Gaza Residents Desperate for End to Attacks as Israel Continues Offensive
TEHRAN (Tasnim) - Exhausted and yearning for respite, residents in Gaza plead for the cessation of relentless attacks by Israel's military, marking a harrowing period of displacement, destruction, and loss in the region.
In the southern border city of Rafah, Um Louay Abu Khater, aged 49, expressed the weariness felt by many, stating, "Enough with this war! We are constantly displaced from one place to another in cold weather." She highlighted the incessant bombing that torments their lives, juxtaposed against the anticipation of New Year's Eve celebrations.
Ahmed al-Baz, 33, described 2023 as the worst year of his life, a time marred by destruction and peril. "We just want the war to end and start the new year at our homes, with a ceasefire declared," he pleaded, echoing the collective sentiment of the community.
Youssef Ahras, 27, emphasized the urgent need for cessation of Israeli bloodshed, citing the unbearable toll exacted by the ongoing conflict.
The Sheikh Radwan neighborhood in northern Gaza, besieged by Israeli forces, witnessed extensive damage to homes and vital infrastructure, forcing residents to venture out in search of basic necessities like food and water amid the relentless assault.
Al Quds journalist Jabr Abu Hadros and six family members became victims of an Israeli bombing targeting their house in Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, underscoring the grave toll on civilians, including members of the press.
Amid escalating hostilities, Israeli forces intensified bombardments in areas like Jabalia and Jalazone refugee camps, facing strong resistance from Palestinian fighters and leading to the arrest of multiple individuals.
An Al Jazeera correspondent has confirmed that Israeli forces are firing heavy artillery shells east of the Rafah border crossing in southern Gaza.
The ongoing Israeli war has triggered a growing sense of fear among the Palestinian population, particularly in refugee camps, particularly in the eastern part of the central area of the Gaza Strip.
The Israeli military announced the increase of invading forces with some 30,000 more soldiers on the ground. It’s an attempt to expand the operations of Khan Younis, this time coming from Khuza’a, in eastern Gaza, all the way to the southern part of Khan Younis.
Basem Naim, head of Hamas International Relations, condemned the international community for failing to stop the “genocidal war” in Gaza that has killed more than 21,000 people.
