Amid Escalating Tensions: Israel's Military Campaign in Gaza's Khan Younis
Israel continued its military campaign against Hamas in Gaza's Khan Younis area on Saturday, while inclement weather added to the plight of displaced Palestinians seeking refuge elsewhere in the besieged enclave.
Reports from residents indicated intense aerial and tank fire in and around Khan Younis, a focal point of Israel's ground offensive against Hamas. The barrage extended to key medical facilities and other areas in southern Gaza.
Hamas claimed to have launched an anti-tank missile at an Israeli tank in southwest Khan Younis. In response, the Israeli military reported the killing of at least 11 gunmen attempting to plant explosives near troops. It also noted exchanges of gunfire and rocket-propelled grenades between its forces and militants in the area, resulting in casualties on both sides.
The Palestinian Islamic Jihad, a Hamas ally, confirmed engagement with Israeli forces in the region and claimed responsibility for rocket attacks into Israel.
Meanwhile, airstrikes struck close to major medical centers in southern Gaza, including Nasser Hospital and Al-Amal Hospital. The Gaza Health Ministry condemned the strikes, emphasizing the danger they posed to healthcare infrastructure and the lives of medical staff and civilians.
The Israeli military, while asserting that it maintains communication with hospital officials, faces accusations of compromising medical facilities by operating in their vicinity. Hamas denies these allegations.
In a significant development, the World Court issued a ruling on Friday urging Israel to prevent acts of genocide against Palestinians and calling for greater protection of civilians. However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed the continuation of the military campaign aimed at neutralizing Hamas.
In the midst of the conflict, displaced Palestinians grappled with harsh conditions exacerbated by heavy rain. Many sought alternative shelter due to flooding in makeshift tents and shelters.
Meanwhile, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) announced an investigation into several employees suspected of involvement in attacks by Hamas. The move drew criticism from the Palestinian foreign ministry and condemnation from Hamas.
In Rafah, where a significant portion of Gaza's population sought refuge, an Israeli airstrike reportedly claimed the lives of three individuals in a residential area. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear.
In a separate development, an exchange of fire between Israeli forces and Palestinians in the occupied West Bank near Jenin resulted in the death of one individual, according to local sources.
The situation remains tense as Israel's military operations continue amid international calls for restraint and efforts to address the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza.
