Recent attacks in Gaza have proven deadly, with sources indicating that at least 20 Palestinians were killed in fresh assaults today alone. Initial strikes targeted two residential buildings in northern Gaza, resulting in the deaths of 13 individuals. Subsequently, Israeli drones attacked another residential site in central Gaza, claiming more than six additional lives.
Stefan Dujarric, spokesperson for the Secretary-General of the United Nations, highlighted the ramifications of these measures on humanitarian access. He specifically noted that segments of the Salah al-Din road, a crucial corridor for humanitarian assistance, have been affected by evacuation orders. Dujarric remarked, “Civilians fleeing their homes due to these Israeli orders face significant peril while searching for new shelters.”
In a related development, Hamas leader Hussam Badran criticized recent statements from U.S. officials suggesting that a ceasefire agreement is imminent. He dismissed these claims as illusions and emphasized that ongoing Israeli control over critical areas remains a substantial barrier to any potential peace deal. “The insistence on controlling the Philadelphia corridor has no security rationale,” Badran stated. “For Washington to facilitate an agreement, it must adhere to previously established conditions.”
These diplomatic discussions were underscored by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s recent visit to the Middle East, where he met with Israeli, Egyptian, and Qatari officials in a bid to mediate a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. However, the talks concluded without any tangible progress.
As reported by the health ministry in Gaza, the total number of casualties since the onset of hostilities has reached a staggering 40,223 dead and 92,401 wounded. Disturbingly, approximately one-third of these fatalities are children, while nearly 18.4% are women—a stark reminder of the human toll this conflict continues to exact on civilians caught in its midst.
Follow TKG on Twitter & Facebook
