Israeli airstrikes Rafah kill 35, injure dozens

Israeli airstrikes kill at least 35 in Gaza, mostly women and children. Humanitarian aid struggles to reach those in need.

The city of Deir al-Balah in the Gaza Strip was rocked by devastating Israeli airstrikes on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of at least 35 people, with many more trapped in burning debris. The strikes targeted tents for displaced people in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, where women and children accounted for the majority of the casualties. This tragic event occurred just two days after the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to cease its military offensive in Rafah, a city where over half of Gaza's population sought shelter before the recent incursion by Israeli forces.

The aftermath of the airstrikes revealed scenes of heavy destruction, with Israel's army confirming the strike on a Hamas installation that resulted in the deaths of two senior Hamas militants. While the military claimed to be investigating reports of civilian harm, the reality on the ground painted a grim picture of devastation and loss. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant's presence in Rafah underscored the seriousness of the situation, with ongoing search-and-rescue efforts in the Tal al-Sultan neighborhood revealing the true extent of the tragedy.

Amidst the chaos and destruction, humanitarian aid trucks attempted to enter Gaza from southern Israel, bypassing the Rafah crossing that had been seized by Israeli forces. The Kerem Shalom crossing saw 126 aid trucks entering Gaza, but the accessibility of this aid remained uncertain due to the ongoing fighting in the region. The dire humanitarian situation in Gaza was exacerbated by the expanded Israeli incursion in Rafah, prompting concerns from the World Health Organization about the disastrous impact on the population.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas has taken a heavy toll on the people of Gaza, with tens of thousands displaced, severe hunger widespread, and reports of famine in certain areas. The war, triggered by Hamas' attack on Israel, has resulted in a staggering number of casualties and a humanitarian crisis of epic proportions. The situation in Gaza has also led to heightened tensions in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, with reports of further violence and loss of life.

As the world watches in horror at the unfolding tragedy in Gaza, the need for urgent action and intervention becomes increasingly clear. The suffering of the Palestinian people must be addressed, and a lasting solution to the conflict must be found to prevent further loss of life and devastation. The international community must come together to support the people of Gaza and work towards a peaceful resolution that ensures the safety and well-being of all those affected by this tragic conflict.

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