Israeli airstrikes on New Year’s Day claimed at least 12 Palestinian lives, predominantly women and children, as the long-lasting conflict enters its 15th month with no signs of resolution. Reports indicate that one strike targeted a home in the Jabaliya area, notorious for being heavily bombed, resulting in the deaths of seven individuals, including four children, with many more wounded.

Another strike in the Bureij refugee camp resulted in the deaths of a woman and a child, as reported by local hospitals. Additionally, a third strike in Khan Younis claimed three more lives. Witnesses described the harrowing scene, with one grieving relative saying, “Are you celebrating? Enjoy as we die. For a year and a half, we have been dying," as he carried a child’s body amid emergency responders.

The conflict, which escalated following Hamas' surprise attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, has left over 45,500 Palestinians dead, as per reports from Gaza’s Health Ministry, and have displaced nearly 90% of the population of 2.3 million. The Israeli military claims to target Hamas militants but reports indicate a significant number of civilian casualties, particularly among women and children.

Israel's military conducted strikes in retaliation for rocket fire from militant groups, issuing evacuation orders for several Gaza regions. Humanitarian organizations criticize these tactics, underscoring that no region in Gaza is safe. Many families, forced into tent camps, are facing dire conditions, particularly as winter brings heavy rains and cold temperatures, resulting in at least six infant deaths due to hypothermia.

The ongoing warfare has also led to significant destruction of infrastructure and a local humanitarian crisis, with many relying on charity kitchens for basic sustenance. As international mediation efforts for a ceasefire continue to stall, both parties remain entrenched in their positions, with Palestinian groups demanding a long-term ceasefire and Israeli leadership vowing to pursue "total victory" against Hamas.

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