IDF Raids Northern Gaza Strip as Conflict Escalates and U.N. Warns of Fuel Crisis in Gaza

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) conducted a targeted raid in the northern Gaza Strip overnight into Thursday, as the country prepares for a widely expected ground invasion. This comes after more than two weeks of devastating air raids, which began after Hamas’ bloody rampage across southern Israel.

The U.N. has warned that it is on the verge of running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, which has been under a complete siege since the start of the conflict. This has forced the U.N. to sharply curtail relief efforts in the territory.

The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry has reported that the health care system in Gaza is in a state of complete collapse. Six hospitals in the area have already shut down due to a lack of fuel, according to the World Health Organization.

The IDF said the raid was “part of preparations for the next stages of combat.” Even greater loss of life could come if Israel launches an expected ground invasion.

The international community is watching the situation closely, as the conflict continues to escalate. The U.N. is urging both sides to de-escalate the situation, and to protect civilians.