Gaza Ministry Reports Dozens Killed After Israeli Evacuation Order

AFP/APP

Gaza: The Gaza health ministry, controlled by Hamas, reported that an Israeli military operation in Khan Yunis resulted in the deaths of 70 people and injuries to over 200. This follows an evacuation order issued by Israel, which warned of a “forceful operation” in the area.

The evacuation affected the eastern sector of Khan Yunis in the Al-Mawasi humanitarian zone. Thousands of Palestinians fled the area. Israel’s military stated the operation aimed to curb rocket fire from the region. Khan Yunis had previously experienced significant fighting earlier in the year.

This incident comes nine days after a reported Israeli strike in Al-Mawasi killed 92 people, which Israel said targeted a Hamas commander. Israel has pledged to destroy Hamas and has intensified its military actions in areas previously deemed free of militants.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived in Washington on Monday for meetings with US President Joe Biden and to address the US Congress. Biden has been advocating for a ceasefire, more than nine months into the Gaza conflict that began with Hamas’s attacks on Israel on October 7.

The evacuation order for Al-Mawasi comes two months after the military had advised Palestinians to move there for their safety. The Gaza health ministry described the situation as dire, with widespread displacement and suffering. Palestinians have been fleeing in various forms of transportation, carrying whatever belongings they could.

The October 7 Hamas attack on southern Israel resulted in the deaths of 1,197 people, mostly civilians, and the capture of 251 hostages, with 116 still in Gaza. Israel’s retaliation has led to the deaths of over 39,000 people in Gaza, mostly civilians, according to Gaza’s health ministry.

The conflict has caused a severe humanitarian crisis, with many displaced individuals finding no refuge. Negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage-prisoner exchange have seen little progress. Netanyahu’s visit to Washington comes amid strained relations with the US and increased regional tensions, including recent attacks on Yemen and ongoing clashes with Hezbollah in Lebanon.

An Israeli delegation is scheduled to visit Doha on Thursday to discuss a potential truce and hostage exchange, with efforts led by Egypt, Qatar, and the US.