October 2023 -Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, killing over 1,300 people, injuring thousands, and taking hundreds hostage. Israel responded by declaring war, imposing a siege on Gaza, launching airstrikes, and initiating a ground invasion.
Israel withdrew most troops but intensified operations in southern Gaza, targeting Hamas strongholds like Rafah. Raids on hospitals such as al-Shifa uncovered alleged Hamas operations and mass graves, sparking global condemnation.
The conflict spread regionally as Hezbollah escalated attacks in the north, and Iran directly entered in April by launching missiles and drones at Israel. Israel retaliated with strikes on Iranian military sites, though U.S. pressure prevented wider escalation. The killings of senior Hezbollah and Hamas leaders further strained peace efforts, while regional powers like Egypt and Jordan resisted taking in displaced Palestinians, fearing permanent resettlement and instability.
Gaza is on the brink of collapse. Over 70% of the population is displaced, with critical shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. Most hospitals are nonfunctional, and famine looms. Humanitarian efforts are crippled after aid workers were killed in airstrikes. Despite international mediation, ceasefire negotiations remain deadlocked as Hamas rejects proposals and Israel continues its offensive.
Since October 7 last year, Israeli attacks on Gaza have killed at least 44,580 people, mostly women and children, and wounded at least 105,739 others, according to Palestinian health authorities.
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