Israel carried out airstrikes across Gaza on Saturday following reports of attacks on its troops. The strikes mark a serious test of the ceasefire established on Oct. 10. Gaza health officials say at least 24 people were killed and 54 wounded, including children. Israel reported that five senior Hamas members were among those targeted.

Renewed Violence Amid Fragile Ceasefire

The airstrikes came after gunfire at Israeli troops in southern Gaza, which Israel described as a major ceasefire violation. No Israeli soldiers were injured. In retaliation, Israel targeted several sites linked to Hamas operations.

In Gaza City’s Rimal neighborhood, a strike hit a vehicle, killing 11 and wounding more than 20, mostly children, according to Rami Mhanna, managing director of Shifa Hospital. Hospital director Mohamed Abu Selmiya confirmed that most casualties were minors.

Video footage shows residents inspecting the blackened wreckage. Another strike near Al-Awda Hospital in central Gaza killed at least three and wounded 11. Additional attacks in Nuseirat camp and Deir al-Balah killed 10 more civilians, including women and children.

Local resident Khalil Abu Hatab described the impact in Deir al-Balah: “Suddenly, I heard a powerful explosion. Smoke covered the entire area. I couldn’t see a thing. I covered my ears and shouted for everyone in the tent to run. When I looked again, the upper floor of my neighbor’s house was gone.”

Abu Hatab called the situation “a fragile ceasefire” and said civilians felt unsafe, highlighting the ongoing vulnerability of Gaza residents.

Israel’s Military Response

Israel said the strikes targeted an “armed terrorist” who crossed into Israeli-controlled territory and fired at troops. In Rafah, Israeli forces killed 11 militants and detained six others attempting to escape underground. Additional operations targeted militants in northern Gaza approaching Israeli forces.

Israeli troops occupy slightly more than half of Gaza after partial withdrawals under the ceasefire. The military described some breaches as extreme violations, including attacks along humanitarian aid routes.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed five senior Hamas members were killed. Hamas has not commented on these claims.

Hamas Response

Hamas political bureau member Izzat al-Rishq condemned the strikes, accusing Israel of using pretexts to avoid implementing the ceasefire. He said the attacks were part of “a war of extermination.” Hamas has called on the United States and other mediators to ensure Israel follows the agreement.

Hamas has not addressed Israel’s claim of senior members killed, reflecting the ongoing tension and conflicting narratives.

Civilian Impact and Hospital Reports

Gaza’s Health Ministry reports 69,733 Palestinians have died and 170,863 have been injured in Israel’s retaliatory offensive since Hamas’ attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. The ministry says women and children account for the majority of casualties.

Medical teams continue recovering and identifying victims, which has raised the casualty count during the ceasefire. Hospitals such as Shifa and Al-Awda remain overwhelmed, treating civilians from both new strikes and earlier attacks.

Mohamed Abu Selmiya emphasized the strain on hospitals, noting the urgent need for resources to manage the surge of casualties, especially children.

Background on the Conflict

The current violence followed Hamas’ attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, which killed over 1,200 people and left more than 250 hostages. Most hostages or their remains have been returned through ceasefires and negotiations. The remains of three individuals are still in Gaza.

Israelis protested in Tel Aviv, demanding a state commission of inquiry into failures surrounding the October 7 attacks. Rafi Ben Shitrit, whose son Staff Sgt. Shimon Alroy Ben Shitrit was killed, said: “The government of Israel failed in its most important mission: to protect its children and citizens, not to abandon soldiers on the battlefield.”

International Context

The escalation came shortly after the U.N. Security Council approved a U.S.-proposed plan for Gaza. It calls for an international stabilization force, a transitional authority overseen by President Donald Trump, and a potential path to an independent Palestinian state.

The plan aims to provide security and governance in Gaza, but repeated ceasefire violations and ongoing military operations complicate its implementation.

The Ceasefire’s Fragility

The airstrikes underline the fragile nature of the ceasefire. Earlier in the week, Israeli operations killed at least 33 Palestinians over 12 hours, including women and children.

Residents describe life under intermittent shelling as untenable. No location feels fully safe. These repeated attacks show how difficult it is to enforce ceasefire agreements and the complexity of Gaza’s humanitarian crisis.

Outlook and Humanitarian Concerns

The renewed violence has prompted calls for international mediation and humanitarian support. The U.N. and other organizations stress the need for safe corridors, medical supplies, and protection for children.

Israel frames its strikes as defensive against militant activity, but the civilian toll demonstrates the disproportionate impact on non-combatants. Experts warn that without strong enforcement and oversight, the ceasefire will remain vulnerable, prolonging instability and civilian suffering.

Source: AP News – Israel launches strikes in Gaza ceasefire’s latest test as hospitals say 24 killed

The post Israel Launches Gaza Strikes Amid Ceasefire Fragility appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

Medical Teams Confront Severe Malnutrition and Trauma

Doctors at Israeli hospitals are now treating the former hostages for conditions including malnutrition, vitamin deficiencies, and orthopedic injuries caused by wearing leg chains for months. Many are also suffering from muscle loss, infections, and psychological distress.

“They will need time to heal physically and mentally,” said Hagai Levine, head of the Hostages Family Forum medical team, who oversees the hostages’ recovery process. “What appears on the outside doesn’t reflect what’s going on internally.”

According to the Israeli Ministry of Health, each returning hostage undergoes a comprehensive series of medical and psychological tests. Nutritionists are supervising their food intake to prevent refeeding syndrome, a potentially fatal condition caused by consuming food too rapidly after long periods of starvation.

