Military operations on land commence in Gaza City, controlled by Israeli forces
In the heart of the Middle East, the Gaza Strip continues to be a focal point of global concern, as a complex and deeply troubling crisis unfolds.
The conflict, which erupted on October 7, 2023, following an attack by Hamas and other Islamic terrorists on Israel, has resulted in over 1,200 deaths and more than 250 kidnappings. Since then, the situation has deteriorated significantly, with around 65,000 Palestinians reportedly killed, including many women and children, according to figures from the Hamas-controlled health ministry.
The Israeli military has initiated a ground offensive in Gaza City, involving thousands of soldiers and heavy equipment, in an attempt to neutralize Hamas forces in the area, with up to 3,000 combat-ready members of the Islamic terrorist organization believed to be present. The operation is being carried out by at least two divisions of the military, with more divisions expected to be deployed in the coming days.
Beneath Gaza City lies an extensive network of Hamas tunnels, adding an additional layer of complexity to the military operation. The Israeli military spokesman has stated that they will do everything to ensure the safety of the 48 remaining hostages and civilians in Gaza.
The crisis has sparked international condemnation and concern. British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper described Israel's new military offensive as "reckless and horrifying," calling for an immediate ceasefire. Germany's Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul also criticized Israel's approach, expressing concern over the means and costs of the struggle against Hamas.
Adding to the turmoil, Israel has accused UN-designated human rights experts of committing genocide in Gaza. However, the UN-appointed human rights experts have countered these accusations, accusing Israel of genocide, citing numerous speeches and writings of Israel's political and military leadership as evidence of genocide intentions. Israel has condemned the report as scandalous.
The conflict has also led to a dramatic supply situation in the sealed-off Gaza Strip, with many people suffering from hunger. Around 40% of the civilian population, over 350,000 people, have left the city, leaving hundreds of thousands still in the city, which Israel has declared a combat zone. Almost all of the approximately two million Palestinians in the Gaza Strip have become internally displaced persons during the ongoing war.
The Forum of Relatives of the Hostages has expressed great concern, stating that "tonight could be the last night for the hostages." The opposition leader in Israel, Jair Lapid, has accused Prime Minister Netanyahu of being responsible for the growing international isolation of the country and the lack of a clear political line.
Defense Minister Israel Katz has stated that soldiers are fighting to create conditions for the release of hostages and the defeat of Hamas. The future of Gaza and its people remains uncertain, as the conflict continues to unfold.
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