The Israeli military has ordered additional evacuations in southern Gaza following a deadly airstrike on a school-turned-shelter in the north that resulted in the deaths of at least 80 Palestinians, as reported by local health authorities. Israel stated that the target was a militant command post, resulting in the deaths of at least 19 fighters.
Israel has been issuing mass evacuation orders as its troops return to heavily damaged areas where they had previously engaged with Palestinian militants. The ongoing 10-month war has led to the displacement of the vast majority of Gaza's 2.3 million population, with many individuals being displaced multiple times.
Hundreds of thousands of people have sought refuge in overcrowded tent camps with limited public services or have taken shelter in schools, which have also come under attack. Palestinians express a sense of insecurity throughout the besieged territory.
The recent evacuation orders pertain to areas in Khan Younis, including a part of an Israeli-designated humanitarian zone from which rockets were reportedly fired. Israel accuses Hamas and other militants of using civilians as shields and launching attacks from residential areas.
Khan Younis, Gaza's second-largest city, has faced significant destruction during previous offensives. Tens of thousands of residents evacuated once again last week following a prior evacuation order.
Amid the chaos, families are seen leaving their homes and shelters, uncertain of where to seek safety. The continuous cycle of displacement has taken a toll on individuals like Amal Abu Yahia, a widow who has experienced four displacements, including the loss of her husband in an airstrike.
The conflict has resulted in a high death toll, with the Palestinian Health Ministry reporting nearly 40,000 casualties. Aid organizations are struggling to address the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, with warnings of a looming famine.
The war, which began with a breach by Hamas-led militants into Israel last year, has led to widespread devastation and ongoing efforts to secure a ceasefire and the release of hostages.
The recent strike on a school shelter in Gaza City has drawn international condemnation, with concerns raised about civilian casualties. Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages remain ongoing amidst escalating tensions in the region.
For more updates on the situation in Gaza, visit AP's coverage of the war in Gaza.
