers who stood by the Taliban in 2021 – Qatar, up to the very day in August 2021 when the Taliban took over Afghanistan and brought down the regime of the democratically elected non-Islamist President Ashraf Ghani, and also killed 13 U.S. soldiers. Even Islamist militias in northern Mali are supported by Qatar.[10] It is mindboggling that the U.S. administration is ignoring Qatar's record of criminal support for Islamist movements and terrorist organizations. How can it possibly consider Qatar an ally? The only one that President Biden should not ask about Qatar is Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, who shrewdly allowed Qatar to build Hamas with billions of dollars over a decade. He did this to allow the growth of a power that would counter the Palestinian Authority so that he himself would not need to negotiate with it. Netanyahu said as much in his speeches to his own party: "Whoever objects to the creation of a Palestinian state should support the funneling of money from Qatar to Hamas."[11] He violated Israeli and international anti-terrorism laws by allowing the money from Qatar, a state sponsor of terrorism, to reach Hamas, recognized as a terrorist organization across the West – thereby transforming this violation into a policy – until it exploded in his face. Indeed, Netanyahu is now fighting Hamas – but until October 7, he was in a semi-alliance with Hamas via Qatar, allowing all the Qatari billions to flow to Hamas and deluding himself that he was buying off Hamas's leaders and creating a political arrangement (hasdara in Hebrew) with them.[12] This myth about an arrangement with Hamas (hasdara ) came from the Prime Minister. Current Chief of Staff Gen. Herzi Halevy, at the time commander of the southern command, went to Qatar with Mossad director Yossi Cohen to ask for more money for the entity that was to kill his soldiers.[13] Little did Halevy realize the consequences of what he was doing. The entire Israeli administration, political and military, bought into this delusion, that today is called "the conception," and it came from the prime minister on down. That is, until it ended on October 7, 2023. (MEMRI documented this alliance and attacked it in many articles. I personally wrote a piece warning of "The bloody wedding of Netanyahu and Qatar"[14] and in another piece, published August 31, 2023, I issued a early warning about the war coming in September or October.[15] ) By keeping Qatar as a player, Netanyahu is deceiving the Biden administration and blowing up its hopes for a peace process, as well the minimal hope for another hostage deal. Netanyahu is fighting Hamas but allowing the absolutely necessary humanitarian aid to be seized by Hamas operatives. President Biden will fail, not because of Netanyahu but because of Qatar, which is retaining Hamas as a player for the future as well. Because no Israeli will agree to any peace plan with Hamas, whether officially or unofficially, even if and when Netanyahu is replaced as prime minister. Many think that the U.S. is giving Qatar this major role because CENTCOM is based there, and that if Qatar is pressured, CENTCOM's freedom to operate will be impacted. This is not true. CENTCOM is totally independent, and all it would take is for the U.S. to hint that it has other potential locations for CENTCOM in order to scare the Qataris into really helping the U.S. – which until now they have been betraying. The U.S. should have applied such pressure at least to save the American hostages – after 32 Americans were killed on October 7 by the Hamas-Qatar alliance. Without stripping Qatar of any ability to play a role in the crisis in the Middle East, the war will not end any time soon, and Islamist terrorism will continue to flourish in the West even more than in the Middle East. Moreover, Qatar's continued involvement in Middle East politics will raise the chances of turning the Gaza war into a regional war. And there will be no "day after." This is the service that Qatar is providing to Russia, China, and Iran: ongoing instability directed against America. Qatar is the Trojan horse in the U.S. administration. It is winning the global battle for Russia, China, and Iran. Will the administration ever realize this? By: Yigal Carmon is President and Founder of MEMRI. <- Previous Read full article Next -> More Insights 7 Ways Hamas Exploits Palestinian Civilians in Gaza Antisemitism defined: Why opposing the Jewish people's right to self-determination is antisemitic What You Need to Know About Israel’s Humanitarian Aid To Gaza Fatah responds to Hamas criticism of new formation of PA government ‘without consulting Hamas’ Surprise jump in Gazan support for 2-state solution, while still in favor of Oct 7 attack Hamas' Most Horrific Weapon of War: 5 Takeaways from UN Report on Sexual Violence Against Israelis Latest Video Clips The History of Israel This Muslim Israeli Woman Is the Future of the Middle East Natasha Hausdorff responds to the content of the House of Commons Gaza Debate. Its time to face the hard truth that you're being played as a sacrificial fool by terrorists. Peace cannot be achieved with those who desire war and jihad instead. 'Awful Things Happening In Israel Nothing To Do With British Jews'
- Solidarity | Tikva International
