Israel conducted fresh airstrikes in southern Gaza, causing casualties and forcing hundreds of Palestinians to flee Khan Younis. The strikes came in response to a rocket barrage claimed by Islamic Jihad, prompting concerns of a possible ground assault in the area. The Israeli military ordered a mass evacuation, with residents receiving messages on their phones instructing them to leave their homes immediately. This latest evacuation follows previous orders in other parts of Gaza, indicating the ongoing violence and displacement faced by Palestinian civilians.
António Guterres, the UN secretary general, expressed concern over the safety of civilians in Gaza, calling for a ceasefire to end the cycle of violence and displacement they face. The destruction caused by previous military assaults has left many Palestinians without access to aid and in dire need of humanitarian assistance. The potential for more fighting in Khan Younis could further exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in the region, particularly affecting the delivery of aid through the Kerem Shalom crossing.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the military is making progress in targeting Hamas militants but warned of continued strikes against remaining threats. The constant conflict in Gaza has led to widespread displacement and hunger among the population, raising fears of a potential famine. As civilians continue to flee the violence and destruction in the area, the international community is called upon to address the urgent humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people in Gaza.
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