International humanitarian organizations claim they still encounter violence and practical challenges when attempting to provide aid throughout the famine-threatened region, following the death of World Central Kitchen aid workers in Gaza due to an Israel airstrike that drew international condemnation.
A week after the World Central Kitchen attack, UNICEF spokesperson Tess Ingram tells TIME over the phone from Rafah on Sunday about a terrifying and fruitless attempt to deliver aid to north Gaza. While waiting at a checkpoint, the convoy she was traveling in—which had been prearranged with the Israel Defense Forces—was caught in the crossfire. Although Ingram is unsure of the shooter, she believes the shots originated from the direction of the checkpoint, which she calculates to be less than a kilometer (about half a mile) away.
“The IDF works in order to prevent harm to humanitarian teams,” the statement from the IDF tells TIME after an investigation indicates that its forces “were not within firing range of the convoy at the time and place indicated and it was found that no fire was carried out at the vehicle by the IDF.” ”.
In response, Ingram states, “We believe it’s critical that an impartial inquiry be carried out in order to clarify the events that transpired and guarantee that going forward, we have the required security to provide aid.” ”.
The need is dire. One million people in Gaza face an impending famine, according to a warning issued last month by the global authority on food insecurity. The Hamas-run health ministry reported 28 children have died of malnutrition and dehydration as of April 12.
Despite the needs, more than half of recent requested aid missions to north Gaza were unsuccessful, the U. N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported. Between April 6, 2012, and April 7, 2017, Israel facilitated 2041 percent of the missions; the remaining 2041 percent were denied or impeded, including because of hostilities; in 2017, aid groups canceled most of the missions due to logistical constraints.
World Central Kitchen claims that it coordinated its movements with Israel prior to the military attacking its convoy on April 2, demonstrating that even well-planned missions can be risky. Following what Israel described as a “grave mistake,” seven aid workers died as a result, prompting President Joe Biden to issue an ultimatum to Israel: either increase food aid into Gaza and take action to protect civilians, or risk losing U.S. S. support.
In response, Israel declared it would create new channels for the entry of additional aid, including a crossing into the northern Gaza Strip. According to an email sent to TIME by COGAT, the IDF’s humanitarian branch, more than 300 trucks entered Gaza every day last week as part of an increase in aid.
Biden said Wednesday that the number of trucks was still “not enough. ” Data from UNRWA, the U. N. ‘s Palestinian relief organization only slightly increases (the organization counts trucks in a different way than COGAT, according to the Associated Press). COGAT accused the U. N. of failing to gather supplies, sharing a photo of goods stacked inside Gaza on X, and claiming that “the Israeli side is not the bottleneck.” ”.
The U. N. ‘s head has resisted, saying that workers are being threatened by bombardment and fighting because “the real problem is that the way Israel is conducting this offensive is creating massive obstacles to the distribution of humanitarian aid.” Since the war began on Oct. 7, 217 aid workers have been killed in Gaza, according to the Aid Worker Security Database.
UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini wrote on X that “the increase in aid is not yet tangible, sustained or uninterrupted.” “Aid also needs to reach safely all those in need. ”.
Here’s what Ingram tells TIME about the challenges to delivering aid and the needs. The interview has been condensed and edited for clarity.
Choosing the right credit card can feel like navigating a labyrinth of options, especially when giants like Visa and Mastercard dominate the scene. Both boast impressive global acceptance and a plethora of benefits, leaving you wondering “Visa or Mastercard: Which card should I swipe?”
Fear not, intrepid credit card seeker! We’ve delved deep into the world of Visa and Mastercard, dissecting their features, benefits, and quirks to help you make an informed decision So, buckle up as we embark on this credit card showdown!
Visa vs. Mastercard: A Tale of Two Titans
Visa and Mastercard, the titans of the credit card industry, share a remarkable similarity: neither issues cards directly. Instead they partner with banks and financial institutions to offer a diverse range of credit cards catering to various needs and credit profiles.
