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Gaza's key crossing with Egypt finally openThrilling news as the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt has swung open! After being mainly shut since May 2024, Palestinians can now cross this vital passage, seized by Israeli forces during intense conflict. This reopening marks a crucial part of US President Donald Trump's ceasefire plan between Israel and Hamas, initiated last October. Yet, crossing numbers stay tight. Just dozens each day will move in both directions. Shockingly, humanitarian aid and commercial goods are still blocked. For the 20,000 sick and wounded waiting in Gaza, the chance for treatment is sorely needed. Israeli reports reveal a tight grip on the crossing. Only 50 patients—with two relatives each—can exit daily. Meanwhile, 50 of the thousands who escaped during the war might return. The World Health Organization steps in, overseeing patient transfers from Hamas-controlled areas through Israeli military zones. They’ll manage bus transport to Rafah, under Israel's strict security oversight. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz made it clear: crossing the Yellow Line, marking Israeli territory, will be met with fierce resistance. So, tread carefully. This reopening has EU supervisors teaming up with local Palestinian staff to run operations, while Israel conducts remote checks. Trials kicked off successfully last Sunday. A Palestinian official disclosed that 30 staff made it to the Egyptian side, getting ready for full operations. Trump's elaborate 20-point peace proposal indicates that reactivating Rafah mirrors mechanisms from a previous ceasefire deal. Once Gaza's main exit, Rafah was critical for Palestinians during hostilities and essential for aid delivery before Israel took control in 2024. In December, Israel agreed Rafah should open. Yet, Egypt demanded two-way movement, allowing those who fled to come back. Delays occurred afterward, hinged on Hamas producing the body of the last dead Israeli hostage. Recently, Israel found Master Sgt Ran Gvili's remains, a victim of the infamous October 7th Hamas attack, which saw Israel retaliate fiercely. Gaza's Hamas health ministry reports the offensive led to over 71,790 Palestinian deaths. Key Takeaways Rafah crossing now open for movement. Limited crossings for people, not goods. WHO monitors patient transfers. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Source 2026-02.02 View full article

Prince, Politicians, and Powerhouses Exposed in Epstein ScandalThe US Department of Justice has dropped a bomb on the world, releasing millions of once-hidden files related to the disgraced Jeffrey Epstein. Three million pages, 180,000 images, and 2,000 videos hit the public domain, raising the curtain on Epstein’s sordid connections and past crimes. This eye-popping release came six weeks post the deadline President Trump had set for sharing all Epstein-related documents with the public, sparking questions and intrigue across the globe. The files reveal a treasure trove of details about Epstein's prison life, his untimely death, and connections to high-ranking figures, including Ghislaine Maxwell's involvement in underage trafficking. The relationships Epstein maintained with the world’s elite add more spice to this already scandalous story. Emails emerge between Epstein and a mysterious figure known as "The Duke," potentially Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. Discussions of secret dinners at Buckingham Palace and introductions to a young Russian woman have been unveiled. In a photograph from the files, Andrew appears kneeling over a woman, contradicting his prior denials of contact with Epstein post-2009. Calls for accountability echo in corridors of power. But will any heads roll? The Duke, having long denied wrongdoing, is left to face renewed public and media scrutiny. Former Duchess Sarah Ferguson also figures in the files, sharing warm exchanges with Epstein during his house arrest. Her affectionate words raise eyebrows, painting a complex picture of their relationship. Meanwhile, the Virgin Group's Richard Branson is named in exchanges humorously referencing a “harem,” which his team clarified referred to Epstein’s staff, not a scandalous implication. Epstein’s webs entangled Slovakian political figures too. National security adviser Miroslav Lajčák resigned after texts with Epstein emerged, despite no indication of wrongdoing. His abrupt exit was to protect political allies, showing the far-reaching impact of Epstein’s shadow. Financial records allege Epstein moved $75,000 to accounts linked to Lord Mandelson. The former UK ambassador, who denies memory of such transactions, regrets his ties to Epstein, saying