The half-year mark in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has been reached, leaving over 33,000 dead and millions injured in Gaza. Amidst the desolation, the Israeli forces have now withdrawn from the bloodied fields of southern Gaza. The recently surfaced images from the city of Khan Yunis post their withdrawal display a devastatingly altered landscape - every corner of the city lies in ruins, the horrors of destruction painfully evident.
The once bustling city of Khan Yunis has been reduced to rubble due to Israeli bombardment. Collapsed homes, disintegrated schools, hospitals, and stadiums - simply gone. Death lurks as piles of corpses are scattered amongst the fractured streets and bridges. After enduring six months of attacks, the city now silent, as Israeli troops have departed. Palestinians are returning to what's left of their homes, embarking anew amidst the wreckage, many unable to recognize their own dwellings.
Source: aajtak
With the Israeli military campaign complete in Khan Yunis, IDF has shifted focus to Rafah - the sole remaining area yet to feel the sting of Israel's military might. Rafah, cradling the border with Egypt, is refuge to over 1.3 million people - their fates uncertain should the IDF launch a ground assault. The cost, undeniably, will be great and perilous for the multitude of innocents there.
Source: aajtak
In Jerusalem, public outcry for the release of Israeli captives held by Hamas continues. Thronging the streets with posters, thousands are appealing for government action in negotiation efforts. The tension is thick with fears of what prolonged conflict without resolution might bring. The chorus of protests has also crescendoed with calls for the resignation of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his war cabinet, accusing them of steering the nation down a path of ruin. Israel's leadership is confronted with urgent demand for new direction and decisive action to secure the captives' return.
Source: aajtak
The Hamas-Israel deadlock continues, with over a hundred hostages released, yet more than a hundred remain confined. Israel insists military operations in Gaza will persist until the captives are freed, while Hamas claims cessation of hostility from Israel might hasten their release. As people flood the streets of Jerusalem in protest, they implore the Israeli government to call a ceasefire ensuring the safe return of the hostages.
Source: aajtak
