Calay News
The conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza has escalated to unprecedented levels, with both sides engaged in fierce battles, leaving scores dead and thousands wounded. Israel formed an emergency unity government in response to the mounting crisis as its jets pounded Gaza and tanks gathered near the Palestinian enclave. Former Defense Minister Benny Gantz, alongside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, announced the formation of a war cabinet, emphasizing their shared fate and unity in the face of the crisis.
In Gaza, retaliatory strikes have killed over 1,100 people, wounded 5,339, and destroyed 535 residential buildings, leaving approximately 250,000 homeless. The situation in the territory, already dire due to a longstanding blockade, has worsened, with essential supplies running low and electricity cut off.
The conflict has spilled over into the West Bank, where clashes have resulted in casualties and tensions between Israel’s Jewish majority and Arab minority have risen. Southern Lebanese towns were hit by Israeli shelling following a rocket attack by Hezbollah, adding to the regional unrest.
US President Joe Biden dispatched his top diplomat, Antony Blinken, to the region to avert a wider Middle East war. The international community is deeply concerned, with calls for safe passage for civilians and humanitarian aid into Gaza. As the crisis intensifies, there are growing fears about the possibility of a ground offensive, further exacerbating the situation in the already densely populated Gaza Strip.
The conflict, one of the deadliest in recent years, underscores the urgent need for international intervention and a peaceful resolution to prevent further loss of life and suffering.
