At least 83 Palestinians were killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza over the past 24 hours, according to local health officials. Eight children also reportedly died from starvation and malnutrition.

Al Jazeera reports that among the dead, 58 were unarmed civilians en route to a food distribution center operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), supported by the US and Israel. Despite repeated pleas to cease fire, Israeli forces opened fire on the aid-seekers.

In response to the worsening crisis, US President Donald Trump announced $60 million in food aid for Gaza. “People in Gaza are not getting enough food. We are trying to feed them,” Trump said, stressing the urgency of addressing logistical challenges.

However, the US-led aid initiative has drawn criticism. Allegations include the distribution of spoiled or inedible supplies, and the disclosure of aid locations and timings to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), which critics claim is enabling targeted attacks on civilians. Despite international concerns, Israel has shown little willingness to alter its actions.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly decided to pursue a full military takeover of the Gaza Strip, despite strong opposition from the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and the potential risk to hostages still held by Hamas.

According to a report by The Times of Israel on Monday (August 4), Netanyahu is expected to seek cabinet approval for the plan within the week. Several ministers have confirmed that Netanyahu has privately used the word “takeover” in conversations, signaling a significantly more aggressive military stance toward Gaza.

A senior official close to Netanyahu told Israeli media outlet Walla: “The decision has been made. We are going to take full control of Gaza.” The official added that operations would extend even into areas where hostages are believed to be held. “If the Chief of Staff disagrees, he should resign,” the source was quoted as saying.

However, Israeli military leadership appears divided. IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi has reportedly expressed opposition to the full occupation plan. Currently, IDF controls about 75% of Gaza. The new plan would expand operations to the remaining areas, effectively bringing the entire strip under Israeli military control.

Military officials have warned that such a move could take years due to the extensive underground infrastructure developed by Hamas. They also raised concerns that an intensified operation may place the lives of hostages at immediate risk.

Humanitarian organizations and international observers have also raised alarms about the potential consequences for Gaza’s civilian population and ongoing aid efforts, should Israel proceed with full-scale occupation.

While Netanyahu has announced plans to convene the cabinet soon to discuss the next steps, some analysts suggest he may ultimately urge patience to allow negotiations for hostage releases to continue.

KOLKATA, India — West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has condemned the Delhi Police for referring to Bengali as a “Bangladeshi language” in an official letter, calling the incident “shameful,” “insulting,” “anti-national,” and “unconstitutional.”

The letter, dated July 29, was sent to the in-charge of Banga Bhavan, the West Bengal government’s guest house in New Delhi, requesting translation of certain documents described as being in the “Bangladeshi language.” The documents were linked to an FIR involving eight suspected Bangladeshi nationals.

“Bengali is recognized by India’s Constitution, and our national anthem and national song are in this language,” Banerjee said, urging public protests.

Trinamool Congress general secretary Abhishek Banerjee called the wording a “deliberate conspiracy” to malign Bengali identity and link West Bengal with Bangladesh. He demanded the removal of investigating officer Amit Dutta and public apologies from the Delhi Police, the BJP, and the Home Ministry.

BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya defended the police, accusing Banerjee of politicizing the issue and asserting that illegal Bangladeshi migrants and Rohingya will be dealt with strictly under Indian law to protect national security.