By Rédaction Africa Links 24 with sabcnews.com
Published on 2024-01-20 06:36:37
The Palestinian Red Crescent has accused Israel of firing on a hospital in Khan Younis, creating further damage to healthcare facilities in the Gaza Strip. The Red Crescent reported that displaced individuals were injured during intense gunfire from Israeli drones targeting the Al-Amal Hospital and the rescue agency’s base. Although the military stated that they were looking into the report, Israeli officials have accused Hamas fighters of conducting operations from hospitals, specifically Nasser, despite denials from hospital staff.
The situation in Gaza has caused over 1.7 million people, comprising 75% of the population, to be displaced, many seeking refuge in makeshift tent camps that leave them vulnerable to the elements and disease. One such story is that of Mohammed al-Ghandour, who was able to marry his bride in a tent city in Rafah near the Egyptian border after being forced to flee their home in Gaza City.
Meanwhile, Israeli President Isaac Herzog portrayed the offensive as a step toward peaceful relations with the Palestinians during an appearance at the World Economic Forum in Davos. The offensive continued in the north, where Israeli strikes in Gaza City and the central Gaza Strip killed several Palestinians.
Despite efforts by Washington to intercede, Israel has vowed to continue fighting until Hamas is eradicated. This has created tension among US Democrats, with dozens urging the administration to oppose the forced and permanent displacement of Palestinians from Gaza.
The hostage situation has also escalated, with around 253 individuals taken captive by Hamas. A cabinet minister and former Israeli military chief stated that a deal would be necessary for the hostages to be safely released. Al-Nasser Salah al-Deen Brigades, a Gaza-based militant group aligned with Hamas, released a video showing a wounded hostage being operated on and urging Israeli leadership to reach a settlement. In response, the Russian foreign ministry met with Hamas, emphasizing the importance of reaching a ceasefire and securing the release of the hostages, including three Russian nationals.
The escalation between Israel and Hamas has not shown any signs of abating, leading to growing concern for the civilian population and the need for diplomatic intervention.
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