The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza continues to escalate, with the humanitarian crisis worsening. The United Nations (UN) has described the situation in Gaza as 'apocalyptic', with severe shortages of food, water, and sanitation. The Israeli military assault has caused significant damage to the health system in Gaza, with attacks on healthcare facilities and limited access to essential care.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has invoked Article 99 to call for a ceasefire in Gaza, a move that has been criticized by Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen, who accused Guterres of supporting Hamas. The UN Security Council is expected to hold an emergency meeting to discuss the crisis.
In the midst of the conflict, Palestinian PM Mohammad Shtayyeh has suggested that Hamas become a junior partner under the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) to help build a new independent state. This comes as US officials are discussing post-war governance plans for Gaza with the Palestinian Authority and Arab nations.
The Israeli military is under review for an incident where tank fire killed a Reuters journalist and injured several others. The International Federation of Journalists reports that the Israel-Gaza war accounted for 72% of all journalist deaths this year.
The Israeli military has also been accused of arresting and humiliating civilians in Gaza. Despite the escalating conflict, Israel has agreed to allow a minimal supply of additional fuel to prevent a humanitarian collapse and the outbreak of epidemics. The U.S. has urged Israel to fight in a more targeted manner to lessen harm to civilians.
The conflict has also seen celebrities taking sides, with some facing criticism for not taking a stronger stance. Meanwhile, the Peace Research Institute Oslo suggests the Israel-Gaza war could reignite conflict trends in the Middle East.
