Israeli forces continued their bombardment of a Gaza refugee camp on Friday, following a deadly strike on a UN school in the area. The ongoing conflict, sparked by Hamas’s attack on Israel, has now entered its ninth month.
Efforts to mediate a ceasefire have stalled, despite US President Joe Biden offering a new roadmap. Hamas has not responded to the proposal, while Israel remains committed to destroying the Palestinian Islamist group.
In a diplomatic push, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to visit Israel and key regional partners Egypt, Jordan, and Qatar. The Israeli attacks on Gaza have intensified, with witnesses reporting strikes on the Nuseirat camp and a UN school in the Al-Shati refugee camp.
The Israeli military claimed to target Hamas militants operating from the school grounds, resulting in casualties. The conflict has taken a toll on civilians, with hundreds seeking shelter at the targeted UN school.
The war, which began with Hamas’s attack in October, has resulted in significant casualties on both sides. Israel faces growing diplomatic isolation, with accusations of war crimes and pressure from international bodies.
Despite international efforts to broker a ceasefire, the conflict shows no signs of abating. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with the population at risk of starvation and widespread unemployment. As the violence continues, the need for a lasting peace agreement becomes increasingly urgent.