October 7th What Happened? Solidarity When exploring the diverse perspectives and sentiments expressed by various individuals on social media, special attention is given to influencers. These digital personalities, with their significant online followings, are instrumental in shaping public discourse. Their reactions to the events of October 7th vary widely, encompassing deeply personal reflections and broader socio-political commentary. Through their posts, tweets, and videos, influencers not only share their own interpretations and emotions regarding the incident but also influence the perceptions of their audiences. This diversity of reactions highlights how influencers from different backgrounds and with varying viewpoints perceive and respond to the events of October 7th, adding depth and complexity to the overall understanding of public sentiment on this significant day." Related Videos Moments in life. President Biden about peace and terror Senator Jacqui Lambie lays into Hamas & the Australian media. Would you feel differently if the events of October 7th were happening in London? 240 Rays of hope were sent from the heart of Jerusalem into the sky, Bring Them Home Birthday video for their friend held captive in Gaza by terrorists. Load More
- Old design | Tikva International
Hamas's Tactics October 7th Hamas In a nutshell Hamas has been designated as a terrorist organization by several countries, including the United States and the European Union, primarily due to its tactics in the conflict with Israel. These tactics include suicide bombings targeting Israeli civilians, indiscriminate rocket attacks, kidnappings and executions of Israeli soldiers and civilians, use of civilian areas in Gaza as shields for military operations, and tunnel warfare for smuggling and attacks. Additionally, Hamas has engaged in cyber warfare and espionage against Israeli targets. This designation is based on the view that these tactics violate international laws and norms, particularly regarding the protection of civilians, and has significant implications for Hamas's international relations, financial transactions, and global perception, influencing the dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and international diplomatic efforts. References Related Videos The full story The Full Story Full Story Hamas has been designated as a terrorist organization by several countries, including the United States and the European Union. This designation is primarily due to the tactics employed by Hamas in its conflict with Israel. Suicide Bombings: One of the most notorious tactics used by Hamas has been suicide bombings. These attacks, often targeting Israeli civilian areas such as buses, cafes, and markets, have resulted in numerous casualties and have been a hallmark of Hamas's violent resistance strategy. Rocket Attacks: Hamas has frequently used rocket fire into Israeli territory. These rockets, varying in range and payload, have been launched from the Gaza Strip into various parts of Israel, causing civilian casualties and property damage. The indiscriminate nature of these rocket attacks, often aimed at civilian-populated areas, is a significant factor in the terrorist designation. Kidnappings and Executions: Hamas has been involved in the kidnapping and sometimes execution of Israeli soldiers and civilians. These acts are used as leverage in negotiations or to fulfill specific militant objectives. Use of Civilian Shields: Hamas has been accused of using civilian areas and populations in Gaza as shields for its military operations. The placement of rocket launchers and other military assets in densely populated areas has been a point of international concern, as it leads to civilian casualties during retaliatory strikes by Israel. During the 2023 Israel-Hamas war, there were reports and accusations that Hamas had strategically placed portions of its military tunnel system and command network beneath civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, mosques, and residential buildings. This included the al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, which have become a de facto headquarters for Hamas leaders. Tunnel Warfare: Hamas has developed an extensive network of tunnels in the Gaza Strip. These tunnels are used for smuggling weapons, launching attacks, and infiltrating Israeli territory. The use of these tunnels for militant purposes contributes to its terrorist designation. Cyber Attacks and Espionage: In recent years, Hamas has expanded its tactics to include cyber warfare, targeting Israeli digital infrastructure and conducting espionage operations. The designation of Hamas as a terrorist organization is based on these tactics, which are seen as violating international laws and norms regarding armed conflict, particularly those related to the protection of civilians. The terrorist designation has significant implications for Hamas, affecting its international relations, financial transactions, and overall global perception. It also impacts the broader dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, influencing international diplomatic and peace efforts. References References What Is Hamas? Hamas’ use of hum an shields in Gaza What is a ‘human shield’ and why is Israel using the term in Gaza? We can’t ignore the truth that Hamas uses human shields Related Videos Reletaed Videos Hamas, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and their use of hospitals. The son of a Hamas leader share why Hamas is responsible for the war. Impression of a Western doctor who worked at Shifa Hospital (France 24) Douglas Murray says what others are too scared to admit about Gaza Thousands dead and still counting! Well, let's talk about numbers To all pro-Palestinian activists out there Load More
