GAZA: At least 32,705 Palestinians have been killed and 75,190 injured in Israel’s military offensive on the Gaza Strip since October 7, the enclave’s health ministry said on Saturday. This staggering figure underscores the devastation wrought by the ongoing Israeli bombardment in the besieged Palestinian territory.
Meanwhile, the United States has authorized the transfer of billions of dollars worth of bombs and fighter jets to Israel, despite mounting international concerns about the situation. The arms packages include over 1,800 MK84 2,000-pound bombs and 500 MK82 500-pound bombs.
Washington’s decision to continue military assistance to Israel, its longtime ally, comes amid strong international criticism of Israel’s bombing campaign and ground offensive in Gaza. Some members of President Joe Biden’s party have called for a reassessment of US military aid to Israel in light of the escalating violence.
Hamas has reported over 50 Israeli airstrikes in the past day, targeting civilian houses and other locations across the coastal territory. Israel’s military has confirmed striking dozens of targets in central and northern Gaza.
Amidst the ongoing conflict, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in January that Israel must facilitate urgently needed humanitarian aid to Gaza, with the court citing the dire conditions, including the onset of famine.
The latest incident highlighting the desperation in Gaza occurred during an aid delivery in the north, where five people were killed and dozens injured in a stampede and gunfire. A UN-backed report has projected famine in Gaza by May unless urgent intervention occurs, with half of Gazans currently experiencing “catastrophic” hunger.
Despite international efforts to secure a truce, talks have appeared deadlocked. With limited ground access, nations have resorted to aid airdrops, and a new sea corridor to Gaza is being established to facilitate assistance.
While the ICJ’s rulings are binding, enforcement mechanisms are limited. Israel’s allies and the UN have called for greater access to aid, while Israel’s defence ministry has criticized the accuracy of assessments regarding humanitarian needs in Gaza.
