Heavy Bombardment Hits Southern Gaza
Israeli airstrikes Khan Younis left over 50 dead overnight, according to officials at Nasser Hospital. The strikes mark the second night in a row of intense Israeli bombing in both northern and southern Gaza.
An Associated Press cameraman confirmed 10 strikes hit the city overnight. Morgue officials reported 54 people killed, with some body bags containing multiple victims’ remains. Several of the dead were severely mutilated.
Among those killed was Hasan Samour, a journalist working for Al Araby TV, along with 11 members of his family.
Journalist Among the Dead
Al Araby TV confirmed Samour’s death on social media. His passing adds to the growing list of media casualties in the ongoing conflict. No comment has been issued by the Israeli military regarding these latest strikes.
Trump’s Middle East Visit Raises Hopes, Brings No Ceasefire
The airstrikes coincided with U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit to Gulf nations in the region. However, he has not scheduled any meetings in Israel or Gaza. There had been hope that his trip would support a ceasefire deal or humanitarian relief.
An Israeli blockade of Gaza has now lasted over three months, preventing food and medical aid from entering.
Humanitarian Crisis Worsens
The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) warns that Gaza is nearing famine conditions. Nearly half a million Palestinians face starvation.Every day, around a million additional people struggle to obtain enough food.
Since March 2, Israel has stopped providing any help, which has made matters worse. Gaza’s Health Ministry reports that the conflict has killed nearly 53,000 people, including over 3,000 since the March 18 truce violation.
International Condemnation Growing
Human Rights Watch accused Israel of “inching closer to extermination” in Gaza and called on nations to act under the Genocide Convention. The group pointed to the destruction of civilian infrastructure and mass displacement.
Israel denies accusations of genocide, maintaining that its military operations target Hamas militants.
Hostage Situation Remains Unresolved
Hamas continues to hold 58 hostages taken during its Oct. 7, 2023 attack on Israel. Only 23 are believed to be alive. Israeli officials remain concerned for three of those captives.
Source: AP News
