Escalation in Gaza: Israeli Airstrikes Target Central Region, 17 Reported Dead
Palestinians walk through a damaged site amid the Israel-Hamas conflict, in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip November 27, 2024. REUTERS/Hussam Al-Masri
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas intensified as Israeli airstrikes targeted central Gaza on November 28, killing at least 17 people, including several children, and injuring dozens more. The strikes, described as among the most severe in recent weeks, come amid warnings of an expanded ground offensive and escalating humanitarian concerns.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that the airstrikes were aimed at Hamas military positions but acknowledged the high civilian toll in densely populated areas. Bombardments hit key regions like Al-Nuseirat and Deir al-Balah, devastating residential buildings and displacing thousands of families. Many residents, already struggling with severe shortages of electricity, water, and medical supplies due to an ongoing blockade, have been left with nowhere to go.
The United Nations reported that Gaza is one of the most densely populated areas in the world, with over 2.2 million people crammed into just 365 square kilometres. Humanitarian groups warn that continued blockades and bombardments could lead to a catastrophic collapse of essential services. Nearly 63% of Gaza’s population faces acute food insecurity, and dwindling fuel supplies have further limited electricity availability to a few hours per day, exacerbating communication blackouts. Reuters | Reuters.
The Israeli government defended its actions, citing the necessity of dismantling Hamas’ operational capacity following the October 7 attack that killed hundreds of Israelis. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged Gaza residents to evacuate, but many questioned where they could safely go amidst the destruction. Reuters.
The conflict in Gaza shows no signs of de-escalation, with rising civilian casualties and worsening humanitarian conditions. As international calls for a ceasefire grow louder, the region’s future remains uncertain. Both sides face mounting pressure to navigate a path toward peace, but the immediate focus for many in Gaza is simply survival.
