Israel Accused of 'Burning the Ground' in Gaza City Offensive as Thousands Flee

Israel Accused of ‘Burning the Ground’ in Gaza City Offensive as Thousands Flee

Israeli forces have intensified their ground offensive in Gaza City, with residents describing the attacks as “heavy” and “relentless,” prompting a mass exodus of displaced Palestinians seeking safety. According to local sources, at least 89 people have been killed across the Gaza Strip since dawn, amid ongoing bombardment and worsening humanitarian conditions, including widespread hunger and displacement. The latest escalation has sparked renewed international concern, following a United Nations inquiry that concluded Israel’s nearly two-year-long war in Gaza amounts to genocide under international law. Thousands of civilians are now on the move again, fleeing areas under heavy fire in northern Gaza, as fears grow over further escalation and civilian casualties.

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LIVE: Israel kills 42 in Gaza, UNSC condemns Doha attack

Israel Kills 42 in Gaza as UN Security Council Condemns Doha Strike

By Kamal Yalwa Published: 12 September 2025 At least 42 Palestinians were killed on Friday as Israeli airstrikes pounded multiple locations in the Gaza Strip, including densely populated refugee camps, according to local medical sources. Fourteen of the victims were reportedly from the same family. The deadly escalation came just hours after Israel launched a targeted strike on Hamas leaders in Doha, the capital of Qatar—an attack that has drawn sharp international condemnation. UN Security Council Holds Emergency Session In an emergency session held early Friday, members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) strongly condemned the Israeli airstrike in Doha, describing it as a violation of international law and a dangerous precedent for state sovereignty. Diplomats from several member states expressed alarm that the strike took place on Qatari soil—one of the region’s key mediators in previous ceasefire negotiations—and warned of the potential for broader regional destabilization. The Qatari government has not yet confirmed casualties from the Doha strike, but officials labeled the attack a “flagrant breach” of its sovereignty. Hamas Vows to Keep Fighting In response to both the Doha and Gaza attacks, Hamas reaffirmed its commitment to armed resistance, saying that Israel’s military actions would not alter its core demands. These include: A Hamas spokesperson said the group would not be “intimidated or coerced into surrender,” and that the movement is preparing for “prolonged confrontation.” Rising Civilian Toll Friday’s strikes targeted residential areas, including al-Shati refugee camp, where several homes were destroyed. Rescue workers and civilians continued searching for survivors under the rubble well into the morning. Hospitals in Gaza, already strained by months of conflict, are struggling to treat the influx of casualties. International Response While the United States has not issued a direct condemnation of the Doha strike, U.S. Ambassador to the UN said Washington is seeking “clarification” from Israeli officials. Several European and Arab nations have urged restraint and called for renewed diplomatic efforts. This latest round of violence adds to the growing death toll in Gaza, where thousands have been killed since the conflict reignited in late 2024. The humanitarian crisis in the enclave has reached catastrophic levels, with over 80% of the population displaced and critical shortages of food, water, and medical supplies.

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Israel kills 7 children as offensive reaches the ‘heart of Gaza City’

Seven Children Among Dozens Killed as Israeli Offensive Reaches Heart of Gaza City

GAZA CITY — At least 30 Palestinians, including seven children, were killed on Friday as Israeli forces intensified their assault on Gaza City, targeting densely populated residential areas and displacement camps, according to local reports. The latest attacks bring the death toll from the ongoing offensive to alarming levels, with eyewitnesses and Al Jazeera correspondents confirming that Israeli ground forces have now pushed into the heart of Gaza City, marking a significant escalation in the military campaign. Israel’s military announced it now controls approximately 40 percent of Gaza City, as operations continue in urban areas where thousands of civilians remain trapped amid the violence. According to Al Jazeera, at least 20 people, including children, were killed in airstrikes on residential neighborhoods on Friday alone. Tents housing displaced families have also been hit, raising fresh concerns about the safety of non-combatants seeking refuge from the fighting. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) described the current situation as “unthinkable“, warning that the continued bombardment of civilian areas is having catastrophic consequences for Gaza’s already vulnerable population, particularly children. “These are not just numbers — these are lives lost, families shattered, and futures stolen,” a UNICEF spokesperson said. Israel has defended its operations as necessary to dismantle Hamas infrastructure, but international observers have repeatedly called for restraint and the protection of civilians, particularly in densely populated urban zones and shelters. As the humanitarian situation worsens, rights groups and aid organizations are calling for urgent international intervention, warning of a looming catastrophe as food, water, and medical supplies remain critically scarce.

