At least 19 people were killed in an Israeli strike on a mosque in the Gaza Strip, near the main hospital in Deir al-Balah. Another four people were killed in a strike on a school sheltering displaced people. The Israeli military claimed both strikes targeted militants, without providing evidence. The conflict between Israel and Iran-allied militant groups has widened, with battles also taking place in Lebanon against Hezbollah. Israel has opened a new front in Lebanon after ongoing clashes with Hamas in Gaza and threats from Iran. The conflict has potential to draw in the United States and U.S.-allied Arab countries supporting Israel.
In response to ongoing clashes, Israeli forces announced a new air and ground offensive in Jabaliya, a densely populated refugee camp in northern Gaza. The area is home to up to 300,000 people, many of whom have been told to evacuate. The military stated that the areas are considered dangerous combat zones and have urged complete evacuation. Israeli forces circled the area and commenced airstrikes, causing heavy damage to homes and buildings. The Civil Defense, under the Hamas-run government, reported difficulties reaching affected areas due to the bombardment, with many residents posting about the airstrikes and mourning their relatives on social media.
Southern Beirut also experienced heavy bombardment, with airstrikes lighting up the skyline and loud explosions echoing throughout the city. Israel targeted what it claimed were Hezbollah militant sites, with more than 30 strikes reported overnight. The targets included a gas station on the highway to Beirut airport and a warehouse for medical supplies. Hezbollah retaliated by targeting Israeli soldiers in northern Israel with rockets. Lebanon has seen extensive casualties and displacement due to the ongoing conflict, with Israel aiming to drive Hezbollah away from its borders. The two sides have been exchanging fire almost daily, leading to a worsening situation in the region.
French President Emmanuel Macron has called for a partial arms embargo on Israel to stop the mounting violence and protect civilians in Gaza. This call was met with criticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who referred to Macron’s remarks as a disgrace in a video statement. Macron’s office emphasized that France remains Israel’s friend but insists on a halt to arms exports for use in Gaza. The conflict shows no signs of abating, with the potential for further escalation and involvement of other countries in the region. The toll on civilian lives and infrastructure continues to rise, with ongoing clashes in Gaza, Lebanon, and beyond.
