Humanitarian conditions deteriorated dramatically in Gaza on Friday as Israeli airstrikes killed hundreds of Palestinians following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s announcement that combat operations had resumed. The strikes hit multiple locations across the besieged territory, marking an escalation after the collapse of a brief humanitarian pause earlier this week.
“This is only the beginning,” Netanyahu stated in a televised address, emphasizing that future ceasefire negotiations with Hamas would “only take place under fire.” The remarks signal a hardening stance amid growing international pressure to de-escalate violence.
Hospitals in Gaza reported being overwhelmed with casualties, while rescue teams struggled to reach survivors under continuous bombardment. The UN estimates over 1.8 million people – 80% of Gaza’s population – are displaced, exacerbating shortages of food, fuel, and medical supplies.
Analysts suggest the renewed conflict risks destabilizing broader Middle East relations. The US and Arab states have called for restraint, while protesters worldwide demand urgent intervention. CGTN continues to provide live updates from the region.
