On Thursday afternoon, Israeli warplanes launched attacks in the northern part of Jabalia. AFP
A top US official said the United States feels deeply worried about the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza. This statement came after a deadly day when Israeli air strikes killed at least 114 Palestinians, according to local health sources.
The US diplomat emphasized that while the country supports Israel's fight against Hamas, it also feels the pain of innocent civilians in Gaza. “We are not insensitive to the suffering of the people of Gaza,” he said. He also stressed that aid should reach those in need.
Tensions Rise Amid Blockade and Air Strikes
Gaza has been cut off from food and essential supplies for more than two months. Israel has kept a tight blockade and increased air attacks targeting what it says are Hamas fighters and infrastructure. These attacks are part of Israel’s plan to expand its ground operations in Gaza.
After a meeting of NATO foreign ministers, the US official hinted at a plan to bring aid into Gaza through private groups, but this idea faces strong rejection from international organizations.
Meanwhile, indirect talks continue for a ceasefire and the release of hostages held by Hamas. Hamas accused Israel’s leader of making the situation worse by increasing military attacks.
Israel’s government said it wants hostage talks to succeed but only while keeping pressure on Hamas through military action.
Devastation in Gaza’s Cities
In southern Gaza, the city of Khan Younis mourned as families held funerals for dozens killed in the worst air strikes since the conflict escalated two months ago. The local hospital said 56 people, including many children, died after homes and shelters were bombed.
A witness described the hospital’s morgue as overflowing. Doctors struggled to treat patients with serious injuries due to lack of space.
One mother shared a heartbreaking story of losing two very young sons in the attacks. A 13-year-old girl said her uncle’s family died when their home was bombed, and her father had to help rescue survivors from the rubble.
Widespread Casualties Across Gaza
In northern Gaza, rescue teams found bodies in towns hit by air strikes. An entire family was killed in one home. A health clinic and prayer hall in a refugee camp were bombed, killing 15 people including many children.
Residents called the bombing of the clinic a terrible crime. Another man said tanks and drones kept attacking densely populated areas while warning residents to leave.
The Israeli military reported hitting 130 “terror targets” over two days, including fighter groups and weapons sites.
Aid Efforts and Blockade Challenges
A new US-supported group plans to begin work soon to deliver aid in Gaza. They have asked Israel to let the United Nations resume supply deliveries until their program starts. But the UN rejected this plan, saying it goes against its principles of fairness and independence.
Israel has stopped all aid from entering Gaza for 10 weeks. A UN-backed report warned that about half a million people face starvation. Israel says it follows international law and claims there is enough food.
Background of the Conflict
This conflict began after Hamas attacked Israel in October 2023, killing over 1,200 people and taking hostages. Since then, more than 53,000 people have died in Gaza, with nearly 3,000 deaths after the recent offensive resumed.
