Israeli military operations have intensified in Gaza City, alarming humanitarian agencies and raising serious concerns for the safety of nearly one million Palestinians residing in the territory's largest urban area. Reports indicate continuous explosions echoing particularly in the northern and eastern regions of the city, while Israeli tanks have been deployed to demolish structures in the Jabalia refugee camp situated further north.
According to the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza, over sixty individuals lost their lives and approximately 300 sustained injuries from Israeli airstrikes within the past day alone. The cumulative death toll since Israel's renewed military campaign against Hamas has tragically soared to 62,686, coupled with nearly 158,000 injuries.
The offensive originated as a response to a deadly Hamas-led assault on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in the deaths of around 1,200 individuals and the abduction of 251 hostages. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to eliminate Hamas, disregarding increasing international condemnation regarding the anticipated expansion of military operations. A call-up of about 60,000 reservists indicates a looming escalation.
Continued airstrikes have targeted areas including Zeitoun and Shejayia overnight, further exacerbating the conditions for residents. The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) reported that their operations aim to prevent Hamas militants from regaining a foothold in these regions.
In a separate development, the World Health Organization disclosed that one of its staff members had been released by the IDF after prolonged detention in Gaza since July 21. However, no specific details regarding the individual or the reasons for detention have been provided.
Amidst these tensions, Netanyahu faces mounting pressure from families of the hostages, who are advocating for negotiations to resolve the crisis. Presently, it is estimated that only 20 of the remaining 50 hostages are alive.
Last month, direct discussions on a ceasefire and hostage release faltered, prompting Netanyahu to express intentions to conquer the entirety of the Gaza Strip. Ongoing mediations led by Qatar and Egypt are striving to broker a ceasefire, proposing a 60-day truce coupled with the release of approximately half of the hostages—an offer that Hamas has tentatively accepted. However, Israeli officials have indicated their insistence on a comprehensive agreement that includes the release of all hostages.
Israel’s defence minister has sternly warned that Gaza City risks complete destruction unless Hamas commits to disarmament and the unconditional release of all hostages. To facilitate military operations, the Israeli military has stated intentions to evacuate the civilian population to shelters in southern Gaza.
Humanitarian organizations have voiced grave concerns over the impending offensive, warning of catastrophic humanitarian repercussions. With more than 90% of housing unit destruction reported, vital infrastructure encompassing healthcare, water, sanitation, and hygiene services is on the brink of collapse. Presently, only 18 of Gaza’s 36 hospitals are operational to any degree, with 11 located within Gaza City or nearby.
In a harrowing development, starvation conditions in Gaza City and surrounding areas have been officially acknowledged for the first time, spotlighting the urgent need for humanitarian intervention amidst escalating conflict.
