The ongoing conflict between Israeli forces and Hamas in the Gaza Strip has reached a new level of intensity, with at least 50 Palestinians killed in aerial and ground bombardments across the region. The violence has escalated to include close combat in the city of Rafah, putting civilians at risk and causing a mass exodus from the area.
Israeli tanks have advanced in Rafah, with reports of explosions and black smoke rising from invaded areas. The situation has become increasingly dire, with hundreds of thousands of Palestinians fleeing their homes and the main access routes for aid being cut off, raising fears of famine.
![Rafah](https://www.aljazeera.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/AFP__20240522__34TG7HN__v3__HighRes__PalestinianIsraelConflict-1716382426.jpg?w=770&resize=770%2C513)
The international community, including the United States, has warned against further Israeli incursions into Rafah without a clear plan to protect civilians. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency estimates that over 800,000 people have already fled the city, leaving many stranded in dire conditions.
‘Desperation and hunger will spread’
In northern Gaza, Israeli forces have intensified their ground offensive, causing further destruction and loss of life. The situation in Gaza City is particularly dire, with air strikes killing dozens of civilians, including children, and leaving hospitals without essential supplies.
![Nuseirat](https://www.aljazeera.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/AFP__20240523__34TP3HH__v1__HighRes__PalestinianIsraelConflict-1716455160.jpg?w=770&resize=770%2C513)
The UN has issued warnings about the escalating humanitarian crisis, with the closure of vital crossings preventing the delivery of life-saving supplies. Hospitals in Gaza are running out of fuel and medicine, putting the lives of patients at risk.
The Israeli military has also suffered losses, with three soldiers killed in recent fighting. The death toll on both sides continues to rise, with no clear end in sight to the conflict.
The tragic escalation of violence in Gaza serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for peace and humanitarian intervention. The world must not turn a blind eye to the suffering of innocent civilians caught in the crossfire of this devastating conflict.