Middle East
The move means that hopes for a halt in fighting that eases suffering for Palestinians and the release of Israeli hostages now depends on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Former Rep. John Hostettler, an opponent of foreign aid, is accused of trafficking in antisemitic tropes. His response to criticism has not helped.
The looming operation has raised global alarm over the fate of around 1.4 million Palestinians sheltering there.
University of Southern California's student journalists recorded police surrounding largely peaceful demonstrators protesting Israel's siege on Gaza.
WHAT'S HAPPENING
Israel's defense minister vowed the military would carry out a "powerful operation in the near future in Rafah," threatening the prospect of a cease-fire deal.
The extraordinary order is believed to be the first time Israel has ever shuttered a foreign news outlet.
A top U.N. official says there is now a full-blown famine in northern Gaza, while Israel insists it will launch an offensive into Rafah.
Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians would be “at imminent risk of death” if Israel moves forward with the Rafah assault, the United Nations humanitarian aid agency said.
Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) spoke to HuffPost about a "warning sign" ahead of a deadline for Biden to say if Israel is violating international and U.S. law.
Police have used riot gear, tactical vehicles and flash-bang devices to clear tent encampments and occupied buildings.