Hostages Emerge Pale and Fragile

Witnesses described the newly released captives as “extremely thin and pale.” Doctors say months of confinement without sunlight can impair kidney and liver function, damage bones, and cause long-term cognitive effects. Many captives were kept in chains, leading to muscle wasting, circulation problems, and chronic pain.

Elkana Bohbot, one of the freed hostages, told his family he suffers from pain throughout his body, especially in his back, feet, and stomach. His wife, Rebecca, said he was force-fed before his release “so he would look a bit better for the world.”

Some previously released hostages experienced minor strokes or untreated infections during captivity. Many now have weakened immune systems, prompting hospitals to limit visits. Levine has warned politicians against making unnecessary hospital appearances, calling them “both intrusive and potentially risky.”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Isaac Herzog, and Defense Minister Israel Katz all visited hostages in recent days. Netanyahu was later diagnosed with bronchitis.

Long-Term Health Risks from Captivity

Israeli medical teams are drawing lessons from previous conflicts. After the 1973 Arab-Israeli war, dozens of soldiers who were held captive in Syria developed long-term health problems, including cancer and cardiovascular disease. Experts fear similar consequences could emerge for those recently released from Gaza.

The war that began in October 2023, when Hamas militants stormed across the Israeli border, killed around 1,200 people in Israel and led to the abduction of 251 hostages. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which is part of the Hamas-run administration, more than 67,600 Palestinians have been killed during the conflict. The figures are regarded by U.N. agencies as broadly credible, though the ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants.

Restoring Autonomy and Emotional Stability

The process of psychological rehabilitation is as crucial as the medical care. Einat Yehene, a clinical neuropsychologist who leads rehabilitation efforts for the Hostages Families Forum, said restoring autonomy is central to recovery.

“After two years in tunnels, some are seeing sunlight for the first time,” Yehene explained. “Even simple questions—‘Do you need to eat? Do you want to go to the bathroom?’—can feel overwhelming.”

Therapists encourage small, voluntary decisions to rebuild confidence and control. Medical staff are instructed to seek the hostages’ consent before performing any task, from changing bedsheets to adjusting lights.

Some freed captives experience panic when feeling thirsty, associating the sensation with their captivity. Others struggle to be alone, requiring a family member to remain close by at all times.

Fathers Find Strength Through Family Bonds

According to Levine, hostages who were fathers often reintegrate more smoothly than others. “Becoming a parent again helps rebuild identity and responsibility,” he said. However, trust between parents and young children can take time to reestablish.

None of the women held long-term were mothers, he added, noting the unique emotional strain faced by those who endured captivity in isolation.

Guilt, Relief, and Reconnecting with the World

During the first days of freedom, many hostages experience a mix of euphoria and guilt—joy at being free but pain over what their families endured. Rehabilitation teams advise relatives to reintroduce information and media gradually, especially for those unaware of how much has changed since their abduction.

Yehene said she witnessed “a visible psychological release” among both newly freed and previously released hostages after Monday’s liberation. “You can see movement from frozen emotions and frozen trauma,” she said. “For many, this is the first moment they stop feeling responsible or guilty.”

For Iair Horn, released in February, true freedom came only this week when his younger brother, Eitan, was also freed. “Eight months ago, I came home,” he said tearfully. “But the truth is, only today am I truly free.”

Liran Berman, whose twin brothers Gali and Ziv were released, echoed that sentiment. “For 738 days, our lives were trapped between hope and fear,” he said. “Seeing them again was like feeling the world start to move again.”

A Nation Confronts the Human Cost of War

The release of the final hostages marks a turning point for many Israeli families still grappling with loss and trauma. The process of recovery—both individual and collective—remains ongoing. Medical experts emphasize that while the hostages’ bodies may heal, their psychological wounds will require months, if not years, of care and understanding.

As one therapist noted, “Freedom begins not with walking out of captivity, but with learning how to live again.”

 Stay informed with JournosNews.com — your trusted source for verified global reporting and in-depth analysis. Follow us on Google News and BlueSky for real-time updates.

Source: AP News – After months in chains and darkness, freed Hamas hostages begin their long road to recovery

The post Freed Hamas Hostages Begin Painful Recovery After Two Years in Captivity appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

Published: October 4, 2025, 18:30 EDT

Summary

U.S. President Donald Trump has instructed Israel to halt its bombing campaign in Gaza after Hamas announced it would accept parts of his peace plan, including releasing remaining hostages taken during the October 2023 attacks. While Hamas expressed readiness for concessions, significant disagreements remain, leaving the path to a full ceasefire uncertain.

Trump Pushes for Immediate Halt to Bombing

On Friday, President Donald Trump ordered Israel to suspend airstrikes in the Gaza Strip following Hamas’ partial acceptance of his proposed peace initiative. Hamas leaders said they were prepared to release the hostages taken during the October 7, 2023, assault on Israel and transfer governing authority to other Palestinian factions, but stressed that broader issues still required negotiations.

In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his government was ready to move forward with the “first stage” of Trump’s plan, apparently referring to the release of hostages. His office reiterated that Israel remained committed to its previously stated principles for ending the war, without directly addressing areas of disagreement with Hamas.

Trump praised the statement from Hamas, writing on social media: “I believe they are ready for a lasting PEACE.” He added that hostages could not be safely released while Gaza remained under bombardment: “Israel must immediately stop the bombing of Gaza, so that we can get the Hostages out safely and quickly!”

Hamas Acceptance Comes with Conditions

Hamas said that elements of the proposal concerning the political future of Gaza and broader Palestinian rights would need to be decided collectively with other Palestinian factions. The group also emphasized that international law must guide any long-term settlement.

