Much of Khan Younis was destroyed in a long assault earlier this year, but large numbers of Palestinians have moved back in to escape another Israeli offensive in Gaza’s southernmost city, Rafah.
The Israeli army ordered a mass evacuation of Palestinians from much of Khan Younis on Monday, a sign that troops are likely to launch a new ground assault in the Gaza Strip’s second largest city.
His release triggered an uproar across Israel’s political spectrum. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyhu’s office called it “a grave mistake.” Government ministers and opposition leaders expressed outrage and insisted Abu Selmia played a role in Hamas’ alleged use of the hospital — though Israeli security services rarely unilaterally free prisoners if they have a suspicion of militant links.
More fighting in the Khan Younis area could further hamper Palestinians’ access to much-needed potable water. Included in the evacuation zone is a water line that Israel installed following criticism over its cutoff of water to the strip early in the war. Related story: US and Europe warn Lebanon's Hezbollah to ease strikes on Israel and back off from wider Mideast warThe decision to release Abu Selmia and 54 other Palestinian detainees back into Gaza appeared to be meant to free up space in overcrowded detention centers. Since the start of the war, Israeli forces have detained thousands of Palestinians from Gaza and the occupied West Bank. Many are being held without charge or trial in what is known as administrative detention.
Israeli forces raided Shifa Hospital in November, alleging that Hamas had created an elaborate command and control center inside. Abu Selmia and other staff denied the allegations and accused Israel of recklessly endangering thousands of patients and displaced people sheltering there. Abu Selmia was detained on Nov. 22.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Israel orders Palestinians to flee Khan Younis, signaling likely new assault on southern Gaza cityPhantom Fireworks of Shrewsbury in York County is preparing for the busy holiday while emphasizing customer safety.
Read more »
Israel orders Palestinians to flee Khan Younis, signaling likely new assault on the Gaza cityIsrael wrapped up an offensive in Khan Younis earlier this year and withdrew most of its forces. The evacuation order indicates that Hamas has regrouped in the area.
Read more »
Israel orders Palestinians to flee Khan Younis, signaling return of troops to southern Gaza cityThe Israeli army has ordered a mass evacuation of Palestinians from the eastern half of Khan Younis.
Read more »
Palestinians ordered to flee Khan Younis, signaling likely new Israeli assault on southern Gaza cityThe Israeli army ordered a mass evacuation of Palestinians from much of Khan Younis on Monday, a sign that troops are likely to launch a new ground assault.
Read more »
Live blog: Israel issues fresh evacuation order for Khan Younis, RafahIsrael's war on Gaza, now in its 269th day, has killed at least 37,900 Palestinians — mostly women and children –– and wounded 87,060, with 10,000+ believed to be buried under the debris of bombed homes and 9,500 abducted by Tel Aviv.
Read more »
Israel orders Palestinians to flee Khan Yunis, signaling return of troops to southern Gaza cityThe Israeli military has ordered a mass evacuation of Palestinians from Khan Yunis. Israel also releases the director of Gaza's main hospital after seven months.
Read more »