Israeli airstrikes continued to target the Gaza Strip, resulting in a high number of casualties. The Israeli military claimed that their operations included killing militants and destroying weapons storage facilities.
The Gaza health ministry reported a significant increase in the number of dead and injured, without distinguishing between fighters and civilians.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas began after a terror attack by Hamas fighters, leading to calls for a sustainable cease-fire from Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong.
The World Food Program, World Health Organization, and UNICEF expressed concern over the insufficient humanitarian aid entering Gaza, urging for more access and fewer restrictions to prevent hunger, malnutrition, and disease.
During a news conference, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that Israel will not be deterred by accusations of committing genocide against Palestinians, emphasizing that no one, including the International Court of Justice or the Axis of Evil, will stop them.
Netanyahu made these remarks after a two-day hearing at the ICJ, where South Africa accused Israel of genocide.
Israel has rejected the accusation as libelous and hypocritical, arguing that ending the war now would mean victory for Hamas, a designated terrorist organization.
An interim ruling from the ICJ is expected in a few weeks, but enforcing rulings can be challenging. Israel is facing increasing international pressure to end the war, which has resulted in widespread suffering and a high death toll, with a significant number of women and children among the casualties.
The Israeli military reports that since the start of the ground operation, 186 soldiers have been killed and over a thousand injured, while a large portion of Gaza’s population has been displaced and significant damage has been inflicted on the territory.
