Palestinians in Khan Younis, Gaza Strip, are returning to their homes to salvage what they can after Israel’s offensive, which has left the city unlivable for its 2.3 million residents. The city was left in ruins, with thousands of buildings destroyed or damaged, leaving many residents unable to recognize their own neighborhoods. Men, women, and children search through the rubble, trying to find their homes among the destruction, reflecting the devastating impact of the military assault in the region.
The ongoing war, now in its seventh month, has resulted in the deaths of over 33,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, according to local health authorities. Over 1,200 civilians were killed and approximately 250 were taken hostage in Hamas’ attack in October. The withdrawal of Israeli troops from Khan Younis gave some residents a chance to see the wreckage of their homes and retrieve a few possessions, but with the city now unlivable, many have little immediate hope of returning to their homes.
A significant portion of the buildings in Khan Younis have been destroyed or damaged, leaving the city center and surrounding areas unfit for life. Residents who fled to nearby cities like Rafah are now faced with the reality of their homes being turned to rubble. The destruction is evident in the main Nasser Hospital, which was trashed during the offensive. Despite the extensive damage, Israeli troops claim they did not find any remains of hostages in the facility.
Israel’s military operations in Khan Younis were aimed at targeting Hamas strongholds, destroying tunnels used by the group, and weakening its military capabilities. With Hamas seeking to regroup in the city after Israeli troop withdrawals, there is concern over the potential for further conflict. Israel’s plans to invade Rafah have raised international alarm, with countries like the U.S. demanding a credible plan to protect civilians sheltering in the city.
Efforts to relieve pressure on Rafah by allowing residents to return to Khan Younis are hindered by the extensive damage and the presence of unexploded ordnance from the fighting. The Israeli military continues to carry out airstrikes and raids in areas where they believe Hamas has regrouped, further exacerbating the destruction in the region. Negotiations for a ceasefire are ongoing, with hopes of securing the release of hostages and bringing an end to the devastating conflict.
