A Qassam fighter in southern Gaza. (Photo: video grab)

By Palestine Chronicle Staff  

These are the types of weapons that Palestinian Resistance groups used in their operations against Israeli forces in various parts of the Gaza Strip: 

• Heavy mortar shells
• Standard mortar shells
• Ghoul sniper rifles
• Shuath explosive devices
• Al-Yassin 105
• Thaqib-penetrating explosive device

The outcome of the operations was the killing and wounding of Israeli soldiers, mostly in the Khan Yunis and Rafah areas. 

Below are the latest statements by the two main Resistance forces in Gaza, and the Lebanese Resistance Movement Hezbollah. 

The statements were communicated via their Telegram channels and are published here in their original form. 

Al-Qassam Brigades (Hamas)

“Al-Qassam Brigades fighters, in coordination with Saraya Al-Quds fighters, bombarded an enemy position near Al-Zalal Mosque, east of Khan Younis city, with heavy mortar shells.

“Al-Qassam fighters sniped a Zionist soldier with a Ghoul rifle in the Al-Zana area, east of Khan Younis city in the southern Gaza Strip.

“Al-Qassam Brigades fighters, in coordination with Saraya Al-Quds fighters, bombarded an enemy position near Al-Zalal Mosque, east of Khan Younis city, with heavy mortar shells.

In this video, Al-Qassam fighters are seen targeting Israeli military vehicles in the city of Khan Yunis, in the southern Gaza Strip. pic.twitter.com/ZoDppcqZXh

— The Palestine Chronicle (@PalestineChron) July 25, 2024

“Upon their return from their combat mission… Al-Qassam fighters reported luring two Zionist forces into two tunnels and detonating them on the members of the forces inside, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries in Yabna camp, in the city of Rafah, southern Gaza Strip.

“Al-Qassam Brigades destroy a Zionist Merkava tank with a Shuath explosive in the Sheikh Nasser area of Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, resulting in it being set on fire and a helicopter landing for evacuation.

“Al-Qassam Brigades target a Zionist Merkava tank with an Al-Yassin 105 shell in the Sheikh Nasser area in the city of Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip.

“Al-Qassam Brigades target a Zionist D9 bulldozer with an Al-Yassin 105 shell. A helicopter landed to evacuate its crew, in the Al-Salam neighborhood near the eastern cemetery in Rafah, southern Gaza Strip.”

Al-Quds Brigades (Islamic Jihad)

“We shot down a Zionist quad-copter drone and took control of it while it was carrying out intelligence missions in the skies of the city of Rafah.

“We bombarded with standard mortar shells a gathering of enemy Zionist soldiers and vehicles at the axis of advance northeast of Khan Younis. Our fighters observed a helicopter landing with the intensive firing of smoke shells at the targeted location to evacuate the wounded.

“Our fighters, in coordination with the fighters of the Al-Qassam Brigades, targeted a Zionist Merkava tank with a Thaqib-penetrating explosive device and an Al-Yassin 105 shell, in the vicinity of the Sheikh Nasser area, east of Khan Younis.”

Martyr Omar Qasim Brigades published video footage of the moments when resistance groups in Gaza destroyed Zionist terrorists#WeAreHereForPalestine#SahabatPalestina_ID#GazaGenocide#CeasefireNOW#FreePalestine#ForeverPalestine pic.twitter.com/rXRPm2ZzZZ

— Owner Of Quds (@_Alone_Warrior_) July 22, 2024

Hezbollah

“The fighters of the Islamic Resistance, at 10:20 on Wednesday, 24-07-2024, targeted the espionage equipment at the Birkat Risha site with appropriate weapons, hitting it directly, leading to its destruction.

“The fighters of the Islamic Resistance in the air defense units launched anti-aircraft missiles at the enemy’s warplanes inside Lebanese airspace in the southern region, forcing them to retreat and withdraw behind the Lebanese borders with occupied Palestine.

“The fighters of the Islamic Resistance, at 12:30 am on Thursday, 25-07-2024, targeted the Hanita site with artillery shells, hitting it directly.

“The fighters of the Islamic Resistance targeted a building used by Israeli enemy soldiers in the Manara settlement with appropriate weapons, hitting it directly.

“The fighters of the Islamic Resistance targeted buildings used by Israeli enemy soldiers in the Shtula settlement with appropriate weapons, hitting them directly.

Hezbollah air defense missiles reportedly exploded in the vicinity of an Israeli warplane moments ago, forcing it to retreat to Israel. pic.twitter.com/D76ImauvbX

— The Palestine Chronicle (@PalestineChron) July 25, 2024

“The fighters of the Islamic Resistance targeted Zionist soldiers deployed in the Adather forest with rocket weapons, achieving a direct hit.

“The fighters of the Islamic Resistance at 05:10 PM on Thursday, 25-07-2024, targeted the Ramtha site in the occupied Lebanese Kfar Shuba hills with rocket weapons, hitting it directly. 

“The fighters of the Islamic Resistance, on Thursday 25-07-2024, launched an aerial attack with a squadron of drones targeting on the artillery position of the 411th Battalion in Neve Ziv of the 288th Fire Brigade, targeting the positioning and barracks of its officers and soldiers, hit its targets accurately and resulting in confirmed casualties.

“The fighters of the Islamic Resistance, at 06:05 PM on Thursday, 25-07-2024, targeted a deployment of enemy Israeli soldiers at the Baram forest with rocket weapons, hitting it directly.

“The fighters of the Islamic Resistance in the air defense units launched anti-aircraft missiles at enemy warplanes in Lebanese airspace in the southern region, forcing them to retreat and withdraw beyond the Lebanese border with occupied Palestine.”

(The Palestine Chronicle)

Floating pier in Gaza. (Photo: U.S. Central Command Public Affairs, via Wikimedia Commons)

By Palestine Chronicle Staff  

The pier mission, touted to deliver urgently needed humanitarian aid to the besieged Gaza Strip, formally ended last week.

