In a devastating escalation of violence, Israeli military forces conducted a series of air strikes across the Gaza Strip on Tuesday and Wednesday, resulting in the deaths of more than 100 Palestinians, including 35 children. The attacks targeted key areas such as Gaza City, Khan Younis, and refugee camps in central Gaza, striking homes, tents, and even the courtyard of a hospital. The death toll is anticipated to rise as many of the wounded are in critical condition, and others remain trapped under the rubble. The director of Al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City described the health situation as ‘catastrophic,’ citing a severe shortage of medical supplies and medicines to treat the injured. The Palestinian Civil Defence has urgently called for an ‘immediate and comprehensive ceasefire.’ After nearly 12 hours of intense bombing, the Israeli military announced the reimposition of the ceasefire at 10 am local time. Israel accused Hamas of violating the ceasefire, pointing to an alleged attack on troops in Rafah that resulted in the death of one soldier and delays in the return of dead captives. Hamas denied involvement in the Rafah incident, attributing the delay to logistical challenges known to both Israel and the United States. US President Donald Trump supported Israel’s actions, stating it had ‘the right to retaliate’ and warning that Hamas could be ‘eliminated’ if it fails to comply with the ceasefire. The Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) condemned the strikes, holding the US administration ‘fully responsible’ for the massacre and criticizing Trump’s statements as political cover for Israel’s actions. According to the Gaza-based Government Media Office, Israel has committed at least 125 ceasefire violations since October 11, resulting in over 180 deaths and 300 injuries. Israel has also continued to restrict aid entry and keep the Rafah crossing closed, further violating the ceasefire agreement.
