On Saturday, Israel continued its attacks on Gaza, with heavy fighting raging throughout the territory. The UNRWA has described the living conditions of Palestinians in Gaza as “unbearable.” 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.
Violent battles between Israeli forces and Hamas fighters took place in various parts of Gaza. In Rafah, tank shelling resulted in at least 11 deaths. The Israeli military continued its operations in the Shujaiya neighborhood where a large number of militants were reported killed.
Residents fleeing from Shujaiya due to bombings left everything behind and managed to survive miraculously. Reports from Arab television described people running in fear as casualties mounted in the 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 the ongoing conflict.
The United Nations has expressed concern about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where nearly half a million people are facing “catastrophic” hunger. The International Protection Committee (IPC) reported on worsening conditions but Israeli government officials criticized its bias and sources. Meanwhile, pressure mounts on Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government as demonstrations continue against various issues in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
Efforts to reach a ceasefire and hostage release agreement between Israel and Hamas are ongoing with new proposals from the United States to facilitate negotiations. However, the situation remains volatile with civilians caught up in the crossfire of conflict
