Thousands of Palestinians are continuing to flee Gaza City, a day after Israel announced a major ground offensive aimed at occupying the city. Amid intense bombardment, Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry reported attacks on hospitals, compelling half of its patients to evacuate.
The Israeli military claimed it targeted over 150 'terror sites' over two days, asserting their operation aims to dismantle Hamas in what they describe as the group's final stronghold. Yet, this offensive has triggered global condemnation, with over 20 humanitarian organizations urging international leaders to act, denouncing the situation in Gaza as unconscionable.
Many Palestinians are moving southward from Gaza City using various means, including vehicles and on foot. Israel has opened a new evacuation route but many are unable to afford the costs of displacement, with prices for transportation and temporary housing skyrocketing. Reports indicate that approximately 350,000 people have evacuated Gaza City, amidst warnings about overcrowded emergency sites expected to accommodate nearly 2 million people.
The IDF has deployed remote-controlled explosives in their operations against Hamas positions, leading to further civilian concerns. Protests have erupted from families of hostages held by Hamas, calling attention to the potential endangerment of their loved ones amid the escalating conflict, which has already resulted in mass casualties.
Recent findings from a UN commission of inquiry have accused Israel of genocide in Gaza, a claim Israel vehemently denies. As the crisis deepens, the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate, raising alarms over the fate of civilians caught in these escalating hostilities.
