Recent Israeli airstrikes in central Gaza have led to a significant loss of life, with at least 18 individuals, including children, reported dead. The strikes targeted various locations, including the Nuseirat and Maghazi refugee camps, as well as Deir al-Balah and Zawaiyda towns. Among the casualties were four children, one woman, and the mayor of the Nuseirat refugee camp.
Israel's military has confirmed its ongoing operations in parts of Central Gaza, claiming to have eliminated numerous militants, discovered tunnel shafts, and destroyed infrastructure in the area. These airstrikes followed a previous incident where 33 people were killed at a United Nations-run school that was allegedly being used as a Hamas compound.
International Response and Calls for Ceasefire
International pressure has been mounting on Israel to minimize civilian casualties in its conflict with Hamas. Spain has announced its intention to seek permission from a United Nations court to join South Africa's case accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza, a claim vehemently denied by Israel.
The conflict in Gaza has resulted in a dire humanitarian situation, with over 36,000 Palestinians losing their lives in the past eight months. The war has severely disrupted the supply of essential goods, leading to widespread hunger among the population. United Nations agencies have warned that over a million people in Gaza could face severe food shortages by mid-July.
Efforts Towards Ceasefire and Reconstruction
The United States has put forth a revised Security Council draft resolution outlining a three-phase plan to achieve a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and initiate the reconstruction of the devastated region. While the plan has garnered support from several countries, Israel has expressed reservations, citing concerns about the language of the resolution and its implications for future security.
Efforts are underway to broker a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, with mediators expecting a formal response from Hamas in the coming days. The situation remains tense as both sides navigate complex diplomatic negotiations amidst ongoing hostilities.
