Smoke rises during an Israeli ground operation in Khan Younis, as the conflict continues between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, as seen from Rafah, southern Gaza Strip, January 22, 2024. REUTERS/Ibraheem Abu Mustafa
In the latest escalation of hostilities, Israeli forces advanced deep into western Khan Younis in Gaza, marking the bloodiest conflict in January. Reports indicate that troops entered the al-Mawasi district near the Mediterranean Coast, west of Khan Younis, where they reportedly stormed Al-Khair hospital and detained medical personnel. Simultaneously, another hospital, al-Amal, in Khan Younis, was surrounded by tanks, impeding access for ambulances and hampering emergency healthcare.
According to Palestinian officials, at least 50 people were killed overnight in Khan Younis, and the siege on medical facilities prevented the retrieval of bodies and care for the wounded. The Israeli military reported the loss of three soldiers in southern Gaza.
The situation is marked by intense bombardment from air, land, and sea, especially in the southern sector of Gaza. The offensive, launched by Israel last week with the aim of capturing Khan Younis, is attributed to Hamas militants, held responsible for the October 7 attacks on southern Israel.
The conflict has pushed most of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents into Rafah and Deir al-Balah, leading to overcrowded public buildings and makeshift camps. The death toll since October 7 stands at least 25,295, according to Gaza health authorities. Displaced Gazans continue to flee, facing repeated displacement.
The communication blackout in Gaza, with no internet or phone service for ten days, hampers ambulance dispatches and information dissemination. Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, the largest still operational, struggles with an overwhelmed trauma ward and limited resources. Grave-digging within the hospital premises has become necessary due to safety concerns about venturing out to the cemetery.
Palestinian Authority Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki, in Brussels, described the situation as out of control and called on the European Union to advocate for a ceasefire. He highlighted the collapsed health system, making it impossible for injured Palestinians to receive treatment within Gaza or leave for external medical care.
Israel’s stance remains adamant, vowing to continue the offensive until the annihilation of Hamas. While a majority of Israelis support the war, some, including relatives of hostages, demand more efforts to secure their release. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denied reports of a ceasefire deal during a meeting with relatives, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ongoing military operations.
Sami al-Zuhri, head of Hamas’ political unit in exile, expressed Hamas’s openness to initiatives and proposals, provided they are based on ending aggression and complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
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