The Israeli military has launched airstrikes on cities, towns, and refugee camps, resulting in up to 80 deaths and causing thousands of people to flee. At least 20 Palestinians, including women and children, were killed when an Israeli strike hit a residential building near Kuwait Specialty Hospital in Rafah. The Gaza Strip has been heavily bombarded, with more than 50 people killed, and over 200 deaths reported in 24 hours. Many Palestinians have been displaced and wounded.
Israel’s assault on Gaza has been devastating, drawing accusations of collective punishment against civilians. The Israeli official blamed the high death toll in the Christmas Eve attack on the Maghazi refugee camp on improper munitions. The ongoing fighting has led to severe restrictions and shortages of food, fuel, water, and electricity, leaving many in Gaza starving.
Residents have expressed feeling unsafe and having nowhere to flee in southern Gaza. The United States has provided strong diplomatic and weapons support to Israel during the conflict. As Israel presses on with its offensive, displaced Palestinians continue to seek refuge in southern areas of Gaza.