The official statement made no mention of disarmament—an essential Israeli demand in Trump’s peace proposal. Senior Hamas officials acknowledged on regional television that there were significant disagreements and warned that implementation would require extensive negotiations.

Mousa Abu Marzouk, a senior Hamas figure, told Al Jazeera that the group could not guarantee the release of all hostages within 72 hours, citing the challenge of locating remains of captives believed to have died. Another official, Osama Hamdan, said foreign administration of Gaza was “unacceptable,” contradicting a core element of Trump’s plan that called for international oversight.

Peace Effort Draws International Support

The latest ceasefire initiative has drawn broad backing from mediators and world leaders. Egypt and Qatar, who have played central roles in previous negotiations, welcomed Hamas’ response and pledged to continue discussions.

Majed Al Ansari, spokesperson for Qatar’s Foreign Ministry, said Doha would “continue discussions on the plan.” United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres also urged all sides to “seize the opportunity to bring the tragic conflict in Gaza to an end.”

French President Emmanuel Macron echoed the sentiment, declaring that “the release of all hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza are within reach.”

In Israel, the main organization representing families of hostages said Trump’s call to stop the bombing was “essential to prevent serious and irreversible harm” to their loved ones. The group appealed directly to Netanyahu to engage in “efficient and swift negotiations” to secure their return.

The Details of Trump’s Plan

Unveiled earlier this week, Trump’s proposal seeks to resolve the nearly two-year conflict while marking the second anniversary of the October 2023 Hamas-led assault on Israel.

The plan includes:

• Release of the remaining 48 hostages, including about 20 believed to be alive, within three days.

• Disarmament of Hamas and transfer of authority to an independent Palestinian body.

• Israeli withdrawal from much of Gaza and suspension of its military campaign.

• Release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli custody.

• Large-scale humanitarian aid and international-led reconstruction efforts.

• Placement of Gaza under temporary international governance, overseen by Trump and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair.

Provisions for eventual Palestinian statehood or reunification with the West Bank are absent, fueling concerns among Palestinians that the plan heavily favors Israel.

Hamas Voices Skepticism

Although Hamas welcomed the opportunity to negotiate, officials stressed the need for further talks. Abu Marzouk said the group could consider handing over weapons to a future Palestinian governing body but rejected foreign oversight. Hamdan reiterated that Gaza should remain under Palestinian, not international, administration.

Their caution reflects deep mistrust of outside proposals. Many Palestinians view U.S.-brokered initiatives as skewed toward Israeli security concerns while failing to address long-standing demands for sovereignty and rights.

Israel Pressures Hamas with Intensified Campaign

Israel has escalated its military operations in Gaza in recent months. Since ending a brief ceasefire in March, the Israeli military has cut off essential supplies, flattened neighborhoods, and displaced hundreds of thousands.

The United Nations reported that Gaza City entered famine conditions shortly before Israel’s latest offensive. Around 400,000 residents fled the city in recent weeks, though hundreds of thousands more remain trapped.

Olga Cherevko, spokesperson for the U.N. humanitarian office, described witnessing families sheltering in the parking lot of Shifa Hospital, including children and pregnant women unable to move south due to poverty. “There were many other vulnerable cases there, including elderly people and people with disabilities,” she told The Associated Press.

Despite heavy losses, Hamas retains some control in parts of Gaza not occupied by Israeli forces, continuing to mount sporadic attacks.

Human Cost of the Conflict

Since October 2023, Hamas’ cross-border assault killed about 1,200 people in Israel, most of them civilians, according to Israeli authorities. The group abducted 251 individuals, with most later released during ceasefires or negotiated exchanges.

Israel’s retaliatory campaign has killed more than 66,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The ministry, which operates under Hamas, does not distinguish between civilian and militant deaths but reports that women and children account for about half of the casualties. International observers, including U.N. agencies, consider these figures to be the most reliable estimates available.

The conflict has displaced approximately 90% of Gaza’s population, leaving much of the territory uninhabitable.

Anniversary of October 7 Attack Nears

The latest developments come days before the second anniversary of Hamas’ attack on southern Israel. Thousands of militants stormed across the border, targeting military bases, communities, and a music festival. The unprecedented assault not only sparked one of the deadliest days in Israel’s history but also ignited a war that has devastated Gaza.

As the anniversary approaches, Trump has vowed to secure peace. In a social media post, he warned that if Hamas does not agree to the current deal by Sunday evening, Israel would unleash a devastating new military campaign. “If this LAST CHANCE agreement is not reached, all HELL, like no one has ever seen before, will break out against Hamas,” he wrote.

Outlook: Fragile Hope for Ceasefire

The combination of Trump’s high-profile intervention, international mediation, and Hamas’ partial acceptance of the plan has raised cautious optimism. Still, major obstacles remain, including questions over Gaza’s future governance, Hamas’ disarmament, and Israel’s conditions for ending the war.

For families of hostages and millions of Palestinians enduring dire humanitarian conditions, the next few days may prove decisive in determining whether the conflict moves toward peace or escalates further.

Source: AP News – Trump orders Israel to stop bombing Gaza after Hamas partially accepts his peace plan

The post Trump Orders Halt to Gaza Bombing After Hamas Signals Partial Acceptance of Peace Plan appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

Published Time: 09-07-2025, 11:20 EDT

Israel has intensified its military campaign in Gaza City, ordering civilians to evacuate and targeting high-rise buildings in strikes that displaced thousands more Palestinians. The latest escalation comes as humanitarian agencies warn of famine and worsening conditions for the nearly one million people trapped in the enclave.

