Gaza City – Israeli military operations have escalated across the Gaza Strip, with airstrikes reported in Rafah and shelling in central Gaza, worsening an already dire humanitarian crisis.
Palestinian media confirmed that Israeli aircraft launched multiple raids on Rafah, the southernmost city bordering Egypt, while artillery fire targeted neighbourhoods in central Gaza. Gunfire was also reported north of Rafah, adding to the intensity of the assault.
The Gaza Government Media Office stated that Israeli forces have killed at least 385 Palestinians and injured more than 1,000 since the ceasefire agreement of 10 October, which has been repeatedly violated.
The violence coincides with the aftermath of Storm Byron, which battered Gaza with heavy rains and freezing temperatures.
Civil Defence officials reported that two war-damaged buildings collapsed on 12 December, killing 12 civilians. Aid workers warn that tents housing displaced families are flooding, leaving thousands exposed to cold and disease.
Hospitals are struggling to cope with the influx of casualties. Gaza’s Health Ministry has warned that facilities are overwhelmed, with shortages of medicine, equipment, and staff.
Munir al-Bursh, head of the ministry, said: “Low temperatures are ravaging displaced families, and our hospitals cannot meet the growing demand for urgent care”.
The United Nations has described the situation as catastrophic. UN human rights chief Volker Türk rejected Israeli claims of establishing new “security lines” inside Gaza, stressing that international law requires respect for the enclave’s territorial integrity.
Humanitarian agencies, including UNRWA, continue to provide emergency relief, supplying water and waste disposal services, but warn that aid is insufficient given the scale of destruction.
Observers note that the escalation in Rafah is particularly alarming, as the city serves as a critical entry point for humanitarian supplies. Analysts argue that the strikes risk further isolating Gaza and deepening the crisis for civilians already enduring displacement, hunger, and disease.
Sources: The Muslim News, The New Arab, WAFA, UN News, UNRWA
