NOTE: If you are short on time, watch the video and complete this See, Think, Wonder activity: What did you notice? What did the story make you think about? What would you want to learn more about?

SUMMARY

This week, Israel intensified its military campaign in Gaza City and an independent United Nations human rights commission concluded that Israel’s action in Gaza constituted genocide. Nick Schifrin spoke with Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Yechiel Leiter to discuss the operation in Gaza City, Israel’s long-term plans and the recent strike in Qatar.

View the transcript of the story.

News 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. Who is Yechiel Leiter, and what is his role in the Israeli government?
2. What does Leiter say needs to happen before Israel stops its bombing campaign in Gaza?
3. How long do Israeli and U.S. officials expect the war to continue, according to News Hour's Nick Schifrin?
4. Why has the European Commission voted to downgrade ties with Israel, and what does Leiter say about the action?
5. Where is Israel threatening to annex (take permanent control of) if the U.N. recognizes Palestine as an independent state?

ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS

• What role do you think outside countries and international bodies like the U.N. should take in ending the conflict in Gaza?
• What do you think would be the consequences of Israel annexing (taking full control of) Palestine?

Media literacy: Who else would you want to hear from to better understand what conditions might lead to the end of fighting in Gaza?

WHAT STUDENTS CAN DO

To better understand how Europe is pressuring Israel to end bombing and blockades of Gaza, read the article, "EU lays out new tariffs and sanctions on Israel over war in Gaza"

Then discuss as a class —

• Why do you think European leaders are divided over the plan to pressure Israel?
• Do you think pressure from Europe will help lead to peace, or at least a temporary ceasefire in Gaza? Why or why not?

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