In a continued escalation of the conflict, Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City and Rafah have killed at least 24 Palestinians, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation. Among the casualties was a sister of Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh, marking a significant strike against the group. Despite the ongoing diplomatic efforts to calm the situation, the Israeli military has not agreed to a ceasefire in southern Gaza. The strikes have hit civilian infrastructure, including schools, houses, and the Ahli Hospital in Gaza, causing hundreds of casualties and raising the total death toll in the region to 37,658, with 86,237 injured. The US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has emphasized the need for diplomacy to prevent the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah from turning into a regional war. He also urged Israel to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza, expressing concern about the stance of extremist Israelis in the West Bank and warned of the risks of war with Hezbollah as the Gaza crisis deepens and Israeli forces target displaced people. The Israeli military has claimed to have destroyed a significant portion of Hamas’ military power after 8 months of war. However, Tel Aviv is expected to issue international arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant soon. Meanwhile, the Palestinian resistance in Gaza has launched attacks on Israeli soldiers and equipment in Rafah, and Israeli forces have pounded areas in Gaza, including the destruction of a rocket site in Rafah. As the Israeli army continues to bomb Palestinian territory, the crisis has led to a severe food crisis, with over 500,000 Palestinians suffering from catastrophic hunger. The international community is calling for immediate action to address the crisis and provide aid to those affected.
Key points
- Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have killed at least 24 Palestinians, including a sister of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh.
- The humanitarian situation in Gaza worsens with severe food shortages and a lack of medical supplies.
- Despite diplomatic efforts, Israeli military operations continue, and the US warns of potential escalation with Hezbollah.
- The total death toll in Gaza has risen to 37,658, with 86,237 injured.