Evacuation Orders and Humanitarian Concerns

On Saturday, the Israeli army instructed Palestinians to flee southward ahead of what it described as an expanded offensive to seize control of Gaza’s largest city. Military spokesperson Avichay Adraee announced on social media that the army had redrawn the boundaries of a designated “humanitarian zone,” extending it to cover parts of Khan Younis and the overcrowded Muwasi encampment.

The Israeli military said it planned to provide field hospitals, water pipelines, and food supplies in the zone. But aid organizations cautioned that Muwasi already suffers from extreme shortages of food, shelter, and sanitation. Months of bombardment have severely damaged civilian infrastructure in Khan Younis, raising doubts about the feasibility of sustaining more displaced families.

Humanitarian groups, including the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), recently confirmed that Gaza City is experiencing famine conditions due to restrictions on aid deliveries. Families, many of whom have been displaced multiple times during nearly two years of conflict, say they have no safe place left to go.

“There is no safe tent, no safe house, no safe place, no safety at all,” said Nadia Marouf, a mother who fled earlier assaults in northern Gaza only to see her temporary shelter destroyed in Saturday’s strike. “Where do I go? We went to the south, there is no space in the south. Where can we go?”

Strikes on High-Rise Buildings

Israel also issued warnings before striking several high-rise towers in Gaza City, alleging Hamas used them for military purposes. One of the most prominent, Sousi Tower, was demolished shortly after residents were given about 20 minutes to evacuate.

“We were sitting at home and people started shouting,” recalled resident Aida Abu Kas. “Some said it was a lie and others said it was real. We went out and didn’t know what to do.”

Defense Minister Israel Katz shared video of the building’s collapse with the caption: “We continue.” The strike followed Friday’s demolition of Mushtaha Tower, another 15-story residential building. Hamas has denied Israel’s claims, insisting the towers were civilian structures.

The demolitions are part of a wider push to gain control of Gaza City, where displaced families have erected makeshift tents amid the ruins. The Israeli military reported last week that it had taken control of roughly 40 percent of the city.

Civilian Deaths at Aid Distribution Sites

The humanitarian crisis worsened as Shifa Hospital in Gaza City reported receiving the bodies of 11 Palestinians killed by Israeli fire near the Zikim crossing on Saturday. Medical officials said they had been waiting for food aid when soldiers opened fire.

The Israeli military has previously acknowledged using live fire near crowded aid sites, saying it acts against perceived threats or to disperse crowds. Such incidents have become frequent at Zikim, where Palestinians desperate for food rush to meet incoming U.N. trucks.

On Friday, 23 Palestinians were killed across the Gaza Strip while seeking aid, including six at Zikim, according to Shifa Hospital’s director, Mohamed Abu Selmiya. The Gaza Health Ministry reports that more than 2,000 people have been killed at aid distribution sites in recent months.

Netanyahu has rejected famine reports as a “global campaign of lies,” but testimonies from civilians describe desperate scenes. “It’s the same every day, gunfire and tank shelling whenever we try to approach the aid trucks,” said 24-year-old Ibrahim al-Taweel, who continues to risk his life for food.

Israeli Protests Over Hostage Crisis

While the offensive rages in Gaza, protests have intensified inside Israel. Thousands rallied in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem on Saturday evening, demanding that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secure the release of the remaining 48 hostages held in Gaza.

Chants of “all of them now!” echoed through the streets of Jerusalem, with demonstrators calling Netanyahu a “traitor” outside his residence. Signs read, “The government is burying them alive” and “An unsigned deal kills them all.”

In Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, families of captives unfurled banners appealing to international leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, to intervene.

“That is not how you return abducted men and women,” said Gil Dickmann, whose cousin was killed in captivity. “That is how you kill abducted men and women.”

Hamas released a video on Friday, the 700th day of the war, showing two hostages in frail condition. Israeli officials estimate that only 20 hostages remain alive.

War’s Toll and Uncertain Future

The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas-led militants launched an attack on southern Israel, killing about 1,200 people and abducting 251 others, according to Israeli authorities.

Since then, Israel’s offensive has killed more than 64,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which reports that women and children represent about half of the casualties. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants.

Ceasefire negotiations remain stalled. Hamas claims to have accepted a proposal from Arab mediators, but Israel has vowed to continue the war until Hamas disarms and all hostages are released. Israeli leaders also insist on maintaining long-term security control over Gaza — a demand Hamas rejects.

As Israel escalates its military push into Gaza City, the future of both the humanitarian crisis and the hostage negotiations remains deeply uncertain. The dual pressures of famine and conflict continue to leave civilians in desperate circumstances, while political divisions inside Israel grow sharper.

Source: AP News – Israel calls on famine-stricken residents to flee and targets more high-rises in Gaza City

The post Israel Orders Gaza City Evacuations and Strikes High-Rise Towers as Humanitarian Crisis Deepens appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

Published: August 8, 2025, 14:00 U.S. Eastern Time

TEL AVIV, Israel — Israel’s government has announced plans to retake Gaza City in what could mark a significant escalation in its nearly two-year conflict with Hamas. The decision, made following a late-night Security Cabinet meeting, comes despite mounting international appeals for a ceasefire and concerns for the fate of remaining hostages.

The move follows months of intense air and ground operations that have already devastated much of the Gaza Strip, displacing the majority of its population and triggering widespread humanitarian concerns. International observers warn that a new major offensive could deepen the existing crisis, which aid agencies describe as one of the worst in decades.

Security Cabinet Decision and Strategic Shift

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed early Friday that the military has been instructed to prepare for control of Gaza City while ensuring humanitarian assistance to civilians outside combat zones.

The decision follows remarks Netanyahu made in an interview with Fox News, where he outlined an ambition to secure all of Gaza to remove Hamas from power. While Israel already controls about three-quarters of the territory, the Security Cabinet opted for a more limited plan—possibly as leverage in ceasefire negotiations with Hamas.

