Protests have erupted following the death of Adnan Al-Bursh, a senior Palestinian doctor detained by Israel for over four months. Al-Bursh, the head of orthopedics at Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza, died after being held since his arrest at Al-Awada Hospital. Palestinian groups and prisoner associations have accused Israel of being responsible for his death, referring to it as an “assassination.” According to the Palestinian health ministry, since October, Israel has killed 496 medical workers, with many more wounded or detained.

The World Health Organization and other medical groups have condemned attacks on healthcare workers in Gaza. The UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in the West Bank and Gaza has called for action to protect Palestinians and has expressed deep concern over the incident. Israel has defended its actions by accusing Hamas of using hospitals for military purposes, an allegation both Hamas and medical staff deny.

Amidst these tensions, the situation in Gaza remains dire. An Israeli assault on Rafah, a Gaza border town, has put hundreds of thousands of civilians at risk according to a UN official. Israel has promised to ensure civilian safety in preparation for potential military operations. The humanitarian situation is exacerbated as Rafah functions as a crucial point for aid distribution, which is now under threat.

Internationally, the response has included Turkey suspending all trade with Israel, demanding a ceasefire and humanitarian aid for Gaza. Meanwhile, USAID is developing a new sea route to deliver aid to Gaza and has announced a $200 million investment to aid malnourished children in conflict zones, including Gaza.

In other related news, former US President Donald Trump described London as being overwhelmed by jihad during a Wisconsin rally speech. His criticisms extended to US immigration policy on Palestinian refugees. Trump’s remarks were met with rebuke from London Mayor Sadiq Khan who reiterated London’s stance of unity and hope.

Additionally, the remains of Elyakim Libman, thought to have been abducted by Hamas during an attack at the Nova festival in Israel, have been identified. The incident points to the broader and ongoing impact of the Israel-Gaza conflict, which has resulted in numerous casualties on both sides including over 34,600 people reported killed by the Hamas-run health ministry in the ongoing Israeli offensive in Gaza.