Displaced Gazans entered the new year on Wednesday living in tent camps or seeking shelter in schools as the conflict between Israel and Hamas approached its 16th month. Reports indicate that at least five people were killed in an Israeli strike in Jabaliya, northern Gaza, according to the Palestinian Civil Defense.
The Israeli military stated that its fighter jets targeted a "terrorist structure" to strike Hamas militants, emphasizing that precautions were taken to avoid civilian casualties.
Former Israeli defense minister Yoav Gallant announced his resignation from Parliament, citing his dismissal by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a result of his push for the conscription of ultra-Orthodox citizens. Gallant criticized the current conscription bill for not adequately addressing Israel's security needs.
As negotiations for a cease-fire deal continue, Israeli officials aim to secure the release of hostages taken during the October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas. However, Hamas has insisted that any agreement must include an end to the ongoing conflict, which has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Many Gazans are enduring harsh conditions, living in makeshift tents and struggling to find food and clean water. Recent winter rainstorms have exacerbated the situation, with reports of infant deaths due to cold exposure.
In Khan Younis, displaced taxi driver Awad Abid described his family's struggle to stay warm in a half-flooded tent, managing only to buy a limited amount of flour for sustenance.
Israeli ground forces have been engaged in combat in northern Gaza for nearly three months, leading to significant displacement and destruction. The Israeli military has ordered remaining residents in certain areas to evacuate as operations against Hamas continue.
Despite claims from Israel about sufficient aid supplies entering Gaza, humanitarian organizations have expressed concerns about the deteriorating conditions, particularly in northern Gaza.
Montaser Bahja, an English teacher from Jabaliya, shared his experience of finding temporary shelter in Gaza City, where he attempts to keep his family warm amid ongoing airstrikes.
As the new year began, the bombardment resumed, shattering hopes for a peaceful resolution. The Gaza Health Ministry reports that at least 45,000 people have died in Gaza since the conflict began, while approximately 1,200 people were killed in Israel during the initial Hamas attack.
Despite previous optimism regarding cease-fire negotiations, talks have stalled, leaving Gazans feeling disheartened as they continue to face violence and hardship while others celebrate the new year abroad.