October 11, 2023 - Israel At War

A unity government has been formed in Israel as the death toll rises and attacks from the north begin

Today is October 11, 2023, and here is the latest about what is happening in Israel. If you enjoy these daily updates, and want access to more, exclusive content, or to support my work, then please consider becoming a monthly subscriber by clicking the button below.

We have now entered the fifth day of the war in Israel, and here is everything you need to know. With war, there is a lot of information that is often difficult to compartmentalize into easily digestible reads. And, with the news moving at a fast pace, news is often missed and information is often interpreted incorrectly at first. To the extent any information changes, you will be the first to know.

1) Unity Government Formed

In a historic announcement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has agreed to form a unity government and create a wartime cabinet with National Unity Party leader Benny Gantz. The War Management Cabinet will include three members: Prime Minister Netanyahu, Israel's Defense Minister, and the Chairman of the State Camp. During the duration of the war a position on the War Management Cabinet will also be reserved for Yair Lapid, the Chairman of the Opposition. 

Meanwhile, the cabinet will have two observers, one of which is Ron Dermer who previously served as the Israeli Ambassador to the United States from 2021-2023. Within the State Camp, 5 ministers will be added to the Political-Security Cabinet, including Benny Gantz. Importantly, during the war period, no bills or government decisions will be instituted that do not relate to the war effort. This includes the controversial judicial reforms that were the subject of protest during the last several months.  It remains to be seen how long this war will last, but in the interim, Israel is showing a united front against Hamas. 

2) Power Runs Out In Gaza

The power has officially run out in Gaza this morning. At the beginning of the war, Israel's Energy Minister announced that the country will cut all electricity and power to Gaza. Prior to the start of the war, Israel had provided humanitarian assistance to Gaza residents in the form of power and water. Those have been cut off. As of this morning, Gaza's only power station stopped working after running out of fuel. People in Gaza could still use generators to create electricity, but due to the Israeli blockade of Gaza, the fuel needed for the generators will soon run out. 

3) Talks For Safe Passage Continue

Meanwhile, the effort to get Gaza residents out of the war-torn region are continuing today as multiple international partners are negotiating a safe passage out of Gaza for civilians. The United States is currently in discussions with Egypt and Israel to create a humanitarian corridor through Egypt where Americans and other civilians can leave. Right now, Egypt wants to use the corridor to send food and supplies into Gaza, but does not want to open the border to accept fleeing civilians into the country. The World Health Organization has also called for the establishment of such a corridor and stands ready to assist if necessary. 

4) U.S. Aid Arrives as Death Toll Rises

The death toll in Israel has hit yet another grim number as over 1,200 Israelis and at least 14 Americans have been killed since the start of the war. Following President Biden's speech yesterday, the first shipment of American military equipment has arrived in Israel and more is expected to come in the near future. The United States aircraft carrier, one of the largest in its fleet, has also arrived in a show of force and support for the Israeli people. Unfortunately, the death toll is only expected to rise as the days pass, especially since Hamas currently has dozens of hostages, including some Americans. 

Meanwhile, the United States continues to lead on the issue with President Biden unifying the international community in the fight against terror. Residents in Israel have agreed and thanked the President for his unwavering support. 

5) Attacks from the North

This morning Israel is facing a barrage of attacks from the North. There are reports of gliders entering Israel from the North along with other infiltrations by terrorists in border towns along the Lebanon-Israel border. This situation is only expected to get worse, and I will have more information as soon as I have confirmation.