Tightened Israeli blockade on Gaza City prompts Red Cross caution against forced evacuation.
In the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza, concerns are mounting as the Israeli government's decision to occupy Gaza raises fears of potential execution of hostages and soldiers. Einav Zangauker, mother of hostage Matan Zangauker, expressed her apprehension about the repercussions of this decision.
At a rally in Tel Aviv, families of captives issued a warning, stating that the impending offensive could endanger their lives. The United Nations considers the health ministry figures from Hamas-run Gaza as reliable, and since dawn, Israeli attacks in Gaza have resulted in the death of 66 people.
The Israeli army claims to have struck a key Hamas terrorist in Gaza City, but the situation remains volatile. The state of shelter, health care, and nutrition in Gaza makes evacuation infeasible and incomprehensible under the present circumstances.
In a recent development, the remains of the second hostage, Idan Shtivi, have been identified by the Israeli prime minister's office. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum campaign group considers the return of Idan Shtivi's body as fulfilling Israel's obligation to its citizens.
However, as of now, 47 hostages are still being held in Gaza, around 20 of whom are believed to be alive. Two Israeli soldiers have been wounded by an explosive device during combat in the northern Gaza Strip.
The Israeli defense ministry body, COGAT, is preparing "for moving the population southward for their protection." Yet, the International Committee of the Red Cross President has stated that a mass evacuation of Gaza City would be unsafe and undignified under the current conditions.
The Red Cross has also warned that any Israeli attempt to evacuate Gaza City could put residents at risk. Israel is under pressure to end its offensive in Gaza, where the majority of the population has been displaced at least once, and the United Nations has declared a famine.
Despite calls for an end to the war, Israel is preparing for an operation to seize Gaza's largest city and relocate its inhabitants. The Israeli army's goal regarding the evacuation of Gaza City residents is to have them leave the northern parts of the Gaza Strip, particularly Gaza City, and move south toward designated areas where tents and shelters are being established.
However, the Israeli military has declared Gaza City a "dangerous combat zone," without the daily pauses in fighting that have allowed limited food deliveries elsewhere. The October 2022 attack by Hamas resulted in the deaths of 1,219 people, mostly civilians.
Hamas agreed to a framework for a truce and hostage release deal in early August, but Israel has yet to respond officially. The October 2022 attack by Hamas and the ongoing conflict have left a significant impact on the lives of the people in Gaza, with the state of shelter, health care, and nutrition making evacuation and survival a daunting task.
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