In a significant escalation, Israeli tanks have deepened their push into the northern Gaza Strip, reaching the outskirts of Gaza City and targeting districts like Sheikh Radwan. This intensified military operation has forced numerous families to evacuate their homes, according to Reuters reports citing local residents.
Early Monday hours saw an Israeli airstrike strike tents housing displaced Palestinians near Al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir Al-Balah, resulting in three deaths and 40 injuries. The Israeli military claims the strike targeted militants within the hospital compound, a claim Hamas denies.
Residents report that Israeli forces have effectively isolated Beit Hanoun, Jabalia, and Beit Lahiya from Gaza City, restricting access and allowing entry only to those permitted to evacuate. The Hamas-run Gaza government media office claims that around 300 Palestinians have been killed in northern Gaza over the past nine days, attributing the destruction of civilian homes and shelters to Israel's efforts to force a mass exodus from the region, which Israel disputes.
Tragically, tank shelling on Sunday killed at least 22 Palestinians at a school sheltering displaced families in Nuseirat camp, with reports indicating that children and women were among the casualties. Earlier strikes also claimed the lives of five children in the Shati refugee camp.
UN aid chief Joyce Msuya expressed horror at the ongoing attacks, highlighting the dire situation with hospitals evacuating patients and essential supplies dwindling. U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris echoed these concerns on social media, urging Israel to facilitate the flow of humanitarian aid to those in need.
The current surge in northern Gaza operations coincides with Israeli military actions in southern Lebanon against Hezbollah. The Israeli military reported targeting approximately 40 militant sites in the Gaza Strip within the last 24 hours, resulting in the deaths of numerous militants.
Despite the relentless bombardment, many residents in areas like Jabalia remain steadfast, with social media posts declaring their refusal to leave. The northern Gaza region, home to over half of Gaza's 2.3 million population, has been a focal point of conflict since the large-scale Israeli assault a year ago following the October 7 attacks by militants.
As international voices call for the protection of civilians and the adherence to humanitarian laws, the situation in Gaza remains precarious, with fears of severe shortages and potential famine looming over the densely populated region.
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Israeli tanks deepen their push into the northern Gaza Strip
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