Top news stories from Israel/Palestine: November 14, 2018

What We’re Reading

FMEP Resources

Occupied Thoughts: What is Going on in Gaza (And Why)?,

In this edition of FMEP’s podcast series “Occupied Thoughts,” Peter Beinart and veteran journalist Donald Macintyre discuss what is happening in Gaza today, and where it all might be headed. Donald Macintyre, who spent decades covering Gaza for The Independent, recently released a book, “Gaza: Preparing for Dawn,” documenting the stories, struggles, and aspirations for Palestinians living in Gaza.

Israeli politics

Israel’s hawkish defense minister resigns from the government over Hamas truce,

Israel’s hawkish Defense Minister Avigdor Liberman announced his resignation Wednesday, citing his opposition to a cease-fire with Hamas following the worst outbreak of violence in Gaza since a 50-day war in the summer of 2014.

In Gaza Flare-up, Netanyahu Is Hoisted With His Past Petards ,

Netanyahu’s years of preaching against negotiations with any and all terrorists inhibited his ability and that of his government to reach a quick, long-term arrangement with Hamas, which he now yearns for.

How Netanyahu‘s cozy relationship with the Saudi crown prince could cost Israel,

“Why is Israel tossing a lifeline to Jamal Khashoggi’s killers?” the headline read for an essay that ripped Netanyahu.

Gaza

Palestinians sceptical Gaza ceasefire will hold,

As relative calm sets in, residents in besieged enclave say they have little faith in Egyptian-brokered ceasefire deal.

The health system in Gaza cannot handle another war,

A new war would lead to the collapse of an already-debilitated medical infrastructure in Gaza, Palestinian health officials warn.

US-Israeli/Palestinian relations

Senior Israeli Doctors Protest Trump's Aid Cut to East Jerusalem Hospitals,

Eighteen senior Israeli physicians have written an open letter protesting the Trump administration’s decision to cut more than $20 million from U.S. support for hospitals in East Jerusalem.

Israeli right fears new Congress,

“For the next two years, Israeli settlers and their right-wing supporters will no longer enjoy unlimited access to the House of Representatives.”