Israeli strikes kill at least 25 in Gaza and Huckabee makes first appearance as US ambassador

April 19, 2025 — Tensions in the Middle East escalated further this week as Israeli airstrikes targeted several locations in the Gaza Strip, resulting in the deaths of at least 25 people, including women and children. The Israeli government claims that the continued rocket fire from Hamas and other militant groups prompted the military action. Meanwhile, newly appointed U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee made his first public appearance in Jerusalem, signaling a strong show of American support for Israel at a volatile time.

*** Deadly Strikes in Gaza : ***

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) launched multiple airstrikes across Gaza overnight, hitting what they described as “terror infrastructure,” including tunnels, weapons depots, and command centers belonging to Hamas. Local health officials in Gaza reported that at least 25 Palestinians were killed in the attacks, with dozens more injured. The death toll includes at least six children and four women, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.

Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as residential areas were engulfed in smoke and rubble. Emergency crews struggled to reach the wounded due to damaged roads and ongoing bombardments. Several buildings in densely populated neighborhoods were completely leveled, leaving families homeless.

The IDF stated that the airstrikes were aimed at curbing future attacks on Israeli civilians. “We are targeting the sources of terror that continue to endanger Israeli lives. An IDF spokesperson stated, "Hamas will bear the consequences of its aggression." Rising Tensions

Following weeks of rising tensions fueled by border clashes, settler violence in the West Bank, and ongoing blockades on Gaza, the most recent escalation occurred. In recent days, militants in Gaza had fired a number of rockets at southern Israel, prompting retaliatory strikes. While most of the rockets were intercepted by Israel’s Iron Dome defense system, some caused property damage and injuries in the towns of Sderot and Ashkelon.

The increasing number of civilian casualties has alarmed international humanitarian organizations. The United Nations called for immediate de-escalation and urged both parties to exercise restraint. “Civilians, particularly children, are paying the highest price in this conflict. According to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, "the protection of human life must be prioritized by all sides." Huckabee's Diplomatic Debut

Mike Huckabee, a Republican presidential candidate and former governor of Arkansas, made his first public appearance as the newly appointed U.S. envoy to Israel. In a press conference held at the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem, Huckabee reiterated the Biden administration’s commitment to Israel’s security and sovereignty.

“Israel has the right to defend itself from threats, both near and far,” said Huckabee. “The United States stands firmly with our closest ally in the region. We will work together to ensure peace, prosperity, and stability.”

Huckabee has been a strong pro-Israel supporter for a long time and has visited Israel numerous times. In spite of wider geopolitical shifts and growing pressure from some factions within the United States to take a more balanced approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, his appointment was viewed as a sign of continuity in U.S.-Israeli relations. He also hinted at future diplomatic initiatives, stating that the U.S. would encourage regional dialogue and support new economic partnerships between Israel and its Arab neighbors. However, he did not mention any plans to reopen dialogue with the Palestinian Authority, which has criticized U.S. policy for being one-sided.

***Mixed Reactions :***

Reactions to Huckabee’s remarks were mixed. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the ambassador and praised the U.S. for its “unwavering support,” calling Huckabee’s presence in Jerusalem “a powerful message to the enemies of peace.”

Palestinian officials, however, expressed frustration, accusing the U.S. of ignoring Palestinian suffering and condoning Israeli aggression. “The appointment of someone so clearly aligned with the Israeli right only deepens our concerns about American neutrality,” said a spokesperson for the Palestinian Authority.

***International Response :***

Global leaders have urged both sides to return to negotiations. The European Union called for a ceasefire and proposed a humanitarian corridor to deliver aid to Gaza. Egypt and Qatar, known mediators in the region, have reportedly begun behind-the-scenes efforts to broker calm.

As the conflict shows signs of further escalation, the international community faces renewed pressure to intervene diplomatically. In the meantime, civilians in Gaza and southern Israel remain on edge, bracing for what could be another prolonged period of violence.