Israel’s latest airstrikes on Gaza have killed 404 people, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The death toll was initially reported as 326 but was later revised to 413 on Hamas’ WhatsApp channel.
The attacks have left medical facilities across Gaza struggling to cope. The Red Cross described the situation as critical, with hospitals overwhelmed by the sheer number of casualties.
US “Bears Full Responsibility,” Says Hamas
Hamas has blamed the United States for the attacks, claiming the White House gave Israel the green light before launching the airstrikes.
A spokesperson for Israel’s foreign ministry defended the action, saying it was a response to Hamas repeatedly refusing to extend the ceasefire and release hostages.
Tommaso Della Longa, from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, said:
“Many medical facilities are literally overwhelmed across Gaza.”
Corbyn’s Response
Jeremy Corbyn didn’t hold back in his reaction. Sharing an open letter on social media, he wrote:
UN Condemns the Violence
UN human rights chief Volker Turk called the attacks “horrifying” and urged an immediate end to the violence.
“This nightmare must end immediately,” Turk said. “The last 18 months of violence have made abundantly clear that there is no military path out of this crisis.”
He called for the immediate release of hostages and condemned Israel’s use of military force, warning it would only worsen the humanitarian crisis.
Global Reaction
The airstrikes have triggered strong reactions from leaders worldwide:
- Belgium – Deputy Prime Minister Maxime Prevot condemned the attacks, saying they undermined ceasefire talks and violated international law by blocking humanitarian aid.
- Malta – Prime Minister Robert Abela called the strikes “barbarous” and demanded an immediate end to the violence.
- Switzerland – Its foreign ministry called for a return to the ceasefire and the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid.
- Iran – Foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei described the attacks as “a continuation of genocide and ethnic cleansing” and accused the US of enabling the strikes.
What Happens Next?
With global condemnation mounting and Gaza’s humanitarian situation deteriorating, the pressure on Israel and Hamas to return to the negotiating table is intensifying. However, with both sides digging in, peace remains a distant hope.
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