In the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza, the United States has criticized Israel’s response to the October 7 attacks as “indiscriminate.” The United Nations General Assembly has passed a resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza.
Conflict began after an attack by Hamas militants on Israel, resulting in around 1,200 deaths, mostly civilians, and about 240 hostages.
In retaliation, Israel launched a strong offensive against Gaza to destroy Hamas and rescue the hostages.
According to the Hamas-run health ministry, more than 18,400 people, mainly women and children, have been killed in the war. The latest wave of Israeli air strikes has claimed at least 50 more lives, as reported on Wednesday.
U.S. President Biden initially mentioned concerns about Israel losing support due to “indiscriminate bombing” but later reaffirmed U.S. support for Israel, emphasizing the importance of the safety of innocent Palestinians.
The leaders of Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, also allies of Israel, have called for a ceasefire, expressing alarm at the diminishing safe space for civilians in Gaza. Despite the U.S. and Israel voting against the UN resolution for a ceasefire, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand voted in favour.
The head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees described the situation in Gaza as “hell on earth,” expressing deep concern. Reports of Israeli forces raiding a hospital and detaining its director have raised international alarm, with calls for the protection of all people inside the hospital.
The conflict has resulted in significant destruction in Gaza, with about 18% of its infrastructure destroyed, according to UN satellite analysis. Fighting continues on the ground, with casualties reported on both sides.
The UN estimates that 1.9 million out of Gaza’s 2.4 million people have been displaced, half of them children. Aid groups warn of the looming threat of starvation and disease and urge Israel to increase efforts to protect civilians.
As the conflict persists, fears of a wider conflict grow, with Iran-backed groups targeting U.S. and allied forces in Iraq and Syria and tensions along Israel’s border with Lebanon. The Israeli army has reported projectiles fired from Lebanon and Syria, retaliating by striking launch sites.
