Southern Gaza hit as Israeli spy chief reportedly heads to new talks

Israeli air strikes targeted homes in the southern Gaza Strip, contributing to a worsening humanitarian situation despite ongoing truce efforts. Witnesses reported the strikes, and a delegation led by David Barnea from the Mossad intelligence agency is reportedly heading to Paris for new truce discussions. Hamas concluded ceasefire talks in Cairo, awaiting outcomes from weekend discussions with Israel. Despite negotiation efforts, Israel’s military reported ongoing fighting in the western Khan Yunis area, involving drone strikes and sniper fire. More than four months of conflict have devastated Gaza, pushing its population to the brink of famine and causing significant casualties. The UN humanitarian agency, OCHA, attributes limitations on aid entry, combat, and growing insecurity as severe obstacles to assistance. Philippe Lazzarini, UNRWA’s commissioner-general, highlighted the agency reaching a breaking point due to frozen funding, pressure from Israel, and soaring humanitarian needs. Several donors suspended UNRWA funding in response to Israeli allegations, despite the UN firing accused employees and initiating an internal probe. Aid groups, including OCHA, are appealing for an immediate ceasefire, UNRWA funding restoration, and measures to provide essential necessities for the people of Gaza.

Source – CGTN