Fear grips Khan Younis amid ongoing crisis in Gaza

New Delhi, Dec 10: Gaza's southern city of Khan Younis is gripped by an overwhelming cycle of fear as continuous shelling and fierce battles unfold, leaving residents uncertain about what the future holds.

The Palestinian Health Ministry emphasizes the absence of safe havens in the Gaza Strip, with Israeli strikes persisting and casualties mounting daily in the ongoing urban warfare, failed health service and structure and shortage of every essential commodity.

Israel's directive for residents to evacuate the city Centre aims to shield civilians from the intense fighting. The Israeli military chief has urged soldiers to intensify their efforts against Hamas, citing indications of the enemy's disintegration.

Reports suggest Israeli troops repeatedly advised approximately two million civilians to relocate to a designated "humanitarian zone" called al-Mawasi—an 8.5 sq km area situated along the Mediterranean. Al-Mawasi, characterised by sandy dunes and agricultural land, already shelters displaced Palestinians in tents.

Mark Regev, a senior adviser to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, emphasises the plea for civilian safety, urging residents of central Khan Younis to move to safer zones to avoid becoming casualties in the crossfire.

While there are reports of some Hamas cadres and supporters surrendering to Israeli forces in northern Gaza, no official statements have been issued by Hamas or Palestinian agencies on the matter.

The conflict, initiated by Hamas nine weeks ago, has resulted in significant casualties and hostage situations, with intermittent truces facilitating the release of captives through Qatar-mediated negotiations.

Gaza officials claim over 17,700 casualties, due to Israel's retaliatory campaign. The UN and Qatar, acting as a mediator, vow to continue efforts to pressure both sides for a lasting ceasefire. Qatar's prime minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani, asserts ongoing negotiation efforts despite the narrowing chances for success amid Israeli bombardment.

UN Chief António Guterres expresses regret over the UN Security Council's failure to demand a Gaza ceasefire, citing severe damage to the organization's authority and credibility. Despite the US vetoing a resolution for an immediate ceasefire, Guterres pledges to persist in his efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.