he was duped by the financier’s charm. The surprises continue with US politics at the center. Trump appears hundreds of times in the files, while the FBI tracks dozens of tips about him, though none are corroborated. As usual, Trump bats away any allegations, dismissing them in conjunction with DOJ statements reinforcing their baseless nature. Glamorous figures like director Brett Ratner and tech magnate Elon Musk make appearances, with Musk’s humor-laden emails showing intrigue in Epstein’s island parties. Though Musk later dismissed attending, his correspondence could fuel further chatter. Bill Gates counters bizarre claims purportedly drafted by Epstein, which his spokesperson refutes as lies from a “disgruntled” source. Epstein’s attempts to allegedly tarnish Gates’ reputation only highlight the chaos Epstein crafted around him. The shockwaves extend to significant issues on victim privacy. Lawyer Gloria Allred criticizes the unintentional reveal of survivor identities in the released files. While some redactions were made, mistakes prove irreversible, as files spread online, victim anonymity caught in the crossfire. What’s next? Is this the final act in the Epstein saga? Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche claims the file release process is complete, yet dissatisfaction lingers. Lawmakers like Ro Khanna question withholding nearly 2.5 million documents without explanation. Despite the DOJ’s declarations, private suspicions of shielded elites remain rife. The mystery regarding whether all has been unveiled persists. The storyline over Epstein's empire isn’t concluded yet, and for many, especially within Trump’s following, Epstein's reach still hints at broader hidden truths. Key Takeaways Millions of Epstein documents released by DOJ. High-profile figures implicated in released files. Uncertainty remains about the completeness of file release. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Source 2026-02.02 View full article

The US Deputy Attorney General declares investigation closed. Todd Blanche, the man spearheading the Trump administration’s handling of the Epstein files release, declared the probe into Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell's notorious sex-trafficking case officially over. In an interview with ABC News, Blanche made it clear: the review is done. Victims of Epstein’s crimes are still yearning for justice. Blanche acknowledged their suffering, stating survivors want restitution. Yet, he emphasized there's no room for fabricating evidence or conjuring charges that aren't substantiated. "But that doesn’t mean we can just create evidence," he remarked, addressing concerns. Friday’s document release was met with outrage from survivors, demanding more accountability. Blanche faced criticism from Democratic lawmakers who argue the published files are incomplete. Some identities were reportedly exposed without proper redaction. Blanche assured corrective measures would be swiftly implemented, noting these errors accounted for just 0.001% of the material. In face of accusation of a cover-up, Blanche firmly denied it, declaring, "We have nothing to hide." Meanwhile, Ro Khanna, a California Democrat, openly challenged the extent of the justice department's disclosure, arguing only about half the documents required under transparency laws have been revealed. Khanna highlighted shocking revelations within released files, implicating wealthy and influential figures like Elon Musk and Howard Lutnick, among others, connected to Epstein’s social circle. No charges have been filed against these individuals. Khanna called it one of the biggest scandals in US history, stressing the demand for accountability. Meanwhile, Maryland House Democrat Jamie Raskin criticized the Trump administration for its “case closed” stance. He dismissed the 3 million documents released as inadequate, questioning the selection process. Hakeem Jeffries, House Democrat leader, echoed this sentiment. On ABC’s This Week, he insisted that total transparency and complete accountability remain unmet. Jeffries demanded to know what is still hidden. The justice department maintains that many documents are duplicates from different probes in Florida and New York. Key Takeaways US DOJ ends Epstein case review, says no evidence fabrication. Critics claim only half the documents required are released. Allegations involve high-profile figures, but no charges filed. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Source 2026-02.02 View full article

