Gaza finds itself amidst growing devastation with much of its infrastructure in ruins, hospitals nearing collapse, and 2.3 million residents struggling without essential resources like food, fuel, and medical supplies. The sole power plant, critical to the densely populated area, has ceased operations due to an Israeli blockade, says the Gaza Ministry of Energy.
Prompted by this alarming situation, the US and UN are in discussions to create safe passages for civilians leaving Gaza. Additionally, they are coordinating the establishment of a humanitarian corridor to expedite the delivery of essential supplies.
The escalating tension has led residents to anticipate a potential ground invasion by Israel, as the nation has gathered numerous reservists along the border. Israel’s Prime Minister expressed his determination to “crush and destroy” Hamas.
With the conflict entering its fifth day, casualties have exceeded 2,200 on both sides. In Israel, over 1,200 individuals, including 189 military personnel, have perished. This surge in deaths led US President Joe Biden to term the assault as “the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust.” Meanwhile, Gaza has reported 1,100 casualties, with 326 being children. Israel asserts that many of these casualties were Hamas fighters.
Recent aerial strikes in Gaza have drastically impacted the refugee camp in Jabaliya, with drone footage capturing the widespread destruction. Medical teams are struggling to assist the numerous casualties due to the debris-covered streets.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has adopted a stern stance against Hamas, with Israel amassing over 360,000 military reservists near the Gaza border, signaling preparations for a possible ground offensive. In retaliation to the attacks, Netanyahu stated that every Hamas member was marked for death.
In the backdrop of the conflict, Israel has declared the formation of an emergency government and “war management cabinet,” a collaboration between Prime Minister Netanyahu and National Unity Party leader Benny Gantz. This unity aims to make war-related decisions exclusively.
Amidst the chaos, a British doctor aiding the injured in Gaza has painted a grim picture of the health care situation, revealing the severe injuries of children and anticipating the health system’s imminent collapse.
International leaders continue to call for humanitarian escape routes from Gaza. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed his nation’s intention to deliver aid to those affected by the escalating Israel-Hamas conflict.
