Israeli tanks advanced into northern parts of Khan Younis in southern Gaza on December 4, following new evacuation orders from the Israeli military. Palestinian medics reported that Israeli air strikes killed at least 20 people across the enclave.
Tanks reportedly moved in a day after Israel cited rocket launches from the area. Shelling near residential zones forced families to flee towards Al-Mawasi, a humanitarian-designated area.
Medics confirmed 11 deaths, including six children and a medic, from air strikes in central Gaza, with five victims reportedly killed while queuing at a bakery. Nine more Palestinians were killed by tank fire in Rafah, near Egypt’s border.
Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahiya, said Israeli forces fired on the hospital for the fifth consecutive day, injuring three medical staff members, one critically. He described the situation as “extremely urgent” amid continued drone attacks.
Residents in towns like Jabalia and Beit Lahiya reported the destruction of dozens of houses, with Palestinians accusing Israel of forcing evacuations to create a buffer zone. Israel denies the claims, asserting the operations aim to prevent Hamas fighters from regrouping.
The offensive follows Hamas-led attacks on October 7, 2023, which killed 1,200 Israelis and saw more than 250 hostages taken. Since then, over 44,400 Palestinians have died, and much of Gaza lies in ruins.
Meanwhile, a ceasefire agreement last week ended clashes between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, but the Gaza conflict continues unabated.