Rising Casualties in Gaza Amid Ongoing Conflict
In a tragic escalation of violence in the Gaza Strip, at least 19 Palestinians were killed on October 28, 2024, during Israeli airstrikes and shelling. The Gaza Health Ministry reported that 13 of these fatalities occurred in the northern region, where Israeli tanks have reportedly cut off access for approximately 100,000 Palestinians. The ongoing conflict, which began with the Al-Aqsa Flood attack on October 7, 2023, has led to over 43,020 Palestinian deaths and injuries to more than 101,110 individuals, with significant destruction across the densely populated enclave.
The Palestinian Civil Defense has stated that many residents in Jabalia, Beit Lahia, and Beit Hanoun are stranded without access to medical care or food supplies. Operations in these areas have ceased due to the renewed Israeli offensives. The Israeli military claims its actions are targeted at eliminating militants from Hamas, asserting that around 100 suspected members were arrested during a raid on Kamal Adwan Hospital. However, both Hamas and medical personnel have denied the presence of militants in the hospital, raising concerns over the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region.
Humanitarian Crisis and Displacement
As the conflict intensifies, hospitals in northern Gaza are nearing collapse, with officials citing a critical shortage of medicine, food, and fuel. Reports indicate that only one pediatrician remains at Kamal Adwan Hospital, which previously had a staff of 70. Tragically, the lack of medical supplies has already resulted in fatalities among patients, including children.
Residents in northern Gaza are facing severe restrictions, with Israeli forces surrounding schools and shelters for displaced families, compelling them to evacuate while detaining men and forcing women and children toward Gaza City. Many families are hesitant to leave their homes permanently, expressing a preference to remain despite the dangers. A resident from Jabalia lamented the international focus on other regional conflicts, asserting that the devastation in northern Gaza continues unabated, with accusations that Israeli military strategies aim to create a buffer zone by permanently displacing civilians.
The situation in northern Gaza represents a critical humanitarian crisis, with ongoing military operations raising alarms over potential long-term impacts on the Palestinian population.
