Israeli troops have completed their withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, marking the end of a prolonged military presence in the region. The maneuvering ground forces, including the 98th Division, have been pulled out after engaging in four consecutive months of intense fighting, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

Following the withdrawal, only one brigade, the Nahal Brigade, remains stationed in Gaza. This brigade has been assigned the task of securing the Netzarim Corridor, which serves as a crucial passage splitting the Palestinian enclave. The corridor facilitates IDF operations in northern and central Gaza, restricts access to the northern part of the Strip for Palestinians, and allows for the direct delivery of humanitarian aid.

Shortly after the withdrawal, there were reports of five rockets being fired from the Khan Younis area towards communities near the Gaza border. The IDF confirmed that some of these rockets were intercepted by the Iron Dome air defense system, with no reports of injuries or damage.

The decision to withdraw troops from Gaza follows a similar pattern observed in the northern Gaza Strip after the initial ground offensive. The IDF believes that targeted raids, based on new intelligence, such as the recent operation at Gaza City’s Shifa Hospital, are more effective in countering threats posed by Hamas.

The offensive in Khan Younis achieved its objectives, according to the IDF, with the dismantling of local Hamas brigades, elimination of thousands of gunmen, and destruction of approximately 30 kilometers of tunnels.

The withdrawal does not affect plans for potential operations in other parts of Gaza, such as Rafah. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated approval for military plans in Rafah, although no action has been taken yet. The prospect of an offensive in Rafah has raised concerns internationally, particularly due to the large number of displaced Palestinians residing in the area.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began in October, has resulted in significant casualties and ongoing tensions. Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages have so far yielded limited progress. The situation remains complex, with both direct and indirect talks between the parties involved.

The withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza signifies a shift in the dynamics of the conflict, with implications for future developments and peace efforts in the region.

In a decisive move, the United States initiated a series of strikes in Iraq and Syria, targeting 85 locations associated with Iranian-backed militias. The attack, carried out by B1 bombers, was in response to a deadly drone strike that claimed the lives of three American soldiers last Sunday.

The Pentagon confirmed that four facilities in Syria and three in Iraq were hit during the Friday night assault. While the Iraqi government acknowledged 16 casualties, including civilians, they claimed the U.S. failed to inform them about the impending strikes. In Syria, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported 18 casualties.

Both President Biden and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin asserted that these strikes were just the beginning of a targeted retaliation. Senator Tammy Duckworth, an Iraq War Veteran, described it as a strong deterrence, emphasizing the U.S.’s reluctance to engage in an all-out war but signaling its capability.

Iran condemned the operation, labeling it a ‘strategic mistake’ that would heighten tensions and instability in the region. Syria and Iraq joined Tehran in accusing the U.S. of undermining regional stability. Hamas, involved in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, accused Washington of exacerbating the situation.

The strikes targeted Iranian supply lines passing through Iraq and Syria, focusing on facilities associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and Iran-backed militias. Analysts suggest that the U.S. must tread carefully to avoid unnecessary escalation into a larger conflict with Iran.

The Iraqi government expressed strong objections, calling the strikes a violation of sovereignty with potentially dire consequences for security and stability. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby confirmed that more than 85 targets across seven facilities were struck, and President Biden asserted that the response had only just begun.

While tensions escalate in the region, the international community watches closely, wary of the potential ramifications of this military action.

In a significant move amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Germany has announced its decision to deploy troops to Lithuania, raising expectations for other NATO nations to follow suit. The move comes as a response to Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, marking a turning point in security policy.

Germany’s Federal Ministry of Defence revealed on Monday that it had signed a deal with Lithuania to station a Bundeswehr brigade in the region. The primary objective is to deter Russia and protect NATO alliance territory. The announcement underscores Germany’s commitment to solidarity with its NATO partners and serves as a flagship project in response to Russia’s aggressive actions.

The two-year-long war between Russia and Ukraine, initiated by President Vladimir Putin’s “special military operation” in February 2022, has seen significant territorial shifts. However, as Ukraine’s counteroffensive faces challenges with the onset of a harsh winter, experts predict a continued stalemate.

Benjamin Tallis, a senior research fellow for the German Society of Foreign Policy, emphasized that while Germany’s troop deployment is a positive step, stronger commitments from allies are essential for effective deterrence. He suggested similar deployments in Estonia (with the UK as the framework nation) and Latvia (led by Canada) to strengthen NATO’s defense capabilities.

Edward Hunter Christie, a senior research fellow at the Finnish Institute of International Affairs, commended Germany for leading by example and called for the UK to match Germany’s commitment in Estonia.

Before Germany’s announcement, NATO had already increased its military presence in the eastern part of the alliance territory in response to Russia’s aggressive actions. The organization reinforced existing battlegroups and established four more multinational battlegroups in Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia.

Germany’s contribution goes beyond troops; it was previously urged to provide Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. In September, Ukraine’s Defence Ministry shared a video of Leopard 2 tanks received from Germany, emphasizing their impact on the conflict.

As NATO nations evaluate their responses to the evolving situation, Germany’s proactive approach sets a precedent for increased cooperation and burden-sharing among allies to strengthen the alliance’s deterrence capabilities in the face of the Russian threat.

At least 12 people lost their lives in a tragic incident as a hospital in northeast Gaza came under heavy bombardment, according to local health officials. The attack marks the latest in a series of devastating incidents affecting medical facilities in the enclave during the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

The targeted facility, the Indonesian Hospital in the town of Beit Lahia, has yet to receive any official response from the Israeli military. Health officials in the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip have reported that approximately 700 patients and 5,000 displaced individuals sought refuge in the hospital before the strikes began.

Munner al-Bursh, the general manager of Gaza’s health ministry, disclosed to Al Jazeera that the hospital was struck by artillery overnight. Al-Bursh alleged that the surgical department was deliberately targeted, resulting in the deaths of 12 civilians and injuries to several doctors. Additionally, he claimed that as individuals attempted to evacuate the hospital, they were met with gunfire from Israeli forces, preventing the collection of the deceased.

Further reports from the Palestinian Wafa news agency on Monday indicated that drones equipped with missiles were involved in the siege, compelling hospital staff to seek shelter on the lower floors due to the intense gunfire on the upper levels.

Israel has asserted that its military operations focus on dismantling “terror infrastructure” and has accused Hamas of using civilians, including hospitals, as human shields. Hamas, however, has denied these allegations. On Sunday, the Israeli military released videos purporting to demonstrate Hamas utilizing Al-Shifa Hospital, Gaza’s largest medical facility, for its operations. Israel had previously besieged and stormed the facility, claiming it housed a Hamas command center.

A parallel situation appears to be unfolding at the Indonesian Hospital, which was established in 2016 with funding from various Indonesian organizations. While the facility is mostly non-functioning, it continues to serve as a shelter for displaced individuals and patients in northern Gaza.

Indonesia’s Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi condemned the attack, stating, “The attack is a clear violation of international humanitarian laws. All countries, especially those with close relations to Israel, must utilize their influence and capabilities to urge Israel to cease its atrocities.”

In addition to the hospital incident, witnesses have reported intense clashes between Israeli forces and Hamas gunmen as they approach the Jabalia refugee camp in northern Gaza. This camp, home to approximately 100,000 residents, is considered a significant Hamas stronghold by Israel. The Israeli military issued an Arabic-language social media post on Sunday, urging camp residents and nearby communities to evacuate south immediately for their safety.

Despite the evacuation order, Israeli strikes persist in the southern regions, continuing since the outbreak of the six-week-old conflict. The situation has led to the displacement of almost three-quarters of Gaza’s population, approximately 1.7 million people, with 900,000 seeking refuge in overcrowded U.N.-operated shelters, as reported by the United Nations.

