Israel Launches Relentless Airstrikes: Over 3,600 Bombs Dropped on Gaza
Israel’s air force has pounded Gaza with more than 3,600 airstrikes since Saturday, dropping a staggering 6,000 bombs on the densely populated enclave. Officials vow to continue the relentless assault “as long as necessary” to crush Hamas and secure Israel’s borders.
Egypt Urges Gazans to Stay Put Amid Border Tensions
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has urged Gazans to remain steadfast and stay on their land despite mounting calls for Cairo to open its border to fleeing civilians. Egypt controls the only Gaza crossing not dominated by Israel and has acted as a crucial mediator in past flare-ups. But fears about whether displaced Gazans can safely return are hindering talks for safe passage.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens as Gaza Shelters Overflow
- About 270,000 people are now crammed into UN shelters across Gaza.
- UN warns supplies are dangerously low, with fuel shortages threatening water plants and hospital generators.
- The UN estimates over 338,000 Palestinians have been displaced so far.
Jenifer Austin from UNRWA sounded the alarm, stressing the urgent need for humanitarian aid to prevent disaster as Gaza’s civilian population suffers amid the conflict.
US Rules Out Troop Deployment but Stays on Edge Over Hostages
The White House has dismissed any immediate plans to send US troops to Israel, even as the conflict escalates dangerously. Washington remains focused on securing the release of hostages captured by Hamas.
So far, 27 American citizens have died in the violence, while the number of hostages held is still undisclosed.
Moscow Blasts Israeli Strikes on Syrian Airports
Russia slammed Israel’s recent air raids on Damascus and Aleppo airports, calling them violations of Syrian sovereignty and international law. The Kremlin warned the attacks risk sparking a wider Middle East conflagration.
The strikes damaged runways and temporarily shut down airport operations in Syria’s major cities, ratcheting up regional tensions.
Netanyahu and Gantz Form Emergency War Cabinet
Israel’s parliament has fast-tracked an emergency coalition government to face the crisis. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu joined forces with former Defence Minister Benny Gantz to create a war cabinet.
- Gantz and ex-army chief Gadi Eizenkot sworn in as ministers.
- The war cabinet includes Netanyahu, Gantz, Defence Minister Gallant, with Eizenkot and Ron Dermer as observers.
- Opposition to join a broader security cabinet, but Blue and White leader Yair Lapid slammed the deal and refused to participate.
The new unity government aims to strengthen Israel’s response as the conflict shows no sign of abating.
