Thousands of families are attempting to flee Gaza City as the Israeli military confirms it has begun ground operations that are part of its large-scale assault aimed at occupying the city.
Lina al-Maghrebi, 32, a mother of three from the city's Sheikh Radwan neighbourhood, said she had resisted leaving her home until an Israeli officer ordered her to evacuate. I was forced to sell my jewellery to cover the cost of displacement and a tent, she recounted. It took her family 10 hours to reach Khan Younis, paying 3,500 shekels (£735) for the ride amidst endless lines of cars and trucks.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that a powerful operation had been launched in Gaza City, identifying it as a stronghold for Hamas. The military designated al-Rashid coastal road as the only route for civilians, leading to severe congestion and long delays while airstrikes continue overhead.
The operation has garnered international condemnation, with notable criticisms from UN officials and various global leaders. UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper termed the offensive as utterly reckless and appalling, warning that it risks exacerbating the conflict and harming civilians.
In stark contrast, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio seemed to offer tacit backing for Israel's actions, suggesting that confrontation with groups like Hamas complicates efforts for a peaceful resolution.
The intensity of Israel's operations has coincided with a UN commission’s report alleging that Israel is committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, a claim Israel strongly denies.
As families flee, others remain behind, unable to afford the costs of displacement. Many residents describe the overnight airstrikes as insane, with one displaced individual detailing the chaos of fleeing while others are left behind due to financial constraints.
On the ground, the worsening humanitarian conditions compel families to make heartbreaking decisions, with countless individuals walking for miles in search of safety and stability.
For those who choose to leave their homes, it often means fleeing under harrowing circumstances, with many compelled to abandon belongings and the remnants of their lives.
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