According to Israeli media reports, Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir cautioned that fully occupying Gaza could endanger roughly 20 hostages believed to be alive and further strain the military after prolonged operations across the region.

Gaza City’s Strategic and Humanitarian Importance

Once Gaza’s largest urban center, Gaza City has endured repeated bombardments and raids since the conflict began. Although much of the city has been damaged, it remains one of the few areas not converted into a buffer zone or placed under full evacuation orders.

Humanitarian organizations warn that a new ground offensive could displace tens of thousands more civilians and disrupt fragile aid delivery efforts. The United Nations has already described the situation as “catastrophic,” with widespread hunger and shortages of medical supplies.

Local residents have voiced despair over the prospect of renewed fighting. “There is nothing left to occupy,” said Maysaa al-Heila, a displaced Palestinian woman living in a camp. “There is no Gaza left.”

Hostage Crisis Remains Central to Debate

The conflict, now in its 22nd month, began after the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas-led militants, in which 1,200 people were killed and 251 others were abducted. While most hostages have since been released through negotiated deals, Israel estimates around 50 remain in Gaza, with 20 believed to be alive.

On Thursday, relatives of hostages sailed toward Gaza’s maritime border to amplify calls for their release. Some family members have publicly accused Netanyahu of prolonging the war to satisfy hardline political allies, who advocate expanding military operations, relocating Gaza’s population, and reestablishing Jewish settlements dismantled in 2005.

Civilian Casualties and Food Crisis

Gaza’s Health Ministry, part of the Hamas-run administration, reports over 61,000 Palestinian deaths since the war began. The United Nations and independent experts consider these figures the most reliable available, although Israel disputes the numbers without providing its own estimates.

On Thursday alone, at least 42 Palestinians were killed in airstrikes and shootings, including 13 individuals who were reportedly seeking food near an Israeli military zone in southern Gaza. The area, known as the Morag Corridor, has been the site of repeated deadly incidents as desperate civilians attempt to access aid convoys.

Controversy Over Aid Distribution

The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), established with U.S. and Israeli support, has become a focal point of controversy. Intended as an alternative to the U.N.’s aid delivery system, GHF faces criticism for its distribution methods.

Medical charity Doctors Without Borders (MSF) released a report accusing GHF operations of creating “chaotic and dangerous conditions” that have resulted in hundreds of casualties. Between June 7 and July 20, MSF treated more than 1,300 people injured near GHF sites, including 147 with gunshot wounds—41 of them children.

MSF described the system as “either reckless negligence or a deliberately designed death trap.” GHF has denied the allegations, calling them “false and disgraceful,” and accused MSF of amplifying what it claims is a Hamas-led disinformation campaign.

International Response and Outlook

The United Nations continues to call for an immediate ceasefire, warning that further military escalation in Gaza City will make already dire humanitarian conditions unmanageable. Meanwhile, Israel maintains that its operations are essential to ensure long-term security by dismantling Hamas’s military infrastructure.

Diplomatic analysts say the current strategy may serve multiple purposes—militarily pressuring Hamas, placating domestic political factions, and strengthening Israel’s negotiating position in any future ceasefire talks.

Whether the move to retake Gaza City will achieve those objectives remains uncertain, but for civilians in the territory, the announcement signals yet another period of fear, displacement, and uncertainty.

Source: AP News – Israel announces plan to retake Gaza City in another escalation of the war

The post Israel Announces Plan to Retake Gaza City Amid Growing Global Concerns appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

Published: August 5, 2025, 16:00 U.S. Eastern Time

Israel’s government is reportedly preparing to approve a plan to re-occupy parts of the Gaza Strip as the war against Hamas stretches into its second year. The move signals a significant shift in military strategy following the collapse of ceasefire talks and growing internal pressure over the fate of hostages.

Security Cabinet to Debate Full Gaza Re-Occupation

According to Israeli media, the country’s Security Cabinet will convene Tuesday to consider a proposal that would grant the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) authority to take full control of Gaza, including areas it has avoided entering until now.

The proposed shift comes amid mounting frustration within Israel’s leadership over what some officials see as a lack of progress in securing the release of hostages still held by Hamas.

Amit Segal, a well-known political correspondent for Channel 12 News, reported that a senior source from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office indicated a firm decision had already been made.

“We are going to occupy the Gaza Strip,” Segal quoted the unnamed official as saying, adding that negotiations have failed and time is running out for the hostages.

Stalemate in Ceasefire Talks Triggers Strategic Shift

The reports come just days after another round of internationally mediated ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas appeared to collapse.

Despite efforts by U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, who visited Israel over the weekend and claimed to be working on a diplomatic resolution, no breakthroughs have been achieved.

Instead, the situation has intensified. Hamas recently released propaganda videos featuring visibly malnourished hostages, including one who was allegedly forced to dig his own grave. These videos have caused widespread public outrage in Israel.

Humanitarian Pressure Mounts on Israel

International scrutiny of Israel’s military operations and humanitarian policies has also increased.

Global human rights organizations and several United Nations agencies have accused Israel of contributing to a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, including allegations of famine. Images of severely malnourished children circulating on social media have further fueled the criticism—though in several cases, those images were later linked to pre-existing medical conditions rather than war-related deprivation.

Still, the growing chorus of concern is placing Israel’s leadership under immense pressure to shift strategies.

Internal Political Divisions Over Gaza Policy

Domestically, Netanyahu’s cabinet is divided. While some officials support continued negotiations and a more measured military response, others are demanding a full-scale re-occupation of Gaza.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir have publicly called for the reconstruction of Jewish settlements in Gaza—settlements that were dismantled during Israel’s 2005 withdrawal.

