Israel Intensifies Attacks on Gaza as US Promises Aid
Israel launched a series of air strikes on southern Gaza and vowed to increase attacks in the northern part of the enclave, while the US pledged to provide more aid to Palestinians who are facing a severe shortage of essential supplies. Reports from Palestinian media indicated that at least 11 Palestinians were killed in an Israeli strike in the southern city of Khan Younis, with additional strikes reported in Rafah. The Israeli military spokesperson urged Gazans to move to safer areas, warning that attacks would continue in Gaza City.
The first humanitarian aid convoy since the conflict began arrived in the besieged Gaza Strip via the Rafah border crossing. The United Nations confirmed that the convoy, consisting of 20 trucks, carried life-saving supplies that would be distributed by the Palestinian Red Crescent. However, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) stated that the amount of aid delivered on Saturday was only 4% of the daily average before the hostilities, highlighting the urgent need for more assistance.
US President Joe Biden, known for his longstanding support of Israel, welcomed the arrival of the aid and expressed the commitment of the United States to facilitate further assistance through the Rafah border crossing. In addition, the US proposed a draft resolution at the United Nations Security Council, affirming Israel’s right to self-defense and calling on Iran to cease arms exports to militant groups.
Israel’s “Total Siege” on Gaza Continues
Israel imposed a “total siege” on Gaza following a cross-border attack by Hamas militants on southern Israel on October 7. The attack, which resulted in the deaths of 1,400 people, mainly civilians, prompted Israel to launch airstrikes in response. The Gaza Health Ministry reported that Israeli strikes have killed at least 4,385 Palestinians, including hundreds of children, and displaced over a million people. The mounting casualties and humanitarian crisis have sparked international concerns about the escalation of the conflict.
Amidst the escalating tensions, Israel has amassed tanks and troops near the border with Gaza for a planned ground invasion aimed at destroying Hamas. Israeli Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi addressed the troops, stating that the objective was to dismantle Hamas infrastructure while keeping in mind the memories of the victims of the previous Saturday’s attack.
Hamas responded to Israeli airstrikes by firing rockets towards Tel Aviv. In Lebanon, Israeli airstrikes targeted Hezbollah positions, resulting in cross-border fighting that claimed the lives of six Hezbollah fighters. The United States cautioned Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister about the potential consequences of getting involved in the conflict.
Escalation Spreads to the West Bank
The conflict has also spread to the West Bank, where clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinians have led to the deaths of at least 84 Palestinians. Israeli forces conducted airstrikes in the Jenin refugee camp, targeting a compound used by militants to organize attacks. Palestinian medics reported at least one fatality.
The situation has garnered significant attention worldwide, with approximately 100,000 people participating in a pro-Palestinian demonstration in London, calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
