Israeli Forces Heavily Damage Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Northern Gaza Strip

Israeli forces have inflicted heavy damage on the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in the northern Gaza Strip amid ongoing fighting between Israel and Hamas. The destruction of the mosque comes as the conflict in Gaza shows signs of subsiding, with Israel withdrawing most of its ground troops and allowing more aid to enter the enclave.

However, Israel is preparing for a major military operation in Rafah, the last remaining Hamas stronghold in Gaza. The Israeli military says the offensive is inevitable and necessary to dismantle Hamas as an organized military force, though the group is likely to retain lethal guerrilla capabilities even after the operation.

Egypt has proposed a new ceasefire deal to Israel in an effort to avert further fighting in Rafah. Diplomatic efforts are underway to reach a compromise that addresses the main demands of both parties, with the goal of reaching a larger deal to end the war. Hamas has said it will not back down from its demands for a permanent ceasefire and full withdrawal of Israeli troops, which Israel has rejected.

Why this matters: The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in widespread destruction and loss of life in Gaza, with civilians bearing the brunt of the violence. The damage to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque underscores the impact of the fighting on religious and cultural sites, further exacerbating tensions in the region.

The lack of clarity on Israel's military plans has left aid agencies guessing, and there are concerns that any offensive in Rafah would shut down the city's border crossing with Egypt, which has been the main route for aid deliveries during the war. The U.S. has insisted on a credible plan to evacuate displaced Palestinians, but most families have already been uprooted multiple times during the 200-day conflict.

"The situation remains tense, with the prospect of an imminent Israeli assault on Rafah causing deep anxiety among the local population," according to reports from the ground. More than 34,000 Palestinians have been killed in the war, around two-thirds of them children and women, while Israel has reported at least 260 of its soldiers killed since the start of ground operations in Gaza.

Key Takeaways

• Israel inflicted heavy damage on Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Gaza amid ongoing fighting.
• Israel preparing major offensive in Rafah, last Hamas stronghold, despite ceasefire efforts.
• Conflict resulted in widespread destruction and loss of life in Gaza, with civilians affected.
• Unclear military plans leave aid agencies guessing, with concerns about border crossing closure.
• Over 34,000 Palestinians killed, two-thirds children and women, while 260 Israeli soldiers died.