Gaza: High civilian toll and infrastructure devastation amid calls for ceasefire

International leaders urge a halt to the conflict as Gaza sees catastrophic humanitarian crisis, with thousands dead and injured

Muslim Network TV Desk with input from agencies

GAZA, Palestine – In the spiraling violence enveloping the Gaza Strip, the death toll continues to rise alarmingly with approximately 3,478 fatalities, including many women, children, and the elderly, and over 12,000 injuries since the hostility escalated on October 7.

The region, plunged into chaos following the Israeli military operation ‘Swords of Iron,’ is facing an unparalleled humanitarian crisis, with essential supplies like electricity, water, food, and medicines running critically low.

Ashraf Al-Qedra, the spokesman for Gaza’s Health Ministry, confirmed these figures in a recent briefing, emphasizing the devastating impact of the continuous airstrikes and ground incursions.

With extensive infrastructure damage, the situation is growing dire, as highlighted by the recent airstrike that targeted the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Mosque in the Nuseirat refugee camp, resulting in numerous casualties and widespread destruction.

Israeli strike on Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital painted a grim picture of the human cost. Survivors likened the aftermath to a “real crematorium,” highlighting the intensity of the attack, which Israel has subsequently denied responsibility for.

As the international community reacts, U.S. President Joe Biden’s stance juxtaposes continued military support for Israel with an emphasis on civilian protection.

Drawing parallels with lessons from America’s post-9/11 stance, Biden advocated restraint and announced significant humanitarian aid for the Palestinians.

His visit to Tel Aviv underscored the U.S.’s active role, promising protection for Israel while urging humanitarian aid facilitation to Gaza under strict conditions to prevent Hamas’ empowerment.

The crisis has prompted strong diplomatic reactions, with Arab leaders canceling a scheduled meeting with President Biden following the hospital airstrike.

Amidst these developments, the U.S. vetoed a UN Security Council draft resolution demanding humanitarian pause, leading to accusations of hypocrisy and a failure to uphold principles within the council.

Russia’s U.N. envoy, Vassily Nebenzia, accused the U.S. of hypocrisy and not standing in principle in the Security Council.

“They really did not want to have any solution here,” said Nebenzia.

American envoy Linda Thomas-Greenfield said U.S. leaders are on the ground doing the hard work of diplomacy.

“While we recognize Brazil’s desire to move this text forward, we believe we need to let that diplomacy play out,” she said.

Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, in a joint press briefing with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, categorically rejected any proposals of forced displacement of Gazans, emphasizing non-military resolutions and adherence to the Palestinian cause.

Proposing alternative relocation strategies, al-Sisi warned against the potential militarization of regions like Sinai and stressed Egypt’s commitment to peace since its 1979 treaty with Israel.

Similarly, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, in an OIC emergency session, condemned the excessive force and called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire.

Highlighting the severe humanitarian conditions in Gaza, he urged for a collective response from Muslim countries and proposed a new guaranteed mechanism for enduring peace in the region.

As the conflict shows no sign of abating, U.N. Chief Antonio Guterres’ call for an “immediate humanitarian ceasefire” echo across the international stage.

The unfolding tragedy in Gaza underscores the urgent need for effective diplomatic engagement and humanitarian action to protect innocent lives and push for a resolution in the strife-torn region.