In the latest developments from the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Israeli troops and tanks launched a multi-pronged assault on Gaza’s main northern city, escalating ground operations in the region. With the conflict entering its fourth week, international pressure has surged for the protection of Palestinian civilians who are grappling with severe shortages of fuel, food, and clean water.
“IDF troops killed dozens of terrorists who barricaded themselves in buildings and tunnels, and attempted to attack the troops,” the military said, adding that four prominent Hamas operatives were among them.
According to Israel’s military, over 600 militant targets have been struck during the past few days, with a particular focus on Gaza City, where Hamas are believed to be using an intricate network of tunnels for shelter.
Residents reported heavy exchanges of fire and airstrikes, including near hospitals such as Al-Shifa, Al-Quds, and the Turkish Friendship Hospital, raising concerns about the safety of civilians and medical staff.
While some Palestinians have heeded calls to move to the south, many remain in Gaza City, fearing the loss of their homes amid reports of continuous Israeli air strikes.
Amid the conflict, phone and internet services were partially restored in the region, although some areas in the north continued to experience disruptions.
As the conflict rages on, Israel has claimed the deaths of 1,400 people in an earlier terrorist incursion into the southern part of the country, along with the capture of 229 hostages. So far, four hostages have been released, with 50 casualties reported in retaliatory strikes. In contrast, medical authorities in Gaza have reported a staggering toll of 8,306 fatalities, including 3,457 minors, while rescue operations are facing significant challenges in reaching those in need.
The mounting civilian casualties, infrastructure damage, and dire humanitarian situation have prompted international calls for the safeguarding of civilians in the ongoing conflict, emphasizing the need for an immediate resolution to prevent further loss of life and the escalation of the humanitarian crisis.
“As of 29 October, about 1,800 people, including at least 940 children, have been reported missing and may be trapped or dead under the rubble, awaiting rescue or recovery,” it said.
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According to the United Nations agency, armed groups persisted in firing rockets at Israel without discrimination, yet no casualties were reported.
The Israeli defense ministry released video footage allegedly depicting activities within Gaza, showcasing soldiers in buildings, tanks traversing a key thoroughfare, and airstrikes targeting structures purportedly used by Hamas.
Israel’s military declared its reluctance to disclose the specific filming location.
“We are moving from the ground, spotting the terrorists and attacking from the air. There is also direct engagement between ground forces and terrorists. The fighting is taking place inside the Gaza Strip,” military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said.
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Hamas and the Islamist group Islamic Jihad asserted that they were engaged in combat with Israeli forces in the Israeli-occupied West Bank city of Jenin, resulting in four reported casualties according to the Palestinian health ministry. Israel claimed that several combatants were eliminated in an airstrike.
In the West Bank, Israel stated that it had apprehended 700 militants, citing frequent attacks on its forces in the region.
The Palestinian health ministry reported 121 fatalities in the West Bank and East Jerusalem since October 7th. Additionally, the Palestinian Prisoners Association noted that 1,680 individuals, including women, the elderly, and minors, had been detained.
The ongoing conflict has sparked significant global demonstrations in solidarity with the Palestinians, leading to a rise in incidents of antisemitic and Islamophobic harassment and assaults.
In the predominantly Muslim Dagestan region, Russian authorities asserted control over an airport and arrested 60 individuals following the storming of the facility by hundreds of anti-Israel protesters after an Israeli plane’s arrival on Sunday. Local officials reported 20 injuries before security forces managed to contain the turmoil, ensuring the safety of the passengers.
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As Israel’s ground operations in Gaza escalate, international voices are demanding a “humanitarian pause” to facilitate the delivery of aid. In negotiations mediated by Qatar, Hamas have proposed a five-day halt in Israeli operations, contingent upon the provision of aid and fuel to Gaza and the release of all civilian hostages held by the militants. According to the Israeli government, over half of the hostages held have foreign passports from 25 different countries.
Although 33 trucks carrying essential supplies entered Gaza on Sunday, as reported by OCHA, it was emphasized that a substantial increase in aid deliveries is imperative to address urgent requirements and prevent social unrest, given reports of individuals forcibly entering aid facilities in search of food.
Amidst the conflict, concerns have arisen about potential spill-over effects, with Iran’s backing of Hamas and other militant groups in the region amplifying fears of broader destabilization. Lebanon, in particular, has witnessed exchanges of fire between the Israeli army and the Iranian-backed Hezbollah group, heightening worries of further escalation.
Furthermore, Syrian state TV reported Israeli air strikes targeting two army posts in Daraa, resulting in “some material losses” on Monday, underscoring the potential regional repercussions of the ongoing hostilities.