Gaza city: On the second day of a heightened military operation, Israeli forces intensified their actions in Gaza City, resulting in the destruction of several towers and residential buildings. This escalation marks a new phase of the ground attack, characterized by a 'gradual incursion.' The humanitarian situation is dire, with approximately one million Palestinians, mostly displaced, facing catastrophic conditions amid ongoing hostilities since 7 October 2023.
According to Yemen News Agency, the increased aggression follows a night of severe bombardment that resulted in numerous casualties. Israel has demanded the evacuation of Gaza residents, aiming for complete control, which has further exacerbated the humanitarian crisis and led to accusations of war crimes. The international community has largely remained inactive, with little response from Arab and Islamic nations.
Reports indicate that the Israeli army commenced what it refers to as the main phase of the ground assault on Tuesday. The Gaza Ministry of Health announced that the death toll has reached 65,062, with 165,697 injured since the conflict began. In the last 24 hours alone, 98 individuals were killed and 385 injured.
The Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor in Geneva confirmed that the Israeli military has increased its use of armored vehicles with explosives, targeting residential neighborhoods in Gaza. The monitor documented multiple detonations in different parts of the city, leading to increased casualties and destruction.
Palestinian media reported 45 deaths, including 23 from Gaza City, due to continuous bombardment. Witnesses stated that Israeli forces attacked civilians near Al-Shifa Hospital during evacuation efforts, resulting in at least 15 deaths and numerous injuries. Additionally, attacks near Al-Quds Hospital led to further casualties.
Hamas and other Palestinian groups have described the attacks, particularly near Al-Shifa Hospital, as war crimes. They emphasize the ongoing destruction and displacement in Gaza as part of a larger ethnic cleansing strategy.
International reactions include condemnation from German and Swedish foreign ministers, who labeled the attacks as violations of international law. The British Foreign Secretary expressed concerns over potential civilian casualties, while Canada's Foreign Ministry highlighted the worsening humanitarian crisis.
Over 20 international aid agencies have called on the UN and global leaders to intervene in what they describe as a genocidal campaign by Israel. Reports from the UN and human rights organizations indicate potential ethnic cleansing and war crimes due to the continued attacks on civilians and infrastructure.
Amnesty International and other global bodies have stressed the urgency for international action, citing accumulating evidence of Israel's actions in Gaza as genocidal. The situation remains critical, with calls for immediate intervention to halt the ongoing violence.