**Gaza City Residents Live in Fear of Israeli Takeover Plans**
Residents of Gaza City are living in fear after the Israeli government announced plans to take control of the largest city on the territory. The move has been condemned by many in the international community, including the UN’s human rights chief, who warned that it would result in “more massive forced displacement, killings, unbearable suffering, mindless destruction, and atrocity crime”.
Locals told the BBC that they are peaceful civilians who are not involved in the conflict between Hamas and Israel. “We are collapsing in every aspect of our lives: food, education, and healthcare,” said Dr Hatem Qanoua, a local resident. “Even if the conflict ends, we will suffer for many years.”
Many residents are afraid of being displaced from their homes or temporary shelters if the plan proceeds. Sabrine Mahmoud said, “I will never leave my home. We will never again experience displacement.” Others expressed anger at Hamas for what they claimed was a failure to reach an agreement to end the war.
**Dire Consequences Loom**
The World Health Organization has reported that since 2025, 99 people, including 29 under-five-year-old children, have died from malnutrition in Gaza. The WHO believes its figures are likely to be underestimated. Local residents fear that if the plan goes ahead, they will suffer even more dire consequences.
Um Ahmad Shalah said, “We can’t provide even a kilo for our children. We can’t afford to buy it.” Some Palestinians also expressed anger at Hamas for what they claimed was a failure to reach an agreement to end the war.
**Mixed Reactions from Locals**
However, not all locals are opposed to the plan. Some said that Israel already controlled their lives and that the new plan would make little difference. “What are they threatening?” one man said. “Gaza is occupied. We are in a cage. They are surrounding it, and we are within it.”
**International Reaction**
The international community has widely condemned the Israeli government’s plan to take control of Gaza City. The UN’s human rights chief, Volker Turk, warned that the move would result in further suffering for the people of Gaza.
Read More @ www.bbc.com
