"It is Genocide" - Bernie Sanders, Forced Gaza Evacuation

Bernie Sanders declares Israel is committing genocide in Gaza

Senator Bernie Sanders declared for the first time Wednesday that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, becoming the first U.S. senator to use such language in describing the conflict. The Vermont Independent's statement aligned with a United Nations commission report released Tuesday that concluded Israeli authorities have committed four of the five genocidal acts under international law.

In an op-ed titled "It Is Genocide" published on his Senate website, Sanders wrote, "The intent is clear. The conclusion is inescapable: Israel is committing genocide in Gaza". His declaration represents the strongest condemnation yet from the progressive leader, who had previously hesitated to use the term despite sustained criticism of Israeli military operations.

Israel opens evacuation route as Gaza genocide intensifies

Israel opened a temporary evacuation route on Wednesday for Palestinians fleeing Gaza City as its ground forces intensified their assault on the embattled urban center, marking the second day of a major military operation.

The IDF announced it would keep Salah al-Din Street, the main north-south highway through Gaza, open for 48 hours starting at noon on Wednesday. The additional route supplements the congested coastal road that has been the primary escape route for hundreds of thousands of Palestinians seeking to reach what Israel designates as a humanitarian zone in southern Gaza.

UN General Assembly to Address Global Crises, Including Palestinian Rights and Iran Nuclear Program

The upcoming 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York will focus on major global issues pertinent to Muslims, including the ongoing Gaza conflict, Iran's nuclear program, and the rising global awareness of Palestinian statehood. International leaders, including key Iranian diplomats, will engage in urgent diplomacy amid escalating tensions. The assembly also highlights climate change and women's rights challenges, underscoring the need for unity and justice on a global scale.

National News for you

• Aid groups call for urgent action following UN genocide ruling on Gaza amid escalating violence.

• Ben & Jerry's co-founder quits over Unilever 'silencing'.

• US designates four Iran-aligned militias in Iraq as foreign terrorist organizations, increasing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

• Senatorial hearings intensify over FBI leadership amid community safety concerns.

• Oracle group to acquire 80% of TikTok's U.S. operations.

• Government to end paper checks for most federal benefits.

International News for you

• Israel completes world's first laser defense system.

• EU proposes suspending Israel trade benefits over Gaza war.

• Historic Surge: 13 Muslim MPs Elected in Canada’s 2025 Federal Elections.

• Rising Religious Intolerance Alarms Muslim Communities in Canada and US.

• Saudi Arabia, Pakistan sign mutual defense pact.

• EU warns India over Russian military drills, oil purchases.

• Ukraine to get $3.5B for U.S. weapons via NATO fund.

• Russia to launch satellite internet service to rival Starlink.

Business & Markets

• Markets surge after Fed delivers first 2025 rate cut.

• Gold hits record $3,707 before retreating on Fed rate cut.

• US lawmakers weigh regulatory measures affecting major tech players amid promises of improved data privacy.

• Oil prices steady as Middle East geopolitical tensions drive cautious market trading.

• Islamic finance continues to expand internationally, with Bank Islami’s recent accolades bolstering market confidence.

• Major US retailers report strong back-to-school sales, indicating consumer confidence despite economic uncertainty.

Science & Technology

• Researchers develop new drought-resistant crops, aiding food security in Muslim-majority arid regions.

• US and Canadian universities collaborate on cybersecurity initiatives aimed at protecting religious institutions from cyber threats.

• New studies reveal beneficial impacts of fasting on metabolic health, supporting traditional Islamic fasting practices.

• Global satellite imaging advances assist environmental monitoring in Middle Eastern countries, tackling climate change.

Sports

• Muslim athletes at the US Open celebrate strong performances while advocating for greater inclusivity in sports.

• Pakistani cricket team prepares for upcoming international series, fostering national pride among Muslim fans.

• US collegiate Muslim athletes organize solidarity events promoting faith and fitness.

• Basketball courts see rising participation among Muslim youth communities in major US cities.

Health

• New CDC guidelines encourage culturally sensitive health outreach in Muslim communities to improve vaccination rates.

• Studies show mental health benefits tied to regular spiritual practices, offering reassurance for Muslim wellbeing.

• Ongoing efforts to combat health disparities among Muslim immigrants in North America gain renewed attention.

• Stress reduction techniques aligned with Islamic mindfulness increase community wellbeing in urban areas.

Self Improvement

Islam teaches that personal development is interwoven with spiritual growth and community care. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of seeking knowledge, practicing patience, and showing compassion to others. Every day challenges are opportunities for Muslims to exercise tawakkul (trust in Allah) while actively striving to improve themselves and positively impact society. Reflection, prayer, and service form the pillars on which Muslims build resilience and success.

At Informed Muslim, we intend to bring relevant information that we came across that we felt you, as a “well-informed” Muslim, may care to know about. Some of the opinions expressed here are with the intent to stay as neutral as possible, so you, as a reader, can get the unbiased information.

May Allah forgive us if we said anything wrong here, and Allah knows that’s not our intent. If you notice something incorrect, please reach out to us at [email protected]. Jazākum'Allāhu Khayran.

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