Dozens killed, thousands flee refugee camps in escalating violence in Gaza

New Delhi, Dec 29: The United Nations reports that approximately 150,000 Palestinians are compelled to evacuate central Gaza as Israeli forces advance on refugee camps, with tanks reportedly reaching the eastern outskirts of Bureij camp. Israel's military has expanded its ground offensive, targeting Bureij, Nuseirat, and Maghazi camps, resulting in dozens of casualties across Gaza, according to the Gaza health ministry.

Israeli authorities have called for the evacuation of a strip of land spanning central Gaza, including Bureij and Nuseirat camps. Nearly 90,000 residents and 61,000 displaced individuals in these areas are instructed to move southwards to the town of Deir al-Balah. However, the UN warns that overcrowding in Deir al-Balah leaves evacuees with nowhere to go.

Rafah, already the most densely populated town in Gaza, has witnessed approximately 100,000 new arrivals in recent days as Israeli ground forces push into new neighbourhoods. Tom White, Gaza director for UN relief agency UNRWA, notes the increasing strain on the southern Gaza town, stating that more people are being pushed into a small strip of land unable to support them adequately.

Egypt meanwhile has presented a three-stage proposal to halt the fighting, culminating in a ceasefire. A Hamas delegation is reported to have arrived in Cairo to respond to the plan.

Over 21,300 people have lost their lives in Gaza during the 11 weeks of fighting, according to the health ministry. The situation remains dire, with ongoing efforts to bring about a cessation of hostilities and address the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region.