In a distressing turn of events, the United Nations reports that an estimated 150,000 Palestinians are compelled to flee central Gaza as Israeli forces advance on refugee camps. The affected areas include Bureij, Nuseirat, and Maghazi camps, as the military expands its ground offensive.
Reports from witnesses and Hamas’s armed wing confirm that Israeli tanks have reached the eastern outskirts of Bureij camp. The recent Israeli bombardment has claimed numerous lives across Gaza, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The conflict, triggered by a cross-border attack by Hamas gunmen on southern Israel on October 7, has resulted in over 21,300 casualties in Gaza over 11 weeks, with a majority being children and women.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have called for the evacuation of a central Gaza strip, covering Bureij and Nuseirat camps. Approximately 90,000 residents and 61,000 displaced individuals in these areas are urged to move southwards to Deir al-Balah. However, the UN has raised concerns, stating that Deir al-Balah is already overcrowded with several hundred thousand displaced people seeking shelter.
Omar, a displaced individual, shared his experience, stating, “That moment has come, I wished it would never happen, but it seems displacement is a must.” He highlighted the challenging circumstances faced by families forced to relocate due to the ongoing conflict.
The UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) expressed worry about the growing number of displaced people, with many being pushed into the southern Gaza town of Rafah. Tom White, Gaza director for UNRWA, emphasized the strain on the already limited resources in the region.
The health ministry in Gaza reported casualties in various locations, including an Israeli airstrike on a building in Rafah housing displaced civilians. Maghazi, Beit Lahia, and Khan Younis also witnessed deadly Israeli strikes, with reports of residential buildings being destroyed and numerous lives lost.
The intensification of the conflict raises concerns about the protection of civilians, particularly those seeking refuge in hospitals. The Palestinian Red Crescent condemned the targeting of the vicinity of al-Amal hospital in Khan Younis, calling on the international community to ensure its protection.
As the conflict continues, the IDF asserts its focus on eliminating terrorists and destroying infrastructure. Meanwhile, the impact on civilian populations, displacement, and casualties underscores the urgent need for a resolution to the escalating tensions in the region.
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