These right-wing ministers argue that reasserting Israeli control over Gaza is the only viable path to eliminating Hamas and rescuing the remaining hostages, whose estimated number now stands at around 50, both dead and alive.

Military Leaders Caution Against Full Occupation

Despite political pressure, Israel’s military leadership reportedly remains cautious about fully re-occupying Gaza.

According to various Israeli outlets, military officials are expected to present alternative strategies at the Tuesday cabinet meeting. These could include expanded but limited operations rather than long-term occupation.

Military analysts have long warned that holding territory in Gaza could result in a prolonged and costly conflict, with no guarantee of achieving the desired outcomes in terms of hostages or regional security.

Historical Context and Future Implications

Israel withdrew from Gaza in 2005 under then-Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, dismantling all military bases and settlements in the territory. Since then, Hamas has gained control of the region, leading to repeated rounds of conflict with Israel.

A renewed occupation would mark a significant reversal of that policy and could have wide-ranging implications—not only for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, but also for regional stability and Israel’s relationships with allies like the United States.

If approved, this move would represent one of Israel’s most aggressive responses in decades, potentially escalating the conflict further and complicating future diplomatic solutions.

Source: FOX News – Israel’s government likely to approve plan to re-occupy Gaza, Israeli media reports

The post Israel Poised to Expand Gaza Military Operation appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

July 28, 2025, 13:00 (U.S. Eastern Time)

Israel has introduced limited daily halts in military operations across parts of Gaza to allow humanitarian aid to reach civilians, responding to mounting international concern over extreme hunger and worsening malnutrition. While the move has been welcomed by global aid agencies, experts question whether the current efforts are enough to prevent a full-scale famine.

The humanitarian crisis: how Gaza reached the brink of starvation

Gaza has been in a state of deep humanitarian crisis since the conflict escalated following the Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7. Over the past two years, repeated displacements, infrastructure destruction, and restricted access to essential supplies have left the territory’s 2.1 million residents in dire conditions.

Before the conflict, Gaza typically received around 3,000 aid and commercial trucks weekly. That number dropped drastically following the onset of hostilities. During a brief ceasefire early this year, a few hundred trucks were allowed in each day—an amount aid groups said was insufficient. Then, in March, Israel imposed a complete blockade to pressure Hamas into releasing remaining hostages, further choking off access to food, fuel, and medicine.

The result has been a worsening hunger emergency. According to the United Nations, nearly all of Gaza’s population now faces acute food insecurity. In May, the UN warned that more than 500,000 Gazans were on the brink of famine, and over 70,000 children were in urgent need of treatment for severe malnutrition.

Deaths from malnutrition rising sharply

By mid-July, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported a surge in deaths caused by malnutrition in Gaza, with 63 fatalities recorded that month alone. Palestinian health officials say 133 people—almost 90 of them children—have died from starvation-related causes since the start of the conflict, most of them since March.

The crisis has escalated as local bakeries and community kitchens shuttered, and food prices soared beyond reach for most residents. Although thousands of aid trucks remain stationed at the border, unable to enter, many people in Gaza are forced to scavenge for scraps or risk their lives approaching food convoys. According to the UN, more than 1,000 civilians have been killed during such desperate attempts—primarily by Israeli forces.

Images of severely malnourished children have circulated widely, sparking outrage in Europe and beyond. The governments of the UK, France, and Germany issued a joint statement last week, describing the situation in Gaza as “man-made and avoidable.”

Israel announces limited “tactical pauses” for aid delivery

In response to the intensifying criticism, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Sunday began implementing daily “tactical pauses” in three parts of Gaza: Al-Mawasi, Deir al-Balah, and an area near Gaza City. These zones had previously been designated as “safe areas,” but fighting and bombardments continued there in recent months.

The tactical pause will occur daily from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. local time “until further notice,” according to the IDF. Israel also committed to opening “secure humanitarian corridors” between 6:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m., allowing aid convoys to pass safely.

The IDF framed the initiative as a counter to accusations of deliberate starvation, stating that the move “refutes the false claim of deliberate starvation in the Gaza Strip.”

Aid delivery remains a logistical and political challenge

While aid trucks from Egypt and Jordan have begun moving toward Gaza, the two entry points—Kerem Shalom in the south and Zikim in the north—remain bottlenecks. Hundreds of trucks are queued at the border, and only around 100 entered Gaza on Sunday, far short of the level needed to meet urgent demands.

UN agencies have welcomed the pause but emphasized that sustained and safe access—not isolated time windows—is crucial for effective aid delivery. Joe English, a spokesperson for UNICEF, warned that limited access “cannot work miracles,” especially for malnourished children who require ongoing care and medical support.

The World Food Programme (WFP) stated that it has enough food stockpiled or en route to feed Gaza’s population for nearly three months, provided Israeli authorities expedite entry permissions. The WFP called for “sustained action and access” to avert mass starvation.

Meanwhile, Israel has resumed coordination with international partners for aid airdrops. On Saturday night, Israel, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates dropped 28 aid packages into Gaza. But airdrops are viewed by aid groups as an inefficient and risky method. “This isn’t a vast, remote desert,” said English. “This is an urban war zone, and airdrops simply don’t work well here.”

Political backlash within Israel and criticism from Hamas

Israel’s decision to facilitate aid deliveries has sparked political divisions. Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir said he was not consulted on the pause and called for a complete cessation of all aid, urging full military conquest of Gaza and “voluntary migration” of its residents.

