The collapse of a fragile ceasefire has led to a dramatic escalation in the Gaza conflict, with Palestinian authorities reporting 710 deaths, including 95 since daybreak today alone. Renewed attacks by Israeli forces, utilizing land, air, and sea assaults, have also resulted in 900 injuries. Women and children reportedly comprise a significant portion of the casualties, according to Democracy Now!.
The renewed violence follows the breakdown of ceasefire negotiations on Tuesday. Hamas reportedly rejected an Israeli proposal for a six-week ceasefire that included the disarmament of the group, deeming the demand unacceptable, according to BBC News.
Adding to the humanitarian crisis, the Kuwaiti Field Hospital in Gaza was struck by an Israeli airstrike on April 15, resulting in the death of a medic and injuries to 10 others, CBS News reported. This incident occurred shortly after another major hospital was rendered “out of service” following a prior attack, further straining the region’s healthcare infrastructure.
In separate incidents, Israeli forces critically wounded a teenager in eastern Nablus. Furthermore, the western entrance to a village southeast of Bethlehem has been closed, as reported by WAFA, indicating ongoing clashes and restrictions in the region.
The international community has yet to issue a statement. The situation remains volatile, with both sides showing no sign of de-escalation.