At least six people were killed at UN-run shelters in Khan Younis after Israeli troops encircle the the southern Gaza Strip.
UNRWA's General Commissioner Philippe Lazzarine posted on X saying, "Terrified staff, patients, and displaced people are now trapped inside the few remaining hospitals in Khan Younis as heavy fighting continues."
He said the shelters were hit during Israel's military operation in the region.
However, Israeli military said they were unaware of any such strikes.
"I call on all parties to take every precaution to minimize harm and protect civilians, medical facilities and personnel and @UN premises in accordance with international law," he added.
One of the largest @UNRWA shelters in Khan Younis (southern #Gaza) was hit during military operations yesterday.
— Philippe Lazzarini (@UNLazzarini) January 23, 2024
At least 6 displaced people were killed and many more injured during intense fighting around our the shelter.
Terrified staff, patients and displaced people are now… pic.twitter.com/tg6rOWQ6e2
Meanwhile, reportedly, Hamas will not be accepting the latest Israel's offer for a ceasefire in Gaza lasting two months for exchange of hostages.
According to UNRWA, 5,70,000 people in Gaza face "catastrophic" hunger. “Intense fighting, access denials & restrictions + communications blackouts are hampering UNRWA’s ability to safely & effectively deliver aid,” said the agency.
It was after the death of the 24 Israeli soldiers in Gaza that the troops encircled Khan Younis and intensified the attacks in the southern Gaza Strip.
Meanwhile, the Palestinian death toll rose to 25,295, as per the Gaza Health Ministry.