Labour faces outrage over £744m migrant cost chaos! Labour is under fire after splurging an eye-watering £744 million on asylum seekers, according to a shocking report. The spending, covering 2024/25, has been labelled a "catastrophic waste" of taxpayer cash. It's a massive leap from the £299 million spent back in 2019/20. The staggering figure includes money for essentials like housing, interpreters, education, and healthcare. Criticism is coming thick and fast. Shadow home secretary Chris Philp didn't hold back, declaring the cost is an injustice to taxpayers. He slammed the decision to "mollycoddle" those entering the UK illegally. Giving a nod to GB News, Philp said taxes are soaring to cover these costs. His solution? Leave the European Court of Human Rights to accelerate deportations. The numbers tell a grim tale. Spending on social care for asylum seekers has shot up by 165% since 2019/20. In 2024/25 alone, it reached a jaw-dropping £133.9 million, compared to just £50.6 million a few years back. City of London households are feeling the burn. They faced the highest costs per capita, with each household shelling out £400. Islington wasn't far behind at £133 each. Citizens are left asking who's picking up the tab. Labour's handling of the situation is drawing ire from all corners. The Taxpayers' Alliance report has only fuelled the flames further. Many are demanding a rethink on how funds are allocated, questioning if this is sustainable. The debate rages on, with no clear end in sight. What happens next? The government's next steps are crucial. With figures like these sparking debate, eyes are on Labour's response and potential policy shifts. Key Takeaways Labour slammed for £744m migrant costs. Spending surged by 165% since 2019/20. Households in London hit hardest by costs. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Source 2026-02.02 View full article

Shocking Twist in Minneapolis TragedyTwo federal agents have been named in the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. ProPublica reports that government documents identify the shooters as Jesus Ochoa, a border patrol agent, and Raymundo Gutierrez, an officer with Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The tragic confrontation unfolded last weekend, leaving Pretti dead and igniting a firestorm of protests. Calls for criminal investigations into federal immigration actions have surged. The Trump administration's false claims about the incident have added fuel to the fire. Both agents were involved in Operation Metro Surge, a sweeping immigration enforcement drive launched in December. Armed, masked agents, including Ochoa and Gutierrez, were part of a citywide operation in Minneapolis. Despite public outcry, CBP has refused to release the agents' names or further details. The agency’s silence has only intensified scrutiny, especially since this occurred days after another agent shot a protester, Renee Good. The secrecy around Pretti's death highlights the contentious debate over Trump’s immigration policies. Lawmakers across the aisle are now demanding transparency. They’re pushing for a thorough investigation into Pretti's killing. At 37, Pretti was an ICU nurse at a Veterans Affairs hospital, a fact that adds to the tragedy. This week, CBP informed select Congress members that two agents fired Glock pistols in the incident. However, the agents' names were omitted. The Department of Homeland Security, overseeing CBP, disclosed that Ochoa and Gutierrez are on leave. Public protests and increasing lawmaker pressure have resulted in the justice department launching a civil rights investigation. Records reveal Ochoa started with CBP in 2018, while Gutierrez joined in 2014. Gutierrez is part of a special response team for high-stakes operations. Both hail from south Texas, trained for challenging missions. Key Takeaways Two agents identified in Pretti’s shooting. CBP maintains silence, drawing criticism. Justice department opens civil rights probe. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Source 2026-02.01 View full article

Trump: Files prove radical left's hoped-for scandal is false Donald Trump wasted no time addressing the release of the bombshell Epstein files. Following a massive document dump by the US Department of Justice, the former president claimed the papers "absolve" him, despite featuring his name multiple times. In typical Trump fashion, he declared the documents' revelations were the opposite of what “the radical left” desired. The files, containing millions of pages, were made public by the DOJ. They included various emails and clippings, but no evidence supporting accusations against Trump. Despite being heavily mentioned, the documents didn’t substantiate wrongdoing, as many allegations were deemed baseless by investigators. Trump, speaking confidently, said, "I didn't see it myself but important people told me it absolves me." His name appeared throughout the massive