Tens of thousands of Palestinians are fleeing Gaza City amid escalating fears of a military takeover by Israel. Reports indicate that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu plans to halt humanitarian airdrops and reduce the number of aid trucks entering the northern Gaza Strip. This decision is part of a broader military strategy aimed at dismantling Hamas ahead of a potential full-scale invasion scheduled for mid-September.
According to a report from KAN, Israel’s public broadcaster, the Israeli government is preparing to intensify military operations in the region. Increased airstrikes have already been observed, with military officials declaring Gaza City a “dangerous combat zone” due to its status as a Hamas stronghold. The United Nations has reported that approximately 23,000 people have fled Gaza City over the past week, with many seen heading south in caravans.
The situation has escalated further following an incident on Saturday, when seven Israeli soldiers were injured after their armored vehicle struck an explosive device in the Zeitoun neighborhood of northern Gaza City. In response to the intensifying military actions, Hamas has issued warnings regarding the safety of Israeli hostages believed to be held alongside Hamas fighters in the city.
Hamas military spokesperson Abu Obeida stated, “They will remain with our fighters in the places of confrontation, exposed to the same risks.” He also cautioned that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) operations could increase the likelihood of their soldiers being captured. Additionally, Obeida threatened that the group is on high alert and is prepared to retaliate against Israeli military actions.
Currently, 48 hostages are reported to be held by Hamas, with around 20 of them believed to be alive. Israeli defense chiefs are expected to discuss a cease-fire and hostage release proposal at a security cabinet meeting on Sunday. This proposal was previously accepted by Hamas but rejected in a prior negotiation in May.
Prime Minister Netanyahu has reiterated his commitment to eliminating Hamas and securing the release of all remaining hostages. Families of the hostages have taken to the streets, urging the Israeli government to reach a cease-fire agreement to facilitate the return of their loved ones.
At a rally in Tel Aviv, Zahiro Shahar Mor, nephew of hostage Avraham Munder, expressed the sentiments of many families, saying, “Netanyahu, if another living hostage comes back in a bag, it will not only be the hostages and their families who pay the price. You will bear responsibility for premeditated murder.”
As the conflict deepens, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with the potential for further displacement and suffering among the civilian population. International observers are closely monitoring developments, hoping for a resolution that prioritizes the safety and well-being of all individuals involved.
