Israel’s deadly assaults in Gaza mark Nakba’s 77th anniversary

Over 82 Palestinians, primarily women and children, have lost their lives amid a relentless wave of Israeli attacks across Gaza, worsening an already devastating situation after 19 months of continuous bombardment.

These attacks coincide with the 77th commemoration of the Nakba, when more than 750,000 Palestinians were forcibly displaced by Zionist militias during Israel’s establishment in 1948.

Health authorities reported at least 57 fatalities overnight in Khan Younis, a southern city in Gaza. Medical facilities, including Nasser Medical Complex, have been overwhelmed by casualties, many of whom are children.

Al Jazeera correspondent Tareq Abu Azzoum from Deir al-Balah described a brutal day, noting Israel’s intensified airstrikes on residential neighborhoods. He reported that nine homes in Khan Younis were targeted without warning, wiping out entire families.

The situation remains chaotic, with civilians fleeing repeated forced evacuation orders. The Israeli military launched 13 airstrikes on Jabalia refugee camp and surrounding areas while civil defense teams struggle to rescue victims trapped beneath rubble due to insufficient equipment.

This pattern of attacks seems designed not to hit military targets but to dismantle Gaza’s social structure.

Thousands have been forced to flee, particularly from Gaza City after sudden evacuation orders. The panic and fear are evident as families carry their belongings, uncertain of where to find safety, since many designated shelters have been destroyed.

Displaced Palestinian Hasan Moqbel called the ongoing bombardment a war against civilians, emphasizing that most victims are elderly and children with no armed presence in their areas.

Despite international diplomatic efforts, the situation shows no signs of easing. In the region, US President Donald Trump visited Qatar, where Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani urged him to use his influence to secure a ceasefire and protect civilians.

Trump proposed a radical idea of turning Gaza into a "freedom zone" under US control, amid escalating destruction and civilian casualties.

The US Special Envoy to the Middle East expressed optimism about an imminent deal to provide aid and possibly a ceasefire, though the blockade of essential supplies remains.

Meanwhile, Israel’s far-right government is preparing to escalate operations in the West Bank, with calls to destroy Palestinian towns, reflecting tactics used in Gaza.

Israeli raids have increased across the West Bank, leading to arrests and alleged systematic abuses, raising fears among Palestinians that their homeland may be entirely devastated.