Amid escalating tensions in Gaza, the Israeli military has expanded its ground operation by advancing into the Shabura refugee camp in Rafah City. In an official statement, military officials confirmed that troops have begun ground activities in the area and dismantled several sites described as terrorist infrastructure.
The operation extends to northern and central Gaza as well, with residents urged to avoid the major Salah al-Din Road and opt for coastal routes. In a related development, the Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital—a facility that had ceased operations due to fuel shortages and prior strikes—was targeted. The military claimed the hospital was being used by Hamas as a command and control center.
Shortly after these operations began, air raid sirens sounded in central and southern Israel. The Israel Defense Forces reported that three rockets were fired from southern Gaza, with one firmly intercepted while the others landed in open areas. Explosions were noted in Tel Aviv; however, no immediate casualties have been confirmed. Hamas’ armed wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, claimed responsibility for the rocket barrage, describing it as retaliation for alleged civilian attacks.
Concerns over humanitarian impact continue to mount. The UN agency for Palestine refugees warned that evacuation orders have displaced tens of thousands of residents. Philippe Lazzarini, commissioner-general of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, cautioned that the unfolding ground invasion could exacerbate the already dire conditions due to continued blockades and a tightened siege.
Furthermore, following a ceasefire established on January 19 that recently unraveled, Israel resumed strikes in Gaza. The renewed offensive has contributed to a mounting death toll and numerous injuries, intensifying global calls for dialogue and humanitarian support as the region faces a volatile and uncertain future.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
