Israeli Attacks on Gaza Escalate: Death Toll Rises to 66,055

Kokcha News Agency: The Gaza Health Ministry reported that the death toll from Israel’s military campaign in Gaza has reached 66,055, with 50 more Palestinians killed in the last 24 hours. The number of injured has also risen to 168,346.

Since the start of the Israeli offensive on October 7, 2023, Gaza has been subjected to relentless airstrikes, ground operations, and blockades. The recent escalation in violence has led to widespread destruction, with thousands still believed to be trapped under the rubble.

1. Recent Casualties:
   • In the last 24 hours, 50 Palestinians were killed and 184 were injured in Israeli airstrikes across Gaza.
   • Hospitals in Gaza are overwhelmed, struggling to cope with the influx of casualties.
2. Targeted Areas:
   • Israeli forces have intensified attacks on central and southern Gaza, including the cities of Khan Younis and Rafah.
   • The Al-Hilu Hospital in Gaza City was hit by Israeli artillery fire, leaving nearly 100 medical staff and patients trapped inside.
3. Humanitarian Crisis:
   • The ongoing blockade has led to severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies.
   • The Gaza Health Ministry has called on international organizations to intervene and protect civilians and healthcare facilities.
4. Forced Displacement:
   • Israeli forces have been urging Palestinians to evacuate Gaza City and move south, but even those who comply face continued attacks in the so-called “safe zones.”
5. West Bank Violence:
   • In the occupied West Bank, Israeli forces have conducted raids, arrests, and attacks on Palestinian towns and refugee camps.
   • The Jenin refugee camp has been a focal point of violence, with 63 Palestinians killed since January 21, 2024.

International Response:

• UN and Human Rights Organizations:
  The United Nations and various human rights groups have condemned Israel’s actions, calling them violations of international law and war crimes.
• US Involvement:
  US President Donald Trump has proposed a ceasefire plan, but Israeli officials have set stringent conditions, including the complete disarmament of Hamas and continued Israeli control over the Philadelphi Corridor along the Gaza-Egypt border.

Gaza’s Future:

The proposed ceasefire plan includes the establishment of a technocratic interim government in Gaza, the withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the eventual transfer of control to the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah. However, the plan faces significant hurdles, including Hamas’s refusal to disarm and Israel’s insistence on maintaining security control.