Gaza Crisis Escalates as Israel Plans Major Offensive Amid Humanitarian Crisis
Tensions mount as Israel prepares a significant offensive on Gaza City, anticipating the displacement of approximately one million Palestinians, according to Israeli military officials. However, amidst the escalating crisis, residents of Gaza City stand resolute, refusing to abandon their homes despite the looming threat and deteriorating humanitarian situation.
Background
Gaza, once known for its leisurely beaches, has transformed into a war-torn area with its key road, Al-Rashid Avenue, reduced to rubble due to nearly two years of conflict. Al Jazeera reports that a beachfront has become an overcrowded makeshift camp for thousands of displaced Gazans. The crisis has been exacerbated by the Israeli army's plan to slow or halt aid entry to northern Gaza before the offensive, making the evacuation of the city impossible,
according to the Red Cross.
Gazans Refuse to Leave
Despite the Israeli military's orders for Gaza City residents to flee to al-Mawasi in southern Gaza, many residents remain steadfast, choosing to stay amid the destruction. "The experience scarred us for life… leaving is the costliest choice. Staying, however hard, is still the best… To leave now would mean Gaza is gone forever. We will never return. This is what Israel wants,” said Abu Ahmad, a schoolteacher and father, as reported by Al-Quds News.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
The humanitarian situation has been worsening, with a Unicef spokesperson describing Gaza as the most dangerous place in the world for children
. Unicef estimates that nearly one million children are in need of psychosocial support. Meanwhile, the Israeli military continues to target healthcare workers and their facilities, adding to the severity of the crisis.
Protests and Political Implications
In Jerusalem, hundreds of Israeli protestors took to the streets to call for a truce and hostage release deal after nearly two years of war. Meanwhile, Israel's far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has called for the annexation of parts of Gaza, a plan that would be illegal under international law.
Current Status and Looking Ahead
As the situation continues to escalate, Israel reportedly plans to slow or halt humanitarian aid into parts of northern Gaza as it expands its offensive. The Israeli army currently controls approximately 75% of the Gaza Strip and is preparing for an extensive operation to seize Gaza City, the last major stronghold of Hamas within the Palestinian territory. Despite the intense situation, Gaza City's residents, including its Christian population who refuse to abandon their churches, show no signs of backing down.