Israeli forces have entered Gaza’s second-largest city, Khan Younis, marking the third phase of the ground offensive in the conflict with Hamas, AP News reports.
The assault raises concerns about further displacement of Palestinians and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The UN reports that over 80% of Gaza’s population, around 1.87 million people, has been displaced and fighting impedes the distribution of essential supplies.
Israel says its precision efforts aim to avoid civilian casualties, but the military accuses Hamas of using civilians as shields. The ongoing conflict has killed over 16,200 people in Gaza.
