Global National: Oct. 17, 2023 | Origin of Gaza hospital blast unclear after hundreds killed

An explosion has destroyed the Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza City, killing hundreds of people. Israel and Hamas are trading blame for the blast. Crystal Goomansingh reports on the desperation and grief in a region already struggling with a humanitarian crisis and the pleas for blockades to be removed so aid and medicine can be brought in.

At least 199 people have been taken hostage by Hamas after its surprise attack on Israel, with the militant group now releasing a video appearing to show one of those hostages. Jeff Semple explains what's known about Mia Schem and her family's pleas for her to be brought home safely. Jeff also reports on the funeral for Tiferet Lapidot, who had connections to Canada and died in Hamas's massacre at a music festival.

U.S. President Joe Biden is en route to the Middle East, where he'll meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amid Israel's war with Hamas. Jackson Proskow explains how the deadly bombing of the Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza City has changed part of Biden's plans.

The heads of intelligence from Canada, the U.S., the U.K., Australia and New Zealand have gathered in California for a security summit in California. David Akin explains what members of the "Five Eyes" alliance believe is the biggest threat to innovation and the message they want to send to adversaries.

Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group based in Lebanon, has been exchanging fire with Israeli fighters since violence between Hamas and Israel flared up. Redmond Shannon explains why there are fears of Hezbollah's looming presence leading to a wider conflict in the Middle East.

In Canada, it appears the inflation rate has slowed down. It was at 3.8 per cent in September, down from four per cent in August, ahead of the Bank of Canada's next decision on its key interest rate. Heather Yourex-West explains how some Canadians are struggling to put a roof over their heads and why grocery shoppers are feeling some relief — for now.

Plus, Nathaniel Veltman, who's pleaded not guilty to murdering four members of a Muslim family in London, Ont., is testifying in his own defence at his trial. Mike Drolet looks at the case Veltman is trying to make and the new revelations the accused killer has made.

For more info, please go to https://globalnews.ca/news/10030827/gaza-hospital-airstrike-reports/

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