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.

Israel is using an AI system to find targets in Gaza. Experts say it's just the start
Israel's military says the system makes it more efficient and reduces collateral damage. Critics see a host of problems with the nation's use of AI, but other militaries will likely follow suit.
At 1 Gaza hospital, doctors are fleeing, supplies are low and there’s not enough beds
In the Palestinian territory's second-largest city, Khan Younis, thousands have taken shelter on the grounds of Nasser Medical Complex, where staff describe an increasingly desperate situation.
Jewish student groups celebrate Hanukkah at University of Minnesota
A community Hanukkah celebration was held Sunday night at the University of Minnesota to light the menorah in recognition of the fourth day of the holiday. The event was put together by Jewish student groups, Minnesota Hillel and Chabad of the University of Minnesota.
Israeli strike leaves Gaza's oldest mosque in ruins
The centuries-old Omari Mosque, Gaza's oldest, was badly damaged in an Israeli strike. An Israeli official told NPR it was targeted because militants were using a tunnel near the structure.
Israel's map and evacuation messages for Gaza are adding to the chaos
The U.S. said Israel should create safe zones to minimize civilian deaths from Israeli airstrikes. But Palestinians and international aid groups say the zones have been inadequate or nonexistent.