Israeli Forces Launch Large-Scale Assault on Gaza City, Sparking Mass Exodus

Gaza City Under Siege: Thousands Flee as Israeli Assault Intensifies GAZA CITY, GAZA STRIP - In a desperate bid to escape the relentless bombardment, thousands of Palestinians are fleeing Gaza City as the Israeli military launches a large-scale assault aimed at occupying the city. The situation has been described by eyewitnesses as "insane," with reports of severe congestion, endless queues of cars and trucks, and long delays. Lina al-Maghrebi, 32, a mother of three from the city's Sheikh Radwan neighbourhood, was forced to evacuate her home after receiving a phone call from an Israeli officer ordering her to leave. "I was forced to sell my jewellery to cover the cost of displacement and a tent," she said. "It took us 10 hours to reach Khan Younis, and we paid 3,500 shekels (735) for the ride. The line of cars and trucks seemed endless." The Israeli military has designated al-Rashid coastal road as the only permitted route for civilians to use to evacuate. However, many have described the conditions on this route as chaotic, with reports of families waiting in sweltering heat for hours without access to basic necessities like food and water. According to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a "powerful operation" has been launched in Gaza City, which he described as Hamas's last major stronghold. The assault marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, with both sides trading blame for the violence. The situation on the ground is dire, with reports of widespread destruction and loss of life. The United Nations estimates that over 1,000 homes have been destroyed or damaged, leaving thousands of people without shelter. Medical facilities are also struggling to cope with the influx of wounded civilians. As the conflict continues to unfold, experts warn of a potential humanitarian crisis. "The situation in Gaza is catastrophic," said Dr. Ahmed al-Kurd, a medical expert based in Gaza City. "We are running out of supplies and staff are exhausted. The international community must act quickly to prevent a disaster." The Israeli military has confirmed that ground operations have begun, with troops advancing into the city. However, it remains unclear what the long-term goals of the operation are or how it will impact the civilian population. As the situation continues to deteriorate, aid organizations are scrambling to respond to the crisis. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has launched an emergency appeal for funding, citing a "severe shortage" of resources. The international community is watching the situation closely, with many calling for restraint from both sides. As the conflict rages on, one thing is clear: the people of Gaza City are paying the price for the ongoing violence. Latest Developments: The Israeli military has confirmed that ground operations have begun in Gaza City. Thousands of Palestinians continue to flee the city, with reports of severe congestion and long delays. Aid organizations are scrambling to respond to the crisis, with UNRWA launching an emergency appeal for funding. The international community is watching the situation closely, with many calling for restraint from both sides. Background: The conflict between Israel and Hamas has been ongoing for years, with periodic outbreaks of violence. However, this latest escalation marks a significant turning point in the conflict, with both sides trading blame for the violence. Implications: The humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza City is catastrophic, with reports of widespread destruction and loss of life. The international community must act quickly to prevent a disaster and provide aid to those affected. The long-term goals of the Israeli operation remain unclear, but it is clear that the people of Gaza City are paying the price for the ongoing violence. Additional Perspectives: Dr. Ahmed al-Kurd, medical expert based in Gaza City: "The situation in Gaza is catastrophic. We are running out of supplies and staff are exhausted." Lina al-Maghrebi, 32, mother of three from Sheikh Radwan neighbourhood: "I was forced to sell my jewellery to cover the cost of displacement and a tent. It took us 10 hours to reach Khan Younis." Sources: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Dr. Ahmed al-Kurd, medical expert based in Gaza City Lina al-Maghrebi, 32, mother of three from Sheikh Radwan neighbourhood United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) *Reporting by Bbc.*