Fresh bombardment comes amid ongoing talks by Hamas to restore ceasefire
At least 58 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli airstrikes across Gaza overnight, according to local health officials. This brings the death toll to over 500 since the ceasefire broke down earlier this week. The recent attacks, which targeted homes and buildings in Khan Younis, Rafah, and Beit Lahiya, have caused widespread devastation, with casualties reported at hospitals in multiple regions.
Health officials confirmed the latest figures, while a pro-Hamas outlet reported over 70 deaths. The strikes came after Hamas confirmed that discussions were underway with mediators about potentially halting Israel’s renewed offensive. These talks aim to address the ongoing violence and the disruption caused during Ramadan, a key period for Muslims.
This recent escalation follows a major bombing earlier this week that killed over 400 Palestinians. Israel justifies its military actions by stating it targets militants, but blames Hamas for embedding itself in residential areas, leading to civilian casualties. The strikes have been particularly deadly, with reports indicating that 130 children were among the 430 killed over just two days.
In Rafah, the European Hospital confirmed the deaths of 26 people, mainly women and children, after strikes hit two homes. Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis reported seven fatalities from an overnight attack, and in Beit Lahiya, another seven died in a strike on a residential building.
The Israeli military has resumed operations in central and southern Gaza to regain control of the Netzarim corridor, a strategic area that splits the region in half. This is one of the deadliest days in the ongoing 17-month conflict, with fears growing over the fate of around two dozen hostages still held in Gaza.
On the Israeli side, protests have erupted in Jerusalem, with citizens calling for a resolution to secure the release of the hostages. There are also growing concerns over the forced displacement of Palestinian families in northern and eastern Gaza, where Israeli forces have dropped leaflets instructing people to evacuate.
In a separate development, Yemen’s Houthi group claimed responsibility for a missile attack on Israel, which was intercepted by Israeli defence systems near Tel Aviv. The Houthis have vowed to retaliate, including targeting Israel, in response to recent US strikes on their positions.
As tensions continue to rise, international pressure grows for a renewed effort towards peace and negotiations.
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Pic of the week: Sunset at margate beach
The first day’s journey was through the pink fields
The first day’s journey was through the pink fields
The first day’s journey was through the pink fields