Protests escalate in the Middle East & around the world as war between Israel and Hamas intensifies

Demonstrations, rallies and vigils have been staged around the world after Hamas militants launched a series of brutal attacks on Israel over the weekend, moving the long-running conflict into uncharted and dangerous new territory. October 21, 2023

Protests escalate in the Middle East & around the world as war between Israel and Hamas intensifies #war #protests #israel #hamas #palestine #gaza #news #richtv #middleeast

The death toll has climbed in the days since, with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) saying at least 1,200 have died in the country, while Israeli authorities believe up to 150 civilians have been seized and taken over the border to Gaza. Israel’s subsequent retaliation on the Palestinian militant movement that controls the Gaza Strip has been ferocious.

A prominent Jewish leader in Detroit praised for her work building ties between Jews and Muslims has been found dead with multiple stab wounds outside her home.

Samantha Woll, 40, was president of a local synagogue and had previously worked for two prominent Democrats in Michigan.

She was pronounced dead at the scene. Police have not yet confirmed a potential motive.

The prominent community activist was named as one of The Detroit Jewish News’s “36 under 36” in 2017.

Ms Woll previously also worked for Elissa Slotkin, a Democratic congresswoman, as well as Ms Nessel.

“I am shocked, saddened and horrified to learn of Sam’s brutal murder,” Ms Nessel said.

“Sam was as kind a person as I’ve ever known. She was driven by her sincere love of her community, state and country.

“Sam truly used her faith and activism to create a better place for everyone.”

Ms Slotkin said her “heart aches that we have lost someone so dedicated to serving others in such a senseless act”.

“I’ll miss her relentless desire to serve and her bright smile seemingly everywhere across the Detroit area,” she said.