At least 15 people, including women and children, were killed in Israeli airstrikes overnight in Gaza. The strikes took place in the Bureij refugee camp and the southern city of Khan Younis, resulting in the tragic loss of innocent lives.
The deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza has been further exacerbated by the discovery of the polio virus in sewage samples. With water and sanitation services already strained, the population of 2.3 million, mostly displaced, faces additional health risks.
Israel's military has announced plans to vaccinate soldiers and collaborate with organizations to provide vaccines for Palestinians in Gaza. Efforts are being made to address the public health concerns arising from the presence of the polio virus.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has claimed over 38,900 lives, according to the Health Ministry. The war, which began with an attack by Hamas militants on southern Israel, has resulted in significant casualties on both sides.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to visit the United States for talks with President Joe Biden and Congress. He aims to garner support for Israel's military campaign against Hamas while negotiations for a cease-fire are ongoing.
Amidst the conflict, concerns about a broader regional escalation persist. Recent Israeli strikes on the port of Hodeida in Yemen, in response to a Houthi drone attack in Tel Aviv, have raised tensions in the region. The Israeli military intercepted a missile from Yemen, highlighting the complex dynamics at play.
Mediators from Egypt, Qatar, and the United States are working to facilitate a phased agreement between Israel and Hamas to halt hostilities and secure the release of hostages. The situation remains fluid as efforts continue to de-escalate the conflict and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
For more updates on the Israel-Hamas conflict, visit AP's coverage.
