Significant protests have occurred in Israel over the government’s handling of the hostage situation in Gaza. Demonstrations took place again following a large rally last week, spurred by the discovery of six additional deceased hostages. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has faced criticism for his position on cease-fire negotiations, declaring, “No one will preach to me,” and maintaining Israeli control over the Philadelphi Corridor. Protester Efrat Machikawa, niece of hostage Gadi Moses, emphasized, “I think even those who were maybe reluctant to go out, who are not used to protest… understood our voice must join together to one huge scream: Bring the hostages with a deal. Do not risk their lives.”
Recent Attacks and Airstrikes
Israeli airstrikes on Gaza have resulted in multiple casualties. Overnight into Saturday, reports indicated that more than a dozen people were killed. Al-Awda Hospital in central Gaza’s Nuseirat refugee camp reported nine deaths from two separate airstrikes. One strike targeted a residential building, killing four and wounding at least 10, while another hit a house in western Nuseirat, killing five. Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital reported the deaths of a woman and her two children in a strike on a house in Bureij. An airstrike on a school-turned-shelter in Jabaliya, northern Gaza, resulted in at least four deaths and about two dozen injuries. The Israeli military claimed the strike targeted a Hamas command post within the school compound.
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Polio Vaccination and Humanitarian Concerns
In response to a new polio case in Gaza, health workers are completing the second phase of a vaccination campaign aimed at 640,000 children. The third phase will focus on northern Gaza. This vaccination effort is part of ongoing efforts to address the public health crisis amidst widespread damage to Gaza’s healthcare infrastructure.
West Bank Violence and American Protester’s Death
Violence in the West Bank has escalated, with a military operation in Jenin resulting in numerous deaths. The family of Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, an American protester who was killed while demonstrating against Israeli settlements, has called for an independent investigation. Eygi, who also held Turkish nationality, was described as a “ray of sunshine” and an advocate for human dignity. The White House has expressed concern and urged a thorough investigation. The Israeli military stated it is reviewing reports of the incident.
Hezbollah Clashes and Rocket Attacks
Clashes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah continue along the Lebanon-Israel border. An Israeli drone strike in Froun targeted a Lebanese Civil Defense team combating a fire, resulting in three fatalities and two injuries. The fire was initially ignited by a prior Israeli strike. In northern Israel, approximately 45 rockets were fired from Lebanon, primarily targeting the Mount Meron area but falling mostly in open areas, with no injuries reported. The Israeli military later conducted strikes on Hezbollah military infrastructure and a rocket launcher in southern Lebanon.
Cease-Fire Negotiations
Hamas has accused Israel of delaying cease-fire negotiations by introducing new demands. Hamas has proposed releasing all hostages in exchange for ending the conflict, withdrawing Israeli forces, and releasing a substantial number of Palestinian prisoners, including high-profile militants. This proposal aligns with a framework suggested by President Biden in July.
(Includes inputs from online sources)
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