Devastating attacks on Palestinians continue despite UN calls for truce
Gaza is once again reeling from devastating violence as Israeli air strikes killed at least 85 Palestinians on Wednesday, ignoring urgent calls for a ceasefire at the United Nations General Assembly.
One of the deadliest strikes hit the al-Ahli Stadium in the Nuseirat refugee camp, which had been converted into a shelter for displaced families. At least 12 people, including seven women and two children, were killed in what survivors described as another massacre.
“I only had what I had in my hand. I left with nothing,” said Najwa, a displaced woman from Gaza City. “We are frightened. Transportation is expensive. We can’t pay to bring our things.”
UN: ‘Inflicting Terror’
The UN accused Israel of “inflicting terror” on Gaza’s population, warning that tens of thousands are being forced to flee. Despite this, Israeli military chief Eyal Zamir claimed Palestinians were being moved “for their safety.”
Investigators, however, concluded that Israel’s actions are aimed at cementing permanent control over Gaza while ensuring demographic dominance in the West Bank and inside Israel.
Since the conflict began on October 7, 2023, at least 65,419 Palestinians have been killed and 167,160 wounded, with thousands more buried under rubble. The war was triggered after Hamas-led attacks killed 1,139 people in Israel and took around 200 hostages.
Global Condemnation
At the UN General Assembly in New York, world leaders strongly condemned Israel’s escalating offensive.
- Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian declared: “Those criminals who bully by murdering children are not worthy of the name ‘human being’.”
- Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa demanded an immediate ceasefire, calling for protection of Gaza’s women and children.
- Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide noted that quiet talks are underway, pointing to a “New York Declaration” roadmap supported by 142 states.
Even the United States, Israel’s closest ally, signaled frustration. US envoy Steve Witkoff said Washington was “hopeful” about a breakthrough and confirmed that Donald Trump’s 21-point peace plan was being circulated.
But efforts toward peace have repeatedly collapsed. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu previously ordered air strikes that derailed talks, pulled out of ceasefire agreements, and imposed a total aid blockade that worsened famine and starvation deaths. He also faces an ICC arrest warrant for alleged war crimes.
Growing Isolation
Back home, protests erupted in Tel Aviv, with hundreds gathering at Ben Gurion Airport to denounce Netanyahu as he departed for the UN. Despite rising opposition, he rejected all international calls for a Palestinian state, saying: “The shameful surrender of some leaders to Palestinian terrorism will not bind Israel in any way.”