Gaza’s already strained health system is now in a state of disarray, prompting humanitarian organizations to call for a substantial increase in aid deliveries to the enclave. On Monday, a convoy of dozens of trucks carrying equipment from Jordan entered Gaza through Egypt, with the aim of establishing a field hospital in the southern town of Khan Younis. This town had witnessed a tragic incident over the weekend, with 70 people killed and numerous others injured in strikes, according to Doctors Without Borders.

Additionally, on Monday, at least 28 out of 31 premature babies evacuated from Al-Shifa Hospital were transported out of Gaza into Egypt. The Palestinian Red Crescent Society stated that this evacuation was necessitated by power outages at the hospital and the infants’ consumption of contaminated water and milk, resulting in health complications that required urgent treatment abroad.

The situation in Gaza remains dire, with the humanitarian crisis deepening as the conflict shows no signs of abating. International calls for a cessation of hostilities and efforts to alleviate the suffering of civilians in the region continue to mount.

In October 2023, the people of Liberia exercised their democratic rights by going to the polls to choose their next leader. The initial round of voting did not produce a candidate with over 50% of the votes, leading to a runoff between incumbent President George Weah and former Vice President Joseph Boikai. However, what sets this election apart is not just the outcome but the remarkable display of sportsmanship and democratic values.

On November 14, 2023, Liberians returned to the polling stations, and this time, they elected Joseph Boikai as Liberia’s next president. It is worth noting that President Weah, unlike some leaders in the African continent who have clung to power despite electoral defeats, took a different and commendable path. He graciously accepted the will of the people and congratulated his opponent, Joseph Boikai.

This act of conceding defeat and extending congratulations speaks volumes about George Weah’s commitment to democratic principles. It is a stark contrast to the unfortunate situations in some countries where leaders refuse to acknowledge electoral outcomes, leading to political turmoil and instability. Weah’s decision to step down gracefully reflects his understanding of the importance of respecting the will of the people and upholding the democratic process.

President Weah’s journey to the presidency has been one of determination and perseverance. He contested for the presidency in 2005 and 2011 but faced defeat on both occasions. However, his unwavering spirit eventually led him to victory in the 2017 elections when he defeated Joseph Boikai. At 57 years of age, Weah still has the opportunity to make a political comeback. His party, the Congress for Democratic Change, remains a significant force in the Liberian legislature, which could play a pivotal role in the country’s future political landscape.

In the world of sports, George Weah’s name is synonymous with excellence. His remarkable football career, where he became one of Africa’s greatest footballers, demonstrates his ability to rise above challenges and achieve success. Similarly, in the realm of politics, Weah’s gracious concession shows his maturity and statesmanship.

As Liberia looks ahead to a new chapter under President Joseph Boikai’s leadership, it is essential to appreciate the peaceful and democratic transition that has taken place. The Liberian people have demonstrated their commitment to democratic values, and President George Weah’s sportsmanlike behavior has set a positive example for leaders across the continent.

In conclusion, the Liberia election of 2023 not only signifies a change in leadership but also serves as a beacon of democracy and sportsmanship. George Weah’s gracious concession and the peaceful transition of power are testaments to the strength of Liberia’s democracy. As the nation moves forward, it is hoped that these values will continue to guide its leaders and citizens toward a brighter future.

In a developing federal corruption investigation surrounding the 2021 campaign of New York City Mayor Eric Adams, agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) executed search warrants on the homes of key individuals connected to the mayor’s campaign. The raids occurred on November 2, as FBI agents descended on multiple locations in a coordinated effort.

One of the homes searched belonged to Rana Abbasova, a resident of New Jersey and a member of Mayor Adams’ campaign team. Abbasova had previously faced scrutiny following an internal City Hall review conducted in the aftermath of another raid on the home of Brianna Suggs, Mayor Adams’ top campaign fundraiser. City officials confirmed that Abbasova had been placed on leave, although the exact nature of her alleged improper behavior remains undisclosed.

