Amid evacuation warnings issued by the Israeli military, thousands of people in northern Gaza's Jabalya refugee camp find themselves unable to leave due to gunfire and strikes around evacuation routes. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) reported on Friday that the situation is dire, with civilians facing grave risks.
Incidents of evacuees from Jabalya coming under fire have been previously reported. One man recounted fleeing his home in Jabalya due to continuous bombing, only to face gunfire when attempting to retrieve supplies. MSF staff members, including five individuals, are currently trapped within the camp, unable to leave.
MSF project coordinator Sarah Vuylsteke expressed the severity of the situation, stating, 'Nobody is allowed to get in or out, anyone who tries is getting shot.' The organization's driver, Haydar, shared his fear of attempting to flee the dangerous area, highlighting the desperation and danger faced by those trapped in Jabalya.
The Israel Defense Forces initiated a ground operation in Jabalya on Sunday, citing signs of Hamas rebuilding despite previous conflicts and strikes in the area. Residents were instructed to evacuate, with the IDF emphasizing its significant presence in the region.
Efforts to reach the IDF for comment on allegations of firing near evacuation routes and the entrapment of MSF workers have been made. The situation in Jabalya remains critical, with civilians enduring perilous conditions and limited access to essential resources.
