At least 64 Palestinians have been killed since Friday morning following intensified Israeli airstrikes on Gaza according to reports. The latest escalation has further worsened the already dire humanitarian situation in the region, prompting international concern.
The World Food Programme (WFP) has issued an urgent appeal, warning that “Gaza needs food now” as the population faces extreme hunger amid an ongoing blockade. With access to food and clean water severely restricted, thousands of families are struggling to survive.
Al Jazeera reports growing psychological trauma among Gaza’s population, describing the community as “psychologically broken” due to relentless bombings and displacement. Health professionals in the region are sounding the alarm over the toll on children. Hazem Musleh a pediatrician at Kuwait Hospital in Rafah, stated that children are now among the most vulnerable, facing both physical danger and emotional distress.
In the occupied West Bank Israeli forces raided homes and arrested eight Palestinians in the Fawwar refugee camp further fueling tensions. Homes were also reportedly vandalized during the operation.
Human rights organization Al-Haq has accused Israel of targeting Palestinian cultural heritage sites. The attack on historical locations, including sites listed by UNESCO, was highlighted on World Heritage Day drawing condemnation from international observers. Reports also mention growing threats of land seizures in aal-Makhrourl a UN-listed World Heritage region.
The Gaza Government Media Office reported that the ongoing conflict has now claimed over 61,700 lives and left more than 116,500 injured. Thousands remain missing feared buried under rubble, as the war enters its 18th month.
This latest wave of violence comes in the aftermath of the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of 1,139 Israelis and the capture of over 200 individuals, further intensifying hostilities in the region.
The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate, with urgent calls for international intervention ceasefire efforts, and aid to prevent further loss of life.