It is essential to note that Mayor Eric Adams has not been accused of any wrongdoing in connection with this investigation, emphasizing his position of innocence.

Furthermore, the FBI also searched the Brooklyn home of Cenk Öcal, who served as a member of Mayor Adams’ transition team. Öcal had formerly worked as an executive at Turkish Airlines in the company’s New York Office until his termination last year.

The focus of the FBI’s investigation revolves around potential collusion between Mayor Adams’ campaign team and the Turkish government, with suspicions of foreign donations possibly being funneled into the campaign. Additionally, authorities are examining whether Mayor Adams exerted influence on the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) to expedite permits for a new high-rise Turkish consulate, despite the building having previously failed a safety inspection.

Rana Abbasova, Cenk Öcal, and Brianna Suggs have not faced any charges of wrongdoing thus far. The FBI’s efforts to uncover evidence continue, with no confirmation regarding the outcome of the searches conducted at their residences.

As part of their investigation, federal agents have also confiscated two of Mayor Adams’ cell phones and an iPad. Mayor Adams recently acknowledged his involvement in facilitating the Turkish consulate’s approval process but maintained that his actions were within the bounds of standard procedure.

This ongoing probe has raised questions about the integrity of the 2021 mayoral campaign and the potential influence of foreign entities. As the investigation unfolds, residents of Wilmington, DE, and beyond will be closely following developments to understand the implications for the Mayor and his associates.

Philadelphia, PA – The Philadelphia Eagles pulled off a thrilling 28-23 victory against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday at Lincoln Financial Field, extending their winning streak at home to seven games and solidifying their position as the team with the best record in the NFL at 8-1. This hard-fought win was characterized by standout moments and some challenges for the Eagles.

The Eagles’ offense was led by quarterback Jalen Hurts, who completed 17 of 23 passes for 207 yards and two touchdowns. The defense played a crucial role by sacking Cowboys’ quarterback Dak Prescott five times for a loss of 41 yards. While Prescott managed to accumulate 374 passing yards and three touchdowns, the Eagles’ defense prevented the Cowboys from tying the game with a key stop on a failed two-point conversion attempt.

One of the game’s turning points came when tight end Luke Schoonmaker had a touchdown overturned by replay review. Schoonmaker’s left knee hit the turf before he crossed the goal line, preserving the Eagles’ lead. Safety Reed Blankenship’s perfectly timed stop at the goal line ensured the Eagles maintained a two-score lead and wasted valuable time for the Cowboys.

The Eagles’ offense had a dominant third quarter, turning a 17-14 deficit into a 28-17 lead. Hurts orchestrated two touchdown drives, chewing up 147 yards and keeping the Cowboys’ offense off the field. Rookie receiver DeVonta Smith made a pivotal contribution with a 29-yard touchdown catch from Hurts.

Defensively, several Eagles players stood out in critical moments. Defensive end Josh Sweat’s sack of Prescott with just 21 seconds left disrupted the Cowboys’ offense, leading to a frantic scramble to reset. Cornerback James Bradberry’s crucial defense on a fourth-and-eight play further halted a potential Cowboys comeback.

However, the Eagles also faced some challenges during the game. Nick Sirianni’s unsuccessful challenge on a fourth-down conversion led to the loss of a crucial timeout, while penalties and blown coverages gave the Cowboys opportunities to make big plays.

Despite the ups and downs, the Eagles’ victory solidifies their position as the team to beat in the NFL this season. With an 8-1 record, they are now 2.5 games ahead of the Cowboys in the NFC East. Jalen Hurts summed up the team’s mentality after the game, stating, “We found a way to win tonight, and that’s all that matters. For this team and this city, I’ll do anything to win. I’m happy we came out with a win because that’s all that matters, but we need to continue cleaning things up and grow into the team we know we can be.”

