In a fierce escalation, Israel's military pressed its assault on Gaza City and the wider Gaza Strip this weekend, dismantling underground tunnels and booby-trapped structures. Gaza's health authorities report at least 60 Palestinians killed in the latest strikes. 💔
Meanwhile, 10 countries and regions—including Australia, Belgium, Britain and Canada—are set to formally recognize an independent Palestinian state on Monday. This move comes just ahead of the UN General Assembly, where leaders from around the world will gather.
On the ground, Israeli forces, controlling Gaza City's eastern suburbs, have focused on the Sheikh Radwan and Tel Al-Hawa neighborhoods. They’ve demolished up to 20 tower blocks in two weeks, and Israeli media say more than 500,000 people have fled the city since early September.
Hamas, which governs Gaza, disputes those figures. It estimates just under 300,000 have left while around 900,000 remain, including hostages. The group also says Israel's military has damaged over 1,800 residential buildings and wiped out more than 13,000 tents housing displaced families.
Since August 11, Gaza's health authorities say more than 65,000 Palestinians have been killed. The conflict has spread famine, demolished homes and uprooted communities multiple times. Israel counters that the hunger crisis is being exaggerated and blames Hamas for obstructing aid.
As tensions run high and global attention turns to the UNGA, the future of Gaza and the dream of a Palestinian state hang in the balance. 🌍✨
Reference(s):
Israel continues Gaza City assualt, at least 60 Palestinians killed
cgtn.com
