Deepshikha Maan, Jadetimes Staff
D. Maan is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Asia
Israeli Shelling Strikes Food Distribution Center in Gaza
At least 10 people were killed on Monday when Israeli artillery fire hit a food distribution center located in Jabalia refugee camp in northern Gaza. The incident occurred as Israeli tanks and ground forces continued their offensive in the region, according to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). The agency reported that the shells struck both inside and outside the distribution center while people were waiting to receive food aid.
Israeli Military Reviews the Incident
The Israeli military stated that it was reviewing the circumstances surrounding the shelling, reiterating that it only targets terrorist operations. The offensive in Jabalia and nearby northern areas was launched as part of Israel's broader strategy to eliminate Hamas fighters, who are believed to have regrouped in the area following an earlier attack.
Humanitarian Impact and Evacuations
The conflict has caused widespread destruction and forced the displacement of more than 50,000 people from the Jabalia area, while many others remain trapped in their homes amidst the ongoing bombardment. Humanitarian operations, including access to essential services like water, medical points, and food supplies, have been severely affected. The UN has raised concerns over the closure of vital facilities, with humanitarian aid deliveries halted since the beginning of October due to border closures.
Israel Calls for Evacuation; Civilians Fear Displacement
Israel has urged civilians in northern Gaza, particularly those in Jabalia, to move to designated "humanitarian zones" in southern Gaza to avoid the military operations. However, many Palestinians are reluctant to leave, fearing they may not be allowed to return to their homes. This has further fueled suspicions that Israel aims to fully evacuate northern Gaza as part of a plan to isolate Hamas fighters until they release Israeli hostages.
Airstrikes Continue Amid Humanitarian Crisis
On the same day, Israeli airstrikes targeted a camp for displaced people near al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah, resulting in four deaths. The Israeli military reported that the strike was aimed at a Hamas command center, which caused secondary explosions in the hospital's parking lot. Although there was damage, the hospital remained functional.
Strain on Gaza's Healthcare and Humanitarian Efforts
Amid the escalating conflict, healthcare facilities are struggling to cope with casualties. Tents providing shelter for displaced families have been destroyed, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Despite ongoing violence, the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF have begun a polio vaccination campaign for children under 10, though UN officials warn that strikes and military operations make it dangerous to deliver humanitarian aid.
Broader Conflict
The escalation in northern Gaza follows Israel’s military response to Hamas's unprecedented attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which left around 1,200 people dead and hundreds taken hostage. The conflict has since claimed the lives of more than 42,280 people in Gaza, according to the region's health ministry.
