Cairo: Israel Gaza City assault has entered a deadly phase, with 123 people killed in the past 24 hours according to Gaza’s health ministry.
This marks the worst daily casualty figure in a week, adding to the heavy loss of life from the nearly two-year conflict that has devastated the enclave of over 2 million residents.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated that Palestinians could leave Gaza, a suggestion that has drawn sharp criticism from Arab nations and global leaders. Palestinians have compared the proposal to the ‘Nakba’ of 1948, when hundreds of thousands were displaced during war.
The planned re-seizure of Gaza City, which Israel had briefly captured earlier in the conflict, is expected in the coming weeks. Despite ongoing Egyptian mediation, prospects for a ceasefire remain uncertain as fighting continues.
Overnight, Israeli air and ground forces heavily targeted Zeitoun and Shejaia in eastern Gaza City, destroying multiple homes. An airstrike in Zeitoun killed 12 people, while tanks in Khan Younis demolished houses. In central Gaza, gunfire reportedly killed nine people seeking aid.
The health ministry has reported eight additional deaths from starvation and malnutrition in the past day, bringing the total to 235 since the start of the war, including 106 children. Israel disputes these figures.
Hamas negotiators in Cairo have discussed ending the war, ensuring aid delivery, and alleviating suffering in Gaza. Egyptian sources indicated that talks are exploring a possible comprehensive ceasefire involving Hamas relinquishing governance and weapons. However, Hamas has said that surrendering arms before an Israeli withdrawal is impossible.
Netanyahu’s planned military expansion in Gaza, potentially launching in October, has fuelled global criticism over the destruction, displacement, and hunger in the territory, particularly amid the ongoing Israel Gaza City assault.
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