On Monday, Israeli tanks advanced into the southern and eastern districts of Deir al-Balah – a city already overcrowded with Palestinians displaced by over 21 months of conflict. This move marks a dramatic escalation, adding to the deep-rooted humanitarian challenges in the area.
Local medics reported that tank shelling struck houses and mosques, tragically claiming at least three lives while injuring several others. Hundreds of residents had already fled after an evacuation order aimed at undermining Hamas infrastructure, heightening the sense of urgency on the ground.
UN agencies expressed severe concern. Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric emphasized that UN premises, like all civilian sites, must remain protected even during evacuation orders. In a related development, the World Health Organization revealed that its staff residence and main warehouse in Deir al-Balah were attacked. Two WHO staff and two family members were detained by the Israeli military—with some later released while one remains in detention.
Notably, there was no immediate response from Israeli officials regarding the unfolding incidents.
The humanitarian toll is stark: Gaza's Health Ministry has reported that at least 130 Palestinians were killed and more than 1,000 injured by gunfire and military strikes within the past 24 hours, marking one of the deadliest periods in recent weeks.
Complicating the situation further, these developments may hinder international efforts to broker a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel. Talks mediated by Qatar and Egypt and backed by the U.S. are now under strain, as a Hamas official warned that the rising death toll and deepening hunger crisis could impact negotiations over a 60-day truce and hostage deal.
The situation remains fluid, reminding us of the critical need to protect civilian sites and humanitarian workers amid the chaos. Stay tuned for more updates as this complex crisis continues to unfold. 😔
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Israeli tanks enter Deir al-Balah as Gaza hunger crisis worsens
cgtn.com
