Intensifying Strikes Challenge Humanitarian Zones in Gaza Amid Ceasefire Talks

BBC Verify's analysis reveals that the 'humanitarian zone' in Gaza, intended to protect civilians, has faced 97 attacks since its establishment, challenging its role as a safe haven amid ongoing conflict and advancing ceasefire talks.

The area in Gaza designated by the Israeli military as a "humanitarian zone" for civilian safety has been the target of 97 airstrikes since its inception, according to a recent analysis by BBC Verify. These findings surface as ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas reach an optimistic phase, with mediators in Qatar proposing that talks are nearing completion.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) established this "humanitarian zone" in October 2023, aiming to shield civilians from aerial warfare. However, the IDF significantly expanded this area on May 6, 2024, to include densely populated cities such as Khan Younis and Deir al-Balah, which together shelter over a million inhabitants amid dire humanitarian conditions. Reports indicate individuals are forced to live in makeshift tents, facing severe shortages of aid and minimal infrastructure.

Local media has documented over 550 fatalities linked to the consecutive strikes, prompting scrutiny of the IDF's military strategy. The IDF defended their actions by claiming they are targeting Hamas militants operating within the designated zone, alleging that Hamas is exploiting civilians as human shields while launching attacks from these areas.

The conflict arose after Hamas's assault on October 7, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 casualties and led to Israel's extensive military campaign against the faction. The bombardments have caused catastrophic destruction to Gaza's infrastructure, verified by satellite imagery documenting widespread devastation.

Analysis by BBC Verify shows a concerning uptick in hostilities within the "humanitarian zone," recording at least 22 strikes in May alone. Nevertheless, the IDF's acknowledgement of specific attacks remains sparse, confirming only 28 incidents since the start of the month. According to Gavin Kelleher from the Norwegian Refugee Council, strikes are almost a daily occurrence in the zone, coming from both Israeli naval vessels and drones.

Residents like Khaled Abdel Rahman express ongoing terror, stating that the supposed safe haven has devolved into an insecure environment, where fear permeates daily life. The Israeli military’s refusal to allow independent international media access to Gaza limits independent verification of events, compelling organizations like the BBC to rely on precariously sourced information from local journalists and residents.

Through extensive monitoring of social media and local reports, BBC Verify cataloged over 300 videos and images that depict carnage in the humanitarian zone. Many show civilians, including women and children, being rescued from debris, suffering severe injuries, and a rising death toll amid recurrent bombardments.

The most catastrophic incident occurred on July 13, where more than 90 individuals reportedly lost their lives, one of several attacks yielding substantial casualties. Furthermore, an alarming contention was noted, with the IDF conducting strikes close to significant medical establishments, such as Al-Aqsa Hospital and Nasser Medical Complex, raising profound ethical questions.

With the humanitarian zone's boundaries shifting multiple times, and IDF evacuation orders complicating resident security, the inherent volatility of the zone is evident. While the IDF claims these notices do not diminish the humanitarian zone’s designation, both residents and the UN warn that no safe refuge exists within Gaza.

Juliette Touma from the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees stated, "We have reiterated numerous times: there is no safe zone in Gaza. No place is safe." This sentiment encapsulates the grim reality facing families within a conflicted landscape, as militant engagements continue under a guise of humanitarian safety.