Chaos in Gaza after Israeli airstrike

 Chaotic scenes ensued in Gaza City, after an Israeli airstrike targeted a busy road in the city.

Gazans could be seen comforting casualties on the ground, while others rushed the injured to nearby ambulance cars.

The Israeli military has intensified its operations in Gaza since breaking a fragile ceasefire with Hamas in March, taking more territory with the government pushing to wipe out Hamas.

Israel launched its campaign in Gaza in retaliation for the Hamas-led attack on communities in southern Israel on October 7, 2023 that killed some 1,200 people and saw 251 hostages abducted into Gaza, according to Israeli tallies.

Meanwhile the United States vetoed a U.N. Security Council demand  for an "immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire" between Israel and Palestinian militants Hamas in Gaza and unhindered aid access across the enclave.

"The United States has been clear - we would not support any measure that fails to condemn Hamas and does not call for Hamas to disarm and leave Gaza," Acting U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Dorothy Shea told the council before the vote.

"This resolution would undermine diplomatic efforts to reach a ceasefire that reflects the realities on the ground, and emboldens Hamas," she said of the text that was put forward by 10 countries on the 15-member council.

The remaining 14 council members voted in favor of the draft resolution.

Israel has rejected calls for an unconditional or permanent ceasefire, saying Hamas cannot stay in Gaza. It has renewed its military offensive in Gaza - also seeking to free hostages held by Hamas - since ending a two-month ceasefire in March.

Gaza health officials said Israeli strikes killed 45 Palestinians and Israel said a soldier died in fighting. A humanitarian crisis also grips the enclave of more than 2 million people: Famine looms and aid has only trickled in since Israel lifted an 11-week blockade on May 19.