Israel’s military launched intense airstrikes on Gaza on Saturday night, causing widespread destruction and claiming thousands of lives, including more than 3,500 children.
The assault, which began three weeks ago, was triggered by a shocking attack by Hamas, resulting in the worst violence in Israel’s history.
Turkey’s President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, condemned Israel’s actions and called for an immediate halt to the attacks.
Simultaneously, families of Israeli hostages held by Hamas demanded explanations from the Israeli government about their loved ones’ fate amidst the intensified air and artillery strikes.
The health ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza reported a staggering death toll of at least 7,703 people, marking the highest number of war fatalities since Israel’s withdrawal from the territory in 2005. Hospitals and humanitarian operations have been severely hampered due to a near-total communications blackout imposed by Israel, raising concerns about potential “mass atrocities,” as warned by Human Rights Watch.
Amidst the chaos, Israel’s military claimed to have expanded its operations, targeting underground combat spaces and tunnels used by Hamas fighters. The ground shook in Gaza as tanks and artillery intensified their assault. The conflict has led to the displacement of over 1.4 million people inside the besieged territory.
International leaders, including the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, have pleaded for an immediate ceasefire and the delivery of essential humanitarian aid to Gaza.
A non-binding resolution at the UN General Assembly for an “immediate humanitarian truce” received overwhelming support, with 120 votes in favor, yet Israel and the US criticized the omission of mentioning Hamas.
Saudi Arabia joined the international condemnation, denouncing Israel’s ground operations in Gaza and emphasizing the need to protect Palestinian lives. Meanwhile, Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant confirmed the progress of military operations against Hamas.
Massive protests erupted globally against Israel’s actions. In London, an estimated 100,000 people participated in the “National March for Palestine,” calling for an end to the violence and immediate humanitarian assistance. In New York, hundreds of protesters, mainly Jewish New Yorkers, were arrested during a demonstration at Grand Central station, condemning Israel’s bombardment of Gaza.
Efforts for a diplomatic resolution intensified as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated his appeal for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. He emphasized the urgency of unconditional hostage release and delivery of aid corresponding to the dramatic needs of the people in Gaza.
The conflict has plunged Gaza into a dire humanitarian crisis. Israel’s blockade, which restricts the delivery of essential supplies, has exacerbated the situation.
Philippe Lazzarini, head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, expressed grave concerns, stating that Gazans are not only dying from bombs and strikes but will soon face the deadly consequences of the siege.
Despite limited aid deliveries, the UN reported that 12 out of Gaza’s 35 hospitals had been forced to close due to the ongoing bombardments and fuel shortages. The situation became even more critical as Hamas claimed that all internet connections and communications across Gaza had been cut, accusing Israel of intending to perpetrate massacres without global scrutiny.
