Hundreds of families displaced by wave of Israeli air strikes on Gaza, Palestinians say

Original article published by CNN

The number of displaced families in Gaza has risen as a result of a wave of Israeli air strikes, according to Palestinian officials. The escalation of attacks follows increased unrest along the border between Israel and Gaza.

More than 30 airstrikes were reported in Gaza City on Thursday, displacing hundreds of families, according to the head of the Gaza Civil Defense. The Palestine Liberation Organization also confirmed the displacement of families in the region.

The Israeli military claimed that the airstrikes targeted militant facilities, amid tensions over an ongoing knife attack trial in Jerusalem.

What's next?

Palestinian officials have called for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council to discuss the situation. The meeting is expected to take place behind closed doors on Friday, June 30.

Background on the conflict

Tensions have been running high in the region for years, with Palestinians protesting near the border with Israel, calling for freedom and the right to return to their homeland.

The Israeli military has responded with force, killing dozens of Palestinians over the past year.