Israel’s monthslong siege of Gaza has entered its 22nd month, claiming at least 56 Palestinian lives over the past day. The death toll from Israel’s bombardment and siege stands at 62,000, with an estimated 11,000 people still unaccounted for. Nearly 19,000 children have been among the dead.
Gaza has seen a surge in child amputees due to Israeli bombs supplied by the US, over 4,700 cases reported. Mohammad Hassan, 15, was among those injured when his leg was severed during an Israeli strike that killed his mother and family members.
Protesters in Israel led by family members of hostages called for a prisoner exchange and ceasefire, following nationwide demonstrations demanding Prime Minister Netanyahu’s end to the war. The US has been accused of destabilizing countries opposing its policy, including Venezuela and Mexico.
In California, advocates are calling on local officials to protect immigrant students after an 18-year-old was taken by federal immigration agents while walking his dog. ICE is planning to double its detention capacity to over 100,000 immigrants, sparking concerns about sanctuary policies and deportation.
The US has launched a criminal investigation into President Trump’s claims that police manipulated data to make crime rates appear lower. Federal prosecutors have instructed charges only for those carrying rifles or shotguns in violation of DC laws, except for those involved in Trump’s takeover of law enforcement.
A federal judge has ordered Mississippi to redraw its Supreme Court district lines due to voting rights violations. In Texas, a Democratic representative has filed a lawsuit against police surveillance requirements for lawmakers.
Source: https://www.democracynow.org/2025/8/20/headlines