Israel pounds south and north of Gaza strip
Recent escalated conflict in the Gaza Strip has seen intensifying battles between Israeli forces and militants from Hamas, Islamic Jihad, and other Palestinian factions. The hostilities, happening in both the south and north of Gaza, are described as some of the most severe in recent months. Concurrently, tension arises at border crossings where aid delivery is complicated by military activity. At the Rafa checkpoint, empty trucks destined to collect aid for Gazan families and goods for the private sector are stalled, as drivers await clearance amidst the crossfire. At the center of diplomatic tensions, Israel's foreign minister has sought support from the United Kingdom and Germany to pressure Egypt into opening the Rafa crossing. However, Egypt cites Israel's ongoing military operations as the primary barrier to aid entry. Meanwhile, a separate incident at the Tarkamia checkpoint in the West Bank involved a mob of far-right Israelis attacking an aid convoy meant for Gaza, eliciting strong disapproval from the United States. The United Nations and international bodies are advocating for an immediate ceasefire to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza. The appeal emphasizes the necessity of reopening the Rafa crossing for unobstructed humanitarian access across Gaza. In this dire situation, for the civilians in Gaza, safety has become exceedingly elusive. During Israel's Independence Day, efforts by Hamas to assert pressure included the release of videos claiming successful attacks on Israeli tanks, alleging multiple soldier casualties. Israel responded with a statement claiming the elimination of over 100 "terrorists" in the days mentioned. These developments indicate a continued cycle of retaliation that underscores the urgent need for diplomatic intervention and humanitarian relief.