By Edward Makuzva The death toll in the Gaza Strip has climbed to 70,360, the majority of them women and children, since the beginning of what has widely been described by humanitarian groups and international observers as a genocidal war on the Palestinian enclave in October 2023. Despite the existence of a declared ceasefire, Israeli airstrikes have continued in recent days, claiming six more lives and injuring at least 17 others within the last 24 hours alone. What was expected to be a period of calm has instead been marked by renewed bombardment, deepening a humanitarian crisis that has already surpassed catastrophic thresholds. The escalation comes at the most vulnerable time of the year, with harsh winter temperatures sweeping across Gaza. Millions of displaced people—living in tents, makeshift shelters, or amid the rubble of destroyed homes—now face severe shortages of heating, clothing, and medical services. Humanitarian agencies warn that winter conditions may prove deadlier than the bombs, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with untreated injuries or chronic illnesses. Infrastructure, including water, electricity, and sewage systems, remains almost completely collapsed, heightening the risk of disease outbreaks. Ambassador Dr Tamer Almassri condemned the continued Israeli military operations, describing them as deliberate violations of the ceasefire agreement and clear evidence that efforts to de-escalate the conflict are being ignored. He cautioned that the combination of freezing weather, relentless bombardment, and the breakdown of essential services could push the death toll far beyond combat-related casualties. “The international community cannot remain a silent observer,” Ambassador Almassri stressed. “These are not isolated attacks—they represent a systematic disregard for human life and international humanitarian law.” Call for Global Action The latest developments have reignited urgent calls from global leaders, human rights organisations, and civil society groups urging immediate intervention. Analysts say the current situation represents one of the most critical moments in the conflict since its escalation last year. Legal experts point to repeated violations of international humanitarian law, particularly rules prohibiting collective punishment and the targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure during armed conflict. Diplomats and humanitarian organisations continue to push for unrestricted access to aid, the protection of civilians, and a verifiable and enforceable ceasefire. However, with political negotiations stagnant and attacks showing little sign of stopping, fears are growing that Gaza’s suffering may intensify further before relief is delivered. As winter tightens its grip and the death toll continues to rise, the world faces a defining test of its commitment to peace, justice, and human rights. Whether global powers will act decisively or allow the crisis to continue with impunity remains an urgent and unanswered question. Post navigation PARENTS MUST REALISE THAT ZIMSEC IS AS GOOD AS CAMBRIDGE China Executes Ex-Huarong Executive in Escalating Anti-Corruption Crackdown