On Sunday, Israel conducted deadly airstrikes in the Gaza Strip as the conflict entered its 10th month, with fighting intensifying across Palestinian territories. Concurrently, diplomatic efforts are underway to halt the violence. Lebanon’s Hezbollah movement launched 20 rockets into northern Israel, injuring one person, as a show of solidarity with Gaza’s Hamas militants.
Diplomatic Efforts for Truce
Efforts toward a truce continued with US, Qatari, and Egyptian mediators striving to end the worst-ever Gaza war. This conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties and widespread destruction since Hamas’s October 7 attack on Israel. Egypt’s Al-Qahera News reported that Cairo is “hosting Israeli and American delegations” to discuss a ceasefire and hostage release deal. Mediators are in contact with Hamas amid intensive Egyptian meetings aimed at securing a truce.
Military Escalations
The ongoing conflict saw heavy clashes and bombardments in Gaza, with medics reporting numerous casualties from multiple strikes. The Palestinian Red Crescent confirmed six deaths, including two children, in Deir al-Balah, while additional fatalities were reported in Gaza City. An AFP correspondent witnessed Israeli drone attacks in the al-Shujaiya district.
The Israeli army reported that its troops eliminated several terrorists and dismantled terror infrastructure in al-Shujaiya. They also conducted operations in Rafah and Khan Younis, targeting Hamas positions.
Civilian Impact
The Gaza health ministry reported that 16 people were killed in a strike on a UNRWA school sheltering displaced individuals. The war has uprooted 90% of Gaza’s population, left almost 500,000 people facing catastrophic hunger, and shuttered most hospitals, according to UN agencies. Dr. Muhammad Salha, acting director of Al-Awda Hospital, highlighted the dire situation due to fuel shortages and postponed surgeries.
Hezbollah’s Response
Amid the Gaza conflict, Israel and Hezbollah have exchanged daily cross-border fire, escalating tensions. Early on Sunday, Hezbollah fired 20 rockets into northern Israel, with one person injured in Kfar Zeitim. Hezbollah stated that the attack was a response to an Israeli strike that killed a Hezbollah operative.
Ongoing Conflict and Efforts for Peace
As the war continues, diplomatic efforts to negotiate a ceasefire remain critical. US President Joe Biden’s proposed plan, which includes a six-week truce and an exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners, faces challenges but shows potential for progress.
