The ongoing conflict in Gaza has led to significant humanitarian concerns, with at least 73 Palestinians killed in Israeli attacks across Gaza on Wednesday, including 43 people in Gaza City alone.
Hospital sources confirmed the toll, as Israel continues its assault on the enclave’s main urban center.
In response to the escalating violence, Hamas has expressed willingness to engage in a comprehensive truce deal.
According to Hamas, the agreement would involve the formation of an independent national administration to run Gaza and the release of all Israeli captives.
However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office swiftly rejected the proposal, stating that “the war can end immediately” if certain conditions set by the Israeli cabinet are met.
The conditions for a potential ceasefire remain a point of contention between the two parties.
Meanwhile, Israel’s far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has unveiled a plan for Israel to annex nearly all of the occupied West Bank, urging Netanyahu’s endorsement. This move has further complicated the already fragile situation.
The conflict, which began in October 2023, has resulted in a staggering human toll. At least 63,746 people have been killed and 161,245 wounded across Gaza, while 1,139 people were killed in Israel during the October 7 attacks, with about 200 taken captive.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen, with rising concerns over famine and malnutrition.
International organizations have warned of a dire situation in Gaza, with nearly one in three children acutely malnourished. The UN has declared a famine in Gaza City, which is expected to spread south.
The Israeli military’s actions have drawn widespread condemnation, including from the UN and EU, over potential breaches of international law.
As diplomatic efforts continue to prevent further escalation, the situation remains volatile.
The US has backed Israel but has also urged restraint in its military operations. Arab countries, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, have joined calls for Hamas to disarm and end its rule of Gaza, in a bid to end the devastating war in the Palestinian territory.
The path forward remains uncertain, with both parties holding differing views on the terms of a potential truce.
As the conflict continues, the humanitarian situation in Gaza will likely remain a pressing concern for the international community.
