This update was posted on LinkedIn by Tamam Abusalama, Senior Communication Officer at the European Council on Refugees and Exiles (ECRE) in Brussels.

Israel is quietly advancing its occupation of Gaza.

In Gaza City’s historic neighborhoods — Daraj, Zaytoun, Tuffah, and Shuja’iyya — relentless bombardment has displaced the vast majority of residents. With open statements of intent and complete impunity, Israel is moving to take full control of the city.

Meanwhile, people in Gaza are enduring famine, even as a handful of aid trucks entered the Strip. They are being denied access to water in the peak of summer, and most have been forced to live in tents without electricity for nearly two years.

Also, piles of uncollected garbage and rubble have triggered a rat infestation invading nearly every home, tent, and makeshift shelter. With no access to anti-rodent medication, this has caused another public health emergency.

Massacres continue unabated. Every day, Israel kills at least 80 people.
On 13 August, Israel killed our beloved neighbour Alaa Abu Murad along with 5 of our beloved neighbours. Alaa’s mother is in UAE receiving cancer treatment. His sister is in Egypt to care for her 2 disabled children. His brother Abu Hmeid was injured a few months ago. Alaa left a 2-year-old baby and his wife behind. This is the story of every single family in Gaza.

🔔 The reality is undeniable: Israel is killing Gazans by every possible means. And the empty statements from Europe and its member states — unaccompanied by real action to isolate Israel and hold it accountable for crimes against humanity and war crimes — are buying it more time to commit further atrocities.