But don’t let their collaborative approach fool you; these titans have distinct personalities. Let’s delve into their key differences:
Global Reach:
- Visa: Accepted in over 200 countries and territories, making it the undisputed champion of global acceptance.
- Mastercard: A close second, boasting acceptance in over 210 countries and territories.
Zero Liability Protection:
- Visa: Offers zero liability protection against unauthorized transactions, ensuring peace of mind for cardholders.
- Mastercard: Follows suit, providing the same level of protection against fraudulent activity.
Benefits and Perks:
- Visa: Offers a wider range of benefits, including travel insurance, purchase protection, and roadside assistance.
- Mastercard: Counters with unique perks like cellphone protection and World Elite Mastercard benefits.
Ultimately, the battle for global dominance boils down to a hair’s breadth. Both Visa and Mastercard offer near-identical global acceptance, leaving the choice to the specific benefits and rewards you crave.
Visa and Mastercard: A Symphony of Similarities
While their differences may seem like a game of inches, Visa and Mastercard share a harmonious melody of similarities:
- Worldwide Acceptance: Both cards enjoy near-universal acceptance, making them ideal companions for globetrotters and international shoppers.
- Zero Liability Protection: Both offer the comforting security of zero liability protection, safeguarding you from fraudulent charges.
- Generous Benefits: Both networks offer a smorgasbord of benefits, including travel insurance, purchase protection, and roadside assistance.
This symphony of similarities underscores the fact that choosing between Visa and Mastercard is less about the network and more about the specific card’s features and rewards.
Visa and Mastercard: A Tale of Tiers
A tier-based card system is provided by both Visa and Mastercard to accommodate various credit profiles and requirements:
Visa:
- Visa Traditional: The entry-level card, offering basic benefits and features.
- Visa Signature: The mid-tier card, boasting enhanced benefits like travel insurance and purchase protection.
- Visa Infinite: The premium card, offering the most comprehensive benefits and rewards.
Mastercard:
- Standard Mastercard: The basic card, offering essential benefits like zero liability protection.
- World Mastercard: The mid-tier card, featuring enhanced benefits like travel insurance and purchase protection.
- World Elite Mastercard: The premium card, offering the most luxurious benefits and rewards.
Remember, the specific benefits and rewards offered by each tier vary depending on the card issuer. So, it’s crucial to compare cards within each tier to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
Visa vs. Mastercard: A Battle of Benefits
Let’s now explore the core of the issue, which is the particular advantages and rewards provided by each network:
Visa:
- Travel Insurance: Offers a range of travel insurance benefits, including trip cancellation and interruption insurance, baggage delay reimbursement, and emergency medical assistance.
- Purchase Protection: Provides protection against damage or theft of eligible purchases for a specified period.
- Roadside Assistance: Offers 24/7 roadside assistance, including towing, jumpstarts, and flat tire changes.
Mastercard:
- Cellphone Protection: Provides coverage for accidental damage or theft of your cellphone.
- World Elite Mastercard Benefits: Offers a suite of exclusive benefits, including airport lounge access, travel credits, and concierge services.
- Priceless Experiences: Grants access to unique experiences and events, such as concerts, sporting events, and cultural performances.
Ultimately, the “best” network depends on your individual needs and preferences. If travel insurance is your priority, Visa might be your champion. If you crave cellphone protection and exclusive experiences, Mastercard might steal your heart.
Visa vs. Mastercard: A Case Study of Card Champions
To demonstrate the subtle differences between selecting a Visa or Mastercard, let’s examine two widely used cards from each network:
Visa:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: A travel rewards card offering 2x points on travel and dining, a $50 annual travel credit, and a generous welcome bonus.
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: A travel rewards card offering 2x miles on all purchases, a $100 annual travel credit, and a generous welcome bonus.
Mastercard:
- Citi Premier® Card: A travel rewards card offering 3x points on hotels and airfare, a $100 annual hotel credit, and a generous welcome bonus.
- American Express® Gold Card: A premium rewards card offering 4x points on dining and groceries, a $120 annual dining credit, and a generous welcome bonus.
