Jabaliya Refugee Camp, Gaza – In a devastating turn of events, the Jabaliya refugee camp in Gaza has become the epicenter of intense Israeli airstrikes, resulting in a large-scale loss of civilian lives. Palestinian rescuers reported that 120 people were killed on Thursday in Israeli strikes on Gaza. Medical sources state that at least 143 Palestinians have been killed in attacks across Gaza since Thursday morning. One of the strikes killed civilians and wounded others in the Jabaliya refugee camp. The strikes have drawn international condemnation and renewed calls for an immediate ceasefire.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
The intensified hostilities in Gaza continue to exacerbate an already dire humanitarian crisis. Israel issued further displacement orders affecting thousands of residents in Deir Al-Balah and Khan Younis. Approximately 71% of the Gaza Strip is now under displacement orders or within Israeli-militarized zones, severely complicating humanitarian access. Airstrikes have also struck school-turned-shelters run by UNRWA, further endangering vulnerable civilians. Humanitarian partners report soaring malnutrition levels among children, painting a grim picture of the unfolding catastrophe.
Diplomatic Efforts and Reactions
Egypt has condemned the ongoing Israeli attacks on Gaza and is urging intervention to halt the violence. Hamas has stated that the restoration of humanitarian assistance is the “minimum requirement” for talks, indicating the critical need for aid amid the devastation. The international community is grappling with how to address the escalating conflict and prevent further loss of life.
Rocket Attacks and IDF Response
The IDF issued an evacuation warning for Palestinians in the Jabalia area following rocket fire from northern Gaza at Sderot and Ashkelon. The Palestinian Islamic Jihad group claimed responsibility for the rocket attacks, stating it was in response to “Zionist massacres.” This exchange of fire underscores the volatile and complex nature of the conflict, where both sides are engaged in actions that perpetuate the cycle of violence.
Historical Context
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is rooted in policies from the time of the League of Nations. Key events include the British Mandate after World War I, the UN partition plan in 1947, the establishment of Israel in 1948, and the subsequent displacement of a large portion of the Palestinian population. The 1967 war led to Israel’s occupation of the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
Conclusion
The airstrikes on Jabaliya refugee camp represent a tragic escalation in the ongoing conflict, with devastating consequences for the civilian population. The international community faces mounting pressure to intervene and find a sustainable solution that addresses the underlying causes of the conflict and ensures the safety and security of all those affected.