Israeli forces intensified their military strikes on Gaza on Friday, with heavy fighting reported in Jabalia in the north and tanks advancing further into Rafah in the south. Medics confirmed at least five Palestinians were killed in Jabalia, with more feared trapped under rubble due to the intensity of the bombardment.
In Rafah, residents witnessed explosions and smoke rising in the distance as tanks pushed into the eastern district of Jneina. The escalating Israeli assault has forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee, leaving behind one of the few remaining places of refuge.
Meanwhile, judges at the U.N.’s top court were set to rule on South Africa’s request to order Israel to halt its offensive in Rafah and withdraw from Gaza, as part of a broader case accusing Israel of genocide. Israel launched its assault in response to a Hamas-led attack on southern Israeli communities that resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people and the seizure of over 250 hostages.
The Israeli military announced the recovery of three hostages’ bodies in Jabalia, emphasizing their commitment to bringing back the remaining hostages and destroying Hamas. The ongoing conflict has led to a new exodus of Palestinians fleeing their homes, raising concerns about access to aid and the risk of famine.
As tanks continue to destroy property in Jabalia and cut off access to medical facilities, the situation in Gaza remains dire. The return of Israeli forces to the area has sparked intense fighting, with residents and medics struggling to cope with the escalating violence.