- The Events | Tikva International
October 7th What Happened? Events of the day In a Nutshell On October 7, 2023, Hamas initiated the 2023 Israel-Hamas war with a coordinated attack from Gaza, launching over 5,000 rockets into Israel and breaching the border. This attack, named Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, resulted in over 1,194 deaths, including 843 civilians, and left more than 4,834 wounded, with 243+ people taken hostage. The scale of the attack, the deadliest for Israel since the Holocaust, involved significant civilian casualties and was internationally condemned as terrorism. Allegations of genocide and war crimes have been raised, particularly due to the reported sexual and gender-based violence. The full story References Related Videos Full Story The Full Story On October 7, 2023, a coordinated attack led by Hamas, a Palestinian Islamist militant group, was launched from the Gaza Strip into Israel. This attack marked the beginning of the 2023 Israel–Hamas war, occurring nearly 50 years after the Yom Kippur War. The assault, named Operation Al-Aqsa Flood by Hamas, began when Hamas launched over 5,000 rockets from Gaza into Israel, then used these strategic barrages as cover to breach the border. In this massive surprise onslaught on southern Israel, Hamas terrorists committed unfathomable atrocities that have reverberated globally. The attacks claimed the lives of more than 1,194 individuals, of which 843 of the identified bodies are civilians. They left over 4,834 wounded, and resulted in 243+ people being taken hostage. Additionally, some of the bodies remain unidentified due to substantial mutilation. The dawn attack began when Hamas launched over 5,000 rockets from Gaza into Israel, then used these strategic barrages as cover to breach the border. In this massive surprise onslaught on southern Israel, Hamas terrorists committed unfathomable atrocities that have reverberated globally. The attack, which is considered the bloodiest day in Israel's history and the deadliest for Jews since the Holocaust, was widely condemned internationally as terrorism. The scale of the weapons and plans seized after the attack indicated Hamas's intention to inflict mass civilians casualties over an extended period. The attack has been subject to allegations of genocide and war crimes, particularly due to the reported sexual and gender-based violence. References Open Map Use this interactive map to visit the attack sites, learn the facts, and view the horrors. References Go to site In anticipation of the International Court of Justice hearing in The Hague, the Israeli Prime Minister's Office, in collaboration with the IDF spokesman, launched a website titled "Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas Massacre: Documentation of Crimes Against Humanity." The site displays graphic content, including photos and videos, showcasing Hamas crimes. Developed to counter pro-Palestinian protests globally, the website is part of Israel's outreach efforts. The images are blurred to protect victims' privacy. (Accessible only outside Israel) The IDF spokesman emphasized the use of technological tools to disseminate the link, highlighting its similarity to a longer video presented earlier. The initiative involves experts in editing and aims to keep the world aware of the October 7 horrors ahead of the court hearing in The Hague. The head of the national information system stressed its significance as a tool to present Israel as a victim of terrorism. Reletaed Videos Related Videos Moral compass Why am I against a ceasefire in Gaza? Free our children - This is not TV, this is our reality Nir Oz - the story of a peaceful community THEY JUST WANTED TO DANCE. Saddest ABC you’ll ever see Load More
- Mind Map | Tikva International
October 7th: Gaza, Israel, and Worldwide Repercussions What happened? Who was behind it? Gaza War Impact on the Arab World Impact on the West Impact on Israel October 7th Event
- Hamas: Support - Russia| Tikva International
Russia's Support for Hamas October 7th Hamas Support Russia's involvement with Hamas is multifaceted, encompassing diplomatic support, military training, and possible weapon supply. This support aligns with Russia's strategy to extend its influence in the Middle East and globally, often opposing Western interests. In a Nutshell Reports suggest Hamas received training from Russian forces, including possibly the Wagner group, and weapons from Russia, some captured in Ukraine. Russia's close alliance with Iran, Hamas's main weapons supplier, involves mutual support in Syria and against Ukraine. Politically, Russia frequently meets with Hamas leaders, despite their terrorist designation by the U.S. and others, indicating a deepening relationship. The October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, resulting in over 1,400 deaths, aligns with Russia's geopolitical strategies by distracting global attention from Ukraine. Russia's muted response to the attack suggests tacit approval. Hamas acknowledges Russian support, fitting into Russia's broader strategy of challenging Western dominance and positioning itself as a key Middle Eastern player. Russian President Putin's engagement with Hamas, including inviting them to Moscow post their 2006 electoral win, reflects this strategy. Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov has encouraged Hamas to evolve into a legitimate political movement, paralleling the IRA's transformation. Frequent Hamas visits to Moscow and positive Russian media portrayal of Hamas as "moderate" and "pragmatic" further illustrate Russia's view of Hamas in the Middle Eastern geopolitical landscape. The full story References Related Videos Full Story The Full Story Russia as a significant supporter of Hamas, not just diplomatically, but also in terms of military training and possibly weapon supply. This support is part of Russia's broader strategy to assert its influence in the Middle East and globally, often in opposition to Western interests. Training and Support: There are reports suggesting that Hamas received training from Russian forces, possibly including the Wagner group. This indicates a direct involvement in military training and preparation of Hamas fighters. Weapon Supply: It is suggested that some of the weapons used by Hamas came from Russia, and there are also reports of Russia providing Hamas with Western weapons captured in Ukraine. Strategic Alliance with Iran: Russia maintains a close alliance with Iran, which is Hamas's main supplier of weapons and diplomatic support. This relationship extends to providing Iran with intelligence and weapons in Syria and receiving drones, artillery shells, and ammunition from Iran for use against Ukraine. Political and Diplomatic Engagement: Russia has been meeting with Hamas leaders, who are designated terrorists by the U.S. and other countries, for years. These meetings have been particularly frequent in the past two years, indicating a deepening relationship. Impact of Hamas's Actions on Global Politics: The October 7, 2023, terror attack by Hamas, which resulted in over 1,400 deaths, is seen as beneficial for Russia. It distracts the U.S. from Ukraine and potentially shifts global attention, aligning with Russia's broader geopolitical strategies. Russia's Reaction to Hamas's Actions: Russia's official response to the October 7 attack was slow and muted, not explicitly condemning the attack. This could be interpreted as a tacit approval or at least a reluctance to criticize Hamas. Hamas's Acknowledgment of Russian Support: Hamas leaders have openly acknowledged the support and benefits they receive from Russia, indicating a mutual understanding and cooperation between the two. Russia's Global Strategy: Russia's support for Hamas fits into its larger strategy of expanding its influence and challenging Western hegemony. By supporting Hamas, Russia positions itself as a key player in Middle Eastern affairs and as a counterbalance to U.S. influence in the region. Russia's engagement with Hamas has been a significant aspect of its Middle Eastern policy, particularly under the leadership of President Vladimir Putin. In February 2006, following Hamas' victory in the Palestinian legislative elections, Putin made a bold move by inviting Hamas to Moscow, marking a clear shift in international relations. This invitation was a recognition of Hamas' democratic electoral success and an acknowledgment of their governance in the Palestinian territories. Putin, while in Madrid, stated, "We are maintaining our contacts with Hamas and intend to invite the leadership of this organization to Moscow." He emphasized that Russia never considered Hamas a terrorist organization and stressed the importance of respecting the Palestinian people's choice. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, shortly before the arrival of a Hamas delegation, expressed that Hamas should transform itself into a legitimate political movement, drawing a parallel with the Irish Republican Army (IRA) in Northern Ireland. Lavrov highlighted the need for Hamas to evolve, saying, "I do not think Hamas will have a serious future if Hamas does not change." Over the years, numerous Hamas delegations have visited Moscow: in February 2007, May 2009, February 2010, and again in June 2014. In March 2015, Khaled Mashal used another invitation to Moscow to brief Lavrov on "Zionist terror in the West Bank and its attacks on Muslim and Christian sites in Jerusalem." In November of the same year, "The Moscow Times" reported Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov's statement that neither Hamas nor Hezbollah are terrorist organizations. This stance did not prevent Putin from meeting with Netanyahu in June 2016 to discuss the necessity of uniting efforts in the international fight against terrorism, reiterating that Hamas is not considered a terrorist organization by Russia. The frequency of Hamas' visits to Russia increased over time, with at least two meetings per year: in January and September 2017, March and October 2018, February and July 2019, February, March, and October 2020, and February 2021, which also included a delegation from Islamic Jihad. In May and September 2022, and March and May 2023, further meetings were held. Additionally, phone conversations between senior Hamas officials and Deputy Foreign Minister Bogdanov took place. The content of these meetings in Moscow has never been disclosed, so the nature of the Russia-Hamas relationship is primarily inferred from events and statements outside these meetings. For instance, in May 2021, Hamas leader in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar, praised Russia, anticipating a high level of coordination between Russia and Hamas in the future. In