Iranian state television has reported explosions in the Gaza Strip, leading to the discovery of 390 bodies at two mass grave sites outside the Nasser and al-Shifa hospitals. The UN has called for the preservation of forensic evidence from these graves as tensions escalate in the region.
The Israeli army has denied any involvement in the mass graves, stating that they were dug by Gazans several months ago. However, the US has demanded answers from Israel regarding the situation in Gaza.
In response to the escalating violence, at least five people have been killed in Israeli strikes in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, with more casualties reported in central Gaza due to tank shelling.
As the conflict intensifies, more than half of the Gaza Strip’s population has sought refuge in Rafah, where Israeli raids have become a daily occurrence in preparation for a potential offensive.
The situation in Gaza remains volatile, with Hamas indicating a willingness to lay down arms if an independent Palestinian state is established, while Israel is reportedly willing to accept the release of 20 hostages in the first phase of a ceasefire deal.
The international community is closely monitoring the situation in Gaza, with calls for the preservation of evidence and efforts to de-escalate the conflict before more lives are lost.