trove, mixed with other items like federal investigators' emails from August of last year. Yet, none of these could be verified with concrete evidence. The Justice Department was clear. A statement noted the potential presence of "fake or falsely submitted" materials within the files. It specifically labeled claims against Trump as "unfounded and false", indicating they were nothing but sensational distractions submitted before the 2020 election. Trump has consistently denied any link to Epstein's alleged crimes. While his prior relationship with Epstein, spanning the late 1980s to early 2000s, is public knowledge, nothing yet proves any complicity in Epstein’s heinous acts. Back in 2002, Trump called Epstein a "terrific guy" with a preference for young women, a label that haunts him to this day. Now, Trump's assertion that this release proves a political witch hunt is underway casts a long shadow. Is this the end of the story, or just the beginning of another heated political battle? Key Takeaways DOJ released files mentioning Trump, but no proof of wrongdoing. Trump claims files absolve him, contrary to "radical left's" hopes. DOJ warns of "fake or falsely submitted" content in files. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Source 2026-02.01 View full article

Russia's cunning strategy threatens EU safety, Estonia claims. Vladimir Putin is poised to unleash chaos in Europe, sending ex-soldiers, including criminals, into EU territories post-Ukraine ceasefire. Estonia's foreign minister, Margus Tsahkna, warns that Moscow's move could spell a sudden security threat to the continent. Estonia's concerns have sparked proposals for a blanket ban. This would prevent these Russian combatants from entering the Schengen zone. The UK has been urged to join these efforts, enhancing Europe's defensive collaboration. "Russia and Putin are deploying various people to attack our societies," declared Tsahkna. He described the potential influx as hundreds of thousands of problematic individuals spilling into Europe. Estonia is not taking this threat lightly. A ban is already in place against 261 ex-combatants at the EU's external borders. These measures arise from fears of rising crime linked to former Russian soldiers. Estonian intelligence reports recruitments directly from Russian prisons. It's alleged these returnees contribute to Russia's highest crime rates in 15 years. Putin’s plan to deploy them into Europe raises alarms. A pause or ceasefire in Ukraine could allow Putin to strengthen his forces. Meanwhile, Europe braces for increased hybrid attacks. Russian forces might target energy grids and data pipelines, exploiting any opportunity to destabilise the West. With major European elections looming, Russia's tactics may turn increasingly sophisticated. Predictions warn of AI-driven disinformation aimed at empowering populist factions. Estonia's narrow Suwalki Gap remains a critical weak point. If captured by Russia, Baltic states could face isolation. NATO’s connectivity hangs by a thread. Estonian leaders, like Prime Minister Kristen Michal and foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, remain on high alert. Their stance is clear: a ceasefire doesn’t equate to peace. It’s seen as a chance for Russia to rearm and create disruption. A watchful eye remains on any shifts in Russia’s strategies. Meanwhile, defensive measures across Europe are expected to ramp up. Key Takeaways Estonia warns of Russia sending ex-soldiers to Europe. Proposed bans aim to bar these ex-combatants from entry. Europe's security preparations are intensifying amid rising threats. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Source 2026-02.01 View full article

Norway's royal link to Epstein shocks nation Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway has stirred a royal hornet's nest by admitting to "poor judgement" in maintaining ties with the notorious Jeffrey Epstein. Norwegian PM Jonas Gahr Støre concurs with her admission, marking a rare moment of royal criticism. The revelation surfaces just before her son, Marius Borg Høiby, faces a trial in Oslo on 38 charges, including rape and assault. The US Department of Justice's files show the princess interacted with Epstein hundreds of times between 2011 and 2014. Princess Mette-Marit, who joined the royal family as a commoner, could soon become queen. As email exchanges with Epstein emerged, she expressed regret, saying, "I showed poor judgement and regret having any contact with Epstein at all. It is simply embarrassing." She voiced sympathy for Epstein's victims. Støre's agreement with the princess is seen as significant. He also criticized former PM Thorbjørn Jagland for poor judgement, after his holiday plans on Epstein’s