Israel Continues to Pound Gaza as Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
Israel launched a series of airstrikes on Gaza on Saturday, further exacerbating the dire humanitarian situation in the Palestinian territory. The conflict has now entered its 99th day, with fears of the conflict widening after US and British forces struck pro-Hamas Houthi rebels in Yemen. Witnesses reported Israeli bombardment in the early morning, with strikes and shelling hitting areas between Gaza’s southern cities of Khan Yunis and Rafah. The ongoing violence has resulted in a telecommunications blackout, cutting off all internet and telecommunications services in Gaza.
The disruption of telecommunications services is increasing the challenges faced by medical teams in reaching the wounded and injured promptly. The Palestinian Red Crescent posted on social media that the blackout is hindering their efforts to provide aid. The relentless bombardment by Israel has already claimed the lives of at least 23,708 people, mostly women and children. The war began when Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on October 7, resulting in approximately 1,140 deaths in Israel, mostly civilians.
In a separate incident, Israeli forces killed three Palestinians who were armed with knives, a rifle, and axes as they attempted to break into a settlement in the occupied West Bank. The Israeli military reported that a soldier was wounded in an exchange of fire during the incident.
The United Nations aid agency OCHA’s head for the occupied Palestinian territories expressed frustration over Israel’s constant blocking of humanitarian aid convoys into northern Gaza. Andrea De Domenico described the situation as reaching a level of inhumanity beyond comprehension. In central Gaza, a lack of fuel forced the shutdown of the main generator at Al Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir el-Balah.
Despite the ongoing war and destruction, life continues for some Palestinians. Afnan and Moustapha decided to get married in Rafah, near the border with Egypt. Ayman Shamlakh, the groom’s uncle, explained that they thought it best to proceed with the wedding despite the destruction of the groom’s house. Mohamed Gebreel, the father of the bride, emphasized the resilience of the Palestinian people, stating that they are a people that love life despite death, murders, and destruction.
In a glimmer of hope, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced a deal with Qatar to deliver medicine to hostages still being held in Gaza by Hamas. The hostages are said to be in poor health, with some suffering from complex illnesses and injuries. The details of the medicine delivery are currently being finalized.
Israel criticized the UN human rights office for not reiterating its calls for the release of the hostages in a statement marking the 100th day of the conflict. The UN high commissioner for human rights has repeatedly called for the hostages’ release.
The violence in Gaza has also had repercussions in the occupied West Bank, where Israeli troops killed three militants after they attacked a Jewish settlement. Since the war in Gaza broke out, violence in the occupied West Bank has surged, with at least 337 people killed by Israeli troops or settlers.
As the conflict continues to escalate, it is crucial for international efforts to focus on de-escalation and finding a peaceful resolution. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza demands immediate attention and action to alleviate the suffering of innocent civilians caught in the crossfire.