Israeli strikes in the Gaza Strip have resulted in the deaths of at least 12 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, officials confirmed on Wednesday. The ongoing conflict, now spanning nearly 15 months, shows no signs of abating as the new year begins.
One of the strikes targeted a home in the Jabaliya area of northern Gaza, an area that has faced significant destruction due to Israeli operations since early October. The Gaza Health Ministry reported that seven individuals, including a woman and four children, were killed in this attack, with several others sustaining injuries.
Another strike in the Bureij refugee camp claimed the lives of a woman and a child. The military had issued evacuation orders in response to recent rocket fire by Palestinian militants in the area.
A third strike in Khan Younis resulted in the deaths of three individuals, as confirmed by local hospitals.
The conflict began when Hamas-led militants launched an attack on southern Israel in October 2023, leading to casualties and abductions. The Israeli military has reported over 45,000 Palestinian fatalities, with a significant number being women and children.
The war has caused extensive destruction and displacement, with approximately 90% of Gaza's population displaced multiple times. Harsh winter conditions have led to tragic deaths, including infants succumbing to hypothermia.
Efforts by American and Arab mediators to broker a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages have faced repeated setbacks. Hamas seeks a lasting truce, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue the fight until achieving 'total victory' over the militants.
Israeli Emigration Trends Raise Concerns
Israel has witnessed a significant net departure of citizens for the second consecutive year, with over 82,000 Israelis relocating abroad in 2024. Concerns have been raised about a potential 'brain drain' in critical sectors like medicine and technology due to the exodus of residents seeking respite from the ongoing conflict.
Last year also saw a decline in immigration to Israel, highlighting a shift in migration patterns. The Central Bureau of Statistics has adjusted its reporting methods to track these changes more accurately.
Military Investigates Death of Archaeologist in Lebanon
The Israeli military is investigating the death of a 70-year-old archaeologist who was killed in southern Lebanon in November. The incident, which also claimed the life of a soldier, has been attributed to 'operational burnout' and a 'weakening of discipline and safety' within the military.
The archaeologist, not on active duty at the time, was reportedly exploring an archaeological site in Lebanon. The military has launched probes to determine the circumstances that led to his entry into a combat zone.
While civilian entry into combat zones is not common, instances of individuals supporting a permanent Israeli presence in Gaza or Lebanon entering these areas have been reported.
For more updates on the conflict, visit AP's war coverage.