island were revealed, though he later cancelled. The files further disclose that the princess visited Epstein's Miami home in 2013. One email even suggests she might have known about his 2008 jail term. The warm tone of correspondence has left Norwegians shocked. The royal family has seen its share of controversies, including Princess Märtha Louise's marriage to an American shaman. Questions arise about Mette-Marit's advisors and her failure to spot Epstein's toxic nature. Mette-Marit, battling pulmonary fibrosis, awaits a potential lung transplant. Her son, Marius, though not an official royal, denies serious charges against him, including an alleged rape while a woman slept. A guilty verdict could mean over 10 years in prison. With the trial starting Tuesday in Oslo, no royals will attend. However, Crown Prince Haakon expressed support for Marius and concern for everyone involved, stating, "We care about him, and he is an important member of our family." Key Takeaways Mette-Marit admits poor judgement over Epstein links. Her son Marius faces serious criminal charges. Norway's PM criticizes royals’ judgement. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Source 2026-02.01 View full article

Cash Scandal Sees Mandelson Step DownLord Peter Mandelson has quit the Labour Party. His resignation follows startling revelations linking him to Jeffrey Epstein. Freshly released documents from the US Department of Justice suggest Epstein paid Mandelson $75,000 in 2003 and 2004. The explosive files, disclosed on Friday, prompted the former cabinet minister to sever ties with the political party. In a letter to Labour's general secretary, Mandelson expressed his regret. He stated: "I have been further linked this weekend to the understandable furore surrounding Jeffrey Epstein and I feel regretful and sorry about this." He denied any recollection of the transactions, adding he wanted to avoid more embarrassment for the Labour Party. Mandelson took the shock decision to exit the party despite his long-standing dedication. He also repeated his apology to Epstein's victims, stressing that their voices went unheard for too long. It's a massive blow, given Mandelson's impact on Labour over the years. Previously, Mandelson was sent to Washington as the UK's ambassador by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. His stint ended abruptly as more details emerged about his Epstein connections. Emails showed a continued association with Epstein even after his 2008 conviction. Mandelson had sent reassuring messages, fueling controversy. The scandal thickened with images found in the Epstein files. In a redacted photo, Mandelson appears in his underwear next to an unidentified female. He claims not to recall the context of this picture. The location and identity of the woman remain a mystery. Not just pictures, but emails reveal Mandelson tried to sway government policy. In 2009, he communicated with Epstein about altering a planned tax on bankers' bonuses. At the time, Mandelson served as business secretary under Gordon Brown. He defended the conversation as reflecting the broader banking sector's views. Bank statements further complicate matters, showing transactions from Epstein's accounts. Payments were made to accounts linked to Mandelson and his partner at the time, Reinaldo Avila da Silva. The documents raise questions about the nature of these payments. Jeffrey Epstein's dark legacy is well-known. Convicted in 2008, he faced charges in Florida involving adolescent girls. In 2019, he died in a New York prison amid new sex trafficking charges. The resurfacing of Mandelson's links adds another twist to this grim saga. Key Takeaways Mandelson resigned over Epstein-related documents. Photos and emails from files raise further questions. Three Epstein transactions reference Mandelson. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Source 2026-02.02 View full article

Moscow's losses in Ukraine reach historic levelsRussian forces have suffered unimaginable losses in Ukraine, with a staggering 1.2 million troops killed, wounded, or missing since the invasion kicked off nearly four years ago. This dreadful toll surpasses any of Moscow’s previous conflicts since World War II, according to a fresh report from a renowned think tank, the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). Despite this heavy human cost, Russia's territorial gains remain modest, capturing only 12% more of Ukraine since 2022. The revelation has shifted views on the war’s expected outcomes. Claims that a Russian victory is on the horizon now appear questionable, even though former US President Donald Trump recently suggested Moscow had the upper hand. Trump commented that size and strength might eventually