By Emmanuel Dominic 
60 Dead in Gaza as Israeli Offensive Continues, ‘Basic’ Aid Allowed
Israeli airstrikes across Gaza overnight have resulted in the deaths of at least 60 Palestinians, including women and children, according to local health officials. The strikes targeted various locations, including a family home, a school-turned-shelter, and areas in northern, central, and southern Gaza, such as Khan Younis, Deir al-Balah, and the Nuseirat refugee camp.
These attacks are part of Israel’s ongoing military campaign aimed at dismantling Hamas and securing the release of hostages taken during Hamas’s October 2023 attack on Israel. Since the conflict began, over 53,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, have been killed, leading to widespread international condemnation.
In response to mounting pressure from international allies, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has agreed to allow a limited amount of humanitarian aid into Gaza. This decision follows an 11-week blockade that had severely restricted food, fuel, and medical supplies, putting Gaza’s population at immediate risk of starvation.
Despite this concession, the international community, including countries like the UK, France, Canada, and Australia, has criticized the limited nature of the aid and warned of potential sanctions if Israel does not take more substantial actions to alleviate the humanitarian crisis.
The United Nations has highlighted the inadequacy of the current humanitarian aid, with only a fraction of the approved 100 aid trucks entering Gaza. UN officials have warned that thousands of children may die without immediate assistance.
Within Israel, there has been rare internal criticism of the government’s actions. Opposition leader Yair Golan condemned the civilian casualties and accused the government of unethical conduct. Prime Minister Netanyahu dismissed the criticism as defamation.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with ongoing military operations and a worsening humanitarian crisis. International actors continue to call for a ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid to prevent further loss of life.
