Israeli Assault on Gaza City Enters Second Day Amid Widespread Fleeing and Devastation

Gaza City Under Siege: Thousands Flee as Israeli Assault Intensifies GAZA CITY, GAZA STRIP - The Israeli military's large-scale assault on Gaza City has entered its second day, with thousands of Palestinians attempting to flee the besieged city. The operation, which began early yesterday morning, has left a trail of destruction and chaos in its wake. According to eyewitnesses, the bombing has been "insane," with artillery fire and airstrikes pounding residential areas. Lina al-Maghrebi, 32, a mother of three from the Sheikh Radwan neighborhood, described her harrowing experience: "I was forced to sell my jewelry to cover the cost of displacement and a tent. It took us 10 hours to reach Khan Younis, and we paid 3,500 shekels (735) for the ride." The Israeli military has designated al-Rashid coastal road as the only permitted route for civilians to use to evacuate. However, many have described severe congestion, endless queues of cars and trucks, and long delays. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said a "powerful operation" had been launched in Gaza City, which he described as Hamas's last major stronghold. The Israeli military has confirmed that ground operations are underway, with troops advancing into the city. The assault has sparked widespread condemnation from human rights groups and international leaders. The United Nations has called for an immediate ceasefire, citing concerns over civilian casualties. For Palestinians like al-Maghrebi, the situation is dire. "Fear is making us flee," she said. "We have no choice but to leave our homes behind." The Israeli military's operation in Gaza City marks a significant escalation of its campaign against Hamas, which has been ongoing for weeks. The conflict has left hundreds dead and thousands displaced. As the situation continues to unfold, humanitarian organizations are scrambling to provide aid to those affected. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has announced plans to establish a field hospital in Gaza City to treat wounded civilians. The Israeli military has stated that its operation will continue until Hamas is "neutralized." However, critics argue that the assault is disproportionate and will only exacerbate the humanitarian crisis. As the situation in Gaza City remains volatile, one thing is clear: the conflict has far-reaching implications for regional stability and global security. The international community must come together to address the root causes of this conflict and work towards a lasting solution. Background: The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been ongoing for decades, with both sides claiming sovereignty over Gaza City. Hamas, which controls the city, has been at odds with Israel over issues such as border crossings and security arrangements. Additional Perspectives: "The situation in Gaza is catastrophic," said Dr. Ahmed al-Kurd, a Palestinian doctor who has been treating wounded civilians. "We need an immediate ceasefire to allow humanitarian aid to reach those affected." "Israel has the right to defend itself against Hamas's aggression," said Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz. "Our operation will continue until Hamas is neutralized." Current Status: The Israeli military's operation in Gaza City continues, with thousands of Palestinians attempting to flee the besieged city. Humanitarian organizations are scrambling to provide aid to those affected. Next Developments: The international community is expected to hold an emergency meeting to discuss the conflict and potential solutions. The United Nations has called for an immediate ceasefire, citing concerns over civilian casualties. *Reporting by Bbc.*