Israeli Strikes Kill 82 in Gaza as Aid Stalls Amid Global Outcry

Israeli airstrikes relentlessly hammered the Gaza Strip on Wednesday, claiming at least 82 lives, including women and a week-old infant, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The escalating offensive has sparked global outrage, yet humanitarian aid remains stranded at the border, failing to reach desperate Palestinians.

Despite Israel allowing dozens of aid trucks into Gaza on Tuesday, bureaucratic snags and military oversight have stalled distribution. Jens Laerke, U.N. humanitarian spokesperson, noted that no trucks were retrieved from the Kerem Shalom crossing, leaving critical supplies out of reach. The U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees reported staff waiting hours in vain to collect aid.

In a separate incident, diplomats visiting Jenin in the West Bank came under fire during a humanitarian assessment. No injuries were reported, but the Israeli military admitted to firing warning shots after the group allegedly strayed from an approved route, prompting an apology and promises of follow-up with involved nations. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas condemned the incident, and Italy demanded answers after its vice consul was caught in the chaos.

International pressure is mounting. The U.K. halted free trade talks with Israel, joining Canada and France in pushing for an end to the violence. The EU is reviewing its trade pact with Israel over the war’s conduct. Meanwhile, ceasefire negotiations in Qatar faltered, with Israel recalling senior negotiators, citing irreconcilable differences with Hamas.

In Gaza, strikes in Khan Younis killed 24, including 14 from one family, while a newborn perished in central Gaza. Hospitals in northern Gaza remain under siege, trapping staff and patients. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, speaking in Beirut, demanded an end to the 'war of extermination' and unrestricted aid access.

Gaza’s 2 million residents face famine risks, with families like Somaia Abu Amsha’s surviving on meager rations. 'This isn’t food for children,' she said, holding watery lentil soup. Pope Leo XIV echoed global calls for aid and peace, decrying the 'heartbreaking' toll.