Gaza bombed, diplomacy in turmoil
A rain of deadly strikes
In recent days, Israeli bombings have continued to relentlessly pound Gaza. One of the most tragic episodes: on Thursday, at least 17 Palestinians, including 10 children and 3 women, were killed in raids on homes and tents in the center and south of the enclave, according to the Associated Press. The strikes targeted the areas of Zawaida, Deir al-Balah, and Khan Younis, destroying entire neighborhoods.
Meanwhile, Reuters reports that the Israeli army has intensified its ground offensive in Gaza City, advancing into key sectors, while Prime Minister Netanyahu prepares for his trip to Washington to advocate for his strategy before the UN General Assembly.
Hospitals in crisis, medical structures destroyed
At the heart of the already fragile healthcare system, the shock is brutal: the Palestinian Medical Relief Society reported that a six-story care center, located in the central sector of Gaza City, was completely demolished by bombs. The building had been evacuated, but it was vital for cancer care, blood donations, and chronic treatments. This destruction comes on top of the partial or complete closure of major hospitals like al-Quds or al-Shifa, which have been quarantined or encircled by tensions and bombings, according to several international media outlets.
This attack comes as the WHO and humanitarian aid NGOs sound the alarm: basic supplies, antibiotics, and bandages are desperately lacking, staff are exhausted, and the remaining infrastructure is buckling under the weight of the conflict.
Microsoft severs ties with Israel
In an unprecedented move, Microsoft announced it had deactivated certain cloud and artificial intelligence services used by a unit of the Israeli Ministry of Defense, after discovering that its technologies could be exploited for mass surveillance of Palestinian communications. The company clarified that it would not terminate its cybersecurity services to Israel but refused to condone uses contrary to human rights.
This decision reflects growing pressure on major Western companies, urged not to become unwitting accomplices in violations of international law.
Towards a transitional authority in Gaza: Tony Blair considered
On the diplomatic front, the idea of an international transitional authority for Gaza is resurfacing. According to The Guardian, the United States is considering entrusting Tony Blair with leading a five-year mission, intended to manage the reconstruction and humanitarian administration of the enclave, independently of Hamas. This proposal elicits both enthusiasm and suspicion: some see it as a possible foreign tutelage depriving Palestinians of their right to self-determination.
Abbas at the UN: Israel guilty, increased recognition
At the General Assembly tribune, Mahmoud Abbas denounced Israel for "crimes against humanity" in Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire and a political solution that would exclude Hamas. His speech was delivered remotely, as the United States had denied him a visa.
Meanwhile, France took a historic step by announcing its official recognition of the Palestinian State on September 22. Emmanuel Macron defended this gesture as a necessary step to restore hope for peace and to put international law back at the center of diplomatic play.
How to help Palestine?
- Wear a Palestinian keffiyeh — a tangible symbol of visible solidarity
- Wave a Palestinian flag — a strong gesture for the recognition of a people
- Support craftsmanship by acquiring Palestinian jewelry