Escalating Violence in Gaza: Israeli Bombardment Leaves Dozens Dead and Injured
In a devastating escalation of violence, Israeli forces launched extensive airstrikes and artillery bombardments across the Gaza Strip on Sunday night into Monday. The attacks notably targeted residential areas, including schools that were sheltering displaced individuals, resulting in significant casualties. Reports indicate that at least 23 people lost their lives within a 24-hour period, with many others sustaining severe injuries.
Among the most tragic incidents was the bombardment of Khalid bin al-Walid School in the Nuseirat camp, where three individuals, including a woman and a child, were killed. Medical sources reported that the injured were rushed to Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, with many in critical condition. Similarly, seven fatalities were recorded at Kafr Qasim School, which also housed displaced families in the Al-Shati camp. Rescue operations are ongoing in Jabalia camp, where a house was struck, leaving several residents trapped under the rubble.
The relentless shelling has not only claimed lives but has also exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in the region. Displaced individuals are facing dire conditions due to heavy rains that have flooded their makeshift shelters, further complicating their access to essential resources such as food, water, and medicine. The ongoing bombardment has left thousands vulnerable, with the situation deteriorating after nearly a year of conflict.
In addition to the physical destruction, the Israeli bombardment has disrupted communication services in the region. The Palestinian Telecommunications Company, Paltel, announced that internet services were suspended in southern and central Gaza due to the ongoing attacks. This disruption follows a pattern observed since the onset of the conflict on October 7, 2023, where communication infrastructure has been repeatedly targeted, leaving many residents isolated and without access to crucial information.
As the conflict continues, international calls for a ceasefire have largely gone unheeded. The United Nations Security Council has urged an immediate halt to hostilities, yet the violence persists, raising concerns about potential violations of international law and the humanitarian impact on the civilian population. With over 137,000 casualties reported, primarily among women and children, the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and intervention is more critical than ever.