Mon Mar 31 08:50:00 UTC 2025: **Gaza Family Killed in Strike on Eid; Israel Orders Mass Evacuation of Rafah**
Khan Younis, Gaza Strip – A family of five, the Abu Sultans, were killed in an Israeli army strike on their tent in Khan Younis on the first day of Eid al-Fitr, a Muslim holiday, according to the Associated Press. Heartbreaking photos show family members mourning over their bodies at a hospital before burial. The incident adds to the immense suffering inflicted on Gazans amidst the ongoing conflict.
Deir al-Balah, Gaza Strip – Further escalating the conflict, the Israeli military has issued sweeping evacuation orders for almost all of Rafah, a city bordering Egypt, suggesting a new major ground operation is imminent. The orders, issued during the Eid al-Fitr holiday, demand Palestinians relocate to overcrowded Muwasi tent camps.
This action follows Israel’s resumption of its air and ground war earlier this month after ending a previous ceasefire. The Israeli government severed all humanitarian aid to Gaza’s 2 million residents in an attempt to pressure Hamas. Israel claims it needs to prevent weapons smuggling and secure the release of 59 remaining hostages held by Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also announced plans to take control of Gaza’s security and potentially relocate the population, a proposal widely condemned internationally.
Hamas continues to call for the implementation of the January ceasefire agreement, which includes the release of hostages in exchange for a lasting truce and Israeli withdrawal. Negotiations have stalled, fueling further escalation.
The current conflict began in October 2023, with Hamas attacks on Israel resulting in significant casualties on both sides. The Israeli response has caused widespread destruction and displacement in Gaza, leaving the future uncertain for the region’s population.
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