Israeli military operations escalated dramatically in southern Gaza on Friday as warplanes conducted intensive aerial bombardments east of Khan Younis. According to Palestinian media reports, the assault included multiple coordinated attack modalities across the region.
Palestinian news agency Wafa documented sustained artillery shelling and systematic demolition operations throughout eastern Gaza territories. Military observers reported at least four distinct airstrike events targeting Khan Younis districts, accompanied by concentrated helicopter gunship fire and heavy weapons deployment from Israeli armored vehicles encircling the urban center.
The offensive included large-scale engineering operations that resulted in the destruction of residential structures, with warplanes providing aerial support during demolition activities. Simultaneously, Israeli naval vessels stationed offshore commenced sustained bombardment of Khan Younis coastal areas while helicopter units targeted residential neighborhoods in Rafah.
This escalation occurs despite an internationally brokered ceasefire agreement that initially took effect in early October. Palestinian health authorities report that Israeli operations have resulted in 406 Palestinian fatalities since the ceasefire implementation through Tuesday, with total casualties reaching 70,942 killed and 171,195 wounded since hostilities began on October 7, 2023.
Independent demographic research institutions, including Germany’s Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research, suggest the actual death toll may substantially exceed official figures, potentially reaching 100,000 casualties when accounting for thousands missing and presumed buried beneath rubble. Palestinian civil authorities acknowledge severe challenges in maintaining accurate casualty records due to targeted attacks on administrative offices and staff.