This Thursday, thousands of Palestinians fled to the west of the town of Khan Younes, where fighting between the Israeli army and Hamas is intensifying. A verdict is expected this Friday in connection with the accusations of genocide with which South Africa accuses Israel.
The Israeli army released images of exchanges of fire in Khan Younes, where it said it had seized important intelligence elements and equipment belonging to Hamas.
As fighting intensifies, thousands of civilians have fled the area. According to sources on site, the Israeli army ordered the evacuation of a school and detained men who were there.
“Suddenly, they (the Israeli army) told us over the microphone to evacuate the site within half an hour“, relates Amal, a Palestinian who fled the school in which she had found refuge with her infant born three days ago.
At least 20 dead in line to receive humanitarian aid
In Gaza, at least 20 people reported dead and dozens injured after Israeli army opened fire on Palestinians who were waiting to receive humanitarian aid, according to witnesses on site.
In videos posted online, large crowds can be seen fleeing, some carrying boxes of food, while the sounds of gunfire ring out in the background. The Associated Press (AP) agency was able to confirm the date of these videos as well as their location.
So far, the United Nations has confirmed that none of its agencies were behind the food distribution during which the shootings allegedly took place.
Verdict of the International Court of Justice
A first order is expected this Friday in the case brought by South Africa, which accuses Israel of committing genocide in Gaza.
At this stage, only precautionary measures could be ordered by the International Court of Justice, in particular a suspension of hostilities.
A Hamas official said group was ready to respect a ceasefire if he were to be ordered by this high UN court.