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Dec. 13, 2023, 3:54 p.m.

Biden warns Israel is losing global support over ‘indiscriminate bombing’ in Gaza

Teacher's note: This story contains some graphic images. Be sure to review all materials and check in with students as to how they are feeling. Let them know you, school counselors and administrators are there for them and are available to talk.

SUMMARY

The UN General Assembly approved a measure calling for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. The U.S. was one of ten nations to vote against the non-binding resolution. Before the vote, President Biden said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu needs to change his hardline government, adding that Israel is losing global support due to its “indiscriminate bombing” in Gaza. Geoff Bennett reports.

For a transcript of this story, click here.

News wrap alternative: Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.

WARM UP QUESTIONS

  1. What resolution did the U.S. vote against in the United Nations?
  2. Who needs to change his "hardline government" according to President Biden?
  3. Why does Biden think Israel might be losing support from other countries?
  4. How does the U.S. disagree with the goals for Palestine after the war, according to Biden?
  5. What was Israeli president Benjamin Netanyahu's response to Biden's remarks about Gaza after the war?

FOCUS QUESTIONS

How do you think the Biden administration can best use its influence with Israel to seek the outcomes it wants in Gaza?

Media literacy: Where could you go to learn more about the differing goals of the U.S. and Israel?

Alternative: See, Think, Wonder: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What story would you want to find out more about? Where would you go to learn more?

FOR MORE

What students can do: Read the following article from NewsHour on voter polling related to funding Israel and Ukraine. Then discuss the following questions:

  • Do you think there is a gap between public opinion and the actions of the U.S. government based on this polling?
  • If so, what gap do you think is most significant?
  • Do you think there are actions the U.S. government should take in spite of popular opinion? If so, what?

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