The report, titled The Rest of the Story, states that thermobaric weapons disperse a fuel-based aerosol cloud before igniting it, producing an intense fireball and a pressure wave that consumes surrounding oxygen. Military experts describe such weapons as capable of causing severe internal injuries and widespread destruction in enclosed or densely populated areas.

According to Gaza’s Civil Defense authorities, 2,842 Palestinians killed in recent attacks were left with no identifiable remains for burial. More than 3,500 people are reported missing. The overall death toll in the conflict is estimated to have surpassed 72,000, though figures vary and remain contested.

Human rights organisations have raised concerns about the use of high-yield munitions in civilian areas, calling for independent investigations. International humanitarian law does not specifically ban thermobaric weapons, but their deployment in densely populated zones could constitute a violation if found to be indiscriminate or disproportionate.

The allegations surface as a formal ceasefire, now in its second phase after 100 days, remains fragile. Since October 10, 2025, reports indicate more than 500 Palestinians have been killed despite the truce. Gaza remains heavily damaged, with aid agencies estimating that around 90% of buildings have been destroyed or rendered uninhabitable.

In Washington, US President Donald Trump met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House for closed-door talks lasting nearly two hours. Trump said discussions covered Gaza, regional security and ongoing negotiations with Iran over its nuclear programme. Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s position against the creation of a separate Palestinian state and vowed continued security control over Gaza and the West Bank.

The United States provides Israel with approximately $3.8 billion annually in military assistance under a 10-year agreement running through 2028. Since October 2023, additional emergency packages have significantly increased US support.

The Gaza war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched an attack inside Israel, killing hundreds and taking hostages. Israel responded with a large-scale military campaign aimed at dismantling Hamas.

As diplomatic efforts continue, international observers warn that unresolved humanitarian and political issues risk prolonging instability in the region.