Gaza Crisis Deepens as Death Toll Rises and Demolitions Surge in Rafah
At least 95 Palestinians lost their lives in the past 24 hours as Israeli airstrikes intensified across the Gaza Strip, with a particular focus on Rafah, where demolitions have escalated significantly in recent months.
According to Al Jazeera’s Sanad investigative unit, demolitions in southern Gaza’s Rafah Governorate have surged as part of what appears to be a controversial relocation effort. Using satellite data and analysis from the United Nations Satellite Centre (UNOSAT), the report revealed that the number of destroyed buildings rose from 15,800 on April 4 to 28,600 by July 4 — marking a sharp increase of 12,800 demolitions in just three months.
Mass Relocation and Rising Concerns
The rise in demolitions comes in parallel with Israel’s expanded military campaign in Rafah, initiated in late March. Reports indicate that plans are underway to relocate approximately 600,000 residents, sparking concern among rights groups and international observers, with some likening the proposed sites to internment zones.
Images from the Israeli side of the Israel-Gaza border show heavy military activity, beams of light piercing the night sky, and plumes of smoke following airstrikes.
Ceasefire Efforts Continue Amid Rising Tensions
Meanwhile, ceasefire negotiations remain in focus as international leaders continue to push for peace. U.S. President Donald Trump expressed cautious optimism, stating, “We are talking and hopefully we’re going to get that straightened out over the next week.”
Talks in Doha have reportedly stalled, but diplomatic efforts are ongoing behind the scenes to bring an end to the violence.
Netanyahu Responds to NYT Report
In related developments, The New York Times has stood by its recent investigative report alleging that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prolonged the war in Gaza for political reasons. The report, which includes over 110 interviews and internal documents, claims Netanyahu delayed a ceasefire agreement and hindered a Saudi-Israel normalization deal to strengthen his political standing.
In response, Netanyahu’s office dismissed the claims as a “rehash of long-discredited arguments.” However, a spokesperson for the Times stated that the reporting “provides detailed evidence of how extending the conflict benefited Netanyahu politically.”
A Growing Humanitarian Crisis
As the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, humanitarian organizations are sounding the alarm. Aid efforts are underway, including a new Gaza-bound aid ship that recently departed from Italy. However, the rising number of casualties and the scale of destruction in Rafah highlight the urgent need for international intervention and a sustainable ceasefire solution.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on the Gaza conflict, diplomatic efforts, and humanitarian developments.
