KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip (AP) — Israel has announced that its ground forces are now engaged in combat against Hamas fighters deep within Gaza’s largest city, marking a significant turning point in the month-long conflict. The advance into Gaza City will result in a further increase of the already staggering death toll, making it a major concern for both sides.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remarked that Israel will soon take over the security of Gaza once the war is over, adding to the uncertainty of the situation. Israel has marked the 30th day since the killing of 1,400 people by Hamas militants, a day of Jewish mourning.
Since the war started, over 10,300 Palestinians have been killed, including a significant number of women and children. The conflict has also led to the displacement of around 70% of Gaza’s 2.3 million people.
The situation is dire for those left in Gaza, as supplies of food and water have drastically been reduced. Civilians are now relying on aid as well as their own efforts to find resources. Israeli airstrikes have hit hospitals and infrastructure, further deepening the crisis.
Israeli soldiers have engaged in heavy fighting with Palestinian militants in Gaza City, targeting Hamas fighters and infrastructure. Plans for the aftermath of the war are still unknown, as Israel has vowed to remove Hamas from power. The future of Gaza is yet to be determined as the war continues to rage on.
Hundreds of Palestinians are fleeing their homes in Gaza City, as the Israeli military offensive continues to pound the city. Some of them are heading to southern Gaza, despite heavy bombardment in that area. The humanitarian crisis has taken a toll on the population, with many families now living in schools.
The Israeli government has reiterated its position that security in Gaza will be held until a solution is reached, but has not specified what measures will be implemented. The situation remains complex, with no clear end in sight.
International efforts to provide aid and facilitate truce discussions have so far not been successful, and the situation remains extremely volatile. As Israeli forces continue to battle Hamas in northern Gaza, civilians remain caught in the crossfire. The death toll and devastation continue to escalate as the conflict rages on.
The aftermath of this devastating conflict leaves many questions unanswered, raising concerns about the future of Gaza and the wellbeing of its people. Gaza’s fate remains uncertain as the war continues to unfold.