Gaza, Dec 23 (NationPress) More than 50 Palestinians have been reported as either killed or injured during an Israeli military operation in the Nuseirat refugee camp located in the central Gaza Strip, according to information from the Hamas-operated media office on Monday.

The media office characterized the actions of the Israeli army as a 'horrific, brutal crime', alleging that the camp was invaded by more than 17 tanks, bulldozers, military vehicles, and numerous heavily armed soldiers, with drone support.

The report indicated that the casualties were predominantly civilians, with more than half being women and children. Additionally, it noted that over 20 residential units were destroyed, suffering extensive damage from shelling and explosions.

The government in Gaza has held both the Israeli military and the US administration accountable for the continuation of these actions, appealing to the international community to step in, halt the 'blatant crimes', and ensure the safeguarding of civilians and infrastructure.

As of now, the Israeli army has not made any statements regarding the incident, as reported by Xinhua news agency.

In the meantime, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) has called for an immediate ceasefire, stating that it is 'long overdue.'

In a statement, the UN agency condemned the persistent violations of wartime laws, emphasizing that time has been squandered in addressing the humanitarian crisis. It urged for an immediate ceasefire to allow respite for civilians and the release of hostages.

UNRWA also highlighted the increase in violence over the past 24 hours, noting a rise in civilian deaths and injuries. Attacks on schools and hospitals have become 'commonplace', the agency remarked, calling on the international community to take action and not remain 'indifferent.'

Since October 7, 2023, Israel has been engaged in a large-scale military campaign in Gaza, following a Hamas assault in southern Israel that resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 individuals and the taking of around 250 hostages.

The ongoing conflict has led to a dramatic increase in Palestinian casualties, with Gaza's health authorities reporting on Monday that the death toll has tragically reached 45,317.