Under a sky lit by relentless airstrikes, the Gaza Strip witnessed another horrific day as the Israeli military intensified its operations ahead of a reported ground takeover.
According to the Gaza health ministry, 123 people were killed in the past 24 hours—the highest daily death toll in a week. These latest casualties add to the staggering number of fatalities in a conflict now in its 22nd month, tearing apart the lives of more than 2 million residents in the besieged enclave.
While military pressure mounted, Hamas continued talks with Egyptian mediators in Cairo, aiming to broker a temporary ceasefire that could allow vital humanitarian aid into the territory. International organizations have warned that hospitals are overwhelmed and basic supplies are running dangerously low.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended his government’s approach in an interview with i24NEWS, saying, “They’re not being pushed out, they’ll be allowed to exit. All those who are concerned for the Palestinians and say they want to help the Palestinians should open their gates and stop lecturing us.”
Netanyahu’s comments have drawn criticism from human rights groups and foreign officials, who argue that logistical and security challenges make safe passage nearly impossible. UN agencies report that over 60 percent of Gaza’s population has been displaced, with thousands seeking shelter in overcrowded schools and makeshift camps.
Global citizens are watching closely. From social media campaigns demanding humanitarian corridors to petitions calling on governments to step up diplomatic pressure, young activists and thought leaders are uniting across borders. #AidForGaza and #OpenTheGates are trending as thousands share stories of families torn apart and children facing life-threatening shortages of water and medicine.
As the international community presses Israel to ease restrictions and ensure aid flows freely, questions remain: Can diplomacy prevail? Will the siege be lifted before casualty numbers climb even higher? And what role can global citizens play in pushing for a lasting ceasefire?
Reference(s):
Gaza pounded as deaths mount, calls grow for Israel to allow aid
cgtn.com
