Israeli forces have intensified their bombardment of Gaza City, delivering a series of airstrikes and artillery attacks as the military gears up for a major offensive. This surge in hostilities, which primarily affects northern and eastern neighborhoods, raises grave concerns for nearly one million Palestinians residing in the area.
Local residents report an unrelenting barrage of explosions, as Israeli troops have also re-engaged in demolishing structures within the Jabalia refugee camp situated further north. According to the Hamas-controlled health ministry, Israeli airstrikes claimed the lives of 64 Palestinians and injured approximately 300 more in just the past day. This comes amid escalating violence that has reportedly resulted in 62,686 fatalities and 157,951 injuries since the outbreak of hostilities following Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
In the wake of the initial Hamas attack, which left around 1,200 Israelis dead and dozens taken hostage, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has committed to an all-out campaign against Hamas, dismissing mounting international criticism regarding his strategies. In preparation for the upcoming military action, Israel is mobilizing approximately 60,000 reservists to bolster their efforts.
Despite the offensive not formally commencing, bombardments on Gaza City remain relentless, particularly affecting the Zeitoun and Shejayia districts, with tank fire reported in the Sabra neighborhood. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have stated that troop movements enable the conflict to expand to new areas and hinder Hamas operatives from regrouping.
In a separate development, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed on Sunday the release of one of its staff members detained by the IDF since July 21st, although details surrounding the situation remain scant.
Within Israel, Netanyahu faces increasing pressure from families of hostages still held in Gaza, who are demanding negotiations for their release. Of the original 50 hostages, only about 20 are believed to be alive. Following failed ceasefire negotiations with Hamas last month, Israeli officials have expressed their commitment to a total conquest of Gaza, rebuffing international mediator proposals aimed at securing a temporary truce and release of hostages.
The humanitarian consequences of an escalating conflict in Gaza are dire, with UN officials and humanitarian organizations warning of catastrophic impacts on the civilian population. Most of Gaza's homes are reported to be either damaged or completely destroyed, and critical infrastructure, including healthcare and sanitation systems, has largely disintegrated. Currently, 18 out of 36 hospitals in the region are only partially operational, exacerbating the already crisis-ridden environment.
As of last week, conditions indicative of famine have emerged in Gaza City and its surrounding areas, marking a significant humanitarian failure according to numerous assessments. As troops prepare for a potential full-scale operation, the fate of Gaza's civilians hangs precariously in the balance.
