Israeli Strikes Kill 40, Damage Gaza Mosque, Heighten Humanitarian Crisis

Israeli forces opened fire on thousands of Palestinians near a U.S. and Israeli-controlled aid site in western Rafah, killing at least 40 and injuring over 150, while Palestinians accused Israeli forces of targeting ambulances and blocking medical aid. Eyewitnesses reported heavy fire from naval warships, tanks, and drones as Palestinians approached the site to receive aid, resulting in numerous casualties including women and children. In addition to ongoing violence, an Israeli air strike severely damaged the Ansar Mosque and an adjacent cemetery in Deir Al-Balah, part of a broader pattern of attacks on religious and cultural sites in Gaza, where hundreds of mosques and cemeteries have been destroyed or damaged since October 2023. Despite international calls for a ceasefire, Israel continues its offensive, which has resulted in the deaths of over 54,400 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and has raised concerns about famine in the enclave. The UK and other countries have taken diplomatic actions against Israel, including suspending trade talks and imposing sanctions on settlements, while debates continue over how best to support Palestinians amid the humanitarian crisis. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli leaders for war crimes in Gaza, and Israel faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice.