Six Palestinians Killed in Beit Lahia Airstrikes
On November 7, 2024, Israeli airstrikes in Beit Lahia, located in the northern Gaza Strip, resulted in the deaths of six Palestinians and injuries to five others. The attacks targeted residential homes, including the Al-Asi family house and an apartment belonging to the Al-Masry family. Eyewitnesses reported heavy artillery shelling and gunfire across various areas, including Jabalia camp and the Saftawi region, as the Israeli military intensified its operations on the 33rd day of its invasion.
The ongoing conflict has led to a catastrophic collapse of the health system in Gaza, with hospitals suffering from continuous bombing and a severe lack of resources. The Israeli army claims that its operations aim to prevent Hamas from regaining strength, while Palestinians assert that these actions are intended to displace local residents and seize control of the area.
Patient Evacuations Amidst Ongoing Conflict
In a separate but related development, Israel, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), announced the evacuation of over 200 patients and their companions from Gaza for medical treatment. This operation, described as the largest evacuation in recent months, facilitated the transfer of approximately 230 individuals through the Kerem Shalom crossing into Israel, and subsequently to Ramon Airport in southern Israel. The evacuated patients included those suffering from serious health conditions such as autoimmune diseases, cancer, and trauma injuries.
Rick Peeperkorn, the WHO representative in the Palestinian territories, highlighted that around 14,000 individuals are currently awaiting medical evacuation from Gaza, with just under 5,000 having been allowed to leave since the onset of the war. The restrictive siege imposed by Israel continues to complicate medical access for those in need, as many hospitals and health facilities have been severely damaged or destroyed, leading to the loss of numerous medical personnel.
Ongoing Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with continuous airstrikes and a humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the blockade. The international community, including humanitarian organizations, has raised alarms over the deteriorating conditions. The recent escalation in violence and the targeted attacks on civilian infrastructure have led to widespread calls for a ceasefire and urgent humanitarian assistance. As the conflict persists, the need for medical evacuations and humanitarian aid remains critical for the affected population.
