Israeli Strikes Leave 20 Dead as Trump Departs Region
Israeli strikes Gaza early Friday killed at least 20 people in northern Gaza. The attacks came as Donald Trump wrapped up his Middle East trip, which focused on Gulf nations but excluded Israel.
Bodies were brought to the Indonesian Hospital in northern Gaza, according to an Associated Press journalist. Survivors reported more people trapped beneath rubble.
Attacks Spread Across Northern Gaza
Strikes hit areas around Beit Lahiya and the Jabaliya refugee camp, forcing hundreds to flee. Witnesses described the attacks as some of the most intense in weeks.
Gaza’s Health Ministry said over 130 people had already been killed in recent days. The ministry noted no immediate comment was provided by the Israeli military.
Netanyahu Promises Escalation in Gaza
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently vowed to increase military efforts in Gaza. His aim remains to “destroy Hamas,” the militant group governing the territory.
In comments earlier this week, Netanyahu said Israeli troops were “days away” from entering Gaza “with great strength.”
It remains unclear whether Friday’s strikes marked the beginning of that push.
Gaza War Death Toll Tops 53,000
The war began after Hamas militants killed 1,200 people in southern Israel on October 7, 2023. In response, Israel launched a massive offensive.
Since then, more than 53,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Many of the dead are reported to be women and children.
The ministry claims nearly 3,000 Palestinians have died since Israel broke a ceasefire on March 18.
Gaza Blockade Enters Third Month
Israel’s blockade of Gaza has lasted for over three months, cutting off food, fuel, medicine, and all other supplies.
Israel said the blockade was designed to pressure Hamas into releasing 58 hostages still believed to be held in Gaza. Only 23 of those hostages are confirmed alive, with 3 in critical condition, according to Israeli officials.
New U.S.-Backed Aid Group Faces Criticism
A new group, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, backed by the United States, plans to begin aid operations soon. The organization includes former U.S. military personnel and security contractors.
But groups like the U.N. have expressed concern. Critics say the new system violates humanitarian principles and won’t meet Gaza’s needs. Most international organizations refuse to participate.
Source: AP News