Intense fighting in Gaza: over 800,000 people flee from the violence

The fighting in the Gaza Strip between Israel and Hamas has continued to intensify, especially in the city of Rafah, where more than 800,000 people have had to flee the violence, according to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). Israeli forces announced the elimination of approximately fifty terrorists in the eastern part of Rafah, and clashes persist with artillery fire and bombings in various areas of the city, resulting in the deaths of at least two people in a displaced persons camp. UNRWA Director Philippe Lazzarini declared that the situation is critical with 800,000 people displaced since the beginning of the Israeli military operation in the area on May 6. This escalation of violence has led to international pressure on Israel to reconsider a possible invasion in Rafah, a city that already housed a large part of the population of the Gaza Strip before the start of the fighting. Meanwhile, amidst the crisis in Gaza, internal political divisions in Israel have been evident. Minister Benny Gantz threatened to resign unless Prime Minister Netanyahu approves a post-war plan that includes the creation of a multinational civilian administration for the territory, to which Netanyahu responded dismissively. Regarding the situation in the city of Jabaliya, in northern Gaza, the immediate evacuation of certain districts has been ordered due to the constant rocket attacks launched from that area towards Israeli cities. Likewise, a series of confrontations and numerous casualties have been reported on both the Palestinian and Israeli sides, with figures continuing to rise as the conflict drags on. Thirteen countries, through the international community, have urged Israel to refrain from launching a large-scale offensive in Rafah, considered a decisive action by the Israeli government. Meanwhile, the United States, a historic ally of Israel, has announced the shipment of weapons worth $1 billion to the country, raising questions about Washington's stance on the conflict, especially considering that it recently vetoed the shipment of 900-kilogram bombs. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is critical, with shortages of essential supplies due to the siege imposed by Israel. Despite efforts to deliver humanitarian aid, the UN warns of the risk of famine in the region. Amid this bleak panorama, the civilian population of Gaza continues to suffer the consequences of a conflict that seems far from finding a prompt solution, while the international community seeks alternatives to stop the escalation of violence and protect civilians trapped in the midst of war.