ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- a continuation of the ongoing conflict, Israel escalated its airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 55 lives, according to the Hamas government’s announcement on Sunday.
These airstrikes were carried out as a response to the initial Hamas attacks on Israel that began on 7 October.
The statement from the government’s press office revealed that over 30 homes were destroyed during these attacks, following an announcement by an Israeli military spokesperson that airstrikes would be intensified.
The Hamas government has reported that since the start of this conflict, more than 4,300 people, predominantly civilians, have lost their lives due to Israeli raids.
In contrast, Israel, which faced one of its most severe attacks with 1,400 casualties, primarily among civilians.
Israel has mobilized a significant number of troops around Gaza in preparation for a widely anticipated ground invasion.
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The Israeli military has asserted that their daily airstrikes have already targeted and eliminated numerous Hamas leaders and military commanders.
An Israeli military spokesperson stated late on Saturday that, “Starting today, we are increasing the intensity of our airstrikes while taking measures to minimize danger. We urge the residents of Gaza City to continue moving south for their safety.”
Israel has consistently encouraged the 1.1 million residents in the north of Gaza to relocate southward in anticipation of a possible ground operation.
The Hamas government also expressed concern about the inadequacy of aid reaching the region, despite the arrival of 20 trucks in Palestinian territory on Saturday.
They emphasized that there are now 1.4 million displaced individuals within the enclave and called on the international community to exert pressure on the Israeli government to facilitate the entry of thousands of additional aid trucks.
“The aid that arrived in Gaza is not enough for one day. We call on the international community to pressure the Israeli government to bring in thousands of trucks,” said the statement.