Casualties continue to rise in Gaza due to Israeli airstrikes, with reports of at least 30 fatalities, including municipal workers. The Israeli military has called for evacuations in Rafah’s Tal al-Sultan neighborhood, deeming it a combat zone. Meanwhile, protests in Israel against Prime Minister Netanyahu’s administration are growing, with over 100,000 participants demanding action on hostages and criticizing government decisions. Internationally, tensions escalate with rocket fire from Lebanon and U.S. military reinforcements in the region.
Casualties in Gaza Amid Ongoing Conflict
Tragic reports are emerging from the southern Gaza Strip where Israeli airstrikes have claimed numerous lives. Palestinian sources indicate that at least 30 individuals were killed in recent attacks, particularly in the cities of Rafah and Khan Younis. Among the deceased are three municipal workers, as per information provided by the Hamas-controlled health authority.
In response to escalating violence, the Israeli military has urged residents of Rafah’s Tal al-Sultan neighborhood to evacuate, citing a targeted operation against militant organizations. Avichay Adraee, spokesperson for the Israeli army’s Arabic communications, described the area as a “dangerous combat zone,” warning civilians to seek shelter to the north. Leaflets delivered by drones further communicated this evacuation order to residents in Tal al-Sultan.
Mass Protests in Israel and International Tensions
As violence continues in Gaza, protests against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration are escalating within Israel. Over 100,000 demonstrators rallied nationwide, advocating for the release of hostages held by terrorists and expressing discontent with the government’s handling of the situation. Participants criticized the administration for potentially jeopardizing negotiations for hostage release amidst renewed conflict.
Compounding the political turmoil, the government is reportedly attempting to dismiss Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, a move which has drawn significant outrage. Baharav-Miara has been vocal in her criticism of the government’s decisions, which she views as unlawful, and has warned that the administration’s actions threaten the rule of law.
Internationally, the situation remains tense with rocket fire directed at northern Israel from Lebanon and a missile intercepted from Yemen. The U.S. has announced plans to bolster its military presence in the region by deploying another aircraft carrier, the USS Carl Vinson, to work alongside the USS Harry S. Truman. This strategic move aims to enhance U.S. efforts against the Houthi militia in Yemen, following recent airstrikes ordered by President Trump, who has made it clear that Iran will be held accountable for Houthi actions.