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Israeli Military Orders Evacuation in Gaza as Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
The Israeli military ordered an evacuation in Gaza's humanitarian zone for an operation against Hamas, as the conflict's toll surpasses 39,000 Palestinian deaths.
Gaza, August 14, 2022 (Photo by Mohammed Ibrahim)
DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip — The Israeli military has ordered the evacuation of part of a crowded humanitarian zone in the Gaza Strip, preparing for an operation against Hamas militants entrenched in the area. The evacuation affects thousands of Palestinians, who, carrying their belongings and children, navigate through harsh conditions as they search for safety amid ongoing Israeli air and ground attacks.
The designated humanitarian zone, encompassing the eastern part of the Muwasi area in southern Gaza, is home to a large portion of Gaza's 2.3 million residents. Israeli forces claim the area is used by Hamas to launch rockets into Israel. The region is currently overwhelmed with tent camps lacking basic sanitation and medical facilities, with residents living among trash and contaminated water.
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The Health Ministry in Gaza reports that the nine-month war with Hamas has resulted in over 39,000 Palestinian deaths and nearly 90,000 injuries. The conflict, ignited by a Hamas assault on Israel on October 7, has also seen around 250 hostages taken, with approximately 120 still in captivity.
As negotiations for a cease-fire and hostage release progress, U.S. and Israeli officials are hopeful for an agreement. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who departed for a meeting with President Joe Biden, has expressed his commitment to strengthening U.S.-Israel ties and securing additional support.
The Israeli military continues operations in Gaza, with recent strikes resulting in at least 38 deaths in Khan Younis and additional casualties in Deir-Al-Balah. Two Israeli hostages, Yagev Buchshtab and Alex Dancyg, were reported dead based on intelligence.
Additionally, Israeli police reported the death of a Canadian citizen who threatened security forces near the Gaza border. The man was shot after approaching with a knife, and there were no other injuries.
The United Nations has condemned an Israeli attack on a U.N. humanitarian convoy, claiming that Israeli forces fired at the convoy near a military checkpoint. The Israeli military has not yet responded to the accusation.
