New Incursion and Casualties
Israeli forces entered the Nuseirat camp in Gaza with tanks on Monday. This is a new move into the central area of Gaza. Palestinian medics reported that Israeli military strikes killed at least 11 people since Sunday night. Residents said the tanks fired as they entered the camp, causing panic among the people and displaced families.
- Resident Reactions:
One resident, Zaik Mohammad, said the tanks’ arrival was a complete surprise. He explained, “Some people couldn’t leave and were trapped in their homes, asking to be let out. Others ran away with whatever they could carry.”
War in Gaza Continues
- Israeli Operations
The war in Gaza is now in its 14th month. Israel is focusing on the north and center to stop Hamas militants from attacking and regrouping. Tens of thousands of Palestinians have been told to leave these areas, creating fears they may never return.
- Ceasefire Efforts
Efforts for a ceasefire are currently stalled. Mediator Qatar suspended its efforts, stating that both Israel and Hamas need to show more willingness to reach an agreement.
Recent Attacks and Casualties
- Airstrikes in Nuseirat and Beit Lahiya
Medics said that seven people were killed in Nuseirat in two separate Israeli airstrikes, including one that hit a tent camp. In Beit Lahiya, four people were killed in another Israeli airstrike. At Kamal Adwan Hospital near Beit Lahiya, three medical workers were wounded by Israeli drone fire.
- No Israeli Comment
The Israeli military did not comment on Monday’s violence. However, they confirmed the killing of a senior commander of the Islamic Jihad group, Mohammad Abu Skhail, in a strike on Saturday. This attack killed six people in Gaza City.
Hospital Sieges and Humanitarian Concerns
- Hospitals in Jabalia
Israeli forces have surrounded three hospitals in Jabalia for weeks. Hospital officials refuse to leave their patients, despite the lack of food, medical supplies, and fuel. The Israeli military accuses Hamas of using civilians for military purposes, which Hamas denies.
- Expanded Humanitarian Zone
On Monday, the Israeli military announced an expansion of the “humanitarian zone” in Gaza. They plan to allow more tents, shelter materials, food, water, and medical supplies to enter the area.
Ongoing Conflict and Casualties
- Current War Status
The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas gunmen attacked Israeli communities, killing around 1,200 people and taking 253 hostages. Since then, Israel’s military campaign has destroyed much of Gaza, killing around 43,500 Palestinians, according to Gaza health officials.
- Continuous Violence
Israeli forces continue their operations in the north and center of Gaza. They claim to have killed hundreds of militants in the Jabalia area since the raids began. The armed wings of Hamas and Islamic Jihad state they have killed many Israeli soldiers through ambushes, mortar fire, and anti-tank rocket attacks.