Israeli forces escalated airstrikes on Gaza City this week, targeting eastern suburbs and displacing thousands of Palestinian families amid mounting international condemnation. Local medics reported at least 71 Palestinian fatalities in 24 hours, with 16 deaths recorded on Thursday alone. Residents described chaotic scenes as families fled toward coastal areas to escape shelling in Shuja'iyya, Zeitoun, and Sabra neighborhoods.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
The International Committee of the Red Cross confirmed 31 patients with severe injuries, including gunshot wounds, arrived at their Rafah field hospital. UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned that Israel's military advance would force 'hundreds of thousands of exhausted civilians into deeper peril,' calling the strategy 'a new and dangerous phase.'
European Pressure Mounts
Netherlands, Sweden, and Slovenia urged the EU to take stronger action against Israel's campaign. In a joint letter to EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, Dutch and Swedish ministers emphasized the need to 'ramp up pressure' for compliance with international law. Slovenian PM Robert Golob cautioned that Europe risks losing global credibility without policy adjustments.
Ceasefire Stalemate Continues
Despite Hamas' reported acceptance of a hostage-exchange proposal, Israeli officials maintain they will only negotiate a full release of captives and Hamas' surrender. World Food Program chief Cindy McCain emphasized urgent need for safe humanitarian corridors as aid delivery challenges persist.
