Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced a significant expansion of military operations in Hamas-run Gaza, indicating plans to seize large areas of Palestinian territory.
Military Operations Intensify
Katz stated that the Israeli army would bolster its presence in the Gaza Strip to “destroy and clear the area of terrorists and terrorist infrastructure.” The operation aims to “seize large areas that will be incorporated into Israeli security zones,” although specific details regarding the territory have not been disclosed.
Concerns Over Hostages
A group representing families of hostages held in Gaza expressed outrage over Katz’s announcement, fearing that the objective of rescuing the captives has been deprioritized. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum questioned whether hostages were being sacrificed for the sake of „territorial gains,” highlighting their distress over the Israeli government’s decision to send more soldiers into Gaza rather than pursuing a deal to free the hostages.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
The situation in Gaza has become increasingly dire following the resumption of intense bombing by Israel on March 18, which concluded a nearly two-month ceasefire. According to Gaza’s health ministry, at least 1,042 people have been killed since the military operations resumed, contributing to a staggering overall toll of over 50,399 people since the conflict began on October 7, 2023, with a majority being civilians.
Food and Water Shortages
As military actions escalate, basic necessities have become scarce. Residents in Gaza City report severe shortages, particularly of flour and sugar, leading to widespread bakery closures. One resident, Amina al-Sayed, lamented, “I’ve been going from bakery to bakery all morning, but none of them are operating.” Another local, Mahmud Sheikh Khalil, described the situation as “very difficult,” noting a lack of food and water for his children.
Political Dynamics and Ceasefire Efforts
In the political arena, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has faced criticism for his handling of the hostage crisis. He has offered to allow Hamas leaders to leave Gaza under the condition that they disarm, while also stating that negotiations are ongoing “under fire.” Meanwhile, Egypt, Qatar, and the United States are reportedly working to broker a new ceasefire and facilitate the release of Israeli hostages.
International Response
The United Nations has condemned Israeli military actions, including a recent attack on an emergency convoy that resulted in the deaths of 15 aid workers and medical personnel. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk called for an investigation into the incident, emphasizing the need for accountability in the ongoing conflict.
The violence originated from Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in significant casualties on both sides, including the deaths of 1,218 people in Israel according to official figures.
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