Tanks from Israel encircle Gaza City in preparation for ground invasion, while EU contemplates sanctions in response; this move amidst international uproar.
Gaza City, a bustling metropolis with an estimated population of one million inhabitants, finds itself at the heart of a volatile situation. Over the past 24 hours, the city has been under intense bombardment as Israel announced plans for a ground incursion into its largest urban area.
The Palestinian health ministry has reported that 98 people were killed across Gaza in the past day, with many of these casualties occurring in Gaza City. The city's only specialist hospital for children, Al-Rantisi Children's Hospital, has been hit three times, adding to the sense of urgency and concern.
Satellite imagery shows tanks have advanced towards Gaza City from previous positions, but have not yet entered the city itself. Israeli tanks and troops are stationed on the edge of Gaza City, with armored vehicles moving about two kilometers (1.2 miles) from the direction of the Zikim Crossing on Gaza's northern border with Israel.
The Israeli military has continued strikes against 'Hamas positions' in Gaza City, including a weapons production facility. The Israeli Defense Forces have also announced a new route for civilians to leave Gaza City, open for 48 hours only. However, it remains unclear where the tens of thousands of Palestinians who have already left the city are heading.
International condemnation of the Israeli operation in Gaza City has been swift and widespread. Countries such as Egypt, Qatar, and Iran, as well as Saudi Arabia and Canada, have all issued strong statements condemning the Israeli offensive. The UN General Assembly has also condemned Israeli attacks on civilians and infrastructure in Gaza, with Germany's Foreign Minister joining in the criticism of Israel's military actions.
Perhaps most significantly, an independent UN inquiry concluded that Israel has committed genocide. This assertion has also been echoed by the International Association of Genocide Scholars, adding weight to the growing international outcry.
The Chinese foreign ministry has also strongly opposed the Israeli operation in Gaza City and urged Israel to halt its military operations. The European Commission has proposed new trade sanctions targeting Israel and far-right Israeli ministers in response to the ongoing campaign.
Emergency departments in Gaza City's hospitals are overwhelmed with casualties and working with severely depleted stocks of essential medicines and supplies. As the situation in Gaza City continues to escalate, the international community watches with bated breath, hoping for a peaceful resolution to this complex and volatile conflict.
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