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Israel attacks kill dozens as new Gaza operation announced

Israel Launches New Gaza Offensive Killing Dozens Including Aid Seekers

More than 70 people, including children and civilians seeking aid, have been killed in a series of Israeli airstrikes across the Gaza Strip since dawn, according to local health officials. The attacks come as the Israeli military announced the launch of a new phase of its offensive, aimed at capturing one of Gaza’s major urban centers. The deadly escalation marks one of the bloodiest days in recent weeks, with reports emerging of casualties among families queuing for essential supplies such as water and food. Video footage circulating online shows scenes of chaos and devastation in densely populated neighborhoods, with rescue workers scrambling to recover bodies from the rubble. The Israeli military has stated that the renewed offensive is part of its ongoing campaign to eliminate Hamas fighters and regain control of key areas in Gaza. However, humanitarian organizations have condemned the strikes, citing the rising civilian death toll and the dire humanitarian conditions on the ground. Meanwhile, in a related political development, Israel’s far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich unveiled a controversial proposal calling for the annexation of nearly all of the occupied West Bank. He urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to formally endorse the plan, a move likely to draw international criticism and further strain regional tensions. The United Nations and several international human rights groups have expressed alarm over the growing violence, urging both sides to return to negotiations and avoid further civilian suffering. As of this report, the total death toll in Gaza since the beginning of the Israeli military campaign earlier this year continues to climb, with health services stretched beyond capacity and critical infrastructure on the brink of collapse.

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EU nations divided on sanctioning Israel for Gaza war as FMs meet

EU Nations Divided Over Sanctions on Israel as Foreign Ministers Meet in Copenhagen

Published By Kamal Yalwa: on August 30, 2025 European Union foreign ministers are grappling with deep divisions over the appropriate response to Israel’s ongoing military actions in Gaza. The ministers convened in Copenhagen on Saturday, August 30, to discuss potential punitive measures as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza intensifies. The meeting comes amid growing calls from within the EU to take stronger action against Israel following allegations of war crimes, including civilian deaths and man-made starvation across the besieged Palestinian enclave. One of the primary issues on the agenda was a proposal to suspend EU funding for Israeli start-ups, which would serve as an initial form of punitive action. However, sources indicate that the proposal has yet to gain the majority support needed to move forward, with significant resistance from some EU countries. Deepening Divisions Within the EU The EU remains deeply divided on the issue. Countries like Spain and Ireland have been vocal in urging for more significant measures to pressure Israel, arguing that the EU has been too slow and ineffective in its response to the Gaza conflict. Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares described the EU’s actions as “too little too late,” and emphasized the need for stronger measures to bring an end to the violence in Gaza. On the other hand, Israel’s staunch allies within the EU, including Germany and Hungary, are reluctant to impose any substantial sanctions, preferring instead to maintain dialogue. German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas has notably expressed a desire to avoid punitive measures, citing the importance of maintaining diplomatic channels open. Humanitarian Concerns and Calls for Sanctions Ahead of the meeting, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen echoed calls for a stronger EU response, stating, “We are witnessing the most catastrophic humanitarian catastrophe. Israel must change its course.” He proposed suspending the trade chapter of the EU-Israel association agreement and imposing sanctions on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and key members of his government. EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas expressed skepticism over the likelihood of a unified decision, noting, “I’m not very optimistic, and today we are definitely not going to adopt decisions. It sends a signal that we are divided.” The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has worsened in recent weeks, with alarming reports of famine and increasing civilian casualties. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), working with the UN, recently declared a famine in Gaza, a finding rejected by Israel despite mounting evidence. Growing Pressure From European Citizens Hashem Ahelbarra, reporting from Copenhagen, noted that public opinion across Europe is shifting. “There is a change of mood on the streets of Europe,” he said, highlighting growing frustration among citizens over the EU’s failure to effectively address the Gaza crisis and enforce international humanitarian law. Hadja Lahbib, the European Commissioner for Crisis Management, called for a collective EU stance on Gaza, stating, “What is happening there is haunting me and should haunt all of us. This is a tragedy, and we will be judged by history.” In addition to the discussions on Gaza, EU foreign ministers are also expected to address the ongoing war in Ukraine. One contentious issue involves the use of frozen Russian assets, estimated at around €210 billion ($245.85 billion), which some EU members—particularly Poland and the Baltic States—are advocating to be confiscated and redirected to aid Ukraine. However, key EU nations, including France and Germany, have opposed this move, urging caution. As EU ministers continue to meet, the bloc remains divided on how to approach Israel’s military actions in Gaza. While some EU members push for stronger sanctions, others call for restraint. The outcome of these discussions will not only impact EU-Israel relations but also determine the future of European involvement in the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

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LIVE: Israel kills 41 Palestinians in Gaza, al-Mawasi ‘safe zone’ included

Israel Strikes Kill 41 in Gaza, Including in Designated Safe Zone of al-Mawasi

At least 41 Palestinians — including children and individuals seeking humanitarian aid — were killed in Israeli airstrikes across the Gaza Strip on Thursday, with several casualties reported in al-Mawasi, an area previously designated by Israel as a “humanitarian zone.” The strikes come as Israel intensifies its military operations to gain full control over Gaza City. Among the dead are civilians who had taken refuge in areas believed to be protected under humanitarian agreements. The United Nations has strongly condemned the escalation. Secretary-General António Guterres stated that Israel’s latest push marks “a new and dangerous phase” in the ongoing conflict, warning of its devastating implications for civilians trapped in the densely populated enclave. The situation continues to deteriorate amid growing international concern over the mounting civilian death toll and worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

