Gaza Death Toll Rises, Aid Crisis Deepens

The Palestinian death toll in Gaza has surpassed 60,000, with recent incidents near the Zikim crossing resulting in at least 30 to 58 fatalities as Israeli forces reportedly opened fire on crowds seeking humanitarian aid, though Israeli officials dispute these accounts. Over 145,000 people have been injured, and thousands remain missing under rubble, while over 1,000 Palestinians have been killed and more than 150 have died from malnutrition since late May. The UN and aid organizations warn that famine is now unfolding, particularly affecting children. US special envoy Steve Witkoff has arrived in Israel for talks with Prime Minister Netanyahu on humanitarian relief and a possible ceasefire, following the breakdown of indirect negotiations. Canada, France, and the UK have indicated potential recognition of Palestinian statehood amid growing international outrage over civilian casualties and the humanitarian crisis. Calls for an immediate ceasefire and unimpeded delivery of aid continue to intensify.