The Gaza Strip witnessed a significant escalation in violence on Sunday, with Israeli airstrikes killing at least 23 Palestinians, according to local rescuers. This marks nearly 15 months since the war between Israel and Hamas began, following Hamas's large-scale attack on Israel in October 2023.
Civilian Casualties and Destruction
Early Sunday, an airstrike targeted a home in Sheikh Radwan, northern Gaza, killing 11 people, including women and children. Civil Defence teams are still searching for survivors under the rubble, often using their bare hands. In another strike, five members of the Abu Jarbou family lost their lives in the Nuseirat refugee camp. Gaza’s health ministry reported a total of 88 fatalities within the past 24 hours, illustrating the growing human toll of the conflict.
Israel's Military Operations
The Israeli military has intensified its offensive, claiming to have struck over 100 "terror targets" in Gaza in the past two days, resulting in the deaths of dozens of Hamas militants. The strikes reportedly aimed at sites used for launching projectiles into Israel. Defence Minister Israel Katz warned of further escalation if rocket fire continues or hostages held by Hamas are not released.
Rocket Fire and Retaliation
Rocket attacks from Gaza into Israel have increased after a period of reduced frequency. These attacks have triggered air raid sirens in Israeli communities already devastated by the initial assault in October 2023. In response, Israel has maintained a three-month-long major offensive targeting northern Gaza.
Diplomatic Efforts for Ceasefire
Despite the escalating violence, indirect negotiations for a ceasefire and a hostage release deal resumed in Qatar over the weekend. Mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and the United States are striving to broker an agreement to end the war. A recent Hamas video of an Israeli teenage soldier, Liri Albag, pleading for her release has added urgency to these efforts.
Conclusion
The ongoing war has inflicted immense suffering on civilians in Gaza and Israel, with mounting casualties and widespread destruction. While diplomatic efforts offer a glimmer of hope, the path to peace remains fraught with challenges. The international community continues to call for restraint and a lasting resolution to this decades-long conflict.
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