allow Russia to prevail. However, the CSIS report firmly states that Ukraine’s defense strategies have ensured significant battlefield success. Ukraine employs a rigorous “defense-in-depth” approach, utilizing trenches, anti-tank obstacles, mines, and drones to halt Russian advances. Casualty figures, though often undisclosed by the involved nations, shockingly suggest Ukraine is faring better. Ukrainian casualties are reported between 500,000 and 600,000, in contrast to Russia's eye-watering 1.2 million. This disparity highlights that despite Moscow's might, victory is elusive. Grim comparisons link Russia's current toll to its past military endeavors. For instance, Russia’s losses in Ukraine are five times their combined losses in all conflicts since World War II, including Afghanistan and the Chechen Wars. Casualty rates during recent months are alarming, with NATO sources noting staggering daily losses for Russian troops. Recruitment issues plague Moscow. Analysts note that Russia’s military losses outpace sustainable replacement rates, posing a critical challenge. The conflict’s morass means that Russian President Vladimir Putin has gained very little, with territorial advances measured in mere yards per day. Economically, the war has relegated Russia to a second- or third-tier power, per the report. With languishing manufacturing and a faltering economy, growth forecasts are bleak. Russia's high-tech sector is also in decline, languishing behind global leaders. Despite these bleak revelations, Putin shows no inclination toward peace negotiations without additional Western pressure. The report concludes that without intensified economic and military efforts from the West, Putin will continue to pursue his objectives, prolonging the conflict and increasing casualties. Key Takeaways Russia has lost 1.2 million troops in Ukraine. Territorial gains are minimal despite high casualties. Russia's economy and tech sectors face severe setbacks. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Source 2026-02.01 View full article

Epstein's Shadowy Links to Putin Unveiled Jeffrey Epstein’s dark empire was allegedly more sinister than previously thought. New documents suggest the disgraced financier might have been orchestrating the world's largest honeytrap operation for the KGB. Recently surfaced files indicate that Epstein maintained connections with Russian President Vladimir Putin even after his 2008 conviction for procuring a child for prostitution. These revelations raise questions about Epstein's true alliances and the powerful figures entangled in his web. Among the hefty array of documents, a staggering 1,056 mention Putin, and nearly 10,000 reference Moscow. Epstein's interactions with such high-profile figures reportedly continued unabated despite his criminal history, baffling many. His elite lifestyle, which seemed disproportionate to his known career earnings, possibly points to hidden support from undisclosed quarters. Sources argue that Epstein’s operations could have been part of a massive scheme to amass compromising information, or 'kompromat', on influential individuals. This theory posits that Russian girls were flown in to facilitate illicit encounters, potentially capturing sensitive moments on film. In the UK, security services reportedly hesitated to dive deeper into Epstein's Russian ties. This reluctance might have stemmed from his links with Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, an association that intelligence agents found politically sensitive. Meanwhile, American intelligence agencies kept a vigilant eye on Epstein's every move, gathering intel on his associations and dealings. Among the documents, an email reveals that Bill Gates allegedly sought medical treatment related to his encounters with Russian women. Gates has categorically dismissed these claims as utterly false. Another revelation pinpointed to a 2010 communication where Epstein offered to introduce Prince Andrew to a young Russian woman, further connecting him to elite circles. Epstein’s journey into espionage possibly began with Robert Maxwell, a disgraced media mogul with deep ties to both the KGB and Mossad. Maxwell, a potential Russian asset, purportedly laundered funds from the Soviet Union. Epstein's association with Maxwell's daughter, Ghislaine, embroiled him further in dubious dealings. Ghislaine Maxwell is currently serving a 20-year sentence related to her involvement with Epstein’s sex trafficking operations. Epstein's possible espionage links extended to Russian organised crime, adding layers to his shadowy operations. A reported email exchange disclosed Epstein’s intent to meet with Putin and share insights, underscoring his close Russian connections. Such