Despite mounting international pressure for a truce and aid deliveries, Israel shows no signs of letting up on its onslaught against Gaza. The country has continued to bombard Gaza’s health facilities and residential areas, resulting in a rising number of civilian casualties. Hospitals and civilian neighborhoods in the enclave remain the primary targets of Israeli air raids, prompting further calls from around the world for a ceasefire.
The recent attacks on Jabalia and Nuseirat refugee camps have resulted in mass casualties, while Israeli artillery shelling has targeted multiple residences in Gaza City. Reports indicate that continuous shooting has also been observed at the entrance to al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. The Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis has been repeatedly targeted, with a 13-year-old girl named Dina Abu Mehsen among the victims.
Gaza’s Health Ministry spokesperson, Ashraf al-Qudra, condemned Israel for its deliberate targeting of the health sector in the besieged enclave. He stated that the occupation’s policy aims to eliminate the health system in southern Gaza and called attention to the dire situation at al-Shifa Hospital. The World Health Organization described the hospital as a “bloodbath,” with injured patients overcrowding the facility due to the lack of resources and staff.
The situation at Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza is equally concerning. Israeli soldiers reportedly raided the hospital and killed dozens, leading to the evacuation of wounded patients and medical staff to the hospital grounds. The WHO has expressed urgency in gathering information on the situation, while Palestinian Health Minister Mai al-Kaila has called for an investigation into the incident.
Amidst the ongoing violence, the international community is urging Israel to pause the fighting and take greater measures to protect civilians. The United Nations Security Council is set to vote on a resolution calling for a truce and aid delivery in Gaza. The UN estimates that approximately 1.9 million Palestinians in Gaza, accounting for 80% of the population, have been displaced by the war. Concerns about hunger, disease, and weakened immunity are growing, highlighting the urgent need for action.
Prominent figures, including French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna, Germany, and the United Kingdom, have called for an immediate and durable truce. Israeli protesters also demand renewed talks with Hamas for the release of hostages following the accidental killing of three individuals waving a white flag. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is expected to press Israel to wind down major combat operations during his visit to Tel Aviv.
As the situation in Gaza continues to worsen, international pressure on Israel intensifies. Calls for a truce and aid delivery grow louder, emphasizing the urgent need for peace and the protection of innocent lives.