The Eagles have now become the first NFL team to win eight of their first nine games in two consecutive seasons since the 2005-06 Indianapolis Colts. As they head into their bye week, they have their sights set on even greater achievements in the remainder of the season.

In a dramatic and contentious Premier League clash, Newcastle United narrowly edged out Arsenal on Saturday, clinching a crucial victory that was heavily influenced by VAR decisions. The match was filled with feisty moments, VAR checks for potentially dangerous plays, and a lone controversial goal that ultimately secured all three points for the Magpies.

Both teams entered the encounter on the back of contrasting results in the midweek Carabao Cup fixtures. Arsenal had suffered a 3-1 defeat at the hands of West Ham, while Newcastle had convincingly beaten Manchester United 3-0 on the same day. The contrasting fortunes of the two teams set the stage for an intriguing showdown at St. James’ Park.

Newcastle started the game on the front foot, displaying the positive momentum gained from their midweek victory. The home crowd was treated to slick passing and dominant possession in the opening 10 to 15 minutes of the match. However, Arsenal gradually found their rhythm and began to assert themselves, gaining more control of the ball.

Despite Arsenal’s increasing possession, it was Newcastle’s defense, led by goalkeeper Nick Pope, that stood firm and blocked numerous attempts from the Gunners. Arsenal managed to rack up seven shots within 10 minutes during the first half, but a resilient Magpies’ defense thwarted their efforts.

As the first half neared its conclusion, the match grew increasingly heated. Kai Havertz received a yellow card for a late challenge on Dan Burn, which led to protests from the Newcastle players who believed the German should have been sent off. However, VAR replays confirmed that Havertz had only clipped Burn with his trailing foot, leading to yellow cards for three different Newcastle players due to their complaints.

Just before halftime, Bruno Guimaraes delivered a controversial elbow to the back of Jorginho’s head off the ball. VAR reviewed the incident but opted not to request referee Stuart Attwell’s intervention, allowing Guimaraes to escape further punishment.

The second half began much like the first, with Newcastle showing promise in their attacks. This time, they capitalized on their opportunities, with Anthony Gordon breaking the deadlock after a scramble in Arsenal’s box. However, VAR came into play once again, scrutinizing various aspects of the goal, including the ball potentially going out of play, a foul by Joelinton on Gabriel, a handball by Joelinton, and Gordon potentially being offside when he scored.

Despite the controversies surrounding the goal, VAR ultimately allowed it to stand, giving Newcastle the crucial lead. This controversial goal became the difference-maker as Newcastle secured the victory.

With this win, Newcastle United climbed to sixth place in the Premier League standings, while Arsenal suffered their first defeat of the top-flight campaign, slipping to third place. The Gunners will be eager to bounce back, while Newcastle’s confidence will be sky-high after this dramatic win. The Premier League table is as tight as ever, with Liverpool and Aston Villa lurking closely behind, ready to capitalize on any slip-ups from the top teams.

In a thrilling and unexpected turn of events, Tyson Fury, the WBC heavyweight champion, faced a stern test in the boxing ring, surviving a third-round knockdown to narrowly defeat former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou via a split decision on Saturday in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. While Fury’s title wasn’t on the line, the outcome of this 10-round match has raised questions about his readiness for a highly anticipated showdown with Oleksandr Usyk.

One judge scored the bout 95-94 in favor of Ngannou, but their decision was overruled by two tallies of 96-93 and 95-94 for Fury, allowing the Englishman to secure the victory. Fury had been heavily favored with 14-1 odds to win this encounter and advance to an undisputed heavyweight championship fight against Usyk, scheduled for December 23 in Riyadh. However, Fury’s performance against Ngannou left fans and pundits in doubt about the upcoming matchup.

In a fight that defied expectations, Francis Ngannou, known for his devastating punching power in MMA but a novice in professional boxing, displayed surprising timing and technique. He managed to clip Fury with a left hook on the temple in the third round, resulting in a knockdown – Fury’s seventh in his career. Nevertheless, Fury showed his resilience by beating the count, as he had done in previous encounters.

