Israel launches airstrikes on Gaza amid escalating tensions with US

In the latest development of the ongoing conflict, Israel conducted airstrikes on Gaza on Thursday, coinciding with the arrival of a top White House advisor in Jerusalem. The rift between the two allies has deepened, with the United States urging restraint from Israel.

The conflict, now in its third month, originated from the October 7 attacks by the Palestinian militant group Hamas on Israel. Israeli officials claim these attacks resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people, mostly civilians. The toll on besieged Gaza has been severe, with over 18,600 casualties, predominantly women and children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.

The latest Israeli airstrikes on Thursday reportedly claimed at least 19 lives across the Gaza Strip, exacerbating the already dire situation. In the West Bank, violence surged as well, with the Palestinian Authority reporting two fatalities in Israeli strikes in Jenin.

Despite growing international pressure, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains steadfast in the offensive, vowing to continue until victory, even without international support. US President Joe Biden expressed his strongest rebuke yet, criticizing Israel’s “indiscriminate bombing” and highlighting its impact on international support.

Biden’s National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan, is scheduled for talks in Jerusalem, aiming to discuss a potential timetable to end the conflict. Sullivan emphasized the need for Israel to shift away from high-intensity operations.

Amidst the conflict, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh expressed readiness for talks leading to a political resolution. A recent poll showed increased support for Haniyeh in the Palestinian territories.

International concern is mounting, with the UN General Assembly endorsing a non-binding resolution for a ceasefire, despite the US voting against it. Australia, Canada, and New Zealand expressed alarm at the diminishing safe space for civilians in Gaza.

CNN reported that nearly half of Israel’s air-to-ground munitions used since October 7 have been unguided, raising concerns about civilian safety. The head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees warned of a dark chapter in Gaza’s history, with displaced residents facing harsh conditions.

As the conflict persists, fears grow that it could engulf the region, manifested in daily incidents along Israel’s border with Lebanon, where Iran-backed Hezbollah is based. The situation remains tense, with both international and domestic pressures intensifying.