Why it matters:
The death toll in Gaza continues to surge amid regional mediation for ceasefire negotiations, with over 300 Palestinians killed in the past two days, according to Gaza’s Government Media Office.
Also, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, at least 118 Palestinians, including 12 aid seekers, have been killed and 581 others injured in Israeli attacks across the Gaza Strip in the past 24 hours.
Earlier, Gaza medical sources reported that at least 33 people were killed Thursday while seeking food at aid centers, deepening scrutiny over the U.S.-Israeli Aid Office, which turned into a death trap for Gazans.
The big picture:
Israel’s offensive has killed at least 57,130 Palestinians and wounded 135,173 since 7th October 2023, the Gaza Health Ministry updated the casualty figures.
AP reports detail American contractors using live ammunition against desperate civilians at aid distribution points, sparking outcry from NGOs.
Hamas says it’s reviewing a 60-day truce proposal but demands a full Israeli withdrawal and a stop to attacks on Gaza.
By the numbers:
- 13 people were killed in an Israeli strike on a tent camp in al-Mawasi.
- 11 people were killed at a Gaza City school sheltering displaced families.
- Over 600 Palestinians have been killed since May while seeking aid at the distribution centers.
- In the last 24 hours, Gaza hospitals received 118 fatalities and 581 injuries.
- Since October 7, 2023, the death toll from Israeli aggression in Gaza has reached 57,130, with 135,173 wounded.
What they’re saying:
Gaza Government Media Office: “Israel committed 26 massacres in the last 48 hours, targeting shelters, markets, and starving civilians.”
Hamas, in a statement, said: “We are studying proposals for a ceasefire but seek a deal that ends the war entirely.”
With no near-term resolution, Gaza’s humanitarian catastrophe worsens as U.S.-backed aid efforts face mounting criticism for being a death trap for Palestinian aid seekers.
Go deeper:
Israeli Minister Calls for Entire Occupation of Gaza
Hossein Amiri
