Gaza City exodus Swells as Dozens Reported Killed in Israeli Attacks
GAZA CITY – A growing number of Palestinians are fleeing Gaza City following a surge in Israeli attacks that reportedly killed at least 35 people on Thursday, intensifying the humanitarian crisis in the besieged territory. The escalating violence is driving further displacement within the already overcrowded southern areas of Gaza,particularly within the so-called humanitarian zones.
The intensified Israeli military operations come as international concern mounts over the dire conditions facing civilians trapped in Gaza, where famine is looming and access to essential aid remains severely restricted.the recent attacks are exacerbating an existing catastrophe, forcing thousands to seek safety in increasingly limited and precarious circumstances.
The Israeli military stated it had killed a senior member of a Hamas battalion and destroyed “observation posts” belonging to the Palestinian Islamist group. Simultaneously, four UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) trucks loaded with baby formula were hijacked in Gaza City by gunmen.
Israel‘s agency for palestinian affairs, COGAT, blamed Hamas for the hijacking, alleging the trucks were seized directly from a UNICEF compound.UNICEF reported that “armed individuals” held the drivers at gunpoint, seized the formula, and later released both the drivers and the trucks.
The theft has deprived at least 2,700 severely malnourished children of life-saving supplies, according to UNICEF. COGAT asserted the baby formula was intended for free distribution and accused Hamas of demonstrating “no interest in the well-being of the people.”
Israel has repeatedly accused Hamas of diverting aid – allegations Hamas denies. while UN officials have stated Israel has not provided evidence to substantiate its claims, some Gaza residents facing famine have acknowledged instances of looting by Hamas members.