Reflecting on the unexpected challenge, Fury commented, “That definitely wasn’t in the script. He’s a very awkward man and he’s a good puncher, and I respect him a lot… He’s given me probably one of my toughest fights in the last 10 years.”

Despite this hard-fought victory, Tyson Fury acknowledged Ngannou’s boxing skills, expressing his willingness to face him again in the future, a prospect that could potentially be a significant draw in the boxing world.

Ngannou’s transition from MMA to professional boxing was a commendable effort, considering he had never competed as a boxer in the amateurs. The 37-year-old Cameroonian showcased his versatility, landing significant punches and even switching to a southpaw stance during the fight.

“I’m a fighter,” said Ngannou. “We can run it back again, and I’m sure I will get better. This was my first boxing match. It was a great experience. I’m not giving any excuse. I know I came up short. But I’m going to go back and work harder with a little more experience and a little more feeling of the game. And I will come back even stronger.”

With Fury now moving on to his highly anticipated bout with Oleksandr Usyk, boxing fans are eager to witness the clash between two world-class fighters. Usyk, a former undisputed cruiserweight champion, has proven himself against elite heavyweights, notably defeating Anthony Joshua twice.

The outcome of the Fury-Usyk fight could determine the course of the heavyweight division, potentially setting the stage for exciting future matchups, including a rematch between Fury and Ngannou. The world of boxing is in for a thrilling ride as these fighters continue to cross paths and test their mettle in the ring.

In a thrilling Sunday showdown, the Washington Commanders and the Philadelphia Eagles delivered a football spectacle that will be remembered for weeks to come. However, it wasn’t the result that the Commanders’ faithful had hoped for, as they fell to the Eagles by a final score of 34-31 in an overtime thriller.

The Commanders headed into halftime with a promising lead of 17-10, fueled by a determined first-half performance. However, as the game wore on, the Eagles clawed their way back into contention, eventually taking a 24-17 lead in the fourth quarter. With less than two minutes remaining on the game clock and only one timeout left, the Commanders found themselves in a nail-biting situation.

Quarterback Sam Howell, in only his second year in the NFL, displayed incredible poise and composure as he led the offense on a remarkable 10-play drive. The clock ticked away with each play, setting the stage for a critical decision that would have a lasting impact on the game’s outcome.

Head coach Ron Rivera and assistant head coach and offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy faced a pivotal choice: go for a two-point conversion and the win, or kick the extra point and likely head into overtime against a formidable Eagles squad.

The decision wasn’t a straightforward one. Kicking the extra point would either result in a tie game or a potential loss, while attempting a two-point conversion carried the same risk of losing but also presented a golden opportunity to secure a thrilling victory.

In the end, Rivera opted for the extra point, choosing the safer path and aiming for overtime football. This decision, while understandable, left many fans and pundits divided. Some argued that in a crucial moment like that, seizing the chance for an immediate win was worth the gamble, while others acknowledged that only Rivera had access to all the information necessary to make the right call.

The critical factors influencing Rivera’s choice included assessing how much energy his offense had left in the tank after a grueling 10-play drive, which had chewed up precious time on the clock. Rivera defended his decision, explaining, “Those guys – they were gassed. It was a long (expletive) drive, they were hurrying, they were hustling…and that’s too bad.”

Former NFL tight end Logan Paulsen, offering his insights in the team’s postgame analysis, expressed a preference for attempting the two-point conversion. However, he also acknowledged the complexity of the decision and the unique perspective that only a head coach possesses.

In the end, the Commanders’ decision not to go for the two-point conversion will undoubtedly be a topic of discussion in the days to come. While the final result wasn’t in their favor, Washington demonstrated resilience and determination, leaving their fans eager to see what the rest of the season holds for this talented team.