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Israeli military targets Yemen’s Sanaa after Houthi attacks

Israeli Military Strikes Yemen’s Capital Sanaa Following Houthi Missile Attacks

Sanaa, Yemen – The Israeli military has carried out air raids on Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, in what it says is retaliation for recent missile and drone attacks launched by the Houthi movement. The strikes mark a significant escalation in the widening regional fallout from Israel’s ongoing war on Gaza. According to Israeli and Yemeni sources, the air strikes early Sunday targeted multiple sites, including an oil facility, a power plant, and what Israel described as a “military complex” housing a presidential palace. The Houthi-affiliated Al Masirah TV confirmed the attacks and reported at least two fatalities and 35 injuries. Video footage verified by Al Jazeera showed plumes of fire and thick smoke rising over the Yemeni capital shortly after the strikes. “The attacks were carried out in response to repeated assaults by the Houthi terrorist regime against the State of Israel and its citizens, including the launch of surface-to-surface missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles,” said the Israeli military in a statement. On Friday, the Houthis claimed responsibility for launching missiles toward Israel, describing their operations as part of a broader effort to pressure Israel to end its military campaign and blockade in Gaza. A Houthi military official told Al Masirah that Yemen’s air defenses had “neutralised most of the Israeli enemy aircraft participating in the aggression and forced them to withdraw.” Houthi Defiance Despite the Israeli air raids, Houthi leaders have vowed to continue their military support for the Palestinian cause. “The Israeli aggression against Yemen will not discourage us from continuing our support for Gaza, no matter the sacrifices,” said Houthi official Mohammed al-Bukhaiti. “The issue is settled for us: either eternity in heaven or eternity in hell.” The air strikes on Sanaa mark the first publicly acknowledged Israeli attacks on Yemen since the escalation of hostilities in Gaza began. Regional analysts warn that the expanding theatre of conflict — from Lebanon and Syria to now Yemen — increases the risk of a broader Middle East war. Tensions have been mounting across the region as Israeli military operations in Gaza, which have drawn widespread international condemnation, continue into their 11th month. Protests, diplomatic backlash, and armed responses from non-state actors have intensified, raising fears of a prolonged and destabilising conflict.

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Dutch foreign minister resigns over Israel sanctions deadlock

Dutch Foreign Minister Resigns Over Cabinet Deadlock on Israel Sanctions

Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp has resigned after failing to secure cabinet backing for additional sanctions against Israel amid its ongoing military operations in Gaza. Veldkamp, a member of the centre-right New Social Contract party, announced his resignation on Friday, citing the government’s refusal to support what he called “meaningful measures” in response to the worsening humanitarian crisis. “I also see what is happening on the ground in Gaza — the attack on Gaza City, and in the West Bank, the settlement expansion in E1 and East Jerusalem,” Veldkamp told reporters. “I can no longer defend a foreign policy that ignores these realities.” His resignation has triggered broader political fallout, with all New Social Contract ministers and state secretaries stepping down in solidarity, leaving the caretaker government further weakened as it prepares for elections in October. Sanctions Push Met with Resistance Veldkamp had pushed for targeted sanctions, including entry bans for far-right Israeli ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir, citing their roles in inciting settler violence. He also revoked three export permits for components used in Israeli naval vessels, warning of “deteriorating conditions” and the risk of misuse. Additionally, Veldkamp advocated for suspending the EU-Israel trade agreement — a move reportedly blocked by Germany. “There was increasing pressure from Dutch lawmakers and the public,” said Al Jazeera’s Step Vaessen, reporting from Berlin. “Many believed the Netherlands should act unilaterally rather than wait for Brussels.” Despite his efforts, Veldkamp said resistance from within the cabinet rendered his position untenable. Netherlands Caught in Broader EU Tensions While the Netherlands has taken limited steps toward sanctioning Israel, it remains a key node in the supply chain of Israel’s F-35 fighter jet programme. Research from the Palestinian Youth Movement shows that F-35 components regularly pass through the port of Rotterdam, operated by Maersk. These aircraft have played a central role in Israel’s aerial campaign in Gaza, which has killed over 62,000 people since October 2023, according to local health authorities. Earlier this week, the Netherlands joined 20 other nations in condemning Israel’s approval of a major West Bank settlement expansion, calling the move “unacceptable and contrary to international law”. No Immediate Successor The Dutch caretaker government, in place since the coalition collapse on 3 June, will remain until a new government is formed post-elections — a process that may take months. No immediate successor to Veldkamp has been named. Veldkamp’s departure comes at a critical moment for the EU, which continues negotiations with the United States over tariffs and faces growing pressure to enforce accountability in the Israel-Gaza conflict. The famine officially declared in Gaza City on Friday by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has further intensified calls for urgent international action.

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