In a devastating turn of events, Israeli forces launched a fierce assault on Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip on Tuesday, utilizing tank fire and air strikes, according to local residents. Simultaneously, Israeli ground troops clashed with Hamas militants in various parts of the war-torn Palestinian enclave.
Israel confirmed that its troops had successfully neutralized dozens of militants in the northern region of Gaza within the past 24 hours. Residents reported tank shelling in sections of the Al-Bureij refugee camp in the central area. The Gaza health ministry grimly announced a staggering 207 casualties in the last 24 hours alone, pushing the total Palestinian death toll to 22,185 during nearly three months of relentless warfare in the Hamas-ruled territory.
Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant addressed the situation in the south, specifically around Khan Younis, emphasizing the focus on areas above the tunnel network where Hamas leaders were believed to be hiding. In a televised statement, he declared, “We are reaching them in all possible ways. Engagement is ongoing, and sadly, there are hostages there too. This high-intensity effort in the heart of Khan Younis will persist.”
The recent escalation occurred despite Israel’s announcement of plans to withdraw some troops, signaling a shift in the ongoing conflict against Hamas. This development has prompted global concern regarding the dire situation faced by Gaza residents.
The sustained Israeli bombardments have left much of the territory in ruins, plunging its 2.3 million inhabitants into a humanitarian crisis. Thousands have been left destitute, facing the looming threat of famine due to a severe shortage of food supplies. Despite mounting international pressure, Israeli officials assert that the offensive is set to continue for many more months.
