Israeli Airstrikes Leave Over 30 Dead in Gaza, Violating Ceasefire
In a recent escalation of violence, Israeli airstrikes have reportedly killed at least 33 Palestinians, including 20 women and children, in the Gaza Strip, less than 48 hours after the UN Security Council adopted US President Donald Trump's 20-point plan for the enclave. Medical officials in Gaza City and Khan Younis reported heavy casualties, marking one of the deadliest days in the Palestinian enclave since the truce took effect on October 10.
Violation of Ceasefire
The airstrikes come amid accusations from both sides of breaching the ceasefire agreement. Israel claims the strikes were launched in response to terrorists
firing on the area of its operations, constituting a violation of the ceasefire agreement. On the other hand, Hamas and other Palestinian factions accuse Israel of undermining the agreement and creating a dangerous reality on the ground.
Airstrikes and Casualties
The attacks, which included airstrikes, heavy artillery bombardment, and tank fire, were concentrated in the Khan Younis area and Gaza City. Israeli warships targeted the Khan Younis beach while Israeli tanks pounded areas east of the city. The Israeli military also demolished residential buildings in these areas, contributing to the ongoing destruction of the territory's infrastructure.
Israel's collective punishment of the territory’s population continues... Palestinians are still being killed, and people remain vulnerable, scared and deliberately deprived, amid the unimaginable carnage of destruction,wrote Ruth James in an opinion piece for the Middle East Eye.
Ceasefire Violations and Rising Death Toll
Despite the ceasefire agreement, Gaza continues to experience violence. The Government Media Office in Gaza reported 393 documented ceasefire violations by the Israeli military, leading to the death of 279 Palestinians, most of them civilians, since the truce began. The current violent escalation has pushed the death toll in Gaza since the conflict began in October 2023 to over 69,000, according to the Palestinian health ministry.
International Response and Current Situation
While the international community's response to the airstrikes is still unfolding, there is strong criticism for the U.S.'s 20-point plan for Gaza, which critics argue merely acts as political cover for Israel’s ongoing military campaign. The current situation in Gaza remains tense, with reports of continued bombing and increasing casualties.