A US official has said that the building of a floating pier off Gaza’s coast was an “ill-conceived political calculation,” calling it “an embarrassment” for the Joe Biden administration, the Reuters agency reported.

“The pier was an ill-conceived political calculation by the Biden administration,” Republican Mike Rogers, who leads the Pentagon’s oversight committee in the House of Representatives, told Reuters.

The pier mission, touted to deliver urgently needed humanitarian aid to the besieged Gaza Strip, formally ended last week.

Failed Gaza Pier to Be Dismantled Early – NYT Reveals

The report cites a former US official and a current US official as saying that the Biden administration first considered the pier’s construction in late 2023, but concerns were raised that the sea could become “too rough” for such a project.

As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsened, the “idea came up again” in early 2024, with a former senior administration official having said “We sort of reached a point where it seemed appropriate to take more risk because the need was so great.”

However, the report said, the resulting pier mission which involved 1,000 US troops, “did not go well.”

Enormous Cost

It delivered “only a fraction of the promised aid at a cost of nearly $230 million, and was from the start beset by bad luck and miscalculations, including fire, bad weather and dangers on shore” from the ongoing war, said Reuters.

The initial proposal included “a limited number of US troops on the ground, temporarily, to attach the pier to the shore,” according to the former official. But the White House was opposed to deploying US forces to Gaza and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin asked for the proposal to be reworked.

Humanitarian Aid or Political Conspiracy – What Do Gazans Think of the American Pier

Israeli forces later carried out the installation, after being trained to do so, the former official said.

A US defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity, however, told Reuters, “boots on the ground was never a consideration.”

Challenges

The report said current and former officials described Central Command as “extremely confident” the pier mission would be a success, with one former official saying “From Day 1, they were consistent in saying: ‘We can do this’”.

The project however was beset with problems; such as a fire breaking out in the engine room of the navy ship transporting part of the pier system, challenging weather and rough seas which broke the pier just nine days after it became operational on May 16.

The pier had to be moved to the Israeli port of Ashdod for repairs but “bad weather” kept the pier “inoperative for all but 20 days,” said the report.

‘Pier is Operational’ – Pentagon Says It is Working with Aid Agencies  

Three US soldiers were injured “in support of the pier in May, with one medically evacuated in critical condition,” said the report.

Failure to Deliver

A total of only 19.4 million pounds of aid were moved into Gaza via the pier equating to about “480 trucks” of aid delivered from the pier. The United Nations says about 500 truckloads of aid per day are needed to address the humanitarian needs of the Gazan population, the report emphasized.

Fake Aid Truck Used to Carry Out Rescue Operation – US ‘Special Cell’ Participated in Nuseirat Massacre

The pier also came under criticism following allegations that it could have been used by the Israeli army during the military operation in the Nuseirat refugee camp.  The operation led to the killing of 274 Palestinians and three Israeli captives as well as the release of four others.

(The Palestine Chronicle)

US former President Donald Trump said that Israel must “finish up” the war. (Image: Palestine Chronicle)

By Palestine Chronicle Staff  

Mass demonstrations against Netanyahu’s speech and the war on Gaza occurred both outside and inside the US Capitol.

US presidential nominee Donald Trump has said Israel should end the war in Gaza “quickly” as the country was “getting decimated with this publicity.”

Asked about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech to the US Congress on Wednesday, Trump told Fox News “I want him to finish up and get it done quickly.”

He added: “You’ve got to get it done quickly because they are getting decimated with this publicity. And, you know, Israel is not very good at public relations, I’ll tell you that.”

His comments on Thursday come a day ahead of his meeting with Netanyahu.

Rekindling the Old Love Affair: Can Trump Save Netanyahu?

The former US president said Israel “has to handle their public relations,” as it was “not good.”

“And they’ve got to get this done fast because the world is not taking lightly to it,” he continued.

Trump reiterated that had he been president, “October 7th would have never happened….There was no chance.”

On the question of the US supplying Israel with weapons, Trump said “I’d make sure that it gets over with fast. You have to end this fast. It can’t continue to go on like this. It’s too long. It’s too much.”

Trump also criticized protesters voicing their opposition to Netanyahu’s speech to the US Congress, saying “I think you should get a one-year jail sentence if you do anything to desecrate the American flag.”

‘Finish the Problem’ – Donald Trump on Israel’s Attack on Gaza 

Unprecedented Boycott

Mass demonstrations against Netanyahu’s speech and the war on Gaza occurred both outside and inside the US Capitol.

Netanyahu faced an unprecedented boycott of his speech from about half of the Democrats in the House of Representatives and Senate.

According to the Anadolu News Agency, “a historic number of House representatives and senators skipped Netanyahu’s speech”.

The total of “at least 96 lawmakers is nearly double the number of Democrats who boycotted his 2015 address — 58,” Anadolu reported.

Netanyahu will meet with US President Joe Biden on Thursday.

‘Worst Presentation’- Netanyahu’s Congressional Address Sparks Boycott, Criticism

Ongoing Genocide

Flouting a UN Security Council resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire, Israel has faced international condemnation amid its continued brutal offensive on Gaza.

The country is currently on trial before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for genocide committed in the enclave since October 7.

According to Gaza’s Ministry of Health, 39,145 Palestinians have been killed, and 90,257 wounded. Moreover, at least 11,000 people are unaccounted for, presumed dead under the rubble of their homes throughout the Strip.

Israel says that 1,200 soldiers and civilians were killed during the Al-Aqsa Flood Operation on October 7. Israeli media published reports suggesting that many Israelis were killed on that day by ‘friendly fire’.

GAZA LIVE BLOG: ‘Welcoming the Executioner’ | Drones from Lebanon | Artillery Targets Central Gaza – Day 293

Palestinian and international organizations say that the majority of those killed and wounded are women and children.

