Israeli airstrikes kill 17 amid intensifying Gaza offensive
- Israeli airstrikes resulted in the deaths of at least 17 people in Khan Younis, with continued search efforts for survivors.
- Over 280,000 Palestinians have been displaced since the end of the ceasefire, confronting significant shortages of essential supplies.
- The ongoing conflict, catalysts, and humanitarian crises highlight the dire need for resolution and a lasting ceasefire.
In the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Israeli airstrikes have resulted in the deaths of at least 17 individuals early on Friday. The strikes targeted the southern city of Khan Younis and were part of Israel's strategy to intensify its military offensive against Hamas. Following these strikes, which killed people from the same family, search efforts continued throughout the day as residents looked for survivors among the rubble left behind. As the humanitarian situation worsens, reports indicate that more than 280,000 Palestinians have been displaced since the ceasefire was lifted. The recent attacks were not isolated; over the past two weeks, Israeli military operations have resulted in the deaths of hundreds of Palestinians, with a report from Gaza's Health Ministry stating that the total number of Palestinian casualties has exceeded 50,000 during the ongoing offensive. The humanitarian crisis is dire, exacerbated by a month-long blockade on essential supplies such as food, fuel, and aid imposed by Israel to pressure Hamas. Rights groups have condemned these measures as war crimes, highlighting the acute shortages faced by civilians living in Gaza. Amidst the violence, Hamas has maintained a firm stance, insisting it will only release the remaining 59 hostages, some of whom are believed to be alive, in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, a lasting ceasefire, and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the region. The militant group has firmly rejected calls from Israel for them to disarm or leave Gaza, complicating the circumstances surrounding the conflict further. The backdrop of this violence traces back to the assault by Hamas on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which claimed the lives of approximately 1,200 people, predominantly civilians, and led to the abduction of 251 hostages. Following a series of agreements, most hostages have been returned. Israel has stated that around 20,000 militants were killed in response to the assault, although no evidence has been provided to substantiate this claim. The ongoing conflict has left Gaza in ruins, displacing as much as 90% of its population.