Key Developments on Day 45 of the Israeli War on Gaza

Guardian mag November 20, 2023


The Israeli aggression on Gaza continues for the 45th day, with the occupation forces persistently shelling the Indonesian and Al-Awda hospitals in the northern Gaza Strip, resulting in casualties and injuries. 

There are warnings of a repetition of what happened at the Shifa complex.

At the same time, a medical official at the Shifa complex stated that the occupation is holding more than 200 patients and medical teams, using them as human shields.

On the other hand, the Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), targeted the city of Tel Aviv and its surroundings with a rocket barrage described as one of the largest, triggering alarm sirens from Ashdod in the south to Hertzliya in the north.

Here are the day's key developments:

Political Developments:

  • A Hamas leader states that there are no specific details regarding a prisoner exchange deal.
  • The White House announces continuous efforts around the clock to reach an agreement on prisoners with Hamas, expressing optimism about nearing a resolution.
  • Israeli Broadcasting Authority reports that Israel has given approval for a deal and awaits a response from Hamas.

Clashes and Military Movements:

  • Fierce clashes are reported between the resistance and Israeli forces in the Zaytoun neighborhood.
  • Yedioth Ahronoth reveals that the Israeli army is reducing the size of reserve forces.
  • Abu Obeida, a spokesperson for the Al-Qassam Brigades, claims the destruction of 60 enemy vehicles and ongoing pursuit of Israeli forces.

Rocket Barrage Impact:

  • Al-Qassam's rocket barrage on Tel Aviv is described as one of the largest, triggering alarm sirens in 129 locations in the city.

Casualty and Health Updates:

  • Gaza government media reports over 13,300 martyrs in the sector.
  • The director of the World Health Organization expresses alarm over the targeting of the Indonesian hospital.

International Response:

  • Qatar condemns the Israeli shelling of the Indonesian hospital.
  • China engages in discussions on the Gaza situation with ministers from Arab and Islamic countries.

Humanitarian Evacuation:

  • A group of wounded children is evacuated from Gaza and arrives in Egypt after being treated at the Shifa Hospital.
  • Economic Impact in Israel: The war contributes to a significant increase in the number of unemployed individuals in Israel, rising from 163,000 to 428,000.

International Media Coverage:

  • The conflict attracts global attention as media outlets around the world continue to report on the unfolding developments and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Security Measures in Israel:

  • Israeli authorities implement heightened security measures in response to the increased rocket attacks, leading to disruptions and concerns among the civilian population.

Diplomatic Efforts:

  • Diplomatic initiatives are underway, with various countries and international organizations working to mediate a ceasefire and find a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Impact on Civilians:

  • The prolonged conflict takes a toll on the civilian population in Gaza, with reports of displaced families, damaged infrastructure, and limited access to essential services, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation.

International Aid and Relief Efforts:

  • Humanitarian organizations intensify efforts to provide aid and relief to those affected by the conflict, facing challenges due to the ongoing hostilities.

UN Security Council Involvement:

  • The United Nations Security Council holds emergency meetings to discuss the situation in Gaza, with member states expressing concerns and calling for an immediate ceasefire.

Growing Concerns for Regional Stability:

  • The conflict raises broader concerns about regional stability, prompting neighboring countries and international actors to assess the potential broader implications and work towards de-escalation.

Social Media Impact:

  • Social media platforms play a significant role in disseminating information and shaping public opinion, with individuals, organizations, and governments using these platforms to share updates, express solidarity, and call for peace.

Civil Society Responses:

  • Civil society organizations worldwide organize protests, advocacy campaigns, and fundraising initiatives to support the affected population in Gaza and promote awareness of the humanitarian crisis.

Ongoing Uncertainty:

  • Despite diplomatic efforts, the situation remains fluid and uncertain, with the potential for further escalation or a breakthrough towards a ceasefire depending on the outcomes of negotiations and international interventions.
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