The Israeli war has resulted in an acute famine, mostly in northern Gaza, resulting in the death of many Palestinians, mostly children.

The Israeli aggression has also resulted in the forceful displacement of nearly two million people from all over the Gaza Strip, with the vast majority of the displaced forced into the densely crowded southern city of Rafah near the border with Egypt – in what has become Palestine’s largest mass exodus since the 1948 Nakba.

Later in the war, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians began moving from the south to central Gaza in a constant search for safety.

(The Palestine Chronicle)

Al-Qassam fighters in Jenin carried out a a ‘complex ambush’. (Photo: video grab)

By Palestine Chronicle Staff  

The video showed Qassam fighters monitoring the ambush site and preparing the IEDs before detonating the first device to lure Israeli forces.

The Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of the Palestinian Resistance Movement, Hamas published a video of a ‘complex ambush’ it carried out against an Israeli force near the village of Metulla in the occupied West Bank on Tuesday.

Al-Qassam said that its fighters set off from the city of Jenin to prepare the ambush at the gate of the Israeli separation barrier which was erected parallel to the village of Metulla.

The group said that three devices were used: one to expose the Israeli force and two to kill soldiers.

The video showed Qassam fighters monitoring the ambush site and preparing the IEDs before detonating the first device to lure Israeli forces.

After the bombing, an Israeli force arrived at the scene, where another bomb was detonated in two of its soldiers. 

A third bomb was detonated on one of the officers.

Al-Qassam fighters set off from the city of Jenin to prepare the ambush at the gate of the Israeli separation barrier which was erected parallel to the village of Metulla. pic.twitter.com/a9RDF2fEK4

— The Palestine Chronicle (@PalestineChron) July 25, 2024

At the end of the operation, a new Israeli force arrived, and the soldiers were standing steps away from the cameras planted by Al-Qassam. They departed the scene without noticing the cameras.

Al-Qassam said that it carried out the operation after the killing of three of its leaders in the West Bank last Monday.

For its part, the Israeli occupation army announced the injury of an officer and two soldiers in the ambush.

Below is the text of Al-Qassam’s statement which was shared using their Telegram Channel: 

“Martyr Izz El-Din Al-Qassam Brigades:  

“Trapping a Zionist force in a three-stage complex ambush near the separation wall adjacent to the village of Al-Mutila near the city of Jenin in the West Bank. (23 July 2023)

“Notes:

0:14 – With reliance on Allah, Al-Qassam fighters in Jenin set out to the town of Mutila to prepare a complex ambush at the gate of the wall. 

– The ambush consisted of three explosive devices: one for luring and two for striking the soldiers. 

– The enemy announced that an officer and two Zionist soldiers were injured during the operation.

0:31 – Monitoring the ambush location. 

0:52 – Preparing the explosives.

1:09 – At 11:54, detonating the luring explosive. 

1:23 – The advance of a Zionist force. 

1:40 – (At 12:46, the detonation of the second explosive)

1:50 – A Zionist officer advances towards the third explosive.

2:07 – (At 13:44, the detonation of the third explosive)

2:15 – The advance of another force to the location to search and investigate.”

(The Palestine Chronicle)

Rep. Rashida Tlaib during Netanyahu’s address in Congress. (Photo: video grab)

By Palestine Chronicle Staff  

Democratic Representative Rashida Tlaib attacked Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech to the US Congress on Wednesday, holding him accountable for the genocide in the Gaza Strip.

During Netanyahu’s address, Tlaib wore a keffiyeh and a Palestinian flag, and held up a black-and-white sign with “war criminal” written on one side and “guilty of genocide” on the other.

“They will not erase us. Palestinians exist and we deserve to live. Our presence today will be a reminder that we aren’t going anywhere,” Tlaib said regarding her presence at the speech. 

“I will never back down in speaking truth to power. The apartheid government of Israel is committing genocide against Palestinians,” Tlaib continued.

Rashida Tlaib holds 'War Criminal' sign as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addresses Congress. pic.twitter.com/q2GZTd4Ucf

— CSPAN (@cspan) July 24, 2024

“Netanyahu is a war criminal committing genocide against the Palestinian people,” Tlaib also tweeted. 

“It is utterly disgraceful that leaders from both parties have invited him to address Congress. He should be arrested and sent to the International Criminal Court.”

Tlaib also wrote that the standing ovation in Congress for Netanyahu was “disgusting.”

Rashida Tlaib, the first Palestinian-American congresswoman, was born in 1976 and has long advocated for Palestinian rights. She is known for her strong stance against unconditional American support for Israel.

Last November, the US House of Representatives passed a resolution censuring Tlaib for her condemnation of President Joe Biden and Israel’s policies on Gaza.

‘Arrest Netanyahu’ – US Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib

Ongoing Genocide

Flouting a UN Security Council resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire, Israel has faced international condemnation amid its continued brutal offensive on Gaza. 

Currently on trial before the International Court of Justice for genocide against Palestinians, Israel has been waging a devastating war on Gaza since October 7. 

According to Gaza’s Ministry of Health, 39,145 Palestinians have been killed, and 90,257 wounded in Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza starting on October 7.

Moreover, at least 11,000 people are unaccounted for, presumed dead under the rubble of their homes throughout the Strip. 

Israel says that 1,200 soldiers and civilians were killed during the Al-Aqsa Flood Operation on October 7. Israeli media published reports suggesting that many Israelis were killed on that day by ‘friendly fire’. 

GAZA LIVE BLOG: ‘Welcoming the Executioner’ | Drones from Lebanon | Artillery Targets Central Gaza – Day 293

Palestinian and international organizations say that the majority of those killed and wounded are women and children.

The Israeli war has resulted in an acute famine, mostly in northern Gaza, resulting in the death of many Palestinians, mostly children. 

 The Israeli aggression has also resulted in the forceful displacement of nearly two million people from all over the Gaza Strip, with the vast majority of the displaced forced into the densely crowded southern city of Rafah near the border with Egypt – in what has become Palestine’s largest mass exodus since the 1948 Nakba.