Hamas, for its part, condemned the Israeli plan as “deceptive,” accusing the Israeli government of managing the starvation crisis for political optics. A statement by the group said, “The occupation’s plan for airdrops and control of so-called humanitarian corridors represents a blatant policy to manage starvation, not end it.”

The Hostages Families Forum, which represents relatives of Israeli captives held by Hamas, also weighed in. The group criticized Israel’s piecemeal approach to both aid and hostage negotiations, urging the government to secure a comprehensive deal that would include the return of hostages and an end to the war.

Can the new aid strategy succeed?

Though the new daily pauses are a positive step, aid organizations remain cautious. Security threats to convoys, the risk of looting, and inconsistent clearance processes all hamper effective distribution.

The WHO said more than 5,000 children under five were treated for malnutrition in just the first two weeks of July, reflecting the scale of the crisis. Reversing malnutrition at this stage requires both urgent action and long-term medical and nutritional support.

Experts agree that unless Israel dramatically increases and sustains access for humanitarian operations, the situation will continue to deteriorate.

Conclusion: More than a pause is needed

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is at a critical juncture. Israel’s decision to pause military activity in select areas may help ease the suffering temporarily—but without consistent, large-scale aid access and coordination with humanitarian agencies, the starvation crisis will likely persist.

As Tom Fletcher, head of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, put it: “This isn’t about a few extra trucks. This is about a system that’s been broken for too long.”

Source: CNN – Israel is pausing operations in some parts of Gaza amid mounting horror over starvation. Will it be enough?

The post Israel announces Gaza aid pause amid rising malnutrition deaths appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

Trump Surprised by Israeli Strikes in Gaza and Syria, Urges Caution Amid Rising Tensions

Trump Caught Off Guard by Israeli Strikes

President Donald Trump was reportedly caught off guard by recent Israeli military actions in both Gaza and Syria. According to the White House, Trump personally called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last week after Israeli airstrikes hit key areas — including Gaza’s only Catholic church and government sites in Damascus.

These conversations point to growing unease between the two leaders, even as the United States continues to support Israel publicly.

Gaza Church Strike Draws Immediate Response

On Thursday, an Israeli strike in Gaza hit the only Catholic church in the territory. The attack killed three people and drew a swift and negative reaction from Trump. He immediately called Netanyahu to express his concerns and pushed the Israeli leader to issue a statement calling the strike a mistake.

“The president enjoys a good working relationship with Bibi Netanyahu, and stays in frequent communication with him,” said White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. “He was caught off guard by the bombing in Syria and also the bombing of a Catholic Church in Gaza.”

Leavitt added that in both cases, Trump moved quickly to “rectify those situations.”

Syrian Strikes Complicate U.S. Diplomatic Efforts

Trump was also surprised by Israel’s airstrikes in Damascus, which targeted government buildings. The timing was sensitive — his administration is currently working to stabilize Syria and support its new president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, a former rebel leader.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been leading diplomatic efforts to ease tensions in the region. The U.S. recently relaxed some sanctions on Syria in hopes of encouraging reconstruction and political stability.

Israel’s military action raised concerns in Washington that those efforts could be undermined.

A Complicated Relationship Between Allies

Trump and Netanyahu have had a long-standing but often complicated relationship. While they have worked closely on major regional issues, including Iran and Gaza, people familiar with the dynamic say the two are not personally close and that trust between them has sometimes been strained.

Earlier this month, during a White House visit, Netanyahu nominated Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize in a public gesture of support. The visit was seen as a chance to align on shared goals, especially on pushing for a ceasefire in Gaza.

Trump had expressed hope that Netanyahu’s trip would lead to a major breakthrough, including the release of hostages held by Hamas and expanded humanitarian access into the Gaza Strip.

Ceasefire Talks Still in Limbo

Despite those hopes, Netanyahu left Washington without announcing a ceasefire deal. Nearly a week later, no agreement has been finalized. Mediators submitted a proposal to Hamas, but the militant group has yet to provide a formal response.

Hamas issued a statement on Monday saying they are “exerting all our efforts and energies around the clock” to reach an agreement.

Meanwhile, violence in Gaza continues. The strike on the Catholic church added to the growing death toll, and U.S. officials say Trump is increasingly concerned about the humanitarian cost of the conflict.

Trump Pushes for Peace and More Aid to Gaza

“The president never likes to see that. He wants the killing to end,” said Leavitt, referring to the ongoing civilian deaths in Gaza.

She highlighted the administration’s efforts to expand humanitarian aid into the region, even as criticism mounts internationally over the slow pace of deliveries. Ministers from 25 Western countries recently condemned Israel for “drip feeding” supplies into Gaza.

According to Gaza’s health ministry, more than 1,000 people have died while seeking humanitarian relief since late May.

Leavitt defended the administration’s role: “The president is the reason that aid is even being distributed in Gaza at all. He wants to see this done in a peaceful manner, where more lives are not being lost.”

A Tense Moment in U.S.-Israel Relations

The recent developments highlight the growing complexity of U.S.-Israel relations under Trump’s leadership. While the president has backed Israel’s security goals, he’s also facing rising pressure to support a ceasefire and push for accountability in strikes that kill civilians.

“This is a very difficult and complicated situation that the president inherited because of the weakness of the last administration,” Leavitt said. “And I think he should be applauded. The president wants to see peace, and he’s been pretty clear on that.”

As ceasefire talks continue and humanitarian concerns grow, the coming weeks will test whether Trump and Netanyahu can stay aligned — or if their differences will push the two allies further apart.

