Israeli forces launched an attack on southern Gaza’s main city on Monday following a rocket attack claimed by the militant group Islamic Jihad, amidst continued shelling and fighting across the besieged Palestinian territory.
Meanwhile, a group of Palestinian detainees returned to Gaza, including the director of its largest hospital who spoke of “severe torture” experienced in Israeli custody.
The Israeli military reported around “20 projectiles crossing from the area of Khan Yunis” in a rare barrage after almost nine months of intense conflict.
The rockets were aimed at Israeli communities near the Gaza border in retaliation for what the Al-Quds Brigades, the armed wing of Islamic Jihad, referred to as Israeli “crimes against our Palestinian people”.
Most of the rockets were intercepted, with no casualties reported by the Israeli military. Artillery was used to target the sources of the rocket fire.
In other areas of Gaza, witnesses and the civil defence agency reported Israeli air strikes, including in southern Rafah and the central Nuseirat refugee camp.
Witnesses observed continuous Israeli tank fire in Gaza City’s Shujaiya district, where battles have been ongoing for five days. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged the “difficult fight” Israeli forces were engaged in.
The military stated that they had “eliminated numerous terrorists” in operations in Shujaiya, with air strikes leading to the death of “approximately 20” militants.
Israeli forces were also active in Rafah and central Gaza, according to a statement.
– ‘Torture’ –
Netanyahu mentioned that the “intense phase” of the war was drawing to a close, highlighting the operations being conducted in Gaza.
The conflict began with Hamas’s attack on southern Israel, resulting in numerous casualties and hostages. The retaliatory actions by Israel have also had a significant impact.
Efforts towards a truce and hostage release have faced challenges, with little progress made so far.
Mohammed Abu Salmiya, director of Al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City, was among the detainees released on Monday for treatment in Gaza.
Israel has accused Hamas of using hospitals in Gaza for military purposes, allegations that have been denied by the militants.
Abu Salmiya spoke of the torture he endured during his detention and highlighted the conditions faced by prisoners in Israeli custody.
Medical facilities and resources in Gaza have been severely affected by the conflict, with concerns raised over the humanitarian crisis and health risks faced by the population.
– Health risks –
Reports of increasing skin infections, particularly among children, due to lack of clean water and proper hygiene in displacement camps highlight the dire situation in Gaza.
The ongoing conflict has also led to tensions along Israel’s northern border with Lebanon, with clashes reported between the Israeli army and Hezbollah.
The situation in Gaza remains critical, with challenges related to access to clean water, healthcare, and basic hygiene products.
Efforts to address the humanitarian crisis and ensure the well-being of the population in Gaza continue amidst the conflict.
