Israeli tanks advanced into northern parts of Khan Younis in southern Gaza on Wednesday, while widespread airstrikes claimed at least 47 lives across the enclave, according to Palestinian medics.
The escalation comes after new evacuation orders were issued by the Israeli military, citing rocket launches from the area by Palestinian militants. Shelling near residential neighborhoods forced families to flee toward the humanitarian-designated zone of Al-Mawasi, which officials say offers no real safety.
Civilian Toll Mounts in Strikes on Displacement Camps
An Israeli airstrike on a tent encampment in Al-Mawasi killed 17 people, including displaced families, and ignited fires in the crowded area, Palestinian medics reported. The Israeli military stated that the attack targeted Hamas militants using the humanitarian zone as a base, with “secondary explosions” indicating hidden weaponry.
Further strikes hit homes in Gaza City, killing 10 and leaving many trapped under rubble. Additional casualties included 11 deaths in central Gaza, among them children and a medic. Five of those killed had been queuing for bread.
In Rafah near the Egyptian border, tank fire killed nine Palestinians, and attacks on Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahiya continued for a fifth day, wounding several medical staff.
A Grim Humanitarian Crisis
Drone strikes, reportedly scattering shrapnel, and the destruction of dozens of homes in northern towns like Jabalia have deepened the humanitarian crisis. Palestinian and UN officials state that nearly all of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents have been displaced repeatedly, with no refuge left.
Israeli forces maintain that their operations aim to prevent Hamas militants from regrouping in residential areas and accuse the group of using civilian structures as shields. Hamas has denied these claims, accusing Israel of indiscriminate attacks.
The conflict, which began after Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel on Oct. 7, has led to devastating losses, with more than 44,400 Palestinians killed and the enclave left in ruins.
While a recent ceasefire with Hezbollah eased tensions in Lebanon, fighting in Gaza continues unabated, marking one of the most prolonged escalations in the region.
