Live Coverage of the War in Gaza: Major Updates from Last Week
The war in Gaza continues to escalate, with major developments unfolding last week. In a daring operation by the Israel Defence Forces, four hostages were rescued from the Nuseirat area of Gaza. However, the operation resulted in the deaths of at least 274 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-led health ministry. The toll on the Israeli side was less than 100 casualties.
Following the hostage rescue, Hamas issued a statement threatening to take more Israeli prisoners, describing the operation as a “horrific massacre against innocent civilians.” The militant group warned that it still holds a significant number of Israeli prisoners and could take more in the future.
In another tragic incident, Israel admitted to hitting a school in Nuseirat while targeting a “Hamas compound.” Hamas officials reported that at least 39 people, including children, were killed in the attack. Israel claimed that the school was being used as a cover for Hamas and Islamic Jihad operations, with 20 to 30 fighters present at the time of the strike.
Tensions between Lebanon and Israel also escalated, with cross-border attacks by Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters. Claims emerged of Israel using white phosphorus on Lebanese towns, a chemical substance known for its devastating effects on human skin and tissue. The Human Rights Watch verified the use of white phosphorus munitions by Israeli forces in several Lebanese municipalities.
In the midst of these developments, two Israeli ministers resigned, further complicating the political landscape in Israel. Benny Gantz, the country’s centrist war cabinet minister, cited Netanyahu’s hindrance to progress towards a “real victory” as the reason for his resignation. Gadi Eisenkot, a cabinet observer and minister for the National Unity party, also stepped down, criticizing government decisions that were not in the national interest.
The situation in Gaza and the surrounding regions remains volatile, with ongoing conflict and political upheaval shaping the course of events. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
