The Middle East conflict intensifies with heavy Israeli strikes in Gaza and Lebanon. At least 43,799 Palestinians have been killed since October 7. Hezbollah retaliates, escalating tensions across the region.
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has escalated significantly, with reports of Israeli forces carrying out intense attacks in Gaza, Lebanon, and the West Bank. Meanwhile, Hezbollah continues its retaliation against Israeli targets, adding to the already volatile situation. The violence has caused widespread devastation and a staggering loss of lives, with the death toll rising daily.
Gaza: Heavy Bombardment and Rising Casualties
- In Gaza, Israeli forces launched predawn attacks on Rafah and the Bureij refugee camp, killing 15 Palestinians, including children.
- Since October 7, 2023, at least 43,799 Palestinians have been killed, and 103,601 wounded, marking one of the deadliest conflicts in recent history.
Lebanon: Hezbollah and Israeli Forces Trade Fire
- In Lebanon, Hezbollah continues its confrontation with the Israeli military. The group has launched missiles and drones, hitting Israeli military bases and reportedly targeting a synagogue in Haifa.
- Israeli forces retaliated with widespread airstrikes, including 50 attacks on Beirut’s Dahiyeh in the past week alone.
- Lebanese authorities reported 145 Israeli attacks in the last 24 hours, with most strikes concentrated in Nabatieh and South governorates.
- The ongoing violence in Lebanon has claimed 3,452 lives and injured 14,664 people since the start of the war on Gaza.
West Bank: Settler Violence and Escalations
- In the occupied West Bank, masked Israeli settlers stormed the village of Beit Furik, setting Palestinian homes and vehicles on fire.
- Rising tensions have fueled further unrest, as reports of settler violence have drawn international condemnation.
Key Developments: Netanyahu Residence Incident and Global Reactions
- In Caesarea, flares were fired at the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s private residence, prompting arrests by Israeli police. The incident was described as a "dangerous escalation."
- Former U.S. President Donald Trump, campaigning for re-election, has expressed sympathy for Arab American voters critical of the U.S. stance on Israel. He promised, “During my Administration, we had peace in the Middle East, and we will have peace again very soon!”
- His nominee for Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, has openly supported aggressive Israeli actions, stating in October 2023 that Israel must seek the "complete eradication of Hamas."
Humanitarian and Historical Context
- The crisis has reignited memories of Yasser Arafat’s death on November 11, 2004, marking an emotional moment for Palestinians. Investigations revealed he was poisoned with polonium-210, a finding confirmed by Al Jazeera and international scientists.
- Humanitarian agencies warn of a deepening crisis in Gaza and Lebanon, with relentless airstrikes exacerbating already dire conditions.
Source: Al Jazeera
