In a recent statement, UNRWA Chief Phillippe Lazzarini expressed grave concerns over the dire situation in Gaza as the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to escalate. He noted that the people in Gaza "feel shunned, alienated, and abandoned" amid the ongoing violence.

While some aid trucks have been permitted to enter Gaza through an Egyptian crossing, Lazzarini described the aid delivered so far as "crumbs," highlighting the urgent need for more substantial humanitarian support.

In response to allegations that Hamas had stolen UN fuel, Lazzarini denied the claims, and Israel has accused Hamas of stockpiling fuel while blocking additional supplies.

European Union leaders have called for "pauses" in the fighting between Israel and Hamas to allow aid to reach civilians who are caught in the crossfire.

Earlier today, the Israel Defense Forces reported conducting targeted raids in the central area of the Gaza Strip, striking dozens of Hamas targets. This operation resulted in the death of Shadi Barud, the deputy head of Hamas's intelligence arm.

The number of hostages kidnapped from Israel and held by Hamas in Gaza has been updated to 229, underscoring the human toll of the ongoing conflict.

The conflict, which began with attacks by Hamas on Israel on October 7th, has claimed over 1,400 lives, with the Hamas-run health ministry reporting that around 7,000 people have been killed in Gaza due to Israeli airstrikes since the start of the hostilities.

The situation in Gaza remains critical, with growing concerns about the humanitarian crisis and the need for an immediate ceasefire to allow vital aid to reach the people caught in the conflict. The ongoing tensions between Israel and Hamas continue to draw international attention and calls for a peaceful resolution.