Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Two Dead, IDF Intensifies Strikes in Gaza and Lebanon

1/4/2026

44 10 Full Breakdown

Center

IDF Strikes Intensify

Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry reports two fatalities and 13 injuries from Israel Defense Forces (IDF) gunfire in the past 24 hours, including 15-year-old Alaa Asaraf.
The IDF did not comment.
Separately, the IDF says it killed a terrorist near troops in southern Gaza and struck Hezbollah targets in Lebanon.
Israel has intensified operations against Hezbollah, claiming to have killed over 380 operatives since the ceasefire.

Right

Angelina Jolie Advocates Aid

Angelina Jolie, the actor and humanitarian, visited Rafah border crossing on January 2, 2026, to advocate Gaza aid.
She urged a sustained ceasefire and greater access to essentials.
Two Palestinian men were killed by Israeli gunfire in Khan Younis.
The ceasefire established in late 2024 has not halted Israeli actions, as Israel Defense Forces continue operations in West Bank and southern Lebanon, with 40 airstrikes in Lebanon in December 2025.

History

Historical Context

The Second Intifada, ignited on September 28, 2000, by Ariel Sharon's visit to the Temple Mount, marked a shift from civil protests to armed conflict between Palestinians and Israeli forces. Over 4,000 Palestinians and 1,000 Israelis died by 2005, reflecting the conflict's brutality. Ongoing violence in Gaza today echoes this historical struggle, underscoring persistent instability and humanitarian crises in the region.

1 of 3

IDF Strikes Intensify

Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry reports two fatalities and 13 injuries from Israel Defense Forces (IDF) gunfire in the past 24 hours, including 15-year-old Alaa Asaraf.
The IDF did not comment.
Separately, the IDF says it killed a terrorist near troops in southern Gaza and struck Hezbollah targets in Lebanon.
Israel has intensified operations against Hezbollah, claiming to have killed over 380 operatives since the ceasefire.

1 / 3