Friday, October 13, 9:30 AM EDT

Almost a week into the Israel-Hamas war, sparked by Hamas’ massive Oct. 7 terrorist attack on Israel and seizure of over 150 hostages, the death toll continues to mount, reaching more than 2,700 Israelis and Palestinians. Israel is carrying out punishing airstrikes and preparing for a possible ground invasion, as its new unity government vows to “crush Hamas.” It has completely sealed off Gaza, with no deliveries of food, water, or fuel and no electricity, and the U.N. is warning of an impending humanitarian disaster. With the U.S. sending a carrier strike group to the eastern Mediterranean and Israel and Hezbollah exchanging fire over Israel's northern border, the region could be on the brink of a much wider conflict.

What is the current situation on the ground? How are Israelis dealing with the aftermath of the unprecedented terrorist strike on their homes and communities? Where do things stand on the humanitarian front, including efforts to provide Palestinians with basic needs and to secure the release of Israeli captives? What are the risks of escalation and potential scenarios for resolution? And what can the regional and international community do to help?

Please join us for a virtual panel discussion as MEI experts discuss these critical issues and more.

Speakers: Khaled Elgindy, Senior Fellow; Director, Palestine and Palestinian-Israeli Affairs, Middle East Institute / Nimrod Goren, Senior Fellow, Israeli Affairs, Middle East Institute / Brian Katulis, Vice President, Policy, Middle East Institute / Mirette Mabrouk, Senior Fellow; Founding Director, Egypt Program, Middle East Institute / Hajer Naili, Director of Communications, Center of Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC)

Paul Salem, moderator, President; CEO, Middle East Institute

For speaker bios and to register: The Israel-Hamas War: Risks of Escalation and Scenarios for Resolution | Middle East Institute (mei.edu)