Residents of Khan Younis in southern Gaza have begun to return to their homes after the Israeli military withdrew its forces, only to find extensive destruction and ruins. Many homes and multistory buildings have been reduced to rubble, leaving families shocked and devastated.
The evacuation order issued by Israeli forces on July 22 led to a mass displacement, with over 150,000 people fleeing the area, leaving behind their possessions and livelihoods. Families journeyed back on foot, in cars, and even donkey carts, navigating through dusty roads lined with flattened buildings and debris.
Upon returning, residents like Ibrahim Muhammad Abu Adwan discovered the heartbreaking reality of their destroyed homes. Adwan, who left with his family in early July, found his house in ruins, emphasizing the massive destruction that had taken place in the neighborhood.
The Palestinian Ministry of Health reported a grim toll of 290 deaths and over 700 injuries in eastern Khan Younis since July 22, with the numbers expected to rise. Civil defense teams have been working tirelessly to recover bodies and provide assistance in the devastated area.
The Israel Defense Forces confirmed the completion of their operational activity in Khan Younis, stating that they had eliminated over 150 terrorists, destroyed tunnels and weapons sites, and retrieved the bodies of hostages. The IDF's actions have left a trail of destruction and loss in the region.
As residents attempt to rebuild their lives amidst the ruins, organizations like Médecins Sans Frontières have called for safe access to the Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, the largest medical facility in southern Gaza. The hospital continues to provide critical care to hundreds of patients, including newborns and pregnant women, amidst the ongoing conflict.
The aftermath of the Israeli incursion in Khan Younis serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of war and the urgent need for humanitarian assistance in the region.