Later in the war, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians began moving from the south to central Gaza in a constant search for safety.

(PC, AJA)

The Israeli army has released at least six more Palestinian detainees, including two women, all displaying signs of ill-treatment. (Photo: via PRCS)

By Palestine Chronicle Staff  

In the past months, Israel has released dozens of detainees, who have confirmed in their testimonies that they were subjected to abuse, torture and harsh interrogation.

The Israeli occupation army has released at least six more Palestinian detainees, including two women, all displaying signs of ill-treatment.

They were set free at the Kissufim military checkpoint east of Deir al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip on Thursday, the Anadolu news agency reported.

Seven Palestinian prisoners, including two women, were released by Israeli occupation authorities this morning in a terrible health and mental condition.

They were transported by the Palestinian Red Crescent to Al-Aqsa Hospital in central Gaza Strip. pic.twitter.com/QSnb0CISFC

— Quds News Network (@QudsNen) July 25, 2024

“The released Gazans were barely able to walk due to extreme fatigue, exhaustion, and pain resulting from torture, malnutrition, and lack of sleep,” a witness said and were taken to the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital.

The detainees shared testimonies of “beating torture, humiliation, and constant interrogation during their detention.”

Thousands Detained

The Israeli army has arrested thousands of Palestinians from different areas across the Gaza Strip since its genocidal assault on the enclave began last October. However, Israeli authorities refuse to give an exact number of arrests, reported Anadolu.

Removing Shackles from Palestinian Hostages at Israel’s Sde Teiman Black Hole Not Enough – It Must Be Shut Down

In the past months, Israel has released dozens of detainees, who have confirmed in their testimonies that they were subjected to abuse, torture and harsh interrogation.

On July 17, Israeli forces released 16 Palestinians, including an elderly woman and a youth.

One of the detainees, Faris Hijazi from Rafah, who was held for two months, spoke about the various methods of torture used by the Israeli military including beatings and electric shocks, according to Palestinian sources.

Hijazai described how the prisoners barely ate or slept, saying that from the early hours of the morning to midnight, the prisoners would be subjected to abuse.

‘Signs of Torture’ – Israel Releases 16 Detainees Including Elderly Woman and Youth 

‘Injected, Electric Shocks’

In June, the Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor issued a new report documenting testimonies from released Gaza detainees who detailed the abuse and torture.

One detainee spoke of being “beaten and subjected to electric shocks” because he “refused to be injected” with an unknown substance.

An investigation by The New York Times last month confirmed that Israel was carrying out a policy of systematic torture at the Sde Teiman detention camp.

Gaza Detainees Injected with Unknown Substance as Torture Escalates – Euro-Med Monitor

Reports of abuse at Sde Teiman had already emerged in both Israeli and Arab media, following outcries from local and international rights groups about the horrific conditions there.

In May, CNN reported that three Israeli whistleblowers working at the Sde Teiman detention camp revealed systemic abuses by the military, including prisoners being restrained, blindfolded, and forced to wear diapers.

They described “a routine search when the guards would unleash large dogs on sleeping detainees, lobbing a sound grenade at the enclosure as troops barged in.”

Earlier this year, the Palestine Chronicle published a special report on the treatment of female detainees at the Damon prison, at the hands of Israeli authorities, including being “subjected to humiliating strip searches”.

‘Dead or Alive?’ – NYT Report Reveals Torture, Abuse inside Israel’s Detention Center

Rising Death Toll

Flouting a UN Security Council resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire, Israel has faced international condemnation amid its continued brutal offensive on Gaza. The country is currently on trial before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for genocide committed in the enclave since October 7.

According to Gaza’s Ministry of Health, 39,145 Palestinians have been killed, and 90,257 wounded. Moreover, at least 11,000 people are unaccounted for, presumed dead under the rubble of their homes throughout the Strip.

Israel says that 1,200 soldiers and civilians were killed during the Al-Aqsa Flood Operation on October 7. Israeli media published reports suggesting that many Israelis were killed on that day by ‘friendly fire’.

Palestinian and international organizations say that the majority of those killed and wounded are women and children.

GAZA LIVE BLOG: ‘Welcoming the Executioner’ | Drones from Lebanon | Artillery Targets Central Gaza – Day 293

The Israeli war has resulted in an acute famine, mostly in northern Gaza, resulting in the death of many Palestinians, mostly children.

The Israeli aggression has also resulted in the forceful displacement of nearly two million people from all over the Gaza Strip, with the vast majority of the displaced forced into the densely crowded southern city of Rafah near the border with Egypt – in what has become Palestine’s largest mass exodus since the 1948 Nakba.

Later in the war, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians began moving from the south to central Gaza in a constant search for safety.

(PC, Anadolu)

Over 150 journalists have been killed in Gaza since October 7. (Photo: Mahmoud Ajjour, Palestine Chronicle)

No category of Palestinians has been spared the ongoing Israeli genocide in Gaza, and the onslaught in the West Bank. 

Journalists, like medical staff and civil defense workers, were among many groups of Palestinians who were targeted and victimized in the Israeli war. 

According to the Gaza Government Media Office, as of July 22, 163 Palestinian journalists have been killed in Gaza alone since October 7.

New information revealed the number of journalists who have been detained by Israel since the start of the war. 

According to a local nongovernmental organization on Thursday, at least 91 journalists have been detained by the Israeli army since the outbreak of the conflict in the Gaza Strip last Oct. 7.

Bloody Toll on Gaza Journalists Continues – 158 Killed since October 7

The Palestinian Prisoner Society said in a statement that fifty-three journalists remain in detention, including six women journalists.

The detained journalists include 16 from the Gaza Strip and 17 held without trial or charge under Israel’s policy of administrative detention, the Prisoner Society added. 

