The humanitarian crisis in Gaza City has intensified as thousands of residents flee the Zeitoun neighbourhood, where relentless Israeli airstrikes and shelling have created what local authorities describe as a “catastrophic” situation. According to Gaza’s civil defence agency, at least 40 Palestinians were killed in Israeli attacks on Saturday alone.
Israel has announced plans to forcibly displace over a million people from Gaza City to the south, despite widespread condemnation from the United Nations Security Council. Aid agencies will now be permitted to bring tents into Gaza, but humanitarian organisations warn this will do little to address the severe shortages of food, water, and shelter.
Mass Displacement in Gaza
The Zeitoun neighbourhood, home to nearly 50,000 people, has been devastated by six consecutive days of heavy bombardment. Survivors describe continuous explosions, demolished homes, and a lack of access to basic necessities. Local hospitals, operating at less than 20% capacity, are struggling to treat the injured due to severe shortages of medicine and supplies.
The UN reports that more than 1.9 million people—around 90% of Gaza’s population—have been displaced since the conflict escalated. Malnutrition is spreading rapidly, with over 251 deaths linked to starvation, including 108 children, according to the Gaza health ministry.
Protests in Israel
Meanwhile, inside Israel, a nationwide general strike has erupted in protest against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plan to occupy Gaza City. Families of hostages and protesters argue that expanding the war endangers Israeli captives held by Hamas. Demonstrations have blocked major roads and disrupted train services in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
Global Outcry
The international community, including the UK, EU, Australia, Canada, and Japan, has warned that “famine is unfolding before our eyes” in Gaza. Humanitarian organisations have expressed frustration, claiming they have been unable to deliver aid since early March due to restrictions at border crossings.
The conflict, triggered by Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack, which killed 1,200 Israelis and resulted in 251 hostages, has since claimed the lives of more than 61,000 Palestinians, according to figures verified by the UN.
