GAZA-Thousands of Palestinians are fleeing Gaza City as Israel’s ground assault escalates. The Israeli military says the operation aims to defeat around 3,000 Hamas fighters and free hostages, but the offensive has triggered strong international criticism.

Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry said Israeli strikes hit al-Rantisi children’s hospital three times, forcing half of its patients and families to flee. Other hospitals reported at least 35 killed across Gaza on Wednesday, mostly in the north. Israel said it is reviewing the hospital strike reports and claimed it hit more than 150 “terror targets” in two days.

Aid agencies, including Save the Children and Oxfam, warned of an “unconscionable” humanitarian crisis. The UN says 190,000 people have fled Gaza City since August, while Israel claims 350,000 have left, with about 650,000 still inside.

Palestinians are evacuating via donkey carts, cars, and on foot, but costs are soaring.Trucks cost around 3,000 shekels ($900), and tents 4,000 shekels. Many families say the “humanitarian area” in al-Mawasi is overcrowded and unlivable, with some forced to return north.

Meanwhile, families of 48 hostages held by Hamas protested in Jerusalem, saying Israel’s assault puts their relatives at risk. The offensive has been condemned by the UN rights chief, Saudi Arabia, and Pope Leo XIV, who called Gaza’s conditions “unacceptable” and urged a ceasefire.

A UN inquiry accused Israel of genocide, alleging targeted attacks on civilians, children, and cultural sites. Israel rejected the report as “distorted and false.”

Since the war began at least 64,964 people have been killed, nearly half of them women and children. The UN has already declared famine in Gaza City and warned the worsening offensive will deepen the catastrophe.