Thousands of Palestinians Flee Gaza City as Israeli Troops Launch Surprise Ground Advance
A humanitarian crisis is unfolding in Gaza City, with thousands of Palestinians fleeing the area as Israeli troops launch a surprise ground advance. According to UN estimates, at least 650,000 people remain in Gaza City, which has been under intense bombardment by Israel's military.
The situation escalated on Wednesday, with hospitals reporting at least 35 deaths from Israeli fire, most of them in the north. The al-Rantisi children's hospital was targeted in three separate Israeli attacks, forcing half of its patients and their families to flee, according to Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry. The Israeli military said it was looking into the report.
The humanitarian crisis is escalating, with aid agencies warning of "unconscionable" conditions. "We are seeing a massive displacement of people, with thousands fleeing their homes in search of safety," said a spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). "The situation on the ground is dire, and we urge all parties to respect international humanitarian law."
According to eyewitnesses, Israeli troops have been pushing into Gaza City, with reports of intense fighting and bombardment. The Israeli military has confirmed that its forces are advancing into the city, but has not provided details on their objectives.
The surprise ground advance has caught many off guard, including international leaders who were expecting a continued aerial campaign against Hamas targets. "We had expected Israel to continue its aerial strikes, but this sudden shift in strategy is causing concern among our allies," said a senior diplomat at the UN.
As the situation continues to unfold, there are growing calls for urgent intervention to address the devastating situation unfolding in Gaza City. The international community is urging all parties to respect human rights and humanitarian law, and to work towards a peaceful resolution.
The next few days will be crucial in determining the outcome of this crisis. The UN General Assembly is set to convene next week, with leaders from around the world expected to address the situation in Gaza. In the meantime, aid agencies are working tirelessly to provide assistance to those affected by the conflict.
In a statement, the Israeli military said it was committed to protecting its citizens and defending against Hamas's rocket attacks. However, critics argue that the use of force is disproportionate and has caused unnecessary harm to civilians.
The situation in Gaza City remains fluid, with thousands of Palestinians continuing to flee their homes in search of safety. As the international community watches with growing concern, one thing is clear: a resolution to this crisis will require a concerted effort from all parties involved.
Attribution:
According to UN estimates
According to Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry
According to eyewitnesses
According to the Israeli military
According to a spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
According to a senior diplomat at the UN
This story was compiled from reports by BBC World and BREAKING: BBC Breaking.
