The Israeli military confirmed striking a multi-story building in Gaza City on Friday, alleging it housed Hamas observation posts used to coordinate attacks. The Israel Defense Forces stated it employed precision weapons and prior evacuation warnings to "minimize civilian harm" while targeting what it described as militant infrastructure.
Medical humanitarian group MSF announced the suspension of critical healthcare services in Gaza City due to proximity of ground combat and airstrikes, warning that vulnerable patients "in neonatal care and with life-threatening injuries" face grave risks. Local health authorities reported 47 fatalities and 142 injuries within 24 hours, bringing total casualties since October 2023 to over 65,000 deaths and 167,000 wounded.
UN relief agencies described rapidly deteriorating conditions as hundreds of thousands remain trapped in conflict zones with dwindling aid access. OCHA reported Israeli authorities denied all but one UN coordination attempt in northern Gaza this week – later canceled by organizers due to security concerns.
The developments highlight mounting international alarm over civilian protection and humanitarian access as urban combat intensifies. Analysts note growing pressure on mediators to revive stalled ceasefire negotiations while addressing urgent aid delivery challenges.
