Urgent: Thousands of Palestinians Evacuate Gaza City Amid Intensifying Israeli Military Advances

Thousands of Palestinians are fleeing Gaza City as Israel’s ground offensive continues. The situation is dire, with reports of heavy bombardment. According to Gaza’s health ministry, al-Rantisi children’s hospital was struck multiple times, forcing many patients and their families to evacuate. The Israeli military is investigating these claims.

The Israeli military has announced strikes on over 150 targets in just two days, aiming to defeat approximately 3,000 Hamas fighters in what it calls their “last stronghold.” This offensive has faced widespread backlash. Leaders of organizations like Save the Children and Oxfam have condemned the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, particularly with the UN General Assembly meeting approaching.

A report from the IDF stated that about 350,000 people have fled Gaza City amid this violence, while the UN estimated the number at 190,000 since August. Despite the chaos, many Palestinians find it hard to escape because of the skyrocketing costs associated with travel. Renting a small truck now costs nearly £660 ($900), and tents for families are selling for around £880 ($1,200).

Lina al-Maghrebi, a mother of three, shared her struggles: “I had to sell my jewelry to afford the costs.” Her journey to safety lasted 10 hours, costing her 3,500 shekels (£770). Sadly, many who managed to reach designated evacuation zones found them crowded and lacking basic facilities.

Experts in humanitarian aid warn that the so-called “humanitarian area” is overcrowded and ill-equipped for the influx of displaced people, which could reach about two million.

In a different but related situation, the families of hostages taken by Hamas have protested in Jerusalem, arguing that Israel’s offensive may jeopardize their loved ones. Relief from the ongoing suffering in Gaza has also drawn attention. Pope Leo XIV called the conditions “unacceptable” and urged for a ceasefire, expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people. His remarks resonate with a broader international sentiment that seeks a resolution to the escalating conflict.

Recent findings from the United Nations Commission of Inquiry accused Israel of committing serious human rights violations, including targeting children and cultural sites. Israel has rejected these claims, calling them false.

This conflict began after a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in significant casualties. Since then, the toll has climbed dramatically. Gaza’s health ministry claims that nearly 65,000 people have died due to the ongoing military campaign, with many of them being women and children.

The World Food Program has declared famine in Gaza, warning that further military actions will deepen the existing crisis for civilians.



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