As you can see, the specific benefits and rewards vary significantly, even within the same network. The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card might be ideal for frequent travelers who value travel insurance and airport lounge access, while the American Express® Gold Card might appeal to foodies and grocery enthusiasts.
Visa vs. Mastercard: The Verdict
So, which card reigns supreme? The answer, my friend, is not as simple as a binary choice. It depends on your individual needs, preferences, and spending habits.
Consider these factors when making your decision:
- Travel frequency: If you’re a globetrotter, prioritize cards with travel insurance and airport lounge access.
- Spending habits: Choose cards that offer rewards on your most frequent purchases, whether it’s dining, groceries, or travel.
- Creditworthiness: Your credit score will determine which cards you’re eligible for, so check your credit report before applying.
- Annual fees: Some cards come with annual fees, so factor these into your decision.
Ultimately, the best card is the one that aligns with your lifestyle and financial goals. Take your time, compare cards, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. With a bit of research, you’ll find the perfect card to complement your wallet and empower your financial journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Does Chase have Visa or Mastercard?
A: Chase offers both Visa and Mastercard credit cards. Some popular Chase Visa cards include the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and the Chase Freedom Unlimited® Card. Popular Chase Mastercard cards include the Chase Freedom Flex℠ and the Chase Ink Business Cash® Credit Card.
Q: Does Capital One have Visa or Mastercard?
A: Capital One offers both Visa and Mastercard credit cards. Some popular Capital One Visa cards include the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card. Popular Capital One Mastercard cards include the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card and the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card.
Q: Does Citi have Visa or Mastercard?
A: Citi offers both Visa and Mastercard credit cards. Some popular Citi Visa cards include the Citi Premier® Card and the Citi Double Cash® Card. Popular Citi Mastercard cards include the Citi Custom Cash® Card and the Citi Rewards+® Card.
Q: Is Visa or Mastercard better for international travel?
A: Both Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted internationally, so there’s no significant difference in terms of global acceptance. However, Visa might offer slightly more benefits for international travelers, such as travel insurance and airport lounge access.
Q: Is Visa or Mastercard better for building credit?
A: Both Visa and Mastercard offer credit cards for building credit. The best card for you will depend on your creditworthiness and spending habits. It’s important to use your card responsibly and pay your bills on time to build a good credit history.
Q: Is Visa or Mastercard better for cash back rewards?
A: Both Visa and Mastercard offer cash back rewards cards. The best card for you will depend on your spending habits and the categories where you earn the most rewards. It’s important to compare cards and choose one that aligns with your spending patterns.
Q: Is Visa or Mastercard better for travel rewards?
A: Both Visa and Mastercard offer travel rewards cards. The best card for you will depend on your travel frequency and preferences. It’s important to compare cards and choose one that offers the rewards and benefits that are most valuable to you.
Q: Is Visa or Mastercard better for students?
A: Both Visa and Mastercard offer student credit cards. The best card for you will depend on your creditworthiness and spending habits. It’s important to choose a card with a low interest rate and manageable credit limit.
Q: Is Visa or Mastercard better for business?
A: Both Visa and Mastercard offer business credit cards. The best card for you will depend on your business needs and spending habits. It’s important to choose a card that offers rewards and benefits that are valuable to your business.
Q: Is Visa or Mastercard better for bad credit?
A: Both Visa and Mastercard
Do you know what instigated it or where it came from?
I don’t know what instigated it. It appeared to be coming from the checkpoint’s direction, heading south, and it appeared to be directed at civilians, or what appeared to be civilians, who subsequently turned and fled in the opposite direction. I would say I saw a dozen (apparent civilians).
What happened on Tuesday at the checkpoint?
After receiving the all clear to depart rather late, we got on the road and headed up toward the Salah Al-Din checkpoint on the Wadi Gaza line. We were instructed to wait in the designated holding areas for convoys, which is not unusual. We were examining a mechanical issue with our car in that holding area when there was gunfire.