The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has led to escalating violence, with significant casualties reported. Since the resumption of Israeli military operations in Gaza last Tuesday, health authorities have confirmed the deaths of nearly 700 Palestinians, including at least 400 women and children. The Israeli military states that its goal is to force Hamas to release hostages held in Gaza, emphasizing its efforts to minimize harm to civilians, though it has faced criticism over the high civilian toll.
The conflict reignited following Hamas’s deadly assault on Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and the taking of more than 250 hostages. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has condemned Hamas for fighting from civilian areas, which, according to him, endangers innocent lives. Hamas, however, denies using civilians or civilian properties for military purposes.
The situation in Rafah, a city in Gaza near the border with Egypt, has worsened, with thousands trapped in the Tel Al-Sultan area without access to essential resources like food, water, or medicine. The municipality has reported a complete communication blackout in the area, leaving families in the dark about the fate of their loved ones.
As the conflict continues to intensify, international concern over the humanitarian impact grows, with calls for both sides to prioritize the protection of civilians.