According to the NGO, at least 9,800 Palestinians have been rounded up by the Israeli army in the occupied West Bank since October 7.

Prominent Palestinian Doctor, Iyad Rantisi, Dies during Interrogation in Israel

Ongoing Genocide

Currently on trial before the International Court of Justice for genocide against Palestinians, Israel has been waging a devastating war on Gaza since October 7. 

According to Gaza’s Ministry of Health, 39,145 Palestinians have been killed, and 90,257 wounded in Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza starting on October 7.

Moreover, at least 11,000 people are unaccounted for, presumed dead under the rubble of their homes throughout the Strip. 

Israel says that 1,200 soldiers and civilians were killed during the Al-Aqsa Flood Operation on October 7. Israeli media published reports suggesting that many Israelis were killed on that day by ‘friendly fire’. 

GAZA LIVE BLOG: ‘Welcoming the Executioner’ | Drones from Lebanon | Artillery Targets Central Gaza – Day 293

Palestinian and international organizations say that the majority of those killed and wounded are women and children.

The Israeli war has resulted in an acute famine, mostly in northern Gaza, resulting in the death of many Palestinians, mostly children. 

 The Israeli aggression has also resulted in the forceful displacement of nearly two million people from all over the Gaza Strip, with the vast majority of the displaced forced into the densely crowded southern city of Rafah near the border with Egypt – in what has become Palestine’s largest mass exodus since the 1948 Nakba.

Later in the war, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians began moving from the south to central Gaza in a constant search for safety.  

(AA, PC)

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu addresses the US Congress. (Photo: video grab)

By Palestine Chronicle Staff  

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced an unprecedented boycott from about half of the Democrats in the House of Representatives and Senate.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the US Congress on Wednesday and harshly criticized protests against Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza, dismissing anti-Israel demonstrators as “Iran’s useful idiots”.

Netanyahu’s address occurred at a pivotal moment in the war. US officials have expressed hope for a possible ceasefire and prisoner swap agreement, amid growing discontent in the Democratic party regarding Netanyahu’s handling of the war.

During his nearly hour-long speech, Netanyahu vowed to “fight until we achieve victory.” 

Before the US Congress, Netanyahu urged the United States to supply Israel with more weapons to continue its operations in Gaza. 

He denied Israel’s responsibility for the ongoing civilian suffering in Gaza and targeted his adversaries, including Iran, the International Criminal Court, and protestors.

On the day of Netanyahu’s speech, demonstrations occurred both outside and inside the US Capitol. 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced an unprecedented boycott from about half of the Democrats in the House of Representatives and Senate as he addressed a joint session of Congress on Wednesday.

In his disgusting speech in Congress, Netanyahu called us, the protesters, Iran's useful idiots. For all the members of congress who applauded the war criminal, we call you Netanyahu's useful idiots. Shame on you. pic.twitter.com/fEvW5z2Adj

— Medea Benjamin (@medeabenjamin) July 24, 2024

According to the Anadolu News Agency, “a historic number of House representatives and senators skipped Netanyahu’s speech”.

“The total of at least 96 lawmakers is nearly double the number of Democrats who boycotted his 2015 address — 58,” Anadolu noted.

Below are some reactions to Netanyahu’s speech before the US Congress.

Nancy Pelosi – ‘Worst Presentation’

Nancy Pelosi, the former US House speaker, called the Israeli prime minister’s speech “the worst” address from a foreign leader in US history.

“Benjamin Netanyahu’s presentation in the House Chamber today was by far the worst presentation of any foreign dignitary invited and honored with the privilege of addressing the Congress of the United States,” Pelosi said on X.

“Many of us who love Israel spent time today listening to Israeli citizens whose families have suffered in the wake of the October 7th Hamas terror attack and kidnappings,” she wrote. “These families are asking for a cease-fire deal that will bring the hostages home – and we hope the Prime Minister would spend his time achieving that goal.”

Benjamin Netanyahu’s presentation in the House Chamber today was by far the worst presentation of any foreign dignitary invited and honored with the privilege of addressing the Congress of the United States.

Many of us who love Israel spent time today listening to Israeli…

— Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) July 24, 2024

Senator Bernie Sanders

Independent Senator Bernie Sanders called Netanyahu a liar and war criminal, accusing him of using Congress for political campaigning and highlighting the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

“It will be the first time in American history that a war criminal has been given that honor,” the Vermont senator said on the Senate floor on Tuesday.

Rep. Dalia Ramirez

Democratic Representative Dalia Ramirez labeled Netanyahu a war criminal driven by personal agendas, arguing that the US should cease funding him due to his role in the regional conflict.

“I won’t be attending Netanyahu’s address”, she wrote in a statement on Tuesday. “He’s an International Court-accused war criminal,” she added.

Rep. Jimmy Gomez

Rep. Jimmy Gomez attended the speech, but shortly after, he issued a statement calling on Netanyahu to resign, saying that his approach to the war had caused “unimaginable pain in the region, failed to keep his own people secure and made us all less safe.”

Netanyahu is a war criminal.

We must do everything in our power to end the war in Gaza, and provide immediate humanitarian relief to the people who are suffering there. pic.twitter.com/fjyP7XntGN

— Bernie Sanders (@SenSanders) July 24, 2024

Rep. Jerry Nadler

Democratic Representative Jerry Nadler accused Netanyahu of prolonging the war and neglecting captives’ release efforts.

“I thought it was fundamentally dishonest,” Nadler said on MSNBC. “He says he wants peace, but his political interest is to keep the war going as long as possible, because he knows that as soon as the war is over he’ll have to face a commission of inquiry,” he added.

Hamas

The Palestinian Resistance movement Hamas said in a statement on Wednesday that Netanyahu should have been arrested as a war criminal and handed over to the International Criminal Court instead of being given the opportunity to polish his image before the world and cover up the mass killings and ethnic cleansing in the Gaza Strip.”

