The city of Khan Younis in the Gaza Strip was left unrecognizable after an extensive offensive by the Israeli military, resulting in the destruction of thousands of buildings. The scenes of devastation highlighted one of the world’s most destructive military assaults in recent memory, leaving much of the territory uninhabitable for its population of 2.3 million. Many residents returned to find their homes destroyed or damaged, with little left but piles of rubble and debris. The withdrawal of Israeli troops from the area signaled a potential move towards the southern town of Rafah, where many displaced residents are now living in precarious conditions.
The war in Gaza, now in its seventh month, has resulted in significant casualties with over 33,000 Palestinians killed, mostly women and children. The Israeli military has reported 1,200 deaths, primarily civilians, and around 250 people taken hostage in an attack by Hamas. The destruction in Khan Younis has been extensive, with an estimated 55% of buildings destroyed or damaged, rendering the city unlivable for its residents. Many who had sought refuge in Rafah following the initial offensive in December returned to find their homes destroyed beyond repair.
The devastation in Khan Younis is further underscored by the state of its main hospital, which was left trashed and in disarray following Israeli military operations. The Israeli military accused the hospital of housing hostages and militants, though no evidence of such activities was found. The withdrawal of troops from Khan Younis could potentially lead to the regrouping of Hamas forces in the area, similar to what has occurred in northern Gaza. Israel has expressed intentions to invade Rafah, the last major stronghold of Hamas, which has raised concerns about the safety of the 1.4 million Palestinians sheltering there.
As preparations are made for the potential evacuation of Rafah, concerns remain about the fate of the displaced residents with no homes to return to in Khan Younis. The presence of unexploded ordnance left by the fighting adds to the dangers faced by those attempting to salvage what remains of their lives in the ravaged city. International alarm has been raised over the Israeli plans to invade Rafah, with demands for a credible plan to protect civilians in the area. Negotiations for a ceasefire and the release of hostages are being brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S. in an effort to bring an end to the conflict and ease the suffering of the population in Gaza.
