Intense Israeli shelling in Gaza Strip results in the death of at least 17 individuals
In the heart of the Middle East, the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine has taken a turn for the worse. The latest Israeli operation, which began Tuesday, has further intensified the already volatile situation.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar has vowed that Israel will resist the European campaign, signalling a firm stance against international pressure to cease fire. Meanwhile, the European Union (EU) has announced its toughest plan yet to pressure Israel to end the offensive in Gaza.
The EU's plan includes increasing tariffs on some Israeli goods and imposing sanctions on 10 Hamas leaders, Israeli settlers, and two members of Netanyahu's cabinet. However, not all EU countries are in agreement. Germany and Italy show resistance, while Hungary is expected to oppose initially but may eventually accept the sanctions after negotiations.
The conflict has resulted in a tragic loss of life. In the urban Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, a house was hit by an Israeli strike, killing three. A truck carrying displaced people was also hit, and in the Muwasi area west of the city of Khan Younis, two parents and their child were killed when a strike hit their tent. At least 17 people, including women and children, have been killed in shelling on Wednesday by the Israeli military on the Gaza Strip.
The Al-Rantisi children's hospital in Gaza was struck three times, forcing some 40 patients to evacuate. The Israeli military has announced a second evacuation route will be opened, on Salah a-Din, the main artery connecting the north and south of Gaza.
Spain's Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares has accused Israel of trying to "annihilate the idea and possibility of a Palestinian state with bombs in Gaza." Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has gone a step further, calling for Israel to be banned from sports events over its actions in Gaza.
The Pope has also shown support for the Palestinians, expressing his solidarity with them and demanding Israel respect international humanitarian law. He called for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, a diplomatic solution to the conflict, and "full compliance with international humanitarian law."
In a positive development, Norway has announced it will transfer tax funds to the Palestinian Authority (PA) in February 2024, after a dispute with Israel. This move is expected to provide much-needed financial aid to the PA.
As the conflict continues, the international community remains divided in its response. However, one thing is clear: the situation in Gaza requires immediate attention and a peaceful resolution.
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