Crisis in Gaza: Trump's Envoy Seeks Ceasefire Amid Rising Death Toll

Deir al-Balah, Jul 31 (AP) President Donald Trump's special envoy has arrived in Israel to address the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, as the death toll from incidents involving Palestinians seeking aid continues to rise. At least 91 Palestinians have died and over 600 have been injured in the past 24 hours, according to reports from the Gaza Health Ministry. This includes 54 fatalities from gunfire during a dangerous clash near the Zikim crossing in northern Gaza. The number may increase, as many of those affected have been taken to smaller, isolated hospitals in northern Gaza that have yet to report their tallies. The Israeli military stated that warning shots were fired when Palestinians surrounded aid trucks, but they claimed no injuries resulted from their actions. An anonymous security official indicated that the gunfire emanated from the crowd itself amidst altercations over access to aid.

Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, arrived on Thursday afternoon and is slated to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about possible ceasefire solutions and humanitarian efforts in Gaza, according to an anonymous official due to the sensitivity of the discussions. This marks the first meeting between Witkoff and Netanyahu since both nations recalled their negotiation teams from Qatar a week ago, following Hamas' recent refusal to engage, which Witkoff criticized as a “lack of desire” for peace.

Hamas initiated the conflict with an attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in about 1,200 deaths and the abduction of 251 people, of whom 50 remain hostages—including around 20 believed to be alive. Many have been released through ceasefires or other agreements. Israel's subsequent military response has led to the deaths of over 60,000 Palestinians, per the Gaza Health Ministry's account, which is seen by the UN and other organizations as the most reliable source despite being under Hamas governance, and does not differentiate between civilians and militants.

Thousands protested on Wednesday in Jerusalem, including families of hostages, urging Netanyahu's administration to terminate the ongoing war. Amid significant international pressure, Israel has introduced measures to increase the influx of aid to Gaza, but aid organizations argue that more is necessary. While the Israeli defense body overseeing humanitarian coordination reported entry of 270 aid trucks and airborne delivery of 32 pallets on Wednesday, this falls significantly short of the 500 to 600 trucks daily required, according to aid groups.

The global community continues to critique Israel over the worsening conditions in Gaza, with reports stating that the region has been teetering on the edge of famine for two years, now exacerbated by a complete blockade of aid for over two months. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul is set to visit Israel and the West Bank shortly, and Germany—a traditional ally of Israel—has voiced growing criticism regarding Israel's actions. Wadephul stressed the need for expanded aid and a ceasefire, emphasizing Germany's belief that a two-state solution remains the sole viable path to peace in the region. Although Germany hasn't joined France, Britain, and Canada in announcing a September recognition of a Palestinian state, Wadephul reiterated Germany's stance that any such recognition should only come at the end of a peace process, urging the initiation of such a process.

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