Did the Israeli Army Claim the Lives of 21 Palestinians in Gaza?
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Synopsis
In a grave escalation of violence, Israeli airstrikes resulted in the deaths of 21 Palestinians in Gaza. As evacuation orders are issued amid ongoing military operations, the humanitarian crisis worsens. This article delves into the latest developments and the dire situation faced by civilians in the region.
Key Takeaways
- 21 Palestinians killed in recent Israeli airstrikes.
- Evacuation orders issued for multiple areas in Gaza.
- Humanitarian situation described as catastrophic.
- Israeli military operations intensifying amid ongoing conflict.
- Urgent calls for ceasefire and international intervention.
Gaza, June 29 (NationPress) On Sunday, a tragic event unfolded as Israeli airstrikes and gunfire resulted in the deaths of at least 21 Palestinians across the Gaza Strip, according to reports from Gaza's civil defence. This incident came as the Israeli army mandated the evacuation of extensive areas in Gaza City and the northern regions of the enclave amidst escalating military actions.
Mahmoud Basal, a spokesperson for Gaza's civil defence, stated that Israeli warplanes targeted residential homes and tents accommodating displaced individuals in various locations within the enclave, leading to the death of at least 17 individuals, including women and children. Numerous others sustained injuries, some critically, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Additionally, Basal informed Xinhua that four more Palestinians lost their lives while seeking food near a U.S.-backed aid distribution centre in the Shakoush area, located north of Rafah in southern Gaza.
As of now, there has been no immediate response from the Israeli army regarding these incidents.
Munir al-Bursh, the director general of Gaza's health authorities, noted to Xinhua on Sunday that the Israeli army has escalated its assaults over the last 24 hours, specifically targeting residential zones and shelter facilities.
"We are witnessing daily casualties and a deteriorating health crisis. Artillery fire is scattering crowds waiting for aid," al-Bursh remarked, pointing out that most injuries were to the head and chest.
Gaza's health authorities have issued warnings that the humanitarian and medical conditions have reached catastrophic levels due to an ongoing blockade that limits the entry of essential medical supplies.
Meanwhile, local sources informed Xinhua that Israeli artillery shelled the eastern and southern peripheries of Gaza City, as well as Jabalia in the north and Khan Younis in the south, amid intense clashes with Palestinian armed groups.
The military wing of Hamas, the Al-Qassam Brigades, announced on Sunday that its fighters targeted an Israeli D9 bulldozer with a Yasin 105 missile east of Khan Younis, igniting a fire.
The group further claimed to have shelled Israeli army positions in the Ma'an area using mortars.
On the same day, the Israeli army issued evacuation orders for residents in Jabalia and several neighborhoods of Gaza City, including al-Zaytoun, al-Tuffah, al-Daraj, and al-Sabra, advising civilians to relocate to the al-Mawasi area in southern Gaza. This directive stands as one of the most significant evacuation orders given in recent months.
Israeli army spokesperson Avichay Adraee, addressing Arabic media, cautioned that military operations would become more intense in these regions and extend westward towards the city center.
Following this warning, witnesses reported that numerous families evacuated their homes amidst heavy bombardment. Streets were crowded with civilians, many carrying their belongings on foot or in private vehicles, fleeing southward in search of safety.
On Sunday, Nabil Abu Rudeineh, spokesperson for the Palestinian presidency, highlighted the peril of what he labeled as the most significant displacement campaign in Gaza since the onset of the conflict.
He urged the United States to exert pressure on Israel to cease its operations and advocate for a ceasefire to avert further escalation.
Abu Rudeineh reaffirmed that any political initiative must ensure the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, including the establishment of an independent state with East Jerusalem as its capital based on the 1967 borders.
Since the resumption of intensive strikes by Israel on March 18, at least 6,175 Palestinians have been killed and 21,378 others injured, bringing the total death toll from October 2023 to 56,500, with injuries reaching 133,419, according to Gaza's health authorities as of Sunday.
Point of View
We recognize the profound tragedy unfolding in Gaza. The loss of life and the humanitarian crisis demand our attention and empathy. We stand firmly with the people of Gaza, advocating for urgent action to address their suffering and uphold their rights. It is critical that the international community intervenes to prevent further escalation and ensure peace.
NationPress
29/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the recent violence in Gaza?
The recent violence escalated following a series of Israeli airstrikes targeting residential areas and displacement shelters amid ongoing military operations.
How many casualties have resulted from the conflict?
As of now, over 6,175 Palestinians have been killed and 21,378 injured since the resurgence of Israeli strikes on March 18, with total casualties since October 2023 reaching 56,500.
What actions have been taken by the Israeli army?
The Israeli army has issued evacuation orders for several areas in Gaza City and intensified military operations, leading to increased casualties among civilians.
What is the current humanitarian situation in Gaza?
Gaza is experiencing a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, with health authorities warning of severe shortages of medical supplies and aid.
What is being done to address the violence?
Calls for a ceasefire and international pressure on Israel to halt its military operations are being made to protect civilians and prevent further escalation.
