Dozens of Palestinians lost their lives yesterday as Israeli forces and tanks advanced further into Gaza City during the second day of a ground operation that drew widespread condemnation from global authorities. The Israeli military intensified efforts to evacuate civilians from the city by opening an additional route for Palestinians to exit Gaza over the next 48 hours.
A large number of people are currently seeking refuge in Gaza City, with many hesitant to comply with Israel’s evacuation directives due to the perilous journey south, harsh living conditions, food shortages in the southern region, and concerns about permanent displacement. Ahmed, a teacher, expressed doubts about leaving Gaza City, questioning the likelihood of returning and the seemingly endless conflict, opting to stay in his neighborhood of Sabra.
Yesterday, at least 51 individuals were reported dead across the Gaza Strip as a result of Israel’s recent airstrikes, pushing the death toll over 65,000 since the commencement of Israel’s aggressive actions against Gaza nearly two years ago. The local health authorities confirmed a drone attack on a specialized children’s hospital, prompting young patients and their families to evacuate the premises.
In a significant move, the European Union unveiled proposals to restrict trade relations with Israel and impose sanctions on government officials in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The EU executive announced immediate measures, including the freezing of approximately 20 million euros in bilateral support for Israel. This decision comes amid mounting pressure on the EU to address Israel’s prolonged offensive in Gaza.
EU chief Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the urgency of halting the distressing events in Gaza, advocating for the suspension of certain provisions in the cooperation agreement with Israel that facilitate reduced tariffs on Israeli goods. The proposal includes actions such as asset freezes and visa bans targeting Israeli ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich over their extremist rhetoric fueling violence.
Despite these initiatives, resistance from key EU members like Germany and Italy poses challenges in securing widespread support for the proposed measures. Israel estimates that approximately 400,000 individuals, representing 40% of Gaza City’s population on August 10, have already fled the area, with a significant portion relocating to different parts of the city.
Israeli officials emphasized efforts to urge civilians to move south, with expectations of intensified combat operations over the coming months. The prospect of a ceasefire remains distant following recent Israeli strikes on Hamas leaders in Doha, causing tensions with Qatar, a mediator in ceasefire negotiations. The military distributed leaflets in Gaza City, informing Palestinians of the newly accessible escape route towards the south.
International entities, including the United Nations, humanitarian organizations, and foreign governments, have denounced Israel’s military offensive and the proposed mass displacement of civilians. Countries such as Saudi Arabia and Canada strongly criticized Israel’s actions, while China called for peace and condemned the escalating situation in Gaza. The UN agency for Palestinian refugees reiterated its plea for an immediate ceasefire, highlighting the escalating fear and devastation faced by Gazans.
Pope Leo XVI expressed solidarity with the people of Gaza, condemning the forced displacement and dire living conditions they endure. In a separate development, a UN Commission of Inquiry recently accused Israel of genocide in Gaza, a claim vehemently denied by Israeli authorities. Amid the ongoing conflict, concerns persist over the safety of civilians, even in areas designated by Israel as humanitarian zones. Tragic incidents, like the recent airstrike that claimed five lives as individuals attempted to leave Gaza City, underscore the pervasive dangers faced by residents.