KHAN YOUNIS: Thousands of Palestinians are fleeing south on foot, carrying only what they can hold, after running out of essential supplies in the north, a United Nations agency said in a statement on Wednesday. This mass exodus follows Israeli troops’ operation deep inside Gaza City.
Over 70 percent of Gaza’s 2.3 million population have abandoned their homes due to the heavy Israeli bombardment, with an increasing number seeking refuge in the south. The situation in and around Gaza’s largest city has become increasingly desperate. The conflict has now entered its second month, with no signs of resolution.
Israel has stated that its mission is to end Hamas’ rule and dismantle its military capabilities, vowing a long and difficult campaign in Gaza. The Israeli military has focused its efforts on Gaza City, which was home to around 650,000 people before the conflict erupted.
Severe Shortage of Water, Fuel and Food in Gaza
Despite Israeli evacuation orders, tens of thousands of Palestinians remain in the north, enduring severe shortages of water, fuel, and food. Hospitals in Gaza are running critically low on supplies, forcing medical professionals to perform surgeries, including surgeries, without anesthesia.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported that about 15,000 people fled northern Gaza on Tuesday alone, triple the number from the previous day. Most of those escaping are vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and people with disabilities. They are using Gaza’s main north-south highway.
Reports from residents indicate that those who stayed behind are struggling to survive. In some cases, women and children are going door to door, pleading for food. Shelters are relying on local donations to sustain the displaced population. With the blockade intensifying, residents are left with no water, electricity, or flour, forcing them to abandon their homes in search of basic necessities.
