October 23, 2024 – Israeli airstrikes have killed at least 38 people in the Khan Younis region of southern Gaza as the conflict in the region intensifies. Among those targeted were civilians sheltering in residential areas, local sources report. Khan Younis has been a focal point of Israel’s ongoing military operations, with the area suffering heavy bombardment over the past few days.
The escalation extends beyond Gaza. In a separate incident, three journalists were killed in southern Lebanon following an Israeli airstrike. The reporters, who were covering the cross-border tensions between Hezbollah militants and the Israeli military, were near the border when the strike occurred. Media outlets have condemned the attack, calling for accountability and emphasizing the dangers faced by journalists reporting from conflict zones.
The strikes come amid heightened tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, with the latter threatening retaliation for strikes that have increasingly targeted southern Lebanon. Israel has expanded its air campaign, citing security threats along its northern borders as Hezbollah mobilizes in response to the war in Gaza.
In Gaza, health officials warn that the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate as airstrikes destroy vital infrastructure, leaving residents without adequate access to shelter or medical care.
The deaths of the journalists have sparked outrage globally, with press freedom organizations and media networks calling for investigations. Governments and human rights groups are urging all parties to respect international law, especially regarding the protection of civilians and journalists in conflict areas.
As the situation escalates, regional actors fear the conflict could expand, further destabilizing both Gaza and Lebanon. The international community is calling for restraint, but efforts to broker a ceasefire have so far stalled.