Israel (Washington Insider Magazine)—Israel’s military reported widespread airstrikes in Gaza on Thursday, targeting Hamas fighters and infrastructure. Simultaneously, aerial strikes in southern Lebanon killed two Hezbollah militants, heightening fears of regional escalation in the Israel-Hamas war.
The strikes in Lebanon followed Hezbollah attacks that injured 14 Israeli soldiers on Wednesday. In response, Israel launched retaliatory measures near Kfar Kila, according to Agence France-Presse, with Hezbollah confirming two fatalities.
U.S.-Israel Discussions on Rafah
Amid the military operations, U.S. and Israeli officials discussed strategies concerning Rafah, a southern Gaza city. The White House emphasized shared goals to defeat Hamas while urging caution in planned operations. Israeli representatives acknowledged U.S. concerns and agreed to consider them, according to a White House statement.
Humanitarian Crisis Worsens in Gaza
The United Nations reports growing humanitarian challenges. This week, the World Food Program delivered over 370 metric tons of wheat flour into Gaza. However, U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres criticized Israel’s limited progress in facilitating aid.
Despite aid efforts, Gaza faces potential famine. U.N. officials stress the need for safe conditions for humanitarian workers and civilians to access essential resources.
Security Council Blocks Palestinian Statehood Recognition
Tensions extended to the diplomatic front as the U.S. vetoed a U.N. resolution supporting Palestinian statehood. U.K. and Switzerland abstained, while 12 members voted in favor. U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield reiterated that the resolution was inconsistent with achieving a two-state solution.
Conflict Casualties Mount
The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry reports 34,000 Palestinian fatalities since the conflict began, two-thirds of whom are women and children. Israel launched its offensive after an October 7 Hamas attack killed 1,200 Israelis and resulted in hostage-taking. While over 100 hostages were released during a temporary ceasefire, Israel reports that 130 remain captive, with one-quarter presumed dead.
Qatar Reevaluates Mediation Role
Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani announced a reassessment of Qatar’s mediator role, citing perceived abuses of its efforts. Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S. have been central to negotiations aimed at halting the fighting and facilitating prisoner exchanges.
