Fresh Israeli strikes in Gaza’s Rafah result in 37 Palestinian deaths, sparking international outcry.
The recent escalation of violence saw Israeli airstrikes and shelling claim 37 Palestinian lives near Rafah, following an earlier strike that caused a fatal blaze in a tent camp, killing 45 and prompting global condemnation. Despite an ICJ ruling, Israeli tanks advanced into Rafah as Spain, Ireland, and Norway recognized Palestinian statehood, deepening Israel’s international isolation.
Gaza: Overnight and into Tuesday, Israeli strikes killed 37 Palestinians, most sheltering in tents near Rafah, days after a strike set a tent camp ablaze, killing 45. Israeli PM Netanyahu called the tent camp fire a “tragic mistake,” but global leaders condemned the attack.
Ignoring the ICJ’s appeal, Israeli tanks entered Rafah after heavy bombardment, as Spain, Ireland, and Norway recognized a Palestinian state, further isolating Israel internationally. Monday and Tuesday’s shelling in Tel al-Sultan killed 16, according to Palestinian Civil Defense and Red Crescent.
An Israeli drone strike hit near a field hospital by Rafah, killing 21, including 13 women, though Israel denied responsibility. Abdel-Rahman Abu Ismail from Gaza City described the night as filled with explosions, with seven dead near a UN facility close to Sunday’s fire site.
The tent camp blaze triggered global outrage and displaced over a million, with families scattered in makeshift camps. The Israeli military suggested secondary explosions from militants’ weapons caused the fire, while Netanyahu promised an investigation.
US and international leaders, including VP Kamala Harris, President Macron, and Canadian and Egyptian officials, expressed strong condemnation. Despite the US warning against a full offensive, it hasn’t indicated Israel crossed a “red line.”
A new UN resolution against Israel, drafted by Algeria, faces a likely US veto. Saudi Arabia accused Israel of “genocide massacres” in Rafah. Egypt, Qatar, and the US attempt to revive ceasefire talks, but efforts are hindered by the ongoing assault.
Gaza’s health ministry reports over 36,000 Palestinian deaths since Israel’s war began after Hamas attacked Israeli communities last October, killing around 1,200 and taking over 250 hostages.
