Fierce Clashes Erupt in Northern Gaza as Israel Expands Ground Operations; Aid Convoys Begin to Arrive

Israeli forces, with the support of tanks, have increased their military presence in Gaza, particularly in the northern regions, where heavy airstrikes and artillery fire are reported. The conflict has intensified as the Israeli military, in what it calls the “second phase” of its offensive, continues to push into Gaza’s densely populated areas.

While Israeli airstrikes have targeted locations in the northern Gaza Strip, including near hospitals such as Shifa and Al-Quds, Hamas militants are engaging in fierce battles with the Israeli troops. Hamas’ Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades claim they are actively fighting the advancing Israeli forces, as the humanitarian situation worsens.

Despite the ongoing violence, aid is beginning to enter Gaza through the Rafah border crossing with Egypt. On Sunday, 33 trucks carrying essential supplies, such as water, food, and medical goods, crossed into Gaza. However, this flow of assistance is far below what the United Nations and other humanitarian organizations have said is needed to address the severe shortages in the region.

The death toll among Palestinians continues to rise, with the Hamas-run health ministry reporting over 8,000 deaths, primarily women and children, since the conflict began. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with many residents trapped by the fighting and the destruction of infrastructure, particularly in the north.

The humanitarian crisis is compounded by frequent telecommunications blackouts and disruptions to rescue efforts. Although some of these blackouts were eased on Sunday, Israeli airstrikes have caused further interruptions in communication services, making it difficult to coordinate relief efforts.

Meanwhile, the United States has called for increased humanitarian assistance, with President Joe Biden urging Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to significantly expand aid access. Israel has pledged to allow more trucks into Gaza in the coming days, though it remains unclear how much assistance will be permitted.

The ongoing conflict between Israeli forces and Hamas is expected to continue to escalate, particularly in urban areas, where casualties on both sides are mounting. With humanitarian aid trickling in and no clear end to the violence in sight, the situation in Gaza remains increasingly volatile and dangerous.