Israeli military forces have intensified their assaults on Gaza City, as preparations for a major offensive are underway, resulting in dire humanitarian conditions for the area's nearly one million residents. Living under the constant threat of explosions, inhabitants have reported uninterrupted violence and destruction, particularly in the city’s northern and eastern regions.
The Palestinian health ministry, controlled by Hamas, reported that the recent wave of attacks has led to 64 fatalities and close to 300 injuries within the last 24 hours alone. The overall death toll since the onset of Israel’s military operations has surged to 62,686, with nearly 158,000 individuals reported injured.
This escalation follows an attack on southern Israel on October 7, which left approximately 1,200 Israelis dead and saw 251 people taken hostage, prompting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to declare an intention to dismantle Hamas. Despite facing mounting international criticism, Netanyahu has persisted with plans to expand military operations. An additional 60,000 reservists have been mobilized to support the ongoing offensive.
The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) have indicated that their operations include returning troops to the Jabalia refugee camp, seeking to prevent Hamas militants from regrouping in these areas. Reports emerged of continued airstrikes in locations like Zeitoun and Shejayia, with tank fire aimed at the Sabra neighborhood throughout the night.
In a parallel development, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced the release of one of its staff members who had been detained by the IDF since July 21. Details about the circumstances surrounding the detention have not been disclosed.
Tensions within Israel are also palpable, particularly from the families of hostages demanding a negotiated resolution to bring their loved ones home—current assessments suggest that only 20 of the original 50 hostages are still alive. Previous indirect discussions aimed at reaching a ceasefire and negotiating the release of hostages have faltered. Mediators from Qatar and Egypt attempted to broker a new truce proposal involving a 60-day ceasefire, but Israeli officials have expressed discontent with partial agreements, insisting on a comprehensive solution that addresses the issue of all hostages.
The dire humanitarian implications of Israel's offensive are clear, with widespread destruction already affecting over 90% of homes in Gaza. The United Nations and various NGOs have highlighted the catastrophic impact of further military action in Gaza City, describing conditions akin to famine now confirmed in the urban area.
Health services are nearing collapse; with only 18 out of 36 hospitals partially operational, the ramifications of this conflict continue to threaten the lives of countless civilians caught in the crossfire.
