Israeli troops advance in Gaza, ‘impossible’ hospital evacuation and regional warnings: What to know Monday
1. Israeli Troops Push Into Gaza: Israel Defense Forces began pushing ground troops into the Gaza Strip Sunday night following 11 days of intense and deadly bombing campaigns targeting the region. The ground offensive came hours after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Palestinians he would “apply massive pressure” on the region, according to the Associated Press.
2. Hospital Evacuation ‘Impossible’: As the violence escalates in Gaza City, the need for medical evacuation is becoming increasingly urgent, yet it’s “impossible” for the Red Cross to evacuate anyone from the war zone, the organization’s spokesperson Yolanda Coulthard told reporters Sunday. The United Nations is calling for a long-term, immediate ceasefire to allow for the evacuation of sick and injured civilians.
3. Regional Warnings: The European Union warned Hamas and the Israeli Defense Forces against humanitarian war crimes that could be committed if the conflict continues. Several international leaders have called for an immediate cessation of the hostilities and a mediation between both parties.
4. Palestinian Death Toll Rising: As of Monday, at least 212 Palestinians, including 61 children, have been killed in the air and ground offensive. In addition, 1,400 people have been injured, including 600 children, according to health officials. On the Israeli side, 12 people have been killed by rocket fire from Gaza.