May 2022, Moussa Abu Marzouq, head of Hamas' international relations, described the visit to Moscow as part of efforts to deepen consultations and bilateral coordination with the "Russian friends." In June 2022, at a conference in Gaza, Hamas leaders, including Ismail Haniyeh, assessed that the U.S. is likely to lose its global hegemony post the Ukraine war, leading to a multipolar world order. They emphasized the importance of forming strategic alliances with forces supporting the "resistance," like Russia and China. In Russian media, Hamas was described as "moderate" and "pragmatic" in March 2023, with its leaders portrayed as "politicians" open to dialogue. This characterization reflects Russia's view of Hamas and its role in the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. References References MEMRI Report on Russia-Hamas Relationship. Investigation: Russia, Turkey and China's deep ties with Hamas Related Videos Related Videos Hamas is the creation of the Islamic republic. Families in Iran have to live under threat of execution Have you ever wondered where is all the money sent to the people of Gaza? Have you ever wondered how a Hamas operative earns a living? Iranian people for the state of Israel Son of Hamas leader speaks out - Exposing Hamas goals. Load More
- Hamas: Support - China | Tikva International
China's Support for Hamas October 7th Hamas Support In a Nutshell China's long-standing relationship with Palestinian organizations, including Hamas, is rooted in ideological, strategic, and geopolitical factors. Historically, China's Marxist-Leninist ideology under Mao Zedong, emphasizing anti-imperialism, led to support for groups opposing Western influence, like Hamas. This support is part of China's broader geopolitical strategy to gain influence in the Middle East, a region crucial for its energy resources and global politics. By supporting Palestinian groups, China counters Western, especially U.S., influence, aligning with its aim to challenge the Western-dominated world order. China's pragmatic foreign policy, driven by diplomatic considerations, strengthens ties with Arab and Muslim-majority nations, crucial for economic and strategic interests. China's non-interference policy allows engagement with a wide range of actors, including controversial ones by Western standards. Historically, China supplied weapons and ammunition to Palestinian groups in the 1960s and provided ideological and military training to the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). Palestinian leaders, including Yasser Arafat and George Habash, acknowledged China's significant support. Mao Zedong's statements in 1965 highlighted a shared struggle against Western imperialism. China's influence extended beyond military support to ideological guidance, with Mao's writings being influential among PLO members. This support later included Hamas and Hezbollah, with China also facilitating financial transactions for terrorist activities through the Bank of China. Legal actions against the bank by families affected by these funded attacks faced diplomatic hurdles. The full story References Related Videos Full Story The Full Story There is a long-standing relationship between China and Palestinian organizations, including military, financial, and ideological support, particularly during the latter half of the 20th century and into the 21st century. China's support for Palestinian groups, including Hamas, can be understood through a combination of ideological, strategic, and geopolitical factors: Ideological Alignment and Anti-Imperialism: Historically, China's foreign policy, especially under Mao Zedong, was heavily influenced by Marxist-Leninist ideology, which emphasizes anti-imperialism and support for liberation movements around the world. This ideological stance often led China to support groups that it perceived as fighting against Western imperialism and colonialism. In the context of the Middle East, Palestinian groups, including Hamas, have been seen as part of a broader struggle against Western influence and presence in the region. Geopolitical Strategy: China's support for Palestinian groups can also be seen as part of a broader geopolitical strategy. By supporting these groups, China positions itself as a key player in Middle Eastern politics, potentially gaining influence in a region that is strategically important due to its energy resources and its central role in global geopolitics. Balancing Global Influence: Supporting Palestinian groups allows China to counterbalance the influence of Western powers, particularly the United States, in the Middle East. This support can be interpreted as part of China's strategy to present itself as an alternative global power that challenges the existing Western-dominated world order. Diplomatic Considerations: China's foreign policy is also driven by pragmatic diplomatic considerations. By supporting Palestinian groups, China can strengthen its relationships with Arab countries and Muslim-majority nations, which are important for China's economic and strategic interests. Non-Interference Policy: China's principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries allows it to engage with various groups and states based on pragmatic considerations rather than ideological alignment. This principle enables China to maintain relations with a wide range of actors, including those considered controversial or problematic by Western