Israel pursues plans for dominance over Gaza City
In a dramatic turn of events, Israel has approved plans for a military operation in Gaza City, with Defense Minister Israel Katz giving the green light to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) for the attack. The operation, expected to begin next month, will be carried out by six IDF divisions and will likely involve the displacement of over 800,000 residents.
The decision comes amidst strong opposition from far-right parties in Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu's coalition, who argue that Israel must "destroy" Hamas militarily and refuse to stop the war. This stance contrasts with the international community, which has expressed concern over the escalating situation and the potential humanitarian crisis.
The International Red Cross Committee has warned against Israel's escalation, fearing for the safety and wellbeing of civilians in Gaza. The civilian population in Gaza is already living in abhorrent conditions, with more than 80% already impacted by evacuation orders. Most Gazans have been displaced multiple times and are now living in densely packed areas along the Mediterranean coast, including in Gaza City.
Residents of Jabalia have already been told to leave their homes, and attacks have taken place in both the Zeitoun neighbourhood and Jabalia, north of Gaza City. The attack on Gaza City, according to Mr. Katz, is expected to take "months".
In a bid to de-escalate the situation, Turkey, Egypt, and Qatar have proposed a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. Hamas has agreed to this proposal, but Israel is currently rejecting it. The majority of Israelis support a ceasefire that would bring about the return of the remaining 50 hostages, according to reports.
Israel is in contact with international organisations to establish more field hospitals in southern Gaza to help cope with the potential influx of injured civilians. However, Prime Minister Netanyahu has set conditions for a deal, including the release of all hostages in a single exchange, the disarming of Hamas, and guarantees that both Hamas and the Palestinian Authority will not be part of post-war Gaza.
The plan to assault Gaza City has been met with international criticism, with many fearing for the safety of civilians and the potential for a prolonged conflict. More reservists have been drafted, with call-up orders sent to 60,000, and more are expected to be drafted in the coming months, bringing a total of up to 130,000.
Israel is expected to formally respond to the Gaza ceasefire proposal before the weekend. The world watches with bated breath as the situation in Gaza continues to unfold.
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