Dozens Killed and Injured in Gaza Amid Israeli Airstrikes

Gaza: 62 Palestinians have been reported dead and 220 injured in the last 24 hours due to ongoing Israeli airstrikes across Gaza, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health. This surge in casualties comes amid a broader Israeli offensive that has been ongoing since October 7th. According to Emirates News Agency, the total number of fatalities now stands at 42,289, with 98,684 individuals reported injured since the beginning of the conflict. The majority of those killed have been women and children. The Ministry also highlighted the tremendous challenges faced by rescue teams who are struggling to reach those trapped under rubble and in collapsed buildings. In the midst of this escalating violence, the Palestinian Ministry of Health has started the second round of a polio vaccination campaign targeting over half a million children under ten years old in central Gaza. The campaign aims to continue for three days in central Gaza, before moving to Khan Yunis and the northern regions for another three days each. The World Health Organization has called for a cessation of airstrikes to facilitate a safer environment for this crucial health initiative.