Gaza blockade plays into hands of Israel's enemies, says Obama

Former US president Barack Obama on Monday warned Israel that any military strategy that ignores the human costs could ultimately backfire and “plays into the hands” of enemies such as Hamas.

“The Israeli government’s decision to cut off food, water and electricity to a captive civilian population threatens not only to worsen a growing humanitarian crisis, it could further harden Palestinian attitudes for generations, erode global support for Israel, play into the hands of Israel’s enemies, and undermine long-term efforts to achieve peace and stability in the region,” Mr Obama wrote.

He repeated his support for Israel's right to defend itself and said that Washington's historic ally faces “an enormously difficult task” in its counter-offensive in Gaza.

Mr Obama concluded his statement urging a rejection of anti-Semitic, anti-Muslim, anti-Arab and anti-Palestinian sentiments.

He also recognised Israel has “every right to exist,” but Palestinians have “also lived in disputed territories for generations

Mr Obama served two terms as US president between 2009 and 2017. During his time in office, a tense relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at times shook the US-Israeli special relationship.

This included Mr Netanyahu coming to a joint session of Congress to speak out against the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, which was a major part of Mr Obama's regional policy.

Barack Obama through the years – in pictures

Ziina users can donate to relief efforts in Beirut

Ziina users will be able to use the app to help relief efforts in Beirut, which has been left reeling after an August blast caused an estimated $15 billion in damage and left thousands homeless. Ziina has partnered with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to raise money for the Lebanese capital, co-founder Faisal Toukan says. “As of October 1, the UNHCR has the first certified badge on Ziina and is automatically part of user's top friends' list during this campaign. Users can now donate any amount to the Beirut relief with two clicks. The money raised will go towards rebuilding houses for the families that were impacted by the explosion.”

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When: October 17 until November 10

Cost: Entry is free but some events require prior registration

Where: Various locations including National Theatre (Abu Dhabi), Abu Dhabi Cultural Center, Zayed University Promenade, Beach Rotana (Abu Dhabi), Vox Cinemas at Yas Mall, Sharjah Youth Center

What: The Korea Festival will feature art exhibitions, a B-boy dance show, a mini K-pop concert, traditional dance and music performances, food tastings, a beauty seminar, and more.

For more information: www.koreafestivaluae.com

Gaza blockade plays into hands of Israel's enemies, says Obama

Former US president had a frosty relationship with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu

Barack Obama through the years – in pictures

Ziina users can donate to relief efforts in Beirut

Need to know