Reuters: Israeli military to launch Rafah operation immediately, awaits approval

Reuters: Israeli military to launch Rafah operation immediately, awaits approval

Israel is conducting an assault on Hamas in Rafah, the last Gaza Strip city not yet targeted by a ground offensive. The Israeli military is focusing its attacks on areas in the north of Gaza where they had previously withdrawn troops. Aid agencies have expressed concern over the potential humanitarian crisis in Rafah, where over 1 million people have been displaced. Israeli strikes in the past 24 hours have killed at least 79 Palestinians, with heavy shelling reported in northern Gaza and suburbs of Gaza City. Residents are questioning the reasons for the renewed violence, with one resident suggesting it may be due to aid finally reaching the area. The Israeli military has not provided immediate comment on the recent developments.

She produces, sells, collects, they kill

She produces, sells, collects, they kill

The US House of Representatives has allocated billion to Ukraine and billion to Israel, including humanitarian aid for Palestinians in Gaza. The war in Ukraine benefits the US economy and Russia controls 18% of Ukrainian territory. Israel continues its genocide in Gaza, with mass graves discovered in Khan Yunis. The International Criminal Court should investigate these war crimes. Israel is preparing for military operations in Rafah with the support of its allies. The geopolitical puzzle favors certain countries, like Turkey’s occupation of Cyprus being overlooked. Cypriots and Palestinians struggle to find justice, but the EU must redefine its objectives and not blindly follow American geopolitical interests.

Iran’s foreign minister downplays drone attack, says Tehran investigating

Iran’s foreign minister downplays drone attack, says Tehran investigating

Iran’s foreign minister downplayed an overnight attack on Iran, stating that there was no proven link to Israel. The attack involved drones that were downed after flying only a few hundred meters. Iranian media described the incident as an attack by “infiltrators” rather than by Israel. The attack targeted an Iranian Air Force base near Isfahan but did not cause major damage. Israel had previously said it would retaliate after a strike on April 13, but as of now, there has been no word on further action. The ongoing violence between Israel and Iranian proxies has raised fears of escalation into a direct conflict.

Israeli tanks push back in northern Gaza, warplanes hit Rafah, say residents

Israeli tanks push back in northern Gaza, warplanes hit Rafah, say residents

Israeli tanks re-entered parts of northern Gaza and carried out air strikes on Rafah, killing and injuring several people. Tanks surrounded schools where displaced families were seeking refuge, ordering evacuations and detaining men. The Israeli military continued operations in central Gaza, targeting gunmen and destroying terrorist infrastructure. Israel is still imposing restrictions on humanitarian aid to Gaza, despite some claims of increased aid flows. The Palestinian health ministry reported over 33,000 Palestinians killed by Israeli fire since October.

Netanyahu says Israel preparing for scenarios in other areas than Gaza

Netanyahu says Israel preparing for scenarios in other areas than Gaza

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel is prepared to meet all security needs defensively and offensively. Israel is bracing for possible Iranian retaliation for the killing of senior Iranian commanders. Israeli troops and warplanes started an operation in central Gaza, aiming to destroy armed Palestinian groups’ infrastructure. Fighting has continued in various areas of Gaza, with many civilians feeling the impact of the conflict.

Israel says more aid is entering Gaza, but figures disputed

Israel says more aid is entering Gaza, but figures disputed

Israel is increasing aid flow into Gaza in response to international pressure, but the amount is still disputed. The United Nations states that the aid is much less than what is needed to meet humanitarian needs. Israel reported 419 trucks entering Gaza on Monday, while the Red Crescent and the United Nations reported lower figures due to Israeli inspection rules. The devastated Palestinian enclave is facing famine and disease, with most inhabitants homeless. Aid agencies criticize Israel for not ensuring enough access for humanitarian supplies. Israel denies hindering aid and blames the United Nations for delays. The international community, including the United States and France, is pressuring Israel to increase aid access. Israel has agreed to open crossings for aid supplies but distribution inside Gaza remains a challenge. UNRWA reports that only 223 trucks entered Gaza on Monday, less than half of what is required daily. Distribution problems persist inside Gaza, with food convoys to the north facing more restrictions than other humanitarian aid. Israel’s military has not responded to accusations of restricting aid convoys inside Gaza.

Israeli military reduces troops in southern Gaza, spokesperson says

Israeli military reduces troops in southern Gaza, spokesperson says

The Israeli military has withdrawn ground troops from the southern Gaza Strip, leaving just one brigade there. The move comes as Egypt prepares to host talks for a ceasefire and hostage release deal. The offensive in Gaza has focused on the south, with more than 33,100 Palestinians killed. Israel is facing threats from Hezbollah in Lebanon and potential retaliation from Iran. President Biden has demanded Israel improve humanitarian conditions and work towards a ceasefire, leveraging U.S. aid to influence Israeli military behavior. More than 130 hostages are still in captivity in Gaza.

Hamas accuses rival Fatah faction of sending security men to northern Gaza

Hamas accuses rival Fatah faction of sending security men to northern Gaza

Hamas accused rivals in the Palestinian Authority of sending security officers into northern Gaza under the guise of securing aid trucks.

Famine ‘quite possibly’ in some areas of north Gaza, US official says

Famine ‘quite possibly’ in some areas of north Gaza, US official says

Famine is possibly present in parts of the northern Gaza Strip, with a scarcity of trucks hindering aid distribution.