Where will we go, say residents as Israel deepens its operation in Gaza City

Israeli forces intensified their operations in the Gaza Strip’s largest city on Monday, aiming to root out militants in an offensive that has displaced thousands of Palestinians.

The move is part of an ongoing nine-month conflict that has left the region in ruins.

The latest incursion targeted the eastern part of Gaza City, broadening Israel’s efforts in the northern regions of the embattled territory. Although Israel had claimed control of this area months ago, militant activity has persisted, undermining previous military gains and necessitating renewed operations. The Israeli military had previously ordered evacuations in the area, anticipating the raid.

Heavy fighting in the initial stages of the war had already forced most residents to flee Gaza City and its surroundings. The Israeli military has since restricted the return of displaced individuals. However, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians remain, living in damaged homes or makeshift shelters. The renewed clashes have caused further displacement among these residents. “We fled in the darkness amid heavy strikes,” said Sayeda Abdel-Baki, a mother of three, now seeking refuge at her relatives’ home in the Daraj neighbourhood. “This is my fifth displacement.”

Residents reported artillery and tank fire, as well as airstrikes. The Gaza Health Ministry, with limited access to northern Gaza, did not immediately report casualties. The Hamas-run Civil Defense also withheld casualty figures, citing the inaccessibility of the area due to ongoing fighting.