Israeli forces have reportedly escalated their military operations around Gaza City. Residents have noted increased attacks as preparations for a potential ground offensive intensify. According to local hospitals, over 30 Palestinians, including women and children, were killed in airstrikes on Wednesday, primarily in the northern and western parts of the city.
The Chief of Staff of the Israeli military has declared a commitment to continue strikes against Hamas until the group is defeated and hostages are released. Humanitarian organizations, including the UN, are expressing concerns about the severe impact of these military operations on displaced populations residing in the already crowded city, which has been facing a declared famine since last month.
Protests in Israel have emerged, with citizens demanding the government negotiate a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages held in Gaza. Reports indicate that at least 46 people in Gaza have been killed since midnight, including victims from targeted strikes in the Fisherman’s Port area. Notably, a three-year-old boy, Ibrahim al-Mabhuh, lost his family in one of these strikes.
In the northern Sheikh Radwan neighborhood, Israeli drones allegedly dropped incendiary devices, and several schools being used as shelters for displaced families were reportedly targeted. The Israeli military has stated that they are investigating these accusations.
The UN has reported that since the beginning of intensified military operations on August 7, more than 82,000 individuals have been newly displaced, many moving toward the overcrowded coast. Reports also highlight safety concerns regarding tent camps and the insufficient capacity of southern hospitals. Tragically, five children were reportedly killed by an Israeli drone strike while waiting for water at a tent camp in al-Mawasi.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed Israel’s intention to seize control of all of Gaza following failed negotiations with Hamas regarding a ceasefire and hostage release. Families of hostages worry that ongoing military actions will endanger their loved ones and are calling for a different approach to negotiations. Current estimates indicate over 63,746 casualties in Gaza as a result of the conflict, alongside reported deaths from malnutrition and starvation.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c740lm33wyeo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss