The deputy head of Hamas’ political bureau was assassinated last night in a presumed Israeli strike in Beirut, Lebanon. Saleh al-Arouri, who was second only to Ismail Haniyeh, was influential in the planning of October 7th as well as the development of terrorism in Judea and Samaria. tIis likely that some kind of escalation will result from the assassination.

The US has confirmed that Hamas did indeed use al-Shifa Hospital for terrorist purposes, including as a temporary holding site for hostages taken on October 7th. One Gazan civilian in the hospital said that in contrast to Hamas rule, he “would not die from starvation” with the IDF. It is well documented that Hamas steals food supplies intended for Gazan civilians, while the IDF brought food and water for Gazans when entering the hospital.

Tragically, Israeli doctors who received released female hostages confirmed that many of the women were violently assaulted in captivity and showed signs of PTSD after release.

In Judea and Samaria, a reserve-duty Israeli soldier was moderately injured during operations in the Kalkilya area, after terrorists threw explosives at Israeli forces.

South Africa has launched a campaign against Israel at the International Criminal Court, accusing the only Jewish state of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.

Please continue to pray against any escalation between Israel and Hizballah. Please pray for further international recognition of Hamas’ war crimes. Lastly, please continue to pray for healing for released hostages and for the safe return of those left in Gaza.