Source: CNN – Trump ‘caught off guard’ by Israel’s actions in Gaza and Syria last week as skepticism of Netanyahu grows inside White House

The post Trump Surprised by Israeli Strikes in Gaza and Syria Amid Ceasefire Push appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

Israel has recovered the bodies of three hostages from the Gaza Strip, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed Saturday, in what he called a “successful” military operation carried out by Israeli forces.

The recovered individuals were identified as Yonatan Samrano, Ofra Kedar, and Staff Sgt. Shai Levinson. Their remains were returned to Israel following a targeted operation led by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Shin Bet, Israel’s internal security agency.

“I thank our commanders and fighters for their determination and courage,” Netanyahu said in a statement.
“We will not rest until we return all of our abductees home—both the living and the dead.”

The Victims’ Stories

Each of the three victims had been held or killed during the Hamas-led attacks on October 7, 2023, when more than 1,200 people in Israel were killed and 251 were taken hostage.

• Ofra Kedar, 71, was murdered at a kibbutz before her body was taken into Gaza.
• Staff Sgt. Shai Levinson, just 19 years old, was killed while fighting back against attackers during the assault.
• Yonatan Samrano, 23, was declared dead by Israeli officials; his father, Kobi Samrano, confirmed the recovery of his son’s body in a touching Instagram post.

“Yesterday was Yonati’s Hebrew birthday,” he wrote.
“On the very day he was born, our Yonati was rescued in a heroic operation by the brave soldiers of the IDF and the Shin Bet.”

Ongoing Efforts and National Response

These latest recoveries bring the total number of hostage bodies retrieved this month to eight, as Israel continues both its military operations in Gaza and parallel efforts to confront Iran.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, a group representing families of those taken during the October 7 attacks, expressed both sorrow and a renewed sense of urgency:

“Our hearts are with the Keidar, Samrano, and Levinson families today.
Alongside grief, their return offers some comfort to families who’ve endured 625 days of uncertainty.”

The group emphasized that the fate of the remaining 50 hostages—31 of whom the IDF now says are dead—remains central to Israel’s broader goals:

“There will be no victory until the last hostage returns.”

Wider Conflict and Casualties

Israel’s military campaign in Gaza was launched in direct response to the October 7 attack by Hamas. Since then, the war has exacted a heavy toll on both sides.

According to Gaza’s health ministry, more than 54,677 people have been killed in the territory since the war began. The humanitarian crisis continues to deepen as fighting persists and efforts to secure the release—or remains—of hostages press on.

Source: BBC – Israel recovers bodies of three hostages from Gaza

The post Bodies of Kidnapped Israelis Returned After IDF Operation in Gaza appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

Gaza — Humanitarian aid distribution in Gaza came to a grinding halt on Wednesday as all centers were closed for the day, following a string of deadly incidents near aid routes and a warning from the Israeli military that roads to these locations would now be treated as “combat zones.”

The closures come after 27 Palestinians were reportedly killed overnight near a distribution site — the third fatal incident in as many days. Witnesses and medics on the ground described the scene as “total carnage,” with many of the wounded suffering gunshot injuries. One foreign medic said hospitals were overwhelmed by the number of casualties.

Aid in the Crosshairs

The distribution network at the center of this crisis is the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) — a controversial, U.S. and Israeli-backed initiative launched just last week to replace the UN-led aid system. On Tuesday, GHF said it would suspend operations temporarily for “organizational and efficiency improvements.”

Meanwhile, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued a statement prohibiting access to the centers and the roads leading to them, declaring these routes active combat zones. The IDF claims it fired upon individuals who allegedly “deviated from designated access routes.”

But accounts from Gaza paint a darker picture. According to the Hamas-run Civil Defence Agency, civilians were fired on by tanks, drones, and helicopters near aid points. Medical officials in Khan Younis reported civilians shot while “waiting for food” in the western Rafah region.

Mounting Criticism from the UN and Aid Workers

The events have triggered widespread condemnation and calls for accountability. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has demanded an “immediate and independent investigation.” His spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, criticized the GHF model as dangerous, citing “a lack of transparency” and the presence of armed, unaccountable men at distribution points.

“This is a demonstration of how not to do humanitarian aid,” Dujarric told the BBC.
“It puts people’s lives at risk and forces them to walk into militarized zones to receive basic food supplies.”

Aid Access Amid Starvation Crisis

The crisis comes as Gaza’s humanitarian situation worsens. The UN estimates over two million people are at risk of starvation, following an 11-week Israeli blockade on food and essential aid.

The GHF’s centralized model requires Gazans to travel long distances — often through dangerous territory — to retrieve 20kg aid boxes from a few sites controlled by Israeli forces and staffed by armed American contractors. Critics argue the model is not only impractical but life-threatening.

Philippe Lazzarini, head of UNRWA, described the current aid system as a “death trap.”

Leadership Shake-up at GHF

In a notable development, Reverend Dr. Johnnie Moore, a prominent evangelical leader and ally of former U.S. President Donald Trump, was appointed as the new head of GHF on Tuesday. He replaces Jake Wood, a former U.S. Marine who resigned and publicly criticized the foundation’s approach.

The Bigger Picture: Ongoing War and Escalating Toll

This unfolds in the context of Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza, launched in response to Hamas’ October 7 attack that killed around 1,200 people and led to 251 hostages being taken.

Since then, Gaza’s Health Ministry reports at least 54,470 Palestinians killed, including 4,201 deaths since Israel resumed its offensive in March.

As the conflict rages on, so does the humanitarian collapse — with aid delivery, once a lifeline, now a dangerous gamble for Gaza’s exhausted and starving population.

Source: BBC – IDF says roads to Gaza aid centres are ‘combat zones’ as sites close for day

The post Aid Centers in Gaza Close After Deadly Attacks Near Distribution Sites appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.