Israeli Airstrikes Kill 33 in Gaza, Escalating Tensions Post-Ceasefire
33 Killed in Gaza as Israeli Airstrikes Escalate Tensions
Israeli airstrikes on Gaza have killed 33 people, according to local medical officials. The strikes, which targeted civilian areas, are the deadliest since the US-backed ceasefire was implemented last month, raising fears that the fragile peace could soon collapse.
In Khan Younis, 17 people were killed, including five women and five children. The victims were in tents that had been set up as shelters for displaced families. In Gaza City, 16 more people died in two separate airstrikes, with seven children and three women among the casualties.
Israel Responds to Alleged Gunfire
Israel said the attacks were a response to gunfire aimed at its soldiers near Khan Younis on Wednesday. While no Israeli troops were reported injured, the airstrikes have sparked widespread condemnation. Hamas denied firing at Israeli forces, calling the airstrikes a “shocking massacre.”
Despite Israel’s justification, many in Gaza see the strikes as a continuation of the two-year war, leaving civilians once again caught in the crossfire.
Life in Gaza: Fear and Despair
For many Palestinians, the sense of relief from the ceasefire is fleeting. Lina Kuraz, a mother in Gaza City, shared the anxiety many feel: “My daughter kept asking me, ‘Will the war come back?’ Every time we try to regain hope, the shelling starts again.”
Mohammed Hamdouna, 36, displaced from northern Gaza, added, “We are still living in tents, the cities are rubble, and all basic needs are still lacking.”
International Reactions: Growing Concern
The latest round of violence has drawn sharp criticism from the international community. Qatar, which has mediated throughout the conflict, called the airstrikes a “dangerous escalation” and warned they could undermine the ceasefire agreement. Meanwhile, the United Nations is pushing for a long-term peace plan for Gaza, which includes the deployment of an international peacekeeping force and a pathway toward a sovereign Palestinian state. But questions remain on how such a plan can be implemented.
The Humanitarian Toll
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen. The health ministry reports more than 300 deaths since the ceasefire began, averaging more than seven deaths per day. Basic supplies like food, medicine, and water are in critical shortage, while the border crossings remain tightly controlled by Israel.
Hostages and Territorial Control
The issue of hostages also remains unresolved. Hamas still holds the remains of three Israeli hostages, while Israel controls more than half of Gaza. The territory remains divided, with both sides accusing each other of violating ceasefire terms.
Violence Spreads to Southern Lebanon
The violence in Gaza coincides with a rise in hostilities in southern Lebanon. Israeli airstrikes recently targeted Hezbollah positions, and an attack on the Palestinian refugee camp of Ein el-Hilweh killed 13 people. This marks the deadliest Israeli strike on Lebanon since last year’s ceasefire with Hezbollah.
Looking Ahead: An Uncertain Peace
As the situation deteriorates, the future of the ceasefire remains uncertain. Both sides have violated its terms, and many civilians are caught in the middle. While international efforts continue, it’s unclear how peace can be achieved without addressing key issues, including the status of hostages, humanitarian aid, and the disarmament of Hamas.
For now, Palestinians like Lina and Mohammed are left to endure another chapter of uncertainty, fearing that the war is far from over.
