The conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip has resulted in a significant rise in casualties. The Palestinian Ministry of Health reports 1,055 fatalities and 5,184 injuries. Tragically, 9 UN employees lost their lives in Israeli airstrikes in Gaza, according to the United Nations Assistance Agency for Palestine Refugees. Additionally, there are growing concerns about dwindling fuel reserves at the Gaza Strip’s sole power plant, with only 10-12 hours of fuel remaining. The conflict’s escalating toll emphasizes the urgent need for civilian protection in compliance with international laws of war, as noted by UNRWA Communications Director Juliette Touma.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said peace talks between Russia and Ukraine have been suspended, noting that while communication channels remain open, “it would be more accurate to say there has been a pause.”
Peskov accused European countries of obstructing dialogue but insisted Moscow remains ready for negotiations.
Russia and Ukraine held three rounds of direct talks this year in Istanbul, leading to prisoner exchanges but little progress toward ending the war.
TR