Israeli Forces Kill 23 in Gaza, Death Toll Surpasses 61,700

Israeli military operations in Gaza have resulted in at least 23 new fatalities, bringing the total death toll among Palestinians to over 61,700, according to local sources. The ongoing bombardment, which has continued for 28 consecutive days, has devastated infrastructure, including a water desalination plant and a hospital, leading to extreme humanitarian distress. Concurrently, Israeli forces have also targeted areas in southern Lebanon, where at least 71 civilians have died since a ceasefire began in late November 2024, amidst reports of extensive damage to civilian infrastructure. The UN has called for immediate cessation of hostilities and respect for international humanitarian law, urging accountability for all violations. Both regions remain embroiled in violence, with tens of thousands displaced and ongoing military actions raising significant concerns over civilian safety and humanitarian conditions. The situation calls for urgent international attention and intervention to protect vulnerable populations.