CAIRO (AP) — On Saturday, scores of Palestinians fled Gaza City amidst intensified Israeli military operations. Reports from health officials indicated that overnight strikes resulted in at least 14 fatalities. Many of those fleeing were seen pushing carts filled with their belongings or carrying possessions on their backs as they sought safety.
In Israel, thousands protested in solidarity with the families of hostages captured by Hamas, urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to negotiate an end to the ongoing conflict. Demonstrations took place in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, including the display of a large black banner that implored U.S. President Donald Trump to intervene, emblazoned with the words “SAVE THEM!” in yellow letters.
As international tensions increase, several prominent Western nations, including the United Kingdom, France, Canada, Australia, Malta, Belgium, and Luxembourg, prepare to recognize Palestinian statehood at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly. Portugal, which had announced its recognition plans earlier, confirmed it will make the official declaration on Sunday.
The current Israeli operation marks a significant escalation in a conflict that has continued to destabilize the Middle East, with the Israeli military aiming to dismantle Hamas's military capabilities. While no timeline has been provided for this military offensive, indications suggest it could extend for several months. Over the past 23 months, Israeli bombardments have claimed more than 65,000 lives in Gaza, contributing to widespread destruction, displacement of approximately 90% of the population, and a severe humanitarian crisis, described by experts as famine in Gaza City.
Dr. Rami Mhanna, director of Shifa Hospital, reported that among the deceased from a recent strike were six family members of Dr. Mohamed Abu Selmiya, the hospital's director. Additionally, five other individuals were killed in a separate strike near Shawa Square. The Israeli military did not comment on these specific attacks but stated its operations aim to reduce Hamas’s military capabilities while taking precautions to minimize civilian harm.
Israeli authorities have been urging the large number of Palestinians taking refuge in Gaza City to relocate southward to what is described as a humanitarian zone. A new corridor opened for a brief period earlier in the week allowed more individuals to move out. Nevertheless, many residents of the famine-stricken area are reluctant to relocate again due to exhaustion or lack of resources. Reports describe families making the treacherous journey, with some too fatigued to continue walking and children requiring rest.
“No water, electricity, or internet. People are forced to leave with nothing," said Seif Abu Oomsan, describing the dire conditions. Families expressed despair about heading into an uncertain future. Aid organizations have raised alarms that the forced evacuations will worsen the existing humanitarian crisis and are urgently calling for a ceasefire to facilitate aid distribution.
Families of hostages held by Hamas have publicly criticized Netanyahu, accusing him of prioritizing political power over the safety of their loved ones. In statements made during a protest outside Netanyahu’s residence, relatives expressed their anguish and frustration, stating, “The blood of our loved ones is, for him, nothing more than a political tool to cling to power." Currently, 48 hostages are believed to still be in Gaza, with fewer than half expected to be alive following the events of October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants launched an attack that killed roughly 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and led to the abduction of 251 individuals.
Meanwhile, Edan Alexander, an Israeli-American who was held captive for 584 days before being released in May, announced plans to resume military service next month. “We cannot forget them,” he stated, emphasizing the ongoing responsibility to secure the release of hostages.
In a troubling development, UNICEF reported that trucks carrying lifesaving therapeutic food for malnourished children in Gaza were stolen. Armed assailants reportedly held drivers at gunpoint to seize the food, which was desperately needed amid severe restrictions on aid. Israel’s military blamed Hamas for the theft, alleging that aid is being diverted to support military actions.
As the conflict continues, the Palestinian Health Ministry estimates that death tolls in Gaza have now surpassed 65,100 since the outbreak of hostilities, highlighting the ongoing human tragedy in the region.
