After a series of intense Israeli attacks in the heart of the Gaza Strip, locals continue the grim task of searching for bodies buried beneath the rubble. As per the Hamas-affiliated Ministry of Health, a substantial number of casualties – both dead and injured – remain unaccounted for. Rumors circulating suggest over 70 individuals lost their lives in the Al-Maghasi refugee district due to air strikes, although this information remains unverified.
Videos from social media show a heart-wrenching sight – dozens of white body bags. The toll includes women and children, with reports of additional air strikes in the Al-Bureij refugee district as well.
Communication challenges hinder warnings
Despite warnings from the Israeli army to evacuate Al-Bureij and seek shelter in Deir al-Balah (approximately 6km south), many residents in the embattled coastal strip lack electricity and internet, rendering warnings useless. Additionally, attacks in areas considered "safe zones" have made it even more difficult for civilians to find safe havens.
There are no substantial civilian protections in Gaza
Devoid of shelters like bunkers, Gaza's civilian population has no real means of protection against such destructive attacks. Hamas, the governing political party in Gaza, does not allow for the creation of extensive underground tunnel systems for the protection of civilians.
The Israeli Army investigates, remains committed to international law
According to UN data, about 20,400 residents reside in Al-Maghasi, occupying an area of 0.6 square kilometers. In response to allegations of attacks in the neighborhood, the Israeli army has vowed to carry out an investigation, adhering to international law and taking measureable steps to mitigate harm to civilians.
Criticism and controversy surround the military operation
International condemnation has emerged in response to the high number of civilian casualties, resulting from the offensive. The Gaza war originated in the wake of the bloodiest terrorist attack in Israeli history, perpetrated by extremist groups including Hamas, on October 7.
Additional Insights
Citing the latest developments and international critiques in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza:
- Recent Attacks and Casualties:
- A devastating Israeli airstrike on December 24, 2023, in the Al-Maghazi refugee camp resulted in the loss of 68 lives, the majority being civilians. This event was denounced as a "massacre" by Hamas, with international organizations including Human Rights Watch (HRW) and the UN condemning the attacks as potential war crimes.
- International Reactions:
- Human Rights Watch (HRW): HRW criticized Israel for engaging in war crimes, including disproportionate use of force and targeting of civilian areas.
- United Nations (UN): The UN expressed concern about the attacks, potentially classified as war crimes, and reported a tragedy of 319 internally displaced persons being killed and 1,135 injured in UNRWA shelters.
- Global Organizations: The Save the Children Israel-Palestine director described the destruction of UN schools as "beyond unconscionable," highlighting the immense humanitarian crisis.
- Diplomatic Responses:
- Turkey: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan recalled their ambassador to Israel, holding Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu responsible for the civilian deaths.
- European Union (EU): The EU denounced Hamas for utilizing hospitals and civilians as "human shields," while also criticizing Israel for its actions.
- Ongoing Conflict and Ceasefire Efforts:
- The ceasefire, which took place on January 19, 2025, remains precarious, with concerns about continued violations and the need to halt Israel's arms exports, including F-35 fighter jets.
- Hamas demands the release of remaining captives and full Israeli withdrawal as a condition for a lasting ceasefire, which drives the complexity of the situation.
