Escalation in Gaza: Thousands Evacuate as Israeli Tanks Return to Khan Younis

Israeli tanks have re-entered Khan Younis, Gaza, causing thousands to evacuate amidst ongoing hostilities. Efforts to broker a ceasefire involving international leaders continued, but the conflict shows no signs of abating. Israeli forces aim to dismantle Hamas yet face resistance. Casualties are mounting on both sides.

In a stark escalation of the ongoing conflict, Israeli tanks returned to Khan Younis in southern Gaza on Friday, prompting thousands of residents to evacuate via congested roadways. Palestinian fighters continue their resistance from the ruins, as families fled the assault in vehicles and on foot with belongings piled high on donkey carts and motorcycle rickshaws.

The deteriorating situation has also spurred international efforts to revive ceasefire talks. Leaders from the United States, Egypt, and Qatar have scheduled a new round of discussions for Aug. 15. This comes as Israel and Lebanon brace for potential escalations in fighting, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.

Despite ten months of extensive warfare, Israeli forces have returned to previously captured areas in Gaza, dropping leaflets that order residents to evacuate. Significant portions of eastern Khan Younis have been repeatedly targeted. Many refugees fled to the coastal area of Al-Mawasi, although fears linger due to past attacks there. "We don't know where we are going," said displaced resident Ahmed al-Farra. "There is no safe place here."

(With inputs from agencies.)