Israeli Strikes on Palestinian Territories Leave Dozens Dead Amid Ongoing Conflict
On Wednesday, Israeli airstrikes on Palestinian territories resulted in the deaths of more than two dozen people, according to local officials. Among the casualties, five Palestinians were killed in the West Bank, while at least 20, including 16 women and children, lost their lives in the Gaza Strip. The strikes, which tragically hit densely populated areas, have contributed to the rising civilian toll as the conflict intensifies.
Mounting Casualties in Gaza
Gaza’s Health Ministry reported that a strike on a tent camp in an Israeli-designated humanitarian zone killed at least 19 people. Since the Israel-Hamas war began, more than 40,000 Palestinians have been killed. However, the figures do not differentiate between civilians and fighters, underscoring the devastating human cost. The war has destroyed much of Gaza’s infrastructure, displacing about 90% of its 2.3 million residents, many multiple times.
Hamas’ October 7 attack, which killed around 1,200 Israelis, mostly civilians, continues to drive the ongoing violence. An estimated 250 people were abducted during the attack, with about 100 still held hostage.
Helicopter Crash Claims Lives of Israeli Soldiers
In southern Gaza, two Israeli soldiers died in a non-combat-related helicopter crash overnight. The crash, which injured seven others, occurred during a medical evacuation mission. Israeli authorities confirmed the crash was not due to enemy fire, and an investigation is underway.
Since Israel’s ground operation began in late October, 340 Israeli soldiers have been killed, with at least 50 deaths attributed to accidents unrelated to combat in Gaza.
Medical Evacuations from Gaza to UAE
In a significant development, dozens of Palestinian patients were expected to leave Gaza on Wednesday for medical treatment in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Over 200 individuals, mainly children, are crossing into Israel via the Kerem Shalom border before flying to the UAE. This marks the largest medical evacuation since the war began, as Israel has largely sealed off Gaza since May, limiting access to medical treatment.
Hamas Leader Sinwar Breaks Silence
In his first public statement since becoming Hamas’ leader, Yahya Sinwar thanked Algeria for its support of the Palestinian cause. Algeria, a key advocate for Palestine at the United Nations, has pushed for a cease-fire since the conflict erupted. Sinwar, a key figure in the October 7 attack, remains in hiding, and Israel has vowed to eliminate him.
Ongoing Violence in the West Bank and Gaza
Israeli airstrikes in the West Bank killed five Palestinians on Wednesday, targeting militants in the city of Tubas. Israel has ramped up military operations in the West Bank, claiming efforts to dismantle militant groups, while Palestinians accuse Israel of cementing its control over the territory.
In Gaza, additional airstrikes killed at least 20 people, including entire families. A strike near Khan Younis killed six siblings, while another strike in Jabaliya claimed the lives of nine people, including women and children. The Gaza Health Ministry reports over 41,000 Palestinians have been killed and nearly 95,000 wounded since the war began.
The conflict shows no signs of ending as both sides continue to suffer heavy casualties. Israel asserts its strikes target militants, though the high civilian toll remains a major concern in the international community.