Israeli forces launched new raids in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday, hours before Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's scheduled address to the US Congress. The latest attacks targeted towns east of Khan Younis in southern Gaza, causing widespread destruction and forcing thousands of residents to flee westward.

The Palestinian Civil Emergency Service reported receiving distress calls from residents trapped in their homes in Bani Suhaila but were unable to reach the area due to ongoing military operations. Israeli military actions aimed to dismantle the Islamist militant group Hamas, responsible for recent rocket attacks on Israel.

Health officials in Gaza stated that Israeli strikes in the past 24 hours had killed at least 55 people, bringing the total death toll to over 39,000 Palestinians since the conflict began. Local residents were directed to move towards designated humanitarian areas, which have also come under threat, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

Israeli airstrikes also targeted central and northern Gaza, resulting in additional casualties. In Rafah, near the Egyptian border, Israeli forces demolished several houses, contributing to the growing displacement and suffering of Gaza's residents.

As the conflict continues, calls for an immediate ceasefire and renewed peace efforts intensify, highlighting the urgent need for a resolution to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza.