In a grim turn of events on the 13th day of the Israel-Hamas conflict, a devastating explosion rocked al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza City. The hospital was a sanctuary for numerous injured individuals and Palestinians seeking refuge. Israeli airstrikes, pinpointing the residence of Ismail Haniyeh, a senior political figure of Hamas, resulted in the tragic loss of at least 14 lives.
Here are 10 crucial developments in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war:
Drone Attacks Target US Bases in Iraq -In the wake of escalating regional tensions following the Gaza hospital explosion, drone attacks caused slight injuries to coalition forces in Iraq over the past 24 hours at US bases.
Al Asad Airbase and Northern Iraq Base Targeted -Two drones struck the al Asad airbase in western Iraq, a significant US military installation, while another drone targeted a base in northern Iraq, as confirmed by a US official.
Threats from Iranian-Backed Militias -The drone attacks in Iraq were preceded by threats from Iranian-backed militias to target US facilities due to American support for Israel.
Biden's Urgent Mission to Israel - US President Joe Biden embarked on an emergency mission to Israel, aiming to prevent the Israel-Hamas conflict from spiraling into a broader regional crisis. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu agreed to allow limited humanitarian aid from Egypt into Gaza upon Biden's request.
US Pledges $100 Million in Humanitarian Assistance- President Biden announced a commitment of $100 million in humanitarian assistance for Palestinians affected by the conflict in
Gaza and the West Bank.
Gaza's Struggle with Supplies- Following the October 7 rampage by Hamas militants across southern Israel, Israel cut off supplies to Gaza. As resources dwindle, many Gaza families are now reduced to just one meal per day and have been forced to consume contaminated water.
UN Chief Sounds Alarm- UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths addressed an emergency UN Security Council meeting, emphasizing that the destruction of the hospital adds immense pressure to Gaza's already fragile healthcare system, depriving the territory of a facility that served 45,000 patients annually.
Pro-Palestinian Protests in the US -Across the United States, several pro-Palestinian groups staged "emergency protests" in response to the ongoing conflict with Israel, reports read.
Divided Opinions in the US -Protests have sprung up nationwide with crowds sharply divided over the recent developments in the Israel-Hamas war, a conflict that has tragically claimed the lives of thousands, including women, children, men, and the elderly on both sides.
Potential Ground Invasion Looms- While there is no official decision yet, Israel is considering a ground invasion into Gaza. Military officials indicate that a final determination has not been made.
The Israel-Hamas conflict continues to evolve, with regional and international efforts ongoing to quell the violence and address the humanitarian crisis in the region.
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