Sputnik, Afp, Reuters and Europa Press
La Jornada Newspaper
Saturday, December 14, 2024, p. 20
Ramallah. Yesterday’s Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip left at least 40 dead and 98 injured, Palestinian health authorities reported, at a time when the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, assured that he sees more than hopeful signs to reach a ceasefire agreement between Tel Aviv and Hamas.
Israeli occupation forces committed three attacks against families in the strip; Hospitals received 40 dead and 98 injuredsaid a statement in which what happened was also described as new brutal slaughter.
The Ministry of Health of the Gaza Strip reported that the new death toll is 44,875 and 106,454 injured, since the beginning of the conflict with Israel more than a year ago.
Blinken, who is in Turkey as part of an official visit, discussed with his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan, the opportunity “to achieve a cessation of hostilities in the enclave, after more than 14 months of offensive, which would allow let the hostages come homeand highlighted what role Ankara can play in persuading Hamas leaders.
“In my discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Minister Fidan, we talked about how important it is for Hamas to say ‘yes’ to the deal,” he added.
In Lebanon, the population is on the brink of a food crisis as a result of continued displacement, despite the truce between Israel and Hezbollah, declared the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).
In addition, the organization reported on its website that the population of the affected regions It is difficult to get supplies because there are no products in the markets. and they have serious difficulties in acquiring basic merchandise.
The Pope advocates peace in the region
Meanwhile, Pope Francis received the Prime Minister of Lebanon, Najib Mikati, at the Apostolic Palace of the Vatican, where they expressed their hopes for consolidating an agreement with Israel and guaranteeing the peaceful coexistence of different religions in the region, reported the press office.
The entity added that, after the meeting, the Lebanese politician met with the Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and the Vatican Secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher.
During the meeting, the parties addressed the economic-social situation in Lebanon, now without a president, in addition to the importance of the contribution of the Catholic Church and from the Christian component to the good of the country. The bureau added that Expressing satisfaction with the ceasefire reached in the south of the country and hoping for its further consolidation, the expectation was reiterated that the peaceful coexistence of different religions will continue to characterize the identity of Lebanon and serve as help and support for peace in Middle East.