Hamas Confirms Death of October 7 Attack Architect Mohammad Deif

The Israeli military has reportedly demolished approximately 20 buildings in the Jenin refugee camp in the occupied West Bank during a large-scale operation targeting militant activities. Footage of the operation, which has been ongoing for nearly two weeks, reveals simultaneous explosions resulting in thick plumes of smoke over the densely populated camp, according to the Palestinian state news agency. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) assert that the operation aims to destroy weapons stockpiles and dismantle explosives laboratories connected to Palestinian militant groups. They confirmed that 23 structures were destroyed after discovering firearm caches in the area. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has condemned the military actions and called on the United States to intervene, seeking an emergency session of the UN Security Council to address what he describes as aggression against the Palestinian people. As tensions escalate, Hamas has urged for increased resistance against Israel. Palestinian officials report at least 25 deaths since the operation commenced, while the IDF states it has killed over 35 militants and detained more than 100 individuals.

The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt reopened for the first time since May, facilitating the movement of sick and injured Palestinians into Egypt as part of an ongoing ceasefire deal. According to the Gaza health ministry, 50 patients, including children requiring urgent medical treatment, crossed into Egypt on Saturday. The reopening aligns with a recent exchange of hostages, during which three Israeli civilians held in Gaza were released by Hamas. These individuals were handed over to the Red Cross in a series of operations facilitated by international mediators. The International Committee of the Red Cross confirmed that a total of 183 Palestinian prisoners and detainees were released by Israel as part of the agreement, with many returning to Gaza while others were sent to the West Bank. In response to the situation, Arab foreign ministers have jointly rejected any proposal to transfer Palestinians from their territory, reaffirming their commitment to a two-state solution. This complex interplay of humanitarian aid and political machinations reflects the ongoing challenges in the region.

Husam, a 54-year-old businessman from Gaza, recently returned home with his family after months of displacement due to ongoing conflict. The Israeli military's opening of passage routes allowed Husam and hundreds of thousands of others to journey back to Gaza from refugee camps, according to reports from the region. The family traveled over eight kilometers by van and then walked another ten kilometers, with Husam emphasizing the physical and emotional toll on his elderly mother and injured daughter, Hala. Upon their return, they found their home structurally intact but stripped of valuables, as rampant robbery has plagued the area. Husam described the apocalyptic state of Gaza, lacking electricity, clean water, and proper medical facilities. He noted that many neighbors faced similar dire circumstances, highlighting severe shortages of essential supplies and humanitarian aid. According to Husam, countless residents are exhausted and desperate, with some advocating for international intervention to escape the crisis. With life precariously hanging by a thread, he reflected on the collective trauma and uncertainty that grips his community.