Israeli Airstrikes in Gaza Kill 14 Amid Funeral Preparations for Turkish-American Activist

Overnight airstrikes in central and southern Gaza have left at least 14 people dead as the friends and family of a Turkish-American activist killed by an Israeli soldier get ready to honor her in a funeral. The strikes targeted residential areas in Gaza City and Khan Younis, hitting homes and tents housing displaced Palestinians.

These attacks come amidst a vaccination campaign in Gaza to protect children against polio. The World Health Organisation reported significant progress with over 560,000 children receiving their first dose. Second doses are set to begin soon, marking a success in the midst of tragedy.

The body of Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, the Turkish-American activist killed in early September, has been returned to her hometown in Turkey for a funeral. Eygi was fatally shot by an Israeli soldier during a protest against settlements in the West Bank. Turkey plans to conduct its own investigation into her death.

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has caused widespread destruction and displacement in Gaza, with over 90% of the population impacted. The humanitarian crisis has led to thousands of casualties, including women and children. Efforts to negotiate a cease-fire and secure the release of hostages have been complicated by new demands from both sides.

As the situation unfolds, the international community continues to monitor the conflict closely. Follow the latest updates on the Israel-Hamas war on the Associated Press website.