Tragic Humanitarian Crisis in Northern Gaza
The humanitarian situation in the northern Gaza Strip has reached catastrophic levels, according to Colonel Ahmed Al-Kahlout, the Director of the Civil Defense Department. Over the past two weeks, nearly 400 Palestinians have been reported killed due to ongoing Israeli military actions. Al-Kahlout described the conditions as 'extremely tragic,' highlighting the severe shortages of essential resources such as food, water, and medical supplies. With the siege intensifying, many bodies remain uncollected in the streets, further exacerbating the crisis.
Destruction and Casualties
The Israeli forces have been accused of using advanced military technology, including robots and explosive barrels, to carry out extensive destruction in the northern Gaza Strip. Entire neighborhoods have been devastated, particularly in areas like Jabalia, where the occupation forces have reportedly used remote-controlled vehicles to detonate explosives, leading to massive casualties. Al-Kahlout noted that the destruction has rendered over 80% of homes and vital infrastructure in the region uninhabitable.
Challenges for Civil Defense
Civil Defense teams are facing immense challenges in their efforts to provide assistance amidst the aggression. Colonel Al-Kahlout revealed that their operations have been severely hampered by the ongoing conflict, with reports of targeted attacks against their personnel. The organization has lost 18 members and sustained injuries to 70 others while attempting to serve the community. Moreover, the Civil Defense has been left with minimal resources, struggling to respond to emergencies due to the destruction of their facilities and vehicles. The lack of international support and coordination with organizations like the International Committee of the Red Cross has further complicated their efforts to deliver aid to the affected population.
