IDF Intensifies Gaza City Operations with Tanks, Thousands Displaced from Al-Tuffah and Al-Daraj

Jul 8, 2024, 05:56 AM

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have intensified their military operations in Gaza City, resulting in heavy bombardment and the deployment of tanks into the city. The IDF targeted the UNRWA's Al-Jaouni school in Nuseirat on Saturday, claiming it was used by Hamas as a command center. Additionally, airstrikes were conducted on other Hamas positions, including a municipality building in Khan Younis. The IDF has issued evacuation orders for several neighborhoods, including Al-Tuffah and Al-Daraj, leading to mass displacement of thousands of Palestinians. Col. Avichay Adraee, the IDF's Arabic-language spokesman, released a list of areas needing evacuation. The situation has escalated with heavy gunfire reported in western Gaza, trapping many civilians. The IDF confirmed that over 30 terrorists were eliminated in the Rafah area, and tunnel shafts and weapons were discovered. The conflict has led to some of the heaviest fighting since October 7, with residents reporting severe attacks and difficulties in accessing emergency services. The IDF also ordered the evacuation of Gaza City's Baptist Hospital.