On Sunday, Israel launched an airstrike in Khan Younis, Gaza, targeting Salah al-Bardaweel, a senior Hamas political leader, and his wife. The strike came after Israel’s decision to end a ceasefire and resume its full-scale military operations against Hamas. Explosions were reported throughout Gaza, with major impacts in the north, central, and southern areas. Health officials reported at least 30 Palestinian deaths in Rafah and Khan Younis in just one day, including three city workers.
Bardaweel, known for his leadership within Hamas’s political office, had represented the group during previous truce negotiations. He was also once the leader of Hamas’s media department. In the aftermath of his death, Hamas condemned the Israeli airstrike and vowed to continue its resistance, calling Bardaweel’s death a sacrifice for the cause.
Military Operations Intensify in Rafah
As Israeli forces moved forward with their military operations, the army encircled Tel Al-Sultan, a neighborhood in Rafah. They stated that the operation was aimed at targeting militants and Hamas infrastructure. Israel urged civilians in the area to evacuate using designated safe routes. However, many residents fled toward Khan Younis. Abu Khaled, a local resident, explained, “We’ve fled at least ten times already. We just want peace.”
According to Gaza’s civil emergency services, approximately 50,000 civilians remain trapped in the combat zone. Rescue teams face significant challenges in reaching these individuals due to the ongoing fighting.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens as Aid is Blocked
The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to worsen as aid deliveries are blocked. Philippe Lazzarini, head of the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), warned that the ongoing blockade of aid could push Gaza into famine. He described the blockade as a form of collective punishment against a population largely composed of civilians.
Israel halted aid shipments on March 2, citing allegations that Hamas was intercepting supplies. However, Hamas denies these claims, and the UN has raised alarms over the dire conditions in Gaza.
Hamas Open to Dialogue Amid Ongoing Conflict
Despite the ongoing violence, Hamas has expressed its openness to dialogue. The group is reportedly reviewing mediation proposals from U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff. The current conflict began in October 2023 when Hamas fighters entered southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and capturing over 250 hostages, according to Israeli sources. In response, Israel has vowed to dismantle Hamas completely, further escalating the conflict.
The death toll in Gaza has now surpassed 50,000, with no resolution in sight as both sides continue to endure heavy losses. The humanitarian crisis is worsening, and international calls for a ceasefire and peaceful negotiations have intensified, but the situation remains volatile.
