Middle East

The war and humanitarian crisis in Gaza directly impacts many Minnesotans. And while MPR News does not have journalists stationed in the region, we do have a responsibility to our audiences to report on how this ongoing conflict affects people here. Our goal is to provide MPR News audiences with a variety of perspectives, context and factual information. We are committed to using language that is as precise as possible.

As you will see here, the majority of the coverage on our air and our website is provided by our national and international news partners, NPR and the BBC. The language and terminology used to describe the conflict are changing. If you have questions or concerns about our coverage please reach out to us.

Hamas releases the bodies of four Israeli hostages, including mother and young sons
Today’s release is the first time Hamas has handed over the bodies of hostages during the war, although several have been recovered by Israeli forces in Gaza and returned to Israel.
Hamas frees 3 hostages, Israel releases hundreds of prisoners as fragile ceasefire holds
Hamas-led militants have released three male Israeli hostages, and Israeli forces began releasing hundreds of prisoners in return, in the latest indication that the fragile ceasefire deal that has paused fighting in the Gaza Strip but that had teetered in recent days, is holding.
Hamas delays the next hostage release, trading blame with Israel for breaking the deal
Abu Obeida, the military spokesman for Hamas’ Al-Qassam Brigades, accused Israel of violating the terms of the deal and said the next release of hostages would be postponed until Israel adheres to the agreement.
Palestinian refugees in Syria have a message for Gazans: Don’t leave your land
Palestinians fled the 1948 Mideast War and took refuge in neighboring Syria. After 77 years, they’re still waiting to go back. They are telling Palestinians in Gaza to stay put.
Egypt to host Gaza summit as Israel withdraws troops from Netzarim Corridor
A statement by the Egyptian foreign ministry said the leaders will gather on Feb. 27 amid alarm in the region over President Trump's proposals regarding the future of Gaza.
Hamas releases 3 frail-looking Israeli hostages for 183 Palestinian prisoners under Gaza ceasefire
Hamas-led militants have released three gaunt, frail-looking Israeli civilian men held for the past 16 months and Israel freed 183 Palestinian prisoners as part of a fragile agreement that has paused the war in the Gaza Strip. 
Trump says the U.S. will ‘take over’ Gaza and relocate its people. What does it mean?
It wasn’t immediately clear what legal authority Trump would have to execute his proposals, and they would likely be met by fierce resistance from Palestinians and from regional Arab countries.
Gaza ceasefire sees its smoothest exchange yet of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners
The ceasefire in Gaza saw its smoothest exchange yet of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners on Saturday, and the crucial Rafah border crossing reopened just days before discussions on the truce’s far more difficult second phase begin.
Hamas frees 8 more hostages. Israel begins releasing Palestinian prisoners after delay
Hamas-led militants have freed eight hostages as part of the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. But the chaotic handover of some of the captives drew an angry protest from Israel.