On the second day of its ground offensive in Gaza, the Israeli military has deployed numerous tanks and military vehicles into the Sheikh Radwan district of Gaza City. Eyewitness accounts describe the presence of tanks, bulldozers, and armored personnel carriers moving near the area, amidst artillery fire that creates thick smoke clouds. This district is one of the most densely populated in Gaza, housing tens of thousands of residents prior to the conflict.
Israel’s stated objective for this operation includes rescuing hostages held by Hamas and combating an estimated 3,000 fighters whom they identify as being located within what the military terms the group’s “last stronghold.” The offensive has generated significant international criticism, with over 20 leading aid organizations, including Save the Children and Oxfam, expressing alarm at the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Residents reported that the incursion followed heavy airstrikes targeting infrastructure in Sheikh Radwan. One resident, Saad Hamada, described the extent of destruction in the area, stating that the bombardment had rendered daily life unmanageable, prompting many to flee south despite the associated dangers.
The military operation has intensified displacement, as thousands of families seek safety further south. Long lines of vehicles carrying personal belongings were observed on the roads, exacerbated by transport shortages and rising travel costs. Sheikh Radwan, which serves as a vital link to central Gaza City, could be seen as a strategic point for further military advancement.
Additionally, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have reported striking over 150 targets across Gaza City to support ground operations, and there are claims of remotely controlled explosive-laden vehicles being utilized against Hamas positions. Amid these developments, humanitarian agencies highlight that the designated safe areas are already overcrowded and insufficient for the massive influx of displaced individuals.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza initiated following a Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, which resulted in substantial casualties. Since then, the health ministry in Gaza reports around 65,062 deaths, including a significant number of women and children. A worsening humanitarian crisis is underscored by recent UN warnings regarding the consequences of the intensified military action for civilians.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gv881exj2o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss