Three Palestinians were killed by an Israeli drone strike in central Gaza on Monday, despite a ceasefire. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is critical as aid has been blocked for 16 days, leading to severe shortages in healthcare and basic necessities. A Hamas delegation will engage in negotiations to extend the ceasefire, yet conditions continue to deteriorate.
On Monday, an Israeli drone strike in central Gaza took the lives of three Palestinians and left several others injured. This incident occurred despite a ceasefire agreement, as confirmed by local sources and the Gaza Ministry of Health. Additional violence was reported with another Palestinian killed in a separate strike near Kuwait Roundabout, increasing the total death toll in Gaza since the Israeli offensive began on October 7, 2023, to 48,577, along with over 112,000 injuries.
The ongoing escalation coincides with a deteriorating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, compounded by Israel’s blockade at the Kerem Shalom border crossing, which has persisted for 16 days. This situation has had devastating consequences for the healthcare system, as hospitals face critical shortages of medical supplies and are unable to transport the wounded and sick to facilities. Power shortages have also led to the shutdown of water desalination plants, further worsening the area’s severe water crisis.
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) reported that no humanitarian aid has entered Gaza since March 2. Additionally, UNICEF has raised alarms regarding one million Palestinian children who are suffering from acute food and water shortages, putting their survival in jeopardy.
In response to the ongoing turmoil, a Hamas delegation is expected in Cairo within two days to discuss extending the ceasefire, following an invitation from Egypt. This initiative follows a proposal from U.S. special envoy Amos Hochstein. Nevertheless, humanitarian conditions in Gaza remain grave, prompting significant concerns about the escalating crisis.
In summary, the recent Israeli airstrike in Gaza, occurring despite a ceasefire, has resulted in significant casualties and highlights the deteriorating humanitarian circumstances in the region. With the blockade restricting essential aid and critical shortages in healthcare, the plight of Palestinians worsens. Diplomatic efforts to extend the ceasefire are underway, yet the situation remains precarious and demands urgent attention.
Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com
