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Israel presses on with Gaza bombardments, including in areas where it told civilians to flee

by Michael Nguyen
4 comments
Israeli-Gaza conflict

Israeli airstrikes persistently target Gaza, impacting areas previously designated for civilian evacuation. Israeli aircraft intensified strikes across Gaza, particularly in regions instructed for evacuation, during the night leading into Saturday. This ongoing offensive follows the U.S. veto of a U.N. resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza, a motion supported by a majority in the Security Council and numerous countries. The Council’s vote ended 13-1 in favor, with the U.K. abstaining.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the situation in Gaza as dire, with civilians forced to constantly relocate within limited safe zones, lacking essential survival resources. He warned of an imminent collapse of Gaza’s humanitarian support system, raising concerns about regional security implications.

Israeli forces continue operations in northern Gaza, facing stern resistance from Hamas, despite civilian evacuation orders. The conflict, initiated by a Hamas raid in October, has caused significant casualties and a humanitarian crisis. Israel attributes civilian deaths to Hamas’s tactics, which it claims include using civilians as shields.

Gaza’s borders remain closed, trapping residents within. The Health Ministry in Gaza reports over 17,400 deaths, predominantly women and children, though it does not distinguish between civilians and combatants.

Recent airstrikes hit multiple locations in Gaza, including Rafah near the Egyptian border. Hospitals in Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis reported receiving hundreds of casualties. The Israeli military’s focus on securing northern Gaza has left thousands of civilians in danger, despite evacuation orders.

The U.S. maintains its stance against an indefinite cease-fire, fearing it would strengthen Hamas. However, there is growing concern over the escalating civilian death toll and the worsening humanitarian situation. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant opposes a cease-fire, viewing it as a concession to Hamas.

Amid resumed hostilities, the U.S. has urged Israel to better protect civilians and allow more aid into Gaza. Gaza’s Civil Defense Department reported casualties from recent airstrikes, with rescue efforts ongoing amidst the destruction.

Designated safe zones like Muwasi in southern Gaza are overwhelmed, with displaced families facing harsh conditions. Palestinians describe their plight as they struggle for basic necessities in these areas.

Reported by Magdy from Cairo and Becatoros from Athens, Greece.

For further information, visit AP’s full coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Israeli-Gaza conflict

What is the current situation in the Gaza Strip following Israeli airstrikes?

The Gaza Strip has been experiencing intense and ongoing Israeli airstrikes, particularly in areas where civilians were advised to evacuate. This has led to a significant humanitarian crisis, with many casualties reported, predominantly women and children. The situation is further exacerbated by the closure of Gaza’s borders, trapping residents within the territory.

How did the United Nations respond to the situation in Gaza?

The United Nations Security Council proposed a resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza. However, this resolution was vetoed by the United States, despite being backed by the majority of the Council members and many other nations. The vote in the Council was 13-1 in favor of the resolution, with the United Kingdom abstaining.

What has been the impact of the airstrikes on Gaza’s civilian population?

The airstrikes have resulted in a high number of casualties, with over 17,400 deaths reported, the majority being women and children. Hospitals in areas like Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis have received hundreds of casualties. The continuous airstrikes have forced civilians to relocate frequently, often to overcrowded and under-resourced safe zones, leading to a dire humanitarian crisis.

What is the stance of the United States regarding a cease-fire in Gaza?

The United States remains opposed to an open-ended cease-fire, arguing that it would enable Hamas to survive and continue posing a threat to Israel. Despite the rising civilian death toll and worsening humanitarian crisis, the U.S. has not publicly advocated for Israel to de-escalate the conflict, which is now in its third month.

More about Israeli-Gaza conflict

  • Gaza Airstrikes and Humanitarian Crisis
  • UN Security Council and US Veto on Gaza Cease-fire
  • Civilian Impact of Gaza Conflict
  • US Stance on Gaza Cease-fire and Conflict Escalation

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4 comments

Mike Brown December 9, 2023 - 1:01 pm

This is a complex issue for sure, but the focus should always be on protecting innocent lives, both sides need to consider this more.

Reply
Sarah Davis December 10, 2023 - 1:38 am

i read about the hospitals being overwhelmed, its just a terrible situation. Hope the international community steps up soon.

Reply
Emma Johnson December 10, 2023 - 1:39 am

Can’t believe the US vetoed the cease-fire. what are they thinking? So many people are suffering because of this.

Reply
John Smith December 10, 2023 - 8:05 am

really sad to see whats happening in Gaza, the civilian toll is just heartbreaking. isn’t there a better way to resolve conflicts?

Reply

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