The Israeli military has announced that the initial phases of a ground operation in Gaza City have commenced. This marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, following weeks of intense aerial bombardments and cross-border attacks. The operation aims to dismantle Hamas’s military infrastructure in the densely populated urban center, which Israeli officials describe as a critical stronghold for the militant group.
Background:
The current escalation follows a series of events triggered by a large-scale attack launched by Hamas on October 7, 2023, in which militants infiltrated southern Israel, killing approximately 1,200 people and taking over 200 hostages. In response, Israel declared war and initiated Operation "Iron Swords," conducting extensive airstrikes across the Gaza Strip. Over the following weeks, the humanitarian situation in Gaza deteriorated sharply, with widespread destruction, shortages of food and medical supplies, and thousands of civilian casualties reported by Palestinian health authorities.
Military Developments:
According to statements released by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), specialized units have entered northern Gaza, including areas surrounding Gaza City, engaging in targeted missions to neutralize threats, destroy tunnels, and locate hostages. The IDF emphasized that the operation is being conducted in stages, with precision strikes and limited troop movements aimed at minimizing civilian casualties while maximizing pressure on Hamas fighters.
Brigadier General Daniel Reisner, speaking at a press briefing, stated: "We are in the first stages of a complex urban operation. Our forces are advancing cautiously, prioritizing the safety of our soldiers and civilians, while systematically dismantling Hamas’s command and control capabilities."
The military reported the use of advanced intelligence, drone surveillance, and coordination with special forces to identify militant positions embedded within residential zones. Armored units and engineering corps are supporting the advance, clearing routes and detecting explosives.
Humanitarian Concerns:
The onset of ground operations has intensified concerns among international organizations. The United Nations and various humanitarian agencies have warned of a worsening crisis, with over one million people displaced in Gaza and essential services nearly collapsed. Medical facilities are overwhelmed, and access for aid convoys remains limited due to ongoing hostilities and security restrictions.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, urging all parties to protect civilians and allow unhindered aid delivery. "The situation in Gaza is reaching unimaginable levels of human suffering," Guterres said in a recent statement.
International Reaction:
Global responses have been divided. The United States reiterated its support for Israel’s right to self-defense but urged adherence to international humanitarian law. European leaders have called for restraint and increased diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict. Meanwhile, several countries in the Middle East and beyond have condemned the ground offensive, organizing protests and demanding an end to military actions in Gaza.
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