Gaza: The Israeli military has reportedly demolished more than 240 residential units in the Gaza Strip in recent days, as part of what has been described as a systematic campaign to displace civilians and destroy communities. This information was released by the Gaza government's media office.
According to Anadolu Agency, Gaza Media Office Director General Ismail al-Thawabta stated that the intensified targeting of residential buildings reflects what he called Israel's "scorched-earth policy." He alleged that the aim of this policy is to empty cities, destroy livelihoods, and instill fear and shock among the population.
Al-Thawabta criticized the actions as indicative of an intent to expand genocide and enforce the forced displacement of unarmed civilians. He claimed that the destroyed units were homes to families, including children, women, and the elderly, and that there were no military targets present, countering Israeli claims.
He portrayed the attacks as a threat from Israel to surrender or face total destruction, but insisted that this message is rejected by the Palestinian people. He stated that the people's resilience, built over decades of conflict, would withstand the Israeli actions.
Al-Thawabta called on the international community to intervene and stop what he termed as "ongoing bloody madness" in Gaza. Despite international calls for a ceasefire, Israel has continued its offensive in Gaza since October 2023, resulting in the deaths of over 54,400 Palestinians, with a majority being women and children. Aid agencies have raised alarms about potential famine risks among the population in the area.
In related developments, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants last November for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel is facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its actions against civilians in the enclave.