Israel Expands Military Operations in Gaza; 17 Killed in Khan Younis Airstrikes
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has announced that military operations in the Gaza Strip are expanding to secure larger areas, which will be incorporated into Israel’s security zones. Meanwhile, overnight airstrikes in Khan Younis resulted in 17 casualties.
On Wednesday, Katz stated that the ongoing military offensive in Palestinian territories aims to dismantle terrorist networks and their infrastructure. He emphasized that the newly captured areas will bolster Israel’s security. According to Nasser Hospital officials, 17 people lost their lives in the airstrikes on Khan Younis.
Katz highlighted that Israel’s security perimeter extends along the northern and eastern borders of Gaza and has played a crucial role in national defense for decades, ensuring the safety of Israeli citizens in the region.
Call for Gazans to Expel Hamas
Katz urged Gazan residents to remove Hamas, which continues to hold 59 hostages. Reports indicate that 24 of them are believed to be alive, while the rest have been released through ceasefire agreements and negotiations. Katz reiterated Israel’s demand for the return of all remaining hostages.
Casualties from Khan Younis Airstrikes
Overnight airstrikes in Khan Younis killed 17 people. Nasser Hospital received 12 bodies, including five women and two children. One of the deceased women was pregnant. Additionally, three men from a single family and a homeowner were among the victims. The Gaza European Hospital reported five more fatalities from two separate airstrikes.
UN Warns of Worsening Food Crisis in Gaza
The United Nations dismissed Israel’s claim that food supplies in Gaza remain adequate, calling the situation dire. UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric stated that the World Food Program (WFP) has been forced to shut down all 25 of its bakeries in Gaza due to a lack of cooking fuel. He also pointed out that Israel closed all border crossings a month ago, halting humanitarian aid deliveries.
