The Hamas-run ministry of health reported at least 18 people killed in Khan Yunis due to Israeli strikes. The ongoing conflict, with no apparent resolution, has dampened festivities in Bethlehem, where Christmas celebrations were largely canceled. In Gaza, a resident undergoing dialysis, Fadi Sayegh, conveyed the somber atmosphere, stating there was no Christmas spirit amid the sounds of tanks and bombardment. Sister Nabila Salah from the Catholic Holy Church in Gaza confirmed the cancellation of all Christmas celebrations due to the ongoing conflict.
The conflict began when Hamas fighters attacked southern Israel in October, resulting in casualties. Israel, in response, vowed to eliminate Hamas, leading to a military campaign that has claimed thousands of lives, primarily women and children, according to Gaza’s health ministry. Pope Francis expressed concern for the Christian community in Gaza and called for peace during his Christmas message.
As Christmas approached, Israeli airstrikes targeted the Al-Maghazi refugee camp, causing casualties, though the exact toll remains unverified. The situation worsened with an additional strike on a house in the Jabalia camp, resulting in the death of ten family members. Gaza’s dire conditions, marked by ruined infrastructure and shortages of essential resources due to an Israeli siege, prompted calls for a humanitarian ceasefire. The UN refugee agency head, Filippo Grandi, and the World Health Organization chief, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, urged an end to the suffering.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged the heavy toll of the war, with increasing casualties among soldiers. Despite the losses, he emphasized the necessity to continue the fight, declaring it a long war. The military indicated progress in gaining control of northern Gaza and shifting efforts towards addressing Hamas in the south. Reports of alleged torture of Palestinians detained by the Israeli army surfaced, a claim denied by the military.
The complex and devastating situation in Gaza prompted international figures to call for a ceasefire and express deep concern over the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region.