Israeli airstrikes intensified over Gaza City, resulting in at least 32 deaths, including 12 children, according to Shifa Hospital. The strikes targeted high-rise buildings allegedly used by Hamas, despite Israel urging civilians to evacuate. A deadly strike in Sheikh Radwan killed 10 family members, including a mother and three children, as well as footballer Mohammed Ramez Sultan and 14 relatives.
Many residents remain in Gaza due to financial constraints and exhaustion from displacement, with the Israeli army claiming over 250,000 have fled, while the U.N. estimates only 100,000 have left as of mid-September. Aid efforts are hindered by logistical issues, with over 86,000 tents awaiting entry into Gaza.
The escalation follows failed assassination attempts on Hamas leaders in Qatar, raising tensions and complicating hostage negotiations. Families of Israeli hostages are expressing concern over Prime Minister Netanyahu’s strategies, fearing they endanger their loved ones still held in Gaza. Since the conflict began in October 2023, over 64,800 Palestinians have died, with women and children comprising half of the casualties, and around 90% of Gaza’s 2 million residents have been displaced.
In response to the airstrikes, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Israel, highlighting the strong U.S.-Israel alliance while expressing concerns over unilateral actions that jeopardized hostage negotiations and ceasefire efforts. The strikes drew backlash from Arab allies and disrupted talks with Hamas, which retains 48 hostages. Rubio underscored the urgency of securing their release and preparing for Gaza’s post-war reconstruction, though key logistical and funding decisions remain unresolved. The international community continues to call for restraint and a renewed focus on negotiations to address the humanitarian crisis.
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