Middle East

The war and humanitarian crisis in Gaza directly impacts many Minnesotans. And while MPR News does not have journalists stationed in the region, we do have a responsibility to our audiences to report on how this ongoing conflict affects people here. Our goal is to provide MPR News audiences with a variety of perspectives, context and factual information. We are committed to using language that is as precise as possible.

As you will see here, the majority of the coverage on our air and our website is provided by our national and international news partners, NPR and the BBC. The language and terminology used to describe the conflict are changing. If you have questions or concerns about our coverage please reach out to us.

Media outlets demand Israel grant access to Gaza, halt attacks on journalists there
More than 250 news outlets around the world have signed onto an appeal that calls for the protection of Palestinian journalists in Gaza, and for press to have independent access to the territory.
Afghanistan earthquake death toll passes 1,400, says Taliban government spokesman
The death toll from a major earthquake in eastern Afghanistan has passed 1,400, a Taliban government spokesman said. Rescuers were in a race against time on Tuesday to access the mountainous area hit by the powerful 6.0 quake.
Democratic leaders withdraw measure clarifying the party position on the Israel's war in Gaza
The Democratic National Committee planned to clarify its position on Israel’s war in Gaza. But after a surprise reversal, it may be several months before DNC officials adopt a formal position on an issue that has divided their party perhaps more than any other.
Israeli airstrike on southern Gaza hospital kills 19, hospital says
Gaza’s health ministry says an Israeli airstrike has hit southern Gaza’s main hospital, killing 19 people. The ministry says the victims on the fourth floor of Nasser Hospital were killed Monday in a strike with one missile hitting and then followed by another moments later as rescue crews arrived.
AP freelancer among 4 journalists killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza hospital, health officials say
Health officials say Israeli strikes on a hospital in southern Gaza has killed four journalists, including a freelancer who worked for The Associated Press. Mariam Dagga was a visual journalist who freelanced for the AP during the war, as well as other news outlets.
4 Palestinians shot dead by Israeli forces while seeking aid near Gaza City, witnesses say
Witnesses say Israeli forces shot dead four Palestinian aid-seekers traveling through a military zone south of Gaza City that is regularly used to reach a food distribution point. Gaza City is now officially in famine after 22 months of war, while Israel’s military moves ahead with a planned offensive to seize the city.
Israeli airstrikes hit Yemen’s capital, targeting Iran-backed Houthis
Israeli airstrikes have hit Yemen’s capital, just days after the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels fired what the Israeli military described as the first cluster bomb launched by the rebels since 2023.