Palestinian Children Enter Third Year Without Education
The UN’s Palestinian relief agency (UNRWA) has raised concerns on social media regarding the impact of Israel’s conflict in Gaza on the education of countless children. They emphasized that, rather than focusing on their studies, many children are compelled to search for basic necessities like food and water. This fall marks the third consecutive school year that students in the region will miss out on education.
Iran Initiates Naval Drills
Iran has commenced its first military exercises following the recent conflict with Israel, according to state media reports. These drills involve navy vessels active in the Indian Ocean, launching missiles toward targets in the Gulf of Oman. While such military exercises are typical, this latest demonstration is perceived as a show of strength in response to recent Israeli airstrikes on various sites within Iran, including sensitive nuclear facilities.
Ground Offensive Commences in Gaza City
As Israeli forces begin their ground operations in Gaza City, hundreds of thousands of civilians who had been taking refuge in the area have been ordered to evacuate southward. This is not the first instance of displacement for many of these individuals in recent months. Israeli military officials confirmed the start of this offensive, labeled as the “preliminary” phase of efforts to seize control over the entire city.
Reports indicate that as of January, air assaults had already devastated 70-80% of Gaza City, with military spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Defrin stating that the city continues to serve as a stronghold for Hamas, the militant group responsible for initiating the ongoing conflict.
Calls for Ceasefire from International Bodies
In light of the impending Israeli ground operation, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, highlighting the multiple humanitarian crises currently affecting civilians in Gaza. He emphasized that it is critical to reach a ceasefire to prevent further devastation.
Additionally, the International Committee of the Red Cross warned that forcing another wave of civilian displacement would exacerbate the already dire situation.
60,000 Reservists to Be Mobilized
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced plans to call up 60,000 reservists in light of the expanded military operations in Gaza City. This mobilization reflects Israel’s determination to continue its military campaign despite international pleas for a ceasefire, especially given the significant civilian casualties reported, including thousands of children.
This call-up represents the largest reserve mobilization in recent months, which follows large-scale protests within Israel advocating for a cessation of hostilities and a focus on the release of hostages held by Hamas.
Overview of Ongoing Coverage
The UN Security Council is scheduled to address the Israeli military operations and the prevailing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Following the IDF’s confirmation of its ground offensive in Gaza City, around 60,000 reservists will be summoned.
The UN has urged the Israeli government to implement a ceasefire, citing the risks to civilians who have been enduring continuous bombardment for nearly two years. Stay tuned for live updates and in-depth analysis regarding the situation in the Middle East.
