Israel has dismissed South Africa's recent case against it in the International Court of Justice. The Israeli government has also voted to postpone municipal elections originally set for January 30 to February 27, citing local media reports. Currently, 688 candidates in army reserves are contesting for 144 cities and towns.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has reiterated his call for the "voluntary migration" of Palestinians from Gaza, stating they've endured a 75-year struggle and need to leave. Maersk, a major shipping company, announced a temporary halt in Red Sea operations after a vessel was attacked by Yemen's Houthi rebels.
Human Impact and Conflict:
Gaza's Government Media Office reported 1,825 Israeli attacks in the last 85 days, resulting in 28,822 casualties, including 9,100 children. Hamas's military wing fired around 20 rockets towards Israel, while Israel intends to prolong its offensive on Gaza.
Turkey's Health Ministry stated it received 292 wounded Gazans for treatment. Israeli shelling in Khan Younis, south Gaza, has led to casualties reported by the Palestinian Red Crescent Society. Moreover, Israeli airstrikes have claimed 68 Palestinian lives, including former Minister Yousef Salameh, and affected civilians in various Gaza districts.
New Year's Eve Protests:
Residents in Ramallah demonstrated solidarity with Gaza on New Year's Eve. Similar protests were seen globally in Pakistan, Turkey, and Iraq. UNRWA highlighted the devastating year 2023 for Palestinian refugees, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian aid.
Raids in the West Bank:
Israeli forces continued raids in the West Bank, targeting several areas and resulting in injuries and detentions. Palestinian shepherds were attacked by Israeli settlers in the Masafer Yatta area. Additionally, two teenagers were detained from Deir Istiya in the central West Bank.
These events depict the ongoing conflict's toll on civilians and the wider geopolitical implications, with a call for urgent humanitarian intervention and a cessation of hostilities in the region.
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Israel-Hamas Conflict Day-85: Humanitarian Crisis Further Deepens in Gaza, Top Headlines