According to Hamas, “Netanyahu’s speech reflects the depth of his military, security, and international crisis, as he tried to publicly cover it with the philosophy of defeats suffered by his army in Gaza, promoting imaginary victories by liberating a number of captives, forgetting the horrific massacres he committed against civilians in Rafah and Nusseirat during their liberation.”

It's a shameful day for America.

American President Netanyahu addressed the senators he bought at the congress today.

In every speech, senators bought by the Israeli lobby stood up and applauded Netanyahu. pic.twitter.com/lpdU8MZtCW

— Torah Judaism (@TorahJudaism) July 24, 2024

Israeli Opposition Leader Yair Lapid

Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized Netanyahu for not addressing a prisoner exchange deal during his hour-long speech.

“Netanyahu had an opportunity to say he accepts the deal and will bring home the hostages before they all die in the tunnels. He didn’t do that,” he said in a video responding to the prime minister’s speech.

Israeli Politics

Other Israeli politicians, however, praised Netanyahu’s speech before the US Congress.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stated that Netanyahu represented Israel with pride and highlighted the deep partnership with the United States.

The leader of the National Unity party, Benny Gantz, who resigned from his position as war cabinet minister last month, said that “Netanyahu clearly, appreciatively and sharply presented the just stance of the State of Israel and our heroes,” adding that “the important thing now is not only to present the vision but to realize it.”

Israeli President Isaac Herzog also praised the address on X. 

“The immediate and urgent return of the hostages must be at the heart of the world agenda, as must the global threat from the Iranian evil and terrorist empire – and it’s important to reiterate this before the elected leaders of our greatest and most important ally,” he wrote.

(The Palestine Chronicle)

A little child was killed by Israeli bombings in Nuseirat, in central Gaza. (Photo: via QNN)

By Palestine Chronicle Staff  

The Iranian foreign minister said that while Palestinian children are slaughtered daily by the “butcher” of Tel Aviv, the American government and Congress welcomed the executioner.

Air defenses intercepted drones launched from Lebanon, while air raid sirens are sounding in several areas throughout Israel. 

Israeli helicopters and artillery bombarded the north of Al-Bureij camp and the Nuseirat refugee camp, in the central Gaza Strip.

According to Gaza’s Ministry of Health, 39,090 Palestinians have been killed, and 90,147 wounded in Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza starting on October 7.

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Friday, July 26, 12:00 am (GMT+2)

ISRAELI FIRE AND RESCUE AUTHORITY: The Israeli Fire and Rescue Authority reported an explosion on Yehezkel Street in Tel Aviv.

PALESTINIAN MEDIA: The Israeli army’s artillery is shelling areas east of Khan Yunis amid heavy gunfire.

AL-JAZEERA: Israeli occupation forces targeted a residential tower in the Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip.

Thursday, July 25, 10:00 pm (GMT+2)

WHITE HOUSE: Netanyahu is not a war criminal.

SENIOR US OFFICIAL (to Al-Jazeera): A senior US official told Al Jazeera that CIA Director William Burns will begin a new round of talks next week with senior mediators to stop the ceasefire in Gaza. The same source added that the talks will not be held in the region and may be held in Europe.

REUTERS (citing former Israeli military intelligence officer): We are very far from the goal of destroying Hamas’ military and governmental capabilities.

Israel continues to bomb Khan Younis for the fifth consecutive day. At least 129 people have been killed, and the death toll is thought to be much higher as many more lie dead under the rubble@Hind_Gaza reporting. pic.twitter.com/G67S6wywSJ

— Saul Staniforth (@SaulStaniforth) July 25, 2024

KIRBY: There are still some gaps to be filled and we are working to complete the work to reach an agreement.

CHANNEL 13: Israel demands Hamas list of names of living detainees before a swap deal.

Thursday, July 25, 9:00 pm (GMT+2)

CHANNEL 13: 55% of Israelis believe that Netanyahu’s speech to Congress did not change anything in the situation in Israel.

US STATE DEPARTMENT: We have put practical solutions on the negotiating table.

US MEDIA: Demonstrations took place around the White House in protest against the visit of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

AL-JAZEERA: A woman was killed and others were injured as a result of Israeli shelling that targeted the Qizan al-Najjar area, south of Khan Yunis.

Trump Urges ‘Quick’ End to Israel’s War on Gaza, Cites Bad ‘Publicity’

KAN: A development is expected in the negotiations for the prisoner deal after the meeting between US President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

WASHINGTON POST (citing US diplomats): Washington’s view that Hamas is to blame for not reaching an agreement has changed.

Thursday, July 25, 7:00 pm (GMT+2)

EURO-MED MONITOR: About 10% of Gaza residents were killed, injured or missing.

MEDICAL SOURCES: 31 bodies have arrived at Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Yunis since this morning.

US CHIEF OF STAFF: Washington is discussing with Tel Aviv the issue of the day after the war in the Gaza Strip and how to carry out a transitional process.

"I'd rather die than my beloved mother!!"

A Palestinian girl cries over the tragic loss of her beloved mother killed in the violent Israeli occupation's bombardment of the city of Khan Younis. pic.twitter.com/ju3uXO9AjF

— PALESTINE ONLINE 🇵🇸 (@OnlinePalEng) July 25, 2024

CNN (citing US official): We don’t think Netanyahu is standing in the way of the prisoner exchange agreement.

HEZBOLLAH: We attacked “with suicide drones the artillery position of Battalion 411 in Neve Ziv, targeting the positions and stability of its officers and soldiers.”

HAARETZ: The army admits the failure of the system of flooding the tunnels in Gaza.

ISRAELI ARMY RADIO: An Israeli soldier from the Armored Corps was killed and two others were seriously injured in fighting in the southern Gaza Strip.

Thursday, July 25, 6:00 pm (GMT+2)

AL-QUDS BRIGADES: We shelled with mortar shells “a gathering of soldiers and vehicles of the Zionist enemy in the axis of advance northeast of Khan Yunis.”