standards. History: Early Relations (1960s): The relationship between the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the Palestinians began to warm in the 1960s. China's army started supplying large quantities of weapons and ammunition to Palestinian terrorist organizations. Support for Armed Struggle: Hani El-Hassan, a political advisor to Yasser Arafat, mentioned that between 1964 and 1970, Palestinians fought with weapons made in China, indicating that the CCP was a primary supplier. Israeli intelligence estimated the value of weapons transferred from China to the Palestinians during this period at about $5 million (equivalent to about $30 million today). These shipments included rifles, hand grenades, gunpowder, mines, and other explosives. Ideological and Military Training: The CCP also provided ideological inspiration and military training to members of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), inviting them to training camps in China. Statements by Palestinian Leaders: Palestinian leaders have historically acknowledged China's significant influence and support. Yasser Arafat, the chairman of the PLO, once stated that the People's Republic of China was the greatest influence in supporting their revolution and strengthening their perseverance. George Habash, leader of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, declared in 1970 that China was their best ally and wanted Israel to be wiped off the map. Mao Zedong's Statements: Mao Zedong, in 1965, expressed his view that Western imperialism feared both China and the Arabs, and he saw Israel and Taiwan as imperialist bases in Asia. He emphasized the shared struggle of the Palestinians and the Chinese against these entities. Continued Support and Influence: The CCP's influence on the Palestinians was not only military but also ideological. Mao's political and military works were seen as an unlimited source of guidance in their struggle for liberation. The "Little Red Book" of Mao's quotations and other writings became recommended reading among PLO members in the 1970s. Support Extending to Hamas and Hezbollah: The CCP not only armed the Palestinians but also extended support to Iran and Syria. Missile shipments from China even reached Hamas and Hezbollah. Financial Transactions through Bank of China: In 2005, it was discovered that the leadership of Hamas and Islamic Jihad in Iran and Syria were transferring funds for terrorist activities in Gaza and the West Bank through the Bank of China, owned by the Chinese government. Despite presenting this information to Chinese officials, the bank continued to allow these transactions. Legal Actions: Legal proceedings were initiated against the Bank of China by 22 families affected by terrorist attacks funded through the bank. However, due to diplomatic pressures, the case collapsed when Israel prevented a key witness from testifying. References Investigation: Russia, Turkey and China's deep ties with Hamas References Hamas using top-grade Chinese weapons in Gaza, including assault rifles and grenade launchers Related Videos Related Videos Load More
- Who was behind it? | Tikva International
Who was behind it? October 7th Military Tactics Hamas Education Governance Ideology Support
- Antisemitism-Streets | Tikva International
October 7th Impact on the west Antisemitism Antisemitism in The Streets The rise of antisemitism in various countries following the events of October 7th, particularly the Hamas massacre, has been a cause for concern globally. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) has reported a dramatic increase in antisemitic incidents in the United States, with a 337% rise since October 7, representing the highest two-month number since 1979. This surge has not been limited to the U.S., as other countries have also experienced a significant increase in antisemitic incidents. For instance, France reported 588 antisemitic incidents with 336 arrests, the UK saw a 13-fold increase in antisemitic hate crimes, and Germany reported a 240% rise in antisemitic incidents compared to the same period last year. Similar trends have been observed in other parts of Europe, Latin America, North Africa, and Australia The surge in antisemitism has been attributed to the conflict in the Middle East, with historical evidence suggesting that such conflicts often lead to a spike in antisemitic incidents. The ADL has emphasized the need for leaders across various sectors to unequivocally condemn antisemitism and take action to support and secure Jewish communities The relentless nature of these attacks and the absence of any signs of diminishing have raised concerns about the impact of this wave of antisemitism on global stability and democracy References Related Videos References References ADL Records Dramatic Increase in U.S. Antisemitic Incidents Following Oct. 7 Hamas Massacre US antisemitism up 337% since October 7 in all-time record How the surge in antisemitism is affecting countries around the world A new wave of antisemitism threatens to rock an already unstable world Related Videos Reletaed Videos Liberalism is about principles, not death charts! Wave of Anti-Semitic Incidents in wake of Israel-Hamas War Who is behind the Pro Palestinians protest in America? Oakland City Council meeting explain it all. (By Renny Grinshpan) Lord David Wolfson speaking from the heart at the UK House of Lords To all pro-Palestinian activists out there Load More











