The Israeli military operation in Khan Yunis has resulted in significant casualties and displacement, with recent reports indicating that approximately 170 people have been killed and hundreds more wounded since the operation began on Monday.
Mahmud Bassal, a spokesman for Gaza’s civil defense agency, confirmed the grim toll, stating, “Since the beginning of the Israeli military operation in the Khan Yunis area, we are talking of approximately 170 martyrs and hundreds of wounded.” The ongoing conflict has led to widespread displacement, with many residents forced to seek refuge in unsuitable conditions.
Bassal highlighted the dire situation faced by those displaced, noting, “Anyone who sees the situation in Khan Yunis will witness thousands of people spread out on the ground, on the roads, in areas that unfortunately are not suitable for living. With no other options available, they are exposing themselves to death.”
The United Nations reported that over 180,000 Palestinians have fled Khan Yunis since the operation’s inception. The humanitarian crisis has been exacerbated by new evacuation orders and intensified hostilities, which have severely impacted aid operations and led to “dire water, hygiene and sanitation conditions” throughout the Palestinian territory.
In addition to the casualties, the Israeli military has retrieved the bodies of five Israelis from Khan Yunis. These individuals were killed during Hamas attacks on October 7 and their bodies were reportedly taken to Gaza. The Israeli military has cited the need to halt rocket fire from the region as the primary reason for the operation, which has seen heavy fighting earlier this year.
On Saturday, the military issued further evacuation orders for residents in parts of Khan Yunis, advising them to relocate to an adjusted humanitarian zone in Al-Mawasi. This marks the second adjustment to the safe zone within a week.
Sources By Agencies