YEDIOTH AHRONOTH: Netanyahu to discuss with Biden the day after the war in Gaza.

AL-JAZEERA: Air raid sirens sounded in Arab al-Aramshe, Admit, and other towns in the Western Galilee, on suspicion of a drone infiltration from southern Lebanon.

Hezbollah directly targeted the IOF's "Radar" site in the occupied Lebanese Shebaa Farms.#FreePalestine pic.twitter.com/fHjWORN5iW

— Nudi 🔻 (@Nudiustertian_1) July 24, 2024

NBC (citing Biden administration official): We believe that the agreement is in its final stages and has reached an achievable point.

ISRAELI FM KATZ: A ceasefire in Gaza will not lead to a ceasefire with Hezbollah. We will not accept the formula of calm for calm with Hezbollah.

YEDIOTH AHRONOTH: 12 homes were damaged in the settlement of Manara due to the spread of a fire caused by rockets falling from southern Lebanon.

Thursday, July 25, 4:30 pm (GMT+2)

MEDICAL SOURCES: The number of victims of the Israeli bombing of Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip since dawn today has risen to 21.

AL-QASSAM BRIGADES: The Al-Qassam Brigades announced the destruction of an Israeli Merkava tank in the Sheikh Nasser area of ​​Khan Yunis, south of the Gaza Strip.

Today, Israel ordered 400,000 Palestinians in Khan Younis to leave while the US welcomes Netanyahu with open arms. This boy is pulling his weak, starving, and dehydrated sister. Yet many are convinced voting for someone currently supporting this will make a difference. pic.twitter.com/bbgslA5o0q

— Jairo I Fúnez-Flores (@Jairo_I_Funez) July 23, 2024

ISRAELI AIR FORCE: The Israeli Air Force commander told local officials in the north that they were prepared for war, and “we will act decisively against an enemy we know, and there will be surprises.”

Thursday, July 25, 3:00 pm (GMT+2)

TRUMP: Former US President and presidential candidate Donald Trump said in an interview with Fox News that Israel needs to end the war and return the hostages quickly.

US REPRESENTATIVE: Gaza Pier Was Made for Ill-Considered Political Calculations.

PALESTINIAN MEDIA: The Israeli occupation forces blew up residential buildings in the town of Bani Suhaila, east of Khan Yunis in the Gaza Strip.

CHANNEL 12: Firefighting teams were unable to control the fire in the Manara settlement caused by a guided missile falling from southern Lebanon, and called for avoiding approaching the area.

BREAKING: The resistance in southern Lebanon targets the colonial Israeli settlement of Manara, north of occupied Palestine, with a targeted missile. pic.twitter.com/5MoFcCvoRS

— Quds News Network (@QudsNen) July 25, 2024

Thursday, July 25, 2:00 pm (GMT+2)

MEDICAL SOURCES: 14 Palestinians were killed in the ongoing Israeli occupation bombing of various areas in Khan Yunis since this morning.

AL-QASSAM BRIGADES: We blew up two tunnels of the occupation forces in Rafah.

AL-QASSAM BRIGADES: Al-Qassam Brigades said that it, in cooperation with the Al-Quds Brigades, bombed the occupation forces near Al-Dhilal Mosque, east of Khan Yunis, with heavy mortar shells.

60 civilians were ki!!ed in Khan Younis and all of Congress now shakes hands with the ki!!er and clap at his speeches. pic.twitter.com/z9DuH30P72

— ADAM (@AdameMedia) July 24, 2024

AUSTRALIA’S FOREIGN MINISTRY: Canberra has imposed sanctions on seven Israelis and one entity for their involvement in settler violence against Palestinians in the West Bank.

AL-QUDS BRIGADES: We sniped an Israeli soldier east of Khan Yunis.

AL-JAZEERA: The Russian State Duma (parliament) condemned the Israeli Knesset’s position opposing the establishment of a Palestinian state.

Thursday, July 25, 1:00 pm (GMT+2)

ISRAELI MEDIA: An anti-tank missile fell on a building in Shtula in the Western Galilee, causing extensive damage to the place.

PALESTINIAN MEDIA: A Palestinian was killed as a result of Israeli artillery shelling that targeted the town of Al-Qarara, northeast of Khan Yunis.

HEZBOLLAH: We bombed enemy buildings in Al-Manara and Shtula.

AL-JAZEERA: Israeli air strikes targeted a building and a factory near Wadi Gaza Bridge, north of the central governorate.

🚑Palestine Red Crescent crews retrieved a martyr from the Wadi #Gaza Bridge area in the central Gaza to the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital.
Filmed by PRCS volunteer: Mousa Al-Qatawi. pic.twitter.com/qNlp8s8Qsg

— PRCS (@PalestineRCS) July 21, 2024

Thursday, July 25, 12:00 pm (GMT+2)

AL-JAZEERA: Sirens are sounding in the Western Galilee.

SMOTRICH: Do not think for a moment about a surrender deal that stops the war before its goals are fully achieved.

AXIOS (citing US officials): Biden will tell Netanyahu that there is no time to waste in reaching an agreement and a ceasefire.

WASHINGTON POST: US police arrested 23 protesters against Netanyahu’s speech to Congress.

NYT: Britain may withdraw its objection to the International Criminal Court’s efforts to issue an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Thursday, July 25, 11:00 am (GMT+2)

AL-JAZEERA: 4 people were killed and others were injured in an Israeli raid on a house in the Qizan al-Najjar area, south of Khan Yunis.

HAARETZ: The Israeli Supreme Court is considering the Labor Party’s request to cancel 12,000 gun licenses granted by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir without legal basis.

AL-JAZEERA: The bodies of 3 Palestinians were recovered in the town of Bani Suhaila, east of Khan Yunis.

IRANIAN FM: Palestinian children are slaughtered daily by the butcher of Tel Aviv, while the American government and Congress welcome the executioner.

