In a recent escalation of hostilities, clashes between Israel and militants, including Hamas and Islamic Jihad, have intensified in both northern and southern Gaza. The conflict reached a peak overnight, marking some of the fiercest exchanges in months, according to reports from both sides on Wednesday.
Israeli forces advanced into densely populated neighborhoods and narrow streets of Jabalia, a stronghold for militants in the northeast. Residents reported heavy resistance as the army targeted clusters of homes, marking an unprecedented invasion into these areas.
The armed faction of Hamas's ally, Islamic Jihad, claimed to have inflicted casualties on Israeli foot soldiers during intense clashes in eastern Jabalia. Jabalia is the largest among Gaza's eight refugee camps, established after the 1948 Middle East Arab-Israeli war.
Abu Jehad, a resident of Jabalia, expressed concern over the situation, stating, "The invaders are trying to destroy the camp. They are bombing houses with people still inside. Many families are trapped in their homes."
The Israeli military announced an operation overnight targeting "terrorist operatives and infrastructure" in the heart of Jabalia.
The escalation in violence comes amid heightened tensions in the region, with both sides exchanging rocket fire and airstrikes in recent days. The latest clashes threaten to further destabilize the already volatile situation in Gaza and raise concerns about the potential for a wider conflict. International efforts to broker a ceasefire have so far been unsuccessful, as both Israel and Palestinian factions remain entrenched in their positions. The situation remains fluid, with fears of further casualties and civilian displacement mounting as the violence continues.
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