Israeli Strikes Kill 32 in Gaza, Destroy Aid Equipment

Israeli forces carried out airstrikes in Gaza, targeting and destroying around 40 pieces of heavy machinery, including bulldozers and emergency vehicles provided by Egypt and aid groups, which the Israeli military claims were used by Hamas for terror activities such as planting explosives and digging tunnels. The strikes also destroyed equipment essential for clearing rubble and providing basic services, further hindering humanitarian efforts in the territory. Civilian casualties have been reported, including multiple children and families killed in their homes in Khan Younis and Gaza City. The destruction of equipment has paralyzed municipal efforts to rescue people from rubble and maintain infrastructure, amid severe shortages of food, water, and medicine due to ongoing blockades. UN officials and humanitarian agencies warn that Gaza faces a rapidly worsening catastrophe, with aid deliveries blocked and hunger spreading, and have condemned the use of humanitarian aid as leverage in the conflict. Hamas and international observers denounce the strikes as collective punishment and a violation of moral and legal standards.