Israel under pressure over plight of Gaza civilians as thousands flee

Palestinians on donkey carts hold up white flags trying to prevent being shot, while fleeing Gaza City (AP)

Israel has come under mounting pressure over the plight of civilians in Gaza from some of its closest allies, as thousands of Palestinians streamed out of the enclave’s north on foot because of dwindling food and water and the fear of approaching Israeli forces.

More than 70% of Gaza’s population of 2.3 million have already left their homes, but the number making their way south has risen recently as Israeli troops battle militants inside Gaza City and the humanitarian situation grows increasingly dire.