53 killed in Gaza despite Israel announces 'pauses' in fighting

At least 53 Palestinians were killed in Israeli air strikes on Sunday, despite the start of what Israel described as “tactical pauses” in military operations for humanitarian purposes.

The pauses, which came into effect from 10am to 8pm (07:00–17:00 GMT), were announced for areas including al-Mawasi, Deir el-Balah and Gaza City. However, Palestinian health officials reported continued attacks across several parts of the Strip.

In addition to those killed in strikes, six more people died from starvation, according to local health authorities. The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with food, water and medical aid in critically short supply.

Meanwhile, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates conducted their first airdrop of humanitarian aid into Gaza in several months.

A Jordanian official said 25 tonnes of food and medical supplies were parachuted into the enclave on Sunday. The official stressed, however, that air drops are not a substitute for overland deliveries, which remain restricted.

Despite international appeals for a ceasefire and humanitarian access, hostilities between Israel and Hamas continue into their tenth month.