Israeli airstrikes have hit Gaza overnight, killing at least 50 people, according to hospital officials. Medical staff in Khan Younis confirmed that many bodies, including five children, were brought to Nasser Hospital. At a nearby hospital, the European Hospital, medics treated 19 more victims. This included a pregnant woman and five children. Ahli Hospital in Gaza City received the bodies of seven children, among others killed.
Evacuation Orders Issued Before More Strikes
Israeli forces have warned people in Gaza to evacuate. They say they will use “extreme force” in some areas. The army urged civilians to move west of Gaza City. These warnings come as Israel continues its military action against Hamas. The goal is to bring back hostages and remove Hamas from the region.
New Security Route Announced by Netanyahu
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a new security corridor in Gaza. This corridor, called the Morag Corridor, connects Israeli territory to the Mediterranean Sea. It will also separate Rafah, a town in Gaza, from the rest of the Strip. Netanyahu called it a “second Philadelphi Corridor,” referring to a previous buffer zone along Gaza’s border with Egypt. Israel also controls the Netzarim Corridor, which divides northern Gaza from the rest of the region.
Israel’s Long-Term Strategy for Gaza
Netanyahu spoke about Israel’s long-term goals. He said the country would push harder until Hamas gives up hostages, disarms, and leaves Gaza. “We are cutting up the Strip to force Hamas to act,” Netanyahu said. Defence Minister Israel Katz said Israel would take more land and expand buffer zones. Katz called on civilians to force Hamas out, saying this is the only way to end the war.
Palestinian Authority Rejects Israel’s Plan
The Palestinian Authority (PA) has opposed Israel’s corridor plan. In a statement, the PA called for Hamas to step down. They want to restore Palestinian unity and leadership across all territories. PA officials argue that Gaza should be free from militant control.
Hostage Negotiations Stall, Hamas Makes Demands
Talks to free hostages have reached a standstill. Hamas said it would release the 59 remaining hostages only if Israel agrees to a ceasefire. They also demand the release of Palestinian prisoners and Israel’s full withdrawal from Gaza. However, Israel has rejected these terms and continues its military actions.
Gaza Faces Severe Humanitarian Crisis
The war between Israel and Hamas began on October 7, 2023. This followed a deadly attack by Hamas fighters on Israel, killing 1,200 people and capturing 251 hostages. Since then, Israel has launched continuous strikes on Gaza.
The conflict has destroyed large parts of Gaza. About 90% of Gaza’s population has been displaced. Many people have no homes, and basic supplies like food, water, and medicine are in short supply. The situation is getting worse each day. Israel has imposed a blockade on Gaza, making it harder for aid to get in. As a result, many people are facing extreme hardship.
Medical staff in Gaza are overwhelmed. Hospitals are running out of space and supplies. Thousands of injured people need urgent care. Yet, there aren’t enough resources to treat them all. Gaza’s children and women have been especially hard-hit, with many casualties.
Global Calls for a Ceasefire
The international community has called for a ceasefire. Countries and organizations around the world are asking Israel and Hamas to stop the fighting. They want both sides to protect civilians and allow aid to reach those in need. The United Nations has urged both sides to respect international law and avoid harming innocent people. Many are also calling for more humanitarian assistance to be sent to Gaza.
No End in Sight for the Conflict
The war has had a heavy toll on Gaza. It has killed thousands and left the region in ruins. The military situation is not improving, and no clear solution has emerged. Israel insists that its military campaign will continue until Hamas meets its demands. But Hamas is unlikely to accept Israel’s terms, making a ceasefire seem unlikely.
Civilians in Gaza face extreme suffering. The destruction of homes, hospitals, and schools has made life unbearable for many. As the conflict drags on, the situation seems to grow more desperate.