By Jessica Easthope
Almost all of Gaza was plunged into total darkness overnight as officials announced the area’s only power plant is out of fuel to provide electricity.
Civilians are faced with dwindling amounts of supplies, food, and water, and no internet access.
The Israeli Defense Forces is assembling troops to prepare for a ground invasion of Gaza, all while continuing to attack the region by air in an effort to weaken Hamas’ control.
In a rare government move, Israel has formed an emergency war cabinet. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will lead the group, which will include some opposition leaders. It was created to make swift and effective security and defense decisions.
More than 360,000 reservists have been called up to join Israel’s fight against Hamas, one of the largest mobilizations of troops in its history.
Hamas is still claiming to hold more than 150 hostages following Saturday’s surprise attack along the Gaza border, prompting Pope Francis to make an urgent appeal for peace.
“I pray for the families who have seen a day of celebration turned into a day of mourning and ask that the hostages be released immediately,” Pope Francis said.
Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin condemned Hamas’ terroristic tactics saying it only hurts the free Palestine cause.
“Unfortunately, terrorism, violence, barbarism and extremism undermine the legitimate aspirations of Palestinians and Israelis,” Parolin said. “I hope that the weapons will be silenced and reason will prevail and be used to pause and reflect on the right way to achieve peace in Israel and Palestine.”
Pope Francis asked Israel to show control in its military response, which he described as excessive.
Meanwhile, the first plane carrying U.S. weapons arrived in Israel Tuesday night.
The IDF thanked the United States for their support saying the ammunition will allow for “significant blows.”
But it’s not the only support the U.S. has sent.
A carrier group is now in the Mediterranean Sea.
The White House said they hope this stops any other countries from escalating the war.
At the same time, an anonymous New Yorker is trying to help Israel get reinforcements.
The man purchased 250 plane tickets at JFK Airport Monday for anyone who showed him their Israeli Defense Forces call-up notice.
But he’s not the only one. A spokesperson for El Al Airlines said many people have come to their counters attempting to buy tickets for soldiers.
If you want to help the innocent victims on both sides of the violence you can donate to the international red cross at ICRC.ORG and click donate now.