Israel Intensifies Assault on Gaza City Amid Rising Humanitarian Crisis
Overnight, Israeli forces launched heavy bombardments on the outskirts of Gaza City, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government reaffirmed its commitment to a planned offensive targeting the region. Families fled the city in fear, as relentless explosions echoed through the night.
"I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve had to evacuate my wife and three daughters from our home in Gaza City," shared Mohammad, a 40-year-old resident. "No place feels safe, but I can’t take any chances. If the invasion begins, they will unleash devastating firepower."
In stark contrast, some residents expressed a determination to stay. "We refuse to leave; let them bomb us at home," declared Aya, 31, a mother of eight. She lamented their dire situation, stating, "We are hungry, scared, and unable to afford a tent or transportation."
Witnesses reported continuous explosions in neighborhoods like Zeitoun and Shejaia, with tanks shelling homes and roads in Sabra, and buildings collapsing in Jabalia. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced their return to combat in Jabalia, aiming to tighten control over the area and dismantle militant tunnels. The IDF stated that this operation would enable them to extend combat into other regions and prevent Hamas from re-establishing operations.
As part of their strategy, Israel has recently approved a plan to take control of Gaza City, with the offensive expected to commence in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, mediators from Egypt and Qatar are working to revive ceasefire negotiations between the conflicting parties.
On Friday, Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, warned that Gaza City would face destruction unless Hamas releases all remaining hostages and agrees to end the conflict on Israel’s terms.
Currently, approximately half of Gaza’s two million residents reside in Gaza City, which is now facing a severe humanitarian crisis. A global hunger monitor has reported that Gaza City and its surrounding areas are officially experiencing famine, with the situation likely to deteriorate further. Israel contends that the monitor overlooks the efforts made to increase aid supplies into and throughout Gaza since late July.
Tragically, the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry reported on Saturday that eight more individuals have died from malnutrition and starvation, bringing the total to 281, including 114 children, since the onset of the conflict. The war began on October 7, 2023, following a Hamas-led attack that resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 people in southern Israel, primarily civilians, and the abduction of 251 hostages. Since then, Israel has reportedly killed at least 62,000 Palestinians and displaced nearly the entire population of Gaza.
As the conflict escalates, the humanitarian crisis deepens, highlighting the urgent need for international intervention and support for those affected.
For ongoing updates and insights into the situation, stay tuned to our news coverage.
