GAZA: Israel’s military intensified its bombing of southern Gaza overnight after one of deadliest days for Palestinians since conflict began as world leaders called for halt to fighting to allow aid into besieged enclave.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a televised statement, that Israel is preparing a ground invasion of Gaza. However,  he declined to provide any details on the timing or other information about the operation.

Palestinian death toll from ongoing Israeli airstrikes on Gaza Strip has soared to 6,546, Health Ministry said. “Fatalities included 2,704 children, 1,584 women and 364 elders,” Ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qudra told press conference in Gaza City. He said 17,439 other people were injured in assaults, while 1,600 people remained trapped under rubble, including 900 children.

Spokesman said 73 medics were killed and 25 ambulances destroyed in Israeli attacks. “Gaza’s healthcare system went out of service” amid relentless attacks and critical shortages, al-Qudra said. Israel’s military said its jets struck Syrian Army infrastructure and mortar launchers in response to rockets launched from Iran ally Syria. Military did not provide further details.  United States and Russia are leading international calls for pause in fighting between Israel and Hamas to allow aid into Gaza where Palestinians are living in harrowing conditions.

Israel’s military also claimed it targeted a cell of Hamas divers attempting to enter Israel by sea near Kibbutz Zikim. There was no immediate comment from Hamas on incident. United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres last week also called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. Gulf state, in coordination with US, is leading mediation talks with Hamas and Israel over hostage release.

Published in The Daily National Courier, October, 26 2023

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