By Diana George

Copyright timesnownews

The Gaza health ministry said two hospitals in Gaza City were taken out of service as Israel intensified its ground offensive, with continued bombardments damaging critical infrastructure. Al-Rantissi Children’s Hospital suffered severe damage in a recent Israeli strike, while attacks near the Eye Hospital forced the suspension of its services. “The occupation deliberately and systematically targets the healthcare system in the Gaza governorate…,” the ministry said. “None of the facilities or hospitals have safe access routes that allow patients and the wounded to reach them.” There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military. Escalation Coincides With UN Meet On Palestine State The escalation coincides with a United Nations session on Monday, where dozens of world leaders met to recognise a Palestinian state, a landmark diplomatic move nearly two years into the Gaza war. President Emmanuel Macron announced France’s recognition of Palestine, saying the decision could bolster Palestinian morale but was unlikely to alter conditions on the ground. “We must pave the way for peace,” Macron said. “We must do everything within our power to preserve the very possibility of a two-state solution, Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security.” Israel-Hamas Conflict The far-right Israeli government has reiterated there will be no Palestinian state as it continues operations against Hamas following the October 7, 2023, attack that killed around 1,200 people. Israel has drawn international criticism over military conduct in Gaza, where over 65,000 Palestinians have reportedly been killed.’ Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, unable to attend the UN session due to a US visa denial, called for global support: “We call for your support so that Palestine becomes a full-fledged member of the United Nations,” pledging reforms and elections within a year of a ceasefire. Germany, Italy Reluctant To Back 2-State Solution While most European nations now recognise Palestine, Germany and Italy have signalled reluctance. Germany insists recognition should follow a political process for a two-state solution, warning against further annexations in occupied territories. Italy called recognition “counterproductive.” Israel has threatened possible annexation of parts of the West Bank and specific measures against countries like France, even as the UAE warned such steps would undermine peace accords in the region. The US also cautioned that unilateral recognition of Palestine could complicate efforts to resolve the conflict. (With inputs from Reuters and AP)