In a tragic turn of events, Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have claimed the lives of at least 78 people, marking one of the deadliest nights in the ongoing 11-week conflict with Hamas. The strikes, persisting into Christmas Day, intensified against central Gaza's al-Bureij, with reports of heightened air and ground shelling. Pope Francis lamented the "futile logic of war" drowning out Jesus' message of peace in the very land of his birth.

At least 70 lives were lost in an airstrike on Maghazi, predominantly impacting women and children. The Israeli army is reviewing the incident, emphasizing a commitment to minimizing harm to civilians. Amid escalating tensions, Bethlehem's Christmas celebrations were subdued, highlighting the grim reality faced by the people of Gaza.