Daijiworld Media Network- Gaza

Gaza, Sep 2: Israeli airstrikes on Gaza have killed at least 13 people, Gaza’s civil defense agency said. The strikes targeted a residential building and an apartment, causing significant casualties. According to AFP, Israeli fighter jets hit the top floor of a residential building in Gaza City, while helicopters carried out another strike in the western part of the city.

The attacks come as Israel prepares for a wider offensive to take control of Gaza City. UN estimates suggest that nearly one million people live in Gaza and its surrounding areas, raising fears of a major humanitarian crisis.

In a significant diplomatic move, Belgian foreign minister Maxime Prevot announced that Belgium will recognize an independent Palestinian state at the upcoming UN General Assembly later this month. He also pledged “tough sanctions” against the Israeli government while condemning antisemitism and the glorification of terrorism by Hamas supporters.

Prevot described the situation in Gaza as a “humanitarian tragedy”, criticizing Israeli actions as violations of international law. “It's not about punishing the Israeli people, but to make sure their government respects international and humanitarian law and takes measures to improve the situation on the ground,” he said.

Several other countries, including Australia, Canada, France, Malta, and Portugal, have already announced plans to recognize Palestinian statehood at the UNGA, while the UK said it would do so if Israel fails to meet certain conditions. Israel has repeatedly condemned these moves, calling them a reward for terrorism.

The situation remains tense, with escalating violence and growing international attention on the humanitarian impact in Gaza.