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.

Israel faces new calls for truce after killing of hostages raises alarm about its conduct in Gaza
Israel’s government is facing calls for a cease-fire from some of its closest European allies as well as protesters at home. The deadly shooting of three hostages who waved a white flag has added to mounting concerns about Israel's wartime conduct.
Israel's military says hostages waved a white flag before being killed by a soldier
The three Israelis held by Hamas were shot and killed after an Israeli soldier misidentified them as a threat as they exited a building in Gaza, according to a preliminary report by Israel's military.
There's no Christmas in Bethlehem this year. With war in Gaza, festivities are off
In a city synonymous with the birth of Jesus, Christmas is typically a time when Bethlehem is full of visitors. But with war raging, the city's Christian leaders have canceled public celebrations.
Jewish Voice for Peace demonstrators hold Minneapolis protest calling for cease-fire in Gaza
Activists with the group Jewish Voice for Peace stood shoulder-to-shoulder on the Franklin Avenue Bridge in Minneapolis, holding electric candles in the shape of a menorah and stopping traffic.
Israel is using an AI system to find targets in Gaza. Experts say it's just the start
Israel's military says the system makes it more efficient and reduces collateral damage. Critics see a host of problems with the nation's use of AI, but other militaries will likely follow suit.
At 1 Gaza hospital, doctors are fleeing, supplies are low and there’s not enough beds
In the Palestinian territory's second-largest city, Khan Younis, thousands have taken shelter on the grounds of Nasser Medical Complex, where staff describe an increasingly desperate situation.
Jewish student groups celebrate Hanukkah at University of Minnesota
A community Hanukkah celebration was held Sunday night at the University of Minnesota to light the menorah in recognition of the fourth day of the holiday. The event was put together by Jewish student groups, Minnesota Hillel and Chabad of the University of Minnesota.
Israeli strike leaves Gaza's oldest mosque in ruins
The centuries-old Omari Mosque, Gaza's oldest, was badly damaged in an Israeli strike. An Israeli official told NPR it was targeted because militants were using a tunnel near the structure.