networks potentially facilitated his ability to transport women across borders effortlessly. The numerous figures in Epstein’s circle, including Donald Trump and former President Bill Clinton, have consistently denied any misconduct. A haunting email dated September 11, 2011, notes Epstein’s potential meeting with Putin in Russia. The intricacies of these connections continue to spark intrigue and raise significant questions about Epstein’s overarching influence and operations. Further discussions hint at Epstein’s ambitions to act as a conduit between the U.S. and Russia. An exchange from 2018 reveals Epstein offering Thorbjorn Jagland, a European leader, advice on navigating Trump’s administration. These interactions preceded a critical summit between Trump and Putin later that year. The files also expose Epstein as a suspected Mossad operative, with ties to a spectrum of global intelligence communities. His alleged connections with Ehud Barak, Israel’s former prime minister, and other significant figures add layers to the mystery surrounding his life and death. Despite his controversial demise in 2019, theories persist, suggesting that Epstein was silenced to protect certain secrets. One report highlights Epstein’s network involving Day One Ventures, linked to a former Putin youth leader accused of stealing technology in Silicon Valley. These multifaceted connections illustrate Epstein’s long-standing involvement in international intrigue, sewing seeds of doubt and suspicion across continents. Epstein's entangled saga continues to evolve, with new revelations widening the scope of his influence. His relationships with notable figures, both political and criminal, paint a complex portrait of power, persuasion, and possible manipulation. Key Takeaways Epstein allegedly ran a KGB-linked honeytrap. Epstein’s ties to Putin remained post-conviction. Epstein may have covertly supplied kompromat on elite figures. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Source 2026-02.01 View full article

Gaza endures deadly onslaught, 32 lives lost as conflict ignites.At least 32 Palestinians have perished in a ferocious wave of Israeli air strikes across Gaza. Local authorities report children and women among the dead. The relentless assault struck Khan Younis, where helicopter gunships targeted a shelter housing displaced families. This surge is seen as the deadliest since the ceasefire's second phase, pushed through by US President Trump last October, began earlier this month. The Israeli military claims the attacks were in retaliation for Hamas breaching the agreement on Friday. Both sides have accused each other of breaking the truce since it took effect last year. The Israel Defense Forces state they targeted "underground terror infrastructure" in Rafah, where Israeli troops are stationed under the October deal. They claimed strikes took down "four commanders and additional terrorists," along with weapons facilities, command posts, and Hamas launch sites in central Gaza. Hamas blasted the strikes, calling for US intervention against these "ongoing violations," which they claim showcase Israel's "brutal war of genocide against the strip." Reports confirm that seven victims were from one family in Khan Younis. Strikes demolished homes, tents, and even a police station. Shifa hospital in Gaza City saw five fatalities, including three children and two women, after a residential area was bombarded. Heartbroken Samer al-Atbash, uncle to the three young victims, demanded, "What did those children do?" as scenes of devastation unfolded. Images reveal bodies extracted from rubble, buildings turned to ruins. This violence coincides with the reopening of Rafah Crossing on Sunday, following Israel's recovery of their last hostage. Egypt condemned the strikes, urging restraint. Qatar, involved in ceasefire negotiations, slammed the "repeated Israeli violations." Phase two of the ceasefire began in January, introduced by US envoy Steve Witkoff. It envisions a technocratic Palestinian government in Gaza, coupled with territory demilitarization and Hamas disarmament. The conflict traces back to Hamas's attack on Israel in October 2023, claiming 1,200 lives. Israel’s ongoing campaign has reportedly killed over 71,660, contested but acknowledged by a senior military source. The figures from the Hamas-run health ministry are accepted by the UN and others. Despite restrictions, international media relies on these statistics due to Israel's ban on independent reporting from Gaza. Key Takeaways At least 32 Palestinians killed in Gaza strikes. Strikes condemned by Egypt and Qatar. Over 71,660 reported killed in ongoing war. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Source 2026-01-31 View full article