On July 22, 2024, Israeli forces launched a major military operation in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, resulting in significant civilian casualties. Reports from Palestinian health officials indicate between 70 to 71 Palestinians killed and over 200 injured. The Israeli military cited intelligence about Hamas activities in the area as the reason for the operation, which included ground and air attacks.The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) ordered the evacuation of parts of the Muwasi humanitarian zone, adjacent to Khan Younis, where over a million Palestinian refugees had sought shelter after fleeing from other areas. The IDF claimed to have warned civilians through various means, including SMS and Arabic-language broadcasts. However, many residents reported being caught off guard, describing chaotic scenes as they fled their homes amid intense bombardment.The Palestinian Red Crescent Society announced that its clinics in the area were forced to shut down due to the evacuation orders. Hospitals, particularly the Nasser Medical Complex, are reportedly overwhelmed with casualties. The Gaza Ministry of Health has called for urgent blood donations to treat the wounded.This operation marks a significant escalation, as it’s the second ground operation by the Israeli army in Khan Younis within months, following their withdrawal three months ago. The international community, including humanitarian organizations, continues to express grave concern over the deteriorating situation in Gaza. Many Palestinians report being displaced for the 14th or 15th time since the conflict began.As the crisis deepens, diplomatic efforts continue. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to meet with US President Joe Biden, who has been pushing for a ceasefire with Hamas. However, the ongoing military operations and mounting civilian casualties cast a shadow over these diplomatic initiatives.
Key points
- Israeli forces launched a major military operation in Khan Younis, resulting in 70-71 Palestinian deaths and over 200 injuries.
- The operation has led to mass displacement of civilians, many of whom had already been displaced multiple times.
- Hospitals and humanitarian facilities are overwhelmed, with urgent calls for blood donations and medical supplies.
- Diplomatic efforts continue, with a planned meeting between Israeli PM Netanyahu and US President Biden.
Contradictions👾While the Israeli military claims to have warned civilians before the operation, many residents report being caught off guard.
👾The exact number of casualties varies between reports, with figures ranging from 39 to 71 deaths.
