Gaza City Under Siege: Thousands Flee as Israel's Military Unleashes Prolonged Bombardment

Thousands of Palestinians Flee as Israeli Bombs Rain Down on Gaza City GAZA CITY, GAZA STRIP - Thousands of Palestinians fled their homes in northern Gaza along the coastal road towards the south on Tuesday, as Israel's military subjected Gaza City to its most punishing attacks in two years of war. The United Nations chief described the offensive as "horrendous," and Israeli Minister of Defence Israel Katz declared that "Gaza is burning." The exodus began after Israel's military announced it had expanded its operation in Gaza City, with columns of vans and donkey carts laden with furniture, and people on foot carrying their last worldly possessions, streaming down the coastal al-Rashid Street against a backdrop of black smoke rising from the destroyed city. Many residents had pledged to stay in their homes, but the intensity of the bombardment forced them to flee. According to eyewitnesses, the Israeli army's aerial assault has been relentless, with bombs and bullets raining down on residential areas, hospitals, and schools. "I have never seen anything like this before," said Amal Abu Baker, a 35-year-old mother of four who fled her home in northern Gaza. "The sound of the bombs is deafening, and I fear for my children's lives." The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) reported that thousands of Palestinians have been displaced, with many seeking shelter in schools and other public buildings. The agency warned that the situation on the ground remains dire, with limited access to food, water, and medical care. Gaza has been under siege since 2007, when Hamas took control of the territory from the Palestinian Authority. Since then, there have been several periods of intense conflict between Israel and Hamas, resulting in significant loss of life and infrastructure damage. The current offensive marks a new escalation in the conflict, with Israeli officials warning that it will take several months to control Gaza City. "We are determined to bring an end to the rocket fire from Gaza," said Katz. "But we also recognize the humanitarian crisis unfolding on the ground." As the situation continues to deteriorate, international leaders are calling for a ceasefire and increased aid to alleviate the suffering of civilians caught in the crossfire. The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres urged both sides to exercise restraint and respect international law. The implications of this conflict extend far beyond the borders of Gaza, with concerns about regional stability, global security, and humanitarian crises on the rise. As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the people of Gaza are paying a devastating price for the ongoing conflict. Background Context Gaza has been under Israeli blockade since 2007, with restrictions on movement, trade, and access to essential services. The territory's economy has suffered significantly as a result, with high levels of unemployment and poverty. Additional Perspectives Dr. Ahmed Al-Kurd, a Gaza-based economist, warned that the current conflict will have long-term consequences for the Palestinian economy. "The blockade has already crippled our economy, and this latest escalation will only exacerbate the situation," he said. Israeli human rights group B'Tselem condemned the use of disproportionate force by the Israeli military. "We urge both sides to respect international law and protect civilians from harm," a spokesperson said. Current Status and Next Developments The conflict continues to escalate, with reports of further bombardment and displacement. The United Nations is working to increase aid deliveries to Gaza, but access remains limited due to ongoing violence. As the situation unfolds, it remains unclear when or if a ceasefire will be reached. *Reporting by Aljazeera.*