On Saturday, Israel continued its attacks on Gaza, resulting in heavy fighting and devastating consequences for the Palestinian population. The territory is described as “unbearable” by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). The Ministry of Health in Gaza reported that more than 35 Palestinians were killed in the attacks, bringing the total toll to over 37,000 killed and 86,000 injured since October 7th.
The UNRWA highlighted the dire living conditions of the population in Gaza, with Israeli forces advancing into areas in both the north and south of the Strip. Tank shelling in Rafah resulted in at least 11 deaths, while the Israeli military continued its operations in Shujaiya, where a large number of militants were reported killed. Residents fleeing from Shujaiya due to bombings left everything behind but miraculously survived. Reports from Arab television described people running in fear as casualties mounted in streets and homes.
The Civil Defense in Gaza reported casualties from Israeli targeting of residential apartments, with hospitals damaged and out of service due to ongoing conflict. The situation remains volatile with civilians caught in crossfire. Meanwhile, pressure mounts on Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government as demonstrations continue against various issues. Efforts are ongoing to reach a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas with new proposals from the United States being facilitated by negotiations.
