Israeli forces have executed a series of devastating strikes on southern Gaza, engaging in fierce combat with Palestinian militants in the wake of a controversial evacuation order impacting an estimated 250,000 civilians.
Intensified Bombardment in Khan Younis
Eyewitnesses have reported relentless bombing and shelling in and around Khan Younis, the principal city in southern Gaza. This area was the site of a devastating months-long battle that concluded with Israeli troops withdrawing in early April. Tragically, a hospital source in Khan Younis has confirmed the deaths of eight individuals and over 30 injuries due to the shelling.
Rocket Barrage and Evacuation Order
The bombardment was preceded by a barrage of rockets launched at southern Israel on Monday morning, for which the militant group Islamic Jihad claimed responsibility. In response, Israeli authorities issued an order for the evacuation of most areas east of Khan Younis and in Rafah, situated along the borders with Israel and Egypt.
UN Agency Confirms Impact on Civilians
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) has verified that a staggering quarter of a million people have been affected by the Israeli army’s evacuation order. UNRWA spokesperson Louise Wateridge informed reporters in Geneva via video link from Gaza that the agency anticipates a further increase in the number of displaced individuals.
Palestinians Flee Amid Chaos
An AFP photographer documented Palestinians leaving eastern Khan Yunis on foot, in vehicles, and even on horse or donkey carts, carrying their meager belongings. Witnesses reported that some displaced individuals, lacking alternative shelter, resorted to sleeping on the streets.
Widespread Fear and Anxiety
Ahmad Najjar, a resident of Bani Suhaila, described the widespread “fear and extreme anxiety” triggered by the Israeli evacuation order, which has led to a “large displacement of residents.”
Ongoing Battles in Northern Gaza
Meanwhile, northern Gaza continues to reel from six consecutive days of intense fighting that followed a similar evacuation order issued last week for the Gaza City district of Shujaiya. An AFP correspondent on the ground reported artillery shelling in the northern region on Tuesday, and witnesses confirmed ongoing gun battles.
Israeli Military Operations in Multiple Locations
The Israeli military has confirmed its forces are operating in Shujaiya, central Gaza, and Rafah. In Rafah, aircraft conducted airstrikes, and ground troops ambushed and killed an armed militant squad traveling in a vehicle.
Extensive Airstrikes Across Gaza
Over the past 24 hours, the Israeli air force has reportedly struck approximately 30 “terror targets” throughout Gaza. In Shujaiya, the military claims to have eliminated Palestinian militants and dismantled numerous terrorist infrastructure sites, including tunnel shafts.
Tragedy in Nuseirat Refugee Camp
Witnesses report that strikes hit the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, resulting in at least one fatality, a child, according to the Palestinian Red Crescent. Displaced individuals like Mohamed al-Jalees, who fled Shujaiya for Nuseirat, are now assisting in clearing rubble and searching for survivors.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
Other parts of the Gaza Strip are also grappling with the ongoing conflict, which was ignited by Hamas’s October 7 attack on Israel and has precipitated a dire humanitarian crisis. Despite months of intermittent talks aimed at securing a truce and hostage release, little progress has been made.
Key Learning Points
| Point | Description |
|---|---|
| Intensified Conflict | The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has escalated with increased bombardment in southern Gaza, leading to civilian casualties. |
| Mass Evacuation Order | An Israeli evacuation order has displaced an estimated 250,000 Palestinians, causing fear and anxiety among residents. |
| Ongoing Battles | Northern Gaza continues to face intense fighting following a previous evacuation order for the Gaza City district of Shujaiya. |
| Israeli Military Operations | The Israeli military is conducting operations in multiple locations across Gaza, including airstrikes and ground assaults. |
| Humanitarian Crisis | The ongoing conflict has deepened the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, with many civilians displaced and struggling to survive.pen_spark |
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
