Palestinian militants fired rockets into Israel on Monday amidst ongoing conflict in Gaza, where Israeli tanks advanced deeper into the enclave. Islamic Jihad, backed by Iran and allied with Hamas, launched approximately 20 rockets towards Israeli communities near the Gaza fence, citing Israeli actions against Palestinians as justification.
The Israeli military reported no casualties from the rocket barrage but issued evacuation warnings to residents in eastern Khan Younis, urging them to move to designated safe zones due to potential military operations. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that Israel was nearing its objective of neutralizing Hamas’s military capabilities, with continued operations expected.
Violence also erupted in the West Bank city of Tulkarm, where according to Palestinian health officials, a woman and a boy were killed during clashes with Israeli forces. Meanwhile, in Gaza, Israeli tanks extended their presence in areas like Shejaia and Rafah, engaging militants and uncovering weapons caches.
In response to Hamas’s claim of luring Israeli troops into a booby-trapped house in Rafah, causing casualties, Israel confirmed the death of a soldier in southern Gaza. The conflict has intensified since Hamas fighters initiated attacks into Israel on October 7, prompting Israeli retaliation that has resulted in significant casualties and damage in Gaza.
Efforts by Arab mediators, supported by the US, to negotiate a ceasefire have stalled. Hamas demands a cessation of hostilities and a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, while Israel insists on eliminating Hamas’s threat before considering temporary truces.
Amidst the conflict, Israeli authorities released 54 Palestinians detained during the hostilities, including Mohammad Abu Selmeyah, director of Al Shifa Hospital. His detention, linked by Israel to alleged military use of the hospital by Hamas, has been disputed by Hamas and criticized for human rights abuses.
The situation remains volatile with ongoing military engagements and humanitarian concerns in Gaza, where infrastructure damage and civilian casualties continue to mount amid the protracted conflict.
