Gaza Health Ministry Reports 107 Civilian Deaths in 12 Incidents of Violence

On a grim Saturday, the Ministry of Health in Gaza reported a sharp escalation in violence, with 107 civilians having lost their lives and 165 injured in a series of 12 violent incidents within a 24-hour span. This surge in casualties is part of a larger pattern of conflict that has seen 27,238 people killed and 66,452 injured since October 7, 2023, according to the ministry's records.

Detentions Amid the Conflict

The Palestinian Prisoners’ Club disclosed that Israeli forces have detained 12 Palestinians during overnight raids in the West Bank. With these latest detentions, the tally of Palestinian prisoners has surged to 6,500 since the same date. These detainees include individuals taken from their homes, from military checkpoints, and under situations of duress. The club has leveled serious accusations against the Israeli occupation for 'enforced disappearances,' particularly noting the treatment of Gaza detainees 120 days following the latest round of violence.

Diplomatic Reactions and Appeal for UNRWA Funding

Amidst the escalating tension, Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani discussed the critical scenario with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, emphasizing the dire consequences of funding cuts to UNRWA, the UN agency assisting Palestinian refugees. The Qatari leader underscored the need to insulate the agency from the controversies surrounding some of its employees.

Separately, the EU’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, expressed concern over the volatility of the Middle East and the lack of stability in the Red Sea so long as the Gaza situation remains unresolved. Borrell called for restraint and cautioned against further escalation in the region.

Military Engagements

The military factions in Gaza have reported their own actions amidst the tension. The Al-Quds Brigades, aligned with the Islamic Jihad Movement, claimed responsibility for shelling Israeli troops and vehicles near Khan Yunis. Furthermore, they reported engaging with Israeli forces, resulting in casualties on the Israeli side. They also claimed to have captured an Israeli drone engaged in surveillance activities.

The Al-Qassam Brigades, linked to Hamas, announced targeting an Israeli tank with specialized ordinance in the vicinity of Khan Yunis. These developments highlight the ongoing exchanges of hostilities in the region.

violence, casualties, detention