In a tragic development, rescuers in Gaza have reported that six individuals lost their lives and several more were injured during pre-dawn Israeli air strikes across the northern and central regions of the territory. Civil defense spokesman Mahmud Bassal stated, “Five of the deceased were victims of a strike on a home in Jabalia, located in the north.” Additionally, a drone strike targeting tents that housed displaced persons west of Nuseirat claimed another life.
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The Israeli military has intensified its operations in Gaza recently, characterizing this action as part of a renewed effort to dismantle Hamas. As the conflict continues, the humanitarian situation remains dire. Gaza’s health ministry disclosed that since a ceasefire collapsed on March 18, at least 3,747 individuals have lost their lives, bringing the total casualties of the war to a staggering 53,901, predominantly civilians.
Notably, the October 2023 attack by Hamas on Israel set off this devastating conflict, resulting in the deaths of 1,218 people, primarily civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official statistics. The militants have also taken 251 hostages, with 57 still in Gaza, including 34 whom the Israeli military has stated are deceased.
Amid these developments, Malaysia’s foreign minister has voiced strong condemnation regarding the “atrocities” occurring in Gaza. He emphasized that these acts reflect “indifference and double standards” towards the plight of the Palestinian people. “These atrocities are a direct result of the erosion of the sanctity of international law,” Mohamad Hasan remarked during discussions with his counterparts from the ASEAN bloc.
Mohamad’s comments come just ahead of an ASEAN summit scheduled for Monday in Kuala Lumpur, as Israel escalates its military campaign in Gaza this month. The bombardment has attracted widespread international criticism, coupled with urgent calls for increased humanitarian aid, especially after Israel only partially lifted a total blockade initially imposed on March 2.
“The atrocities inflicted upon the Palestinian people continue to showcase blatant indifference and double standards,” said Mohamad. “ASEAN cannot remain silent.” His statement resonates with the sentiments of foreign ministers from the 10-member association, who reaffirmed their “longstanding support” for Palestinian rights back in February.
Malaysia, a Muslim-majority nation without diplomatic relations with Israel, is known for its substantial public support for the Palestinian cause. Since the onset of the war in October 2023, Kuala Lumpur has provided over $10 million in donations and humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza.
“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” — Martin Luther King Jr.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
