The World Bank estimates that Lebanon has suffered $8.5bn in damages and losses from Israel’s war over the past 13 months. The UN Security Council has circulated a draft resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. The resolution demands the release of hostages taken during the conflict. The US, Israel’s ally, holds the key to whether the resolution will be adopted.
In a recent Israeli attack in Lebanon, five paramedics were reportedly killed. Residents were ordered to evacuate the Beirut suburb of Ghobeiry where Hezbollah fighters are allegedly located. In Gaza, at least two people were killed in Israeli airstrikes. Rocket attacks from Lebanon were intercepted by Israeli air defenses without causing injuries. Canada’s foreign minister expressed concern over humanitarian conditions in Gaza, citing a report warning of famine in the northern Gaza Strip.
Human Rights Watch has accused Israel of using evacuation orders to displace Palestinian civilians in Gaza, calling it a crime against humanity. The group has collected evidence suggesting forcible transfer of the civilian population, which violates international law. The Knesset in Israel recently banned activities by the UN relief agency in Israel and declared it a terror group, drawing criticism from international organizations.
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