Gaza faced heavy fighting and bombings on Thursday, following reports that Israel agreed to reschedule canceled talks amid rising tensions.
Criticism from the United States towards Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has increased due to civilian casualties in Gaza, severe food shortages, and plans for a ground offensive in Rafah, where many civilians are sheltering.
World leaders cautioned against an offensive in Rafah, fearing it would worsen the already dire humanitarian situation for Gaza’s 2.4 million residents.
The United Nations warned of impending famine in northern Gaza and the collapse of the health system due to ongoing hostilities and access restrictions.
Despite a UN Security Council resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire, bombardments and fighting persisted.
Netanyahu initially canceled a visit to Washington in protest of the UN resolution, but later agreed to reschedule talks dedicated to Rafah.
US officials intend to propose an alternative plan focused on targeting Hamas while minimizing civilian casualties.
Since October 7, 2023, Israel’s military operations in Gaza have resulted in thousands of deaths and injuries, mostly among women and children.
On October 7 last year, Hamas launched a raid resulting in the deaths of Israeli settlers and the capture of others, leading to ongoing violence.
Fighting continued near Gaza’s hospitals, posing risks to patients, medical staff, and displaced people.
The Al-Amal hospital in Khan Yunis has ceased operations after evacuating civilians earlier this week.
Israel accuses Hamas of using medical facilities and civilians as shields, a claim denied by the Palestinian group.
The Israeli army reported fighters firing from within and outside the emergency ward at Al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City early Thursday.
