Tragic Escalation: 7 Israeli Soldiers Killed in Gaza Bombing Amid Reports of 79 Palestinian Casualties

JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel marked a tragic milestone on Wednesday, reporting one of its deadliest days in Gaza in recent months. Seven soldiers were killed when a bomb was attached to their armored vehicle. Meanwhile, health officials in Gaza reported that Israeli attacks resulted in 79 deaths over just one day.

The attack on the soldiers occurred on Tuesday in Khan Younis, a city where Israeli forces have been active during the ongoing conflict with the Hamas militant group. Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin, the army’s spokesperson, confirmed the attack and mentioned attempts to rescue the troops were unsuccessful. In separate clashes, another soldier was seriously injured, with Hamas claiming it ambushed Israeli forces hiding in a building.

Since the conflict escalated on October 7, 2023, over 860 Israeli soldiers have lost their lives, including more than 400 in Gaza. The initial Hamas attack resulted in around 1,200 casualties, mainly civilians, and around 250 hostages were taken, with about 50 still believed to be in captivity.

The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza is dire. A recent report revealed that more than 56,000 Palestinians have died since the start of the war, with many victims being women and children. The Gaza health ministry has characterized this as the deadliest round of fighting ever recorded in the region. Experts indicate that Israel’s prolonged blockade and military actions have pushed many residents to the brink of famine.

Palestinians in Gaza voiced their frustrations over the ongoing conflict, which has lasted nearly two years, contrasting it with the brief conflict between Israel and Iran that ended in just 12 days. One displaced woman, Um Zidan, lamented her situation, noting, “I live in a tent, and now my tent is gone too.” Many in Gaza feel trapped and hopeless, witnessing the destruction of their homes and communities.

Despite the chaos, a glimmer of hope arrived on Wednesday as the first aid convoy reached Gaza City in months. This delivery came after significant delays due to security concerns and looting. Ahmad Nattat, a local resident, expressed relief that aid could finally be distributed fairly without the risk of chaos or violence.

The Israeli military claims it targets militants and holds Hamas responsible for civilian deaths, as they often operate in densely populated areas. However, the sheer scale of casualties has sparked criticism and calls for a reevaluation of tactics. Recent statistics even suggest that more than half of the deceased in Gaza were non-combatants.

In a related incident elsewhere, violence erupted during an Israeli raid in east Jerusalem, leaving a 66-year-old Palestinian woman dead. Her husband, Joudah Al-Obeidi, emphasized that she posed no threat when she was shot. This incident further underscores the escalating tensions across the region, raising concerns about the broader implications of such violence on peace efforts.

The situation remains fluid and complex as calls for a ceasefire continue. As humanitarian conditions deteriorate, many around the globe are watching closely for a resolution to this enduring conflict. To stay updated, follow more coverage on the ongoing situation at [AP News](https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war).

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