Bombings in Gaza result in at least 31 fatalities; international intellectuals charge Israel with acts of genocide
In the heart of the Middle East, the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict continues to unfold, with profound consequences for both sides.
On Monday, Israel launched airstrikes and artillery shelling across the Gaza Strip, resulting in the death of at least 31 people, the majority of whom were women and children. This latest offensive in Gaza City has added to the toll of casualties, which now stands at 63,557 Palestinians according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Around half of these deaths have been women and children.
The Hamas-led militants are also accused of committing atrocities. In the Oct. 7 attack, they killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took 251 people hostage. Thousands of Israelis attended the funerals of two recovered hostages, Idan Shtivi and Ilan Weiss, with private services held for both.
The world's leading authority on food crises has declared that Gaza is in the throes of famine. Amidst this dire situation, Israel has taken steps to further restrict the delivery of food to northern Gaza, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
Mass protests calling for a ceasefire and hostage release have swelled in recent weeks. Mourners, such as Ruti Taro and Ami Dagan from Rishon Letzion, have expressed profound sadness, anger, and grief over the situation. Some have accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of prolonging the war for political purposes, while others have called for the government to reach a deal with Hamas to end the fighting and return the remaining captives.
The International Association of Genocide Scholars (IAGS), the world's leading association of genocide experts, announced on Monday that Israel's policies and actions in Gaza meet the legal definition of genocide under the 1948 UN Convention. The IAGS accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza.
Meanwhile, an activist flotilla headed to Gaza was forced to return to port due to a storm in Spain. The Global Sumud Flotilla, consisting of around 20 boats with participants from 44 countries, chose to return to prioritize safety. Among the participants was Greta Thunberg, a prominent climate campaigner.
Residents of Gaza City face a twin threat of combat and hunger due to the ongoing fighting and Israel's blockade. As the conflict continues, the international community watches with growing concern, hoping for a swift resolution to end the suffering and loss of life.
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