IDF troops are intensifying their operations within Gaza City, encountering fierce resistance from Hamas fighters as approximately half a million Palestinian residents have reportedly evacuated their homes, according to estimates released today by United Nations agencies.The escalating conflict is creating a deepening humanitarian crisis, with limited access to essential supplies for those remaining and a surge in displaced persons seeking refuge in overcrowded shelters.The Israeli military’s expanded ground offensive, launched following weeks of intense aerial bombardment, aims to dismantle Hamas infrastructure and neutralize the group’s capabilities following the october 7th attacks that left over 1,400 Israelis dead and more than 240 taken hostage. The mass displacement of Gazan civilians – representing roughly 20% of the territory’s population – underscores the immense civilian cost of the war and raises concerns about the long-term stability of the region. International organizations are warning of a potential collapse of Gaza’s already fragile healthcare system and a growing risk of disease outbreaks.
Israeli forces have been focusing on key Hamas strongholds in Gaza City, including areas near hospitals, prompting accusations from Hamas and international observers of endangering civilian lives. The IDF maintains it is indeed taking precautions to minimize civilian casualties and accuses Hamas of deliberately operating within civilian infrastructure. Fighting has been reported around the Al-Shifa Hospital, the largest medical facility in Gaza, with both sides claiming the other is using it as a base of operations.
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) reports that over 735,000 Palestinians have been internally displaced across Gaza since the start of the conflict, seeking shelter in UN-run schools and other facilities. Aid deliveries have been sporadic and insufficient to meet the growing needs of the population,with restrictions imposed by Israel and Egypt on the entry of fuel,medical supplies,and other essential goods.
The conflict began after Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel on October 7th, firing thousands of rockets and sending fighters into Israeli territory. Israel responded with a declaration of war and a comprehensive military operation targeting Hamas in Gaza. Negotiations for a ceasefire and the release of hostages are ongoing, mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, but have so far yielded no breakthroughs.
