Thousands of Palestinians Flee as Israeli Bombardment Intensifies in Gaza City

In recent days, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza City has escalated dramatically as Israeli military operations intensify, leading to mass displacement among the Palestinian population. On Tuesday alone, at least 91 individuals lost their lives due to relentless bombings, prompting thousands to flee in search of safety. The situation is dire, with many residents fearing they may never return to their homes.

Escalating Violence and Displacement

Initially, many Palestinians in Gaza had resolved to stay put amidst the turmoil. However, as the Israeli bombardment escalated, destroying high-rises, homes, and critical infrastructure, those who could manage the journey began moving southward. There are no assurances of safety, but the urgency to escape the violence has compelled many to leave.

Israeli Minister of Defence Israel Katz remarked on social media platform X, stating, “Gaza is burning,” as columns of vehicles and donkey carts filled with belongings traversed al-Rashid Street, surrounded by plumes of smoke rising from the devastated city.

The Israeli military has launched its most severe offensives in two years against Gaza City, forcing thousands of residents to flee amidst a barrage of bombs and gunfire. The United Nations Secretary-General has condemned the assault, labeling it “horrendous.”

The Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

An Israeli army official estimated that approximately 350,000 residents have been forced to flee. In contrast, Gaza’s Government Media Office reported that the same number had been displaced to the city’s center and west, with around 190,000 leaving Gaza City entirely.

The already overcrowded al-Mawasi camp in southern Gaza, which is home to many displaced individuals from eastern Rafah and Khan Younis, has also come under fire, compounding the humanitarian crisis. The conditions in these shelters are grim, and the influx of new residents has strained already limited resources.

On Tuesday, the United Nations Commission of Inquiry released a report characterizing Israel’s actions in Gaza as genocide—a significant declaration given the ongoing conflict that has resulted in the deaths of at least 64,964 individuals. The report cited public statements from Israeli officials to illustrate what it termed the “dolus specialis” or specific intent to destroy the Palestinian people.

Palestine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed the findings, emphasizing the urgent need to address what it described as a humanitarian catastrophe. They stated on X, “The situation in Gaza today portends a humanitarian catastrophe that cannot tolerate any leniency or delay.”

Destruction and Casualties

The toll of the offensive has been staggering. On Tuesday, health authorities reported that at least 91 people were killed in Gaza City, including casualties from an airstrike that targeted a vehicle transporting individuals attempting to escape along the coastal road.

The destruction of residential buildings has been widespread, with at least 17 structures, including the Aybaki Mosque in the Tuffah neighborhood, reported destroyed by Israeli airstrikes. Amidst the chaos, a trend of reverse displacement has emerged, with approximately 15,000 individuals returning to Gaza City after witnessing the dire conditions at al-Mawasi camp.

Growing International Criticism

International criticism of Israel’s military actions has intensified. France’s Foreign Ministry called for an immediate cessation of what it described as a “destructive campaign” that lacks military rationale, urging for a return to negotiations. Similarly, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the war, labeling it morally, politically, and legally intolerable.

Irish President Michael D. Higgins also condemned the actions being taken in Gaza, denouncing both those committing genocide and those supplying arms to support it.

As the violence continues, the Israeli army has confirmed that it may take “several months” to establish control over Gaza City. Reports indicate that at least 106 people were killed across Gaza since dawn on Tuesday, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

Conclusion

The situation in Gaza City remains critical as the bombardment continues and the humanitarian crisis deepens. Thousands of Palestinians are fleeing their homes, facing uncertain futures in overcrowded camps while grappling with the loss of life and destruction around them. The international community watches closely as calls for action grow louder.

Key Facts

– At least 91 Palestinians were killed in Gaza City on Tuesday.
– Approximately 350,000 individuals have fled Gaza City due to increased violence.
– The UN Commission of Inquiry has labeled Israel’s actions as genocide.
– Over 64,964 people have died since the start of the conflict nearly two years ago.
– International criticism of Israel’s military operations is mounting, with calls for negotiations and cessation of violence.

Source: www.aljazeera.com