IRANIAN FM: Palestinian children are slaughtered daily by the butcher of Tel Aviv, while the American government and Congress welcome the executioner.

FOLLOW OUR LIVE BLOG https://t.co/adsNyTaTwZ pic.twitter.com/3u9oNJoxT5

— The Palestine Chronicle (@PalestineChron) July 25, 2024

Thursday, July 25, 10:00 am (GMT+2)

BEN-GVIR: We will not be able to return the “kidnapped” except through military pressure.

Thursday, July 25, 09:00 am (GMT+2)

ISRAELI ARMY: Air defenses intercepted two drones launched from Lebanon, one of them off the coast of Nahariya.

AL-JAZEERA: Sirens are sounding in the Upper Galilee.

Thursday, July 25, 08:00 am (GMT+2)

PALESTINIAN MEDIA: Israeli helicopters and artillery bombard the north of Al-Bureij camp in the central Gaza Strip.

Thursday, July 25, 07:00 am (GMT+2)

ISRAELI ARMY: The Israeli army announced the death of an intelligence officer from wounds he sustained in a run-over attack last week near the city of Ramla.

ISRAELI ARMY: The Israeli army and the General Security Service (Shabak) announced the recovery of the bodies of 4 Israeli prisoners who were previously announced to have been killed in a joint military operation yesterday in Khan Yunis.

Thursday, July 25, 06:00 am (GMT+2)

PALESTINIAN MEDIA: Israeli artillery shelling focused on the vicinity of Dar Al-Salam Hospital in Khan Yunis, south of the Gaza Strip.

Thursday, July 25, 02:00 am (GMT+2)

ISLAMIC JIHAD: Netanyahu’s speech to the US Congress is full of lies and fabrications. Netanyahu’s quest is to obtain an American mandate to expand the scope of the war to include the entire region.

Israeli PM Netanyahu called Israel’s deliberate starvation of the people of Gaza a “complete fabrication” whereas the reality on the ground tells a different story.

FOLLOW OUR LIVE BLOG https://t.co/adsNyTaTwZ pic.twitter.com/HeaEDfnVeu

— The Palestine Chronicle (@PalestineChron) July 25, 2024

AL-JAZEERA: 4 people were killed and others were injured in an Israeli bombardment of the Sheikh Radwan neighborhood north of Gaza City.

US SENATE LEADERS TO BIDEN: We support reaching an agreement to end the war in Gaza.

Thursday, July 25, 01:00 am (GMT+2)

J STREET: Netanyahu’s speech stirs division and attempts to ignore ceasefire.

HEZBOLLAH: We fired anti-aircraft missiles at Israeli fighters.

(The Palestine Chronicle)

Al-Qassam Brigades carried out a complex operation in Gaza. (Photo: video grab)

By Palestine Chronicle Staff  

Israeli forces continued their attack on the Khan Yunis region in southern Gaza. The fighting is currently concentrated in the town of Bani Suheila, east of Khan Yunis and in other areas northeast of Khan Yunis as well.

In Bani Suheila, Al-Qassam blew up an Israeli Merkava using a Shuath explosive device and another using a Yassin-105.

For its part, Al-Quds Brigades said that it had targeted Israeli forces stationed near Khan Yunis with 60-mm caliber mortar shells.

Other actions included a complex operation in the Sheikh Nasser neighborhood, also in Khan Yunis.

Below are the latest statements by the two main Resistance forces in Gaza, and the Lebanese Resistance Movement Hezbollah. 

The statements were communicated via their Telegram channels and are published here in their original form.

Al-Qassam Brigades (Hamas)

“Al-Qassam Brigades destroyed a Zionist armored personnel carrier with a Shuath explosive device, setting it on fire in the middle of Bani Suheila, east of Khan Younis city in the southern Gaza Strip.

“Al-Qassam Brigades target a Zionist tank with an Al-Yassin 105 shell in the town of Bani Suheila, east of the city of Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip.

“Al-Qassam Brigades destroyed a Zionist Merkava tank with a Shuath explosive device in the town of Bani Suheila, east of the city of Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip.

Saraya al Quds fighter wins a barrel staredown between Merkava tank and Yassin 105, returning to his base safely in a joint op in the alleys of al-Shaboura, Rafah. [Qassam Brigades 22/7] pic.twitter.com/DyNjzB3mBq

— Jon Elmer (@jonelmer) July 22, 2024

“Upon their return from their combat mission, Al-Qassam fighters reported targeting a Merkava 4 tank and a Zionist D9 bulldozer with two Al-Yassin 105 shells and engaging in clashes with an infantry force nearby, causing deaths and injuries among them near Al-Awda Mosque in the city of Rafah, southern Gaza Strip.

“After their return from their combat mission, our fighters reported the detonation of a pre-rigged house on a Zionist force, killing and wounding its members, in the Yabna camp in Rafah, southern Gaza Strip.”

Al-Quds Brigades (Islamic Jihad)

“We bombarded enemy soldiers and vehicles in the advance axis northeast of Khan Younis with a barrage of regular 60-caliber mortar shells.

“We bombarded the soldiers and vehicles of the Zionist enemy on the supply line in the Netzarim axis with mortar shells.”

Hezbollah Rockets making direct impact in “Kiryat Shmona” earlier. pic.twitter.com/2zQvukHKyM

— MenchOsint (@MenchOsint) July 23, 2024

Hezbollah

“The fighters of the Islamic Resistance, at 19:45 on Wednesday, 24-07-2024, targeted the Ruwaisat Al-Qarn site in the occupied Lebanese Shebaa Farms with rocket weapons, hitting it directly.

“After monitoring and following up on the enemy’s movement at the Al-Malikiyah site, and when military vehicles were detected entering the site, the fighters of the Islamic Resistance targeted them with missile weapons and artillery shells, hitting them directly”.

(The Palestine Chronicle)