Israeli forces have issued a mass evacuation order for Palestinians from much of Khan Younis, indicating preparations for a potential new ground assault in the Gaza Strip's second-largest city. This move suggests that Israel intends to target areas where Hamas militants are regrouping following previous military engagements. Khan Younis had already endured significant destruction earlier in the year, prompting many residents to return despite ongoing conflict in nearby Rafah.
Simultaneously, Israel released Mohammed Abu Selmia, the director of what was formerly Gaza's largest hospital, after holding him for seven months without charge. Israel alleged the hospital was used as a Hamas command center, a claim denied by Abu Selmia and Palestinian health officials. His release has sparked controversy within Israel, with accusations of a flawed detainment process and concerns over Israel's military operations in Gaza, which have included raids on medical facilities under similar allegations.
The evacuation order in Khan Younis underscores the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where tens of thousands of Palestinians have been displaced multiple times amid Israeli military operations. The situation has exacerbated fears of famine and hindered humanitarian aid delivery, prompting international calls for a ceasefire and renewed diplomatic efforts to address the conflict's root causes.
