Sunday marks six months since the Hamas militant group launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, resulting in approximately 1,200 fatalities and the abduction of around 250 hostages, including children, women, and the elderly.
In response, Israel declared war on Hamas, leading to a significant military ground offensive in the Gaza Strip and a complete siege of the enclave, depriving it of electricity, fuel, water, and food. Since October 7, 2023, Israel has conducted several strikes targeting Hamas in Gaza, resulting in numerous civilian casualties and extensive damage to critical infrastructure.
The United Nations has warned of an imminent threat of famine in the region.
"We are on the brink of mass starvation, regional conflagration, and a total loss of faith in global standards and norms," stated United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres. "
It is crucial to step back from the brink, silence the guns, ease the suffering, and prevent potential famine before it's too late."
The conflict has reached a critical juncture, with seven aid workers from World Central Kitchen (WCK) killed in an Israeli airstrike while distributing essential aid in Gaza.
President Biden expressed outrage and heartbreak over the incident, urging Israel to conduct a thorough and swift investigation.
Israel's military announced the dismissal of two officers over the drone strikes on the WCK aid workers, citing violations of engagement rules.
Three senior commanders were also reprimanded.
In a recent phone call, President Biden addressed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the first time since the airstrike, signaling a potential shift in the U.S. policy towards Israel.
The Biden administration emphasized the need for increased humanitarian aid, open crossings, and a reduction in violence against civilians and aid workers.
Despite several ceasefire negotiations brokered by Egypt and Qatar, backed by the U.S., no agreements have been reached.
Hamas seeks a permanent end to the war, while Israel insists on a temporary truce to free remaining hostages held by the militant grou
The conflict has taken a heavy toll, with more than 33,000 Palestinians killed and over 75,000 injured, according to the Gaza health ministry.
The situation is dire, with over 1.7 million people displaced and facing catastrophic hunger.
Damage to Gaza's infrastructure is estimated at around $18.5 billion, with 62% of homes destroyed and 84% of health facilities damaged or destroyed.
In a recent development, Israel announced temporary allowances for additional aid routes, including the Erez crossing in northern Gaza and through the Port of Ashdod in Israel, as well as increased aid from Jordan through the Kerem Shalom crossing in southern Gaza.
However, the U.S. emphasizes that the real test lies in the results of these actions.