Israeli troops advanced into Gaza City’s crowded zones on September 23, 2025, despite global support for a Palestinian state at the UN.
The push highlights the gap between diplomatic gains and daily hardships for residents fleeing tanks.
Diplomatic Milestone
The day before, leaders at the UN endorsed Palestinian statehood, a major shift after nearly two years of conflict.
France recognized it at a Saudi meeting, but Israel and the U.S. oppose, saying it aids militants like Hamas.
Civilian Toll Rises
Local officials reported 22 deaths from Israeli strikes, 18 in Gaza City. Hospitals face fuel shortages soon, threatening lives amid hunger and destruction.
A mother named Huda said, “We’re stuck—too poor to flee south, too scared of bombs.”
Explosions in Suburbs
In Sabra and Tel Al-Hawa, Israeli blasts destroyed homes and roads. Displaced families like Abu Mustafa’s questioned, “Does statehood mean we die as citizens?” Netanyahu vows to crush Hamas, with no postwar plan for Gaza.
Oslo’s Fading Dream
The two-state idea from 1993 Oslo Accords is dead, per Israel’s stance after Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack killing 1,200. Gaza health authorities count over 65,000 Palestinian deaths, mostly civilians.
Trump’s UN Plans
U.S. President Donald Trump meets Muslim leaders Tuesday to discuss Gaza. Washington seeks Arab troops for Israel’s exit and rebuilding funds.
Trump’s February idea of U.S. control and Palestinian relocation drew “ethnic cleansing” accusations from UN experts.
Daily Struggles
Abu Muhran Salma, 60, a displaced Gazan, said, “State recognition means nothing—God, stop the war.” Mohammed Al-Bayari, 36, father of six, pushed a cart uphill for 14 hours, resting often in his search for safety.
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