In the midst of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres revealed a shocking toll on UN workers. Guterres reported that 136 UN employees lost their lives in the past 75 days, marking an unprecedented level of casualties in the history of the organization. Additionally, numerous UN staff members have been displaced from their homes due to the intensifying violence.
Guterres expressed his concern and paid tribute to the fallen colleagues in Gaza through a post on X (formerly Twitter). He highlighted the extraordinary sacrifices made by thousands of aid workers risking their lives to support civilians caught in the crossfire.
Escalation of Conflict Triggered by Hamas Incursion
The conflict in Gaza escalated following an attack by Hamas on October 7, where approximately 2,500 terrorists breached the border into Israel from the Gaza Strip. This incursion resulted in casualties and the capture of hostages. Israel characterized its offensive in Gaza as a targeted effort to dismantle Hamas’ infrastructure, aiming to eliminate the entire terror group while minimizing civilian casualties.
The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) claimed operational control over Gaza City’s Shejaiya neighborhood after intense fighting during the ground offensive against Hamas. The 36th Division successfully dismantled Hamas’ “core capabilities” in Shejaiya, destroying tunnel shafts located in homes, schools, health clinics, and weapons caches.
IDF Expands Ground Operations in Central Gaza Strip
The IDF announced the expansion of its ground operations in the central Gaza Strip, with the 99th Division conducting operations in areas south of Gaza City. The division maneuvered into new areas to establish operational control between Gaza City and the refugee camps in central Gaza. The 179th Reserve Armoured Brigade and 646th Reserve Paratroopers Brigade targeted Hamas’s Nuseirat battalion, eliminating its members and destroying crucial infrastructure, including tunnels and weapon depots.
The IDF emphasized its commitment to continued limited operations in the Shejaiya neighborhood to eradicate any remaining Hamas operatives and infrastructure. The conflict continues to unfold with both sides engaged in fierce and complex confrontations on multiple fronts.
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