As we've said from the start, Israel has not only the right, but the obligation to defend itself

and also to take steps to try to make sure that this never happens again.

We've seen in recent days Palestinian civilians continue to bear the brunt of this action,

and it's important that the United States is committed run of this action.

And it's important that the United States is committed to making sure everything possible is done to protect civilians.

That was Secretary of State Anthony Blinken yesterday ahead of his latest trip to the Middle

East.

The visit comes as there is growing pressure on Israel to take

a humanitarian pause in its assault on Hamas terrorists who are hiding out in Gaza. Plus,

the Republican-led House passes a funding bill for Israel, but the legislation comes with a whole

host of partisan spending cuts.

We'll take a look at the chances whether this measure can actually pass in the Senate.

And also ahead, a recap of the testimony from Donald Trump's two eldest sons in his New York civil fraud trial.

Thank you. civil fraud trial. Good morning and welcome to way too early on this Friday, November 3rd.

It's Friday, we made it.

I'm Jonathan Lemire.

Thanks for starting your day with us.

And we'll begin this busy news morning with Israel pushing forward with its ground invasion. Israeli defense forces

announced last night that they have encircled Gaza City and are fighting face-to-face

battles with Hamas terrorists. This as airstrikes continue to hammer the territory. Israel has come

under increasing international pressure to at least temporarily pause the fighting with Hamas,

but officials in Tel Aviv are rejecting those calls.

...