Escalating Tensions: U.N. Condemns Civilian Casualties in Gaza

The U.N. peace envoy condemned civilian attacks following Israeli airstrikes in Gaza's Beit Lahiya that killed dozens. Tor Wennesland highlighted the grim effects of intensified military operations in northern Gaza, while Israeli forces claimed the actions aimed to prevent Hamas from regrouping.

The U.N. peace envoy for the Middle East sharply criticized the recent spate of civilian casualties following Israeli airstrikes in Gaza's Beit Lahiya, which resulted in the deaths of dozens late Saturday night.

Condemnation came from Tor Wennesland, U.N. Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, who noted the severe humanitarian toll, with intense military actions leading to significant civilian fatalities and obstructing aid to northern populations.

Gaza's health ministry reported 87 people were either dead or missing amid the rubble following the Israeli assault, one of the deadliest incidents in months. Israeli military sources claim the strikes aimed to disrupt Hamas militant activity.

(With inputs from agencies.)