
On Sunday, Israeli airstrikes in Rafah, a southern city in the Gaza Strip, resulted in the deaths of at least 35 Palestinians, with women and children among the casualties. The strikes targeted tents housing displaced people. Gaza’s Health Ministry reported numerous injuries and people trapped under debris. This incident follows an International Court of Justice order for Israel to cease its military offensive in Rafah, where over half of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents had sought refuge.
Key Entities Involved:
- Israel: Conducted the airstrikes, targeting what it described as a Hamas installation, killing two senior Hamas militants.
- Hamas: The militant group governing Gaza, responsible for a recent rocket barrage into Israel, including rockets reaching Tel Aviv.
- International Court of Justice (ICJ): Issued an order for Israel to end its offensive in Rafah.
- Palestinian Red Crescent Society: Indicated that the death toll may rise as rescue efforts continue.
- United Nations (UN): Highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, emphasizing the need for safe delivery of aid.
Context
- Humanitarian Crisis: The majority of Gaza’s population is displaced, with significant portions facing severe hunger and famine conditions.
- Conflict Background: The conflict was ignited by a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, which resulted in 1,200 Israeli deaths and 250 hostages taken. Israel’s ongoing offensive aims to dismantle Hamas’ military capabilities.
- Aid Efforts: Despite new agreements allowing aid trucks to enter Gaza through the Kerem Shalom crossing, access to humanitarian supplies remains limited due to the ongoing conflict.
Reactions and Statements
- Israel Defense Minister Yoav Gallant: Visited Rafah and discussed the continuation of military operations.
- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres: Called for the safe delivery of humanitarian aid into Gaza.
Additional Developments
- Rocket Attacks: Hamas launched rockets reaching Tel Aviv, marking the first long-range attack since January.
- Israeli West Bank Operations: An incident in the West Bank saw Israeli forces shooting a 14-year-old Palestinian boy allegedly attempting to stab soldiers.
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