Israeli forces have escalated their military campaign with a major offensive in Gaza City, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defiantly declared the war against Hamas would continue for "many more months" despite growing international condemnation.
The renewed ground and air assault targets what the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) describe as "terrorist strongholds" throughout the northern Gaza region. Military officials confirmed operations are underway in multiple districts of the heavily populated urban centre.
Netanyahu's stark warning came during a televised address where he emphasised Israel's determination to continue its military objectives. "The war is at its height," he stated, adding that Israeli forces would need "many more months" to achieve their stated goals of dismantling Hamas's military capabilities and securing the release of remaining hostages.
The Prime Minister's comments directly contradict increasing pressure from the United States and other Western allies for a transition to less intensive military operations. Washington has been urging Israel to scale down its widespread bombing campaigns and move toward more targeted operations against Hamas leadership.
Meanwhile, humanitarian organisations report catastrophic conditions within Gaza, where the majority of the 2.3 million population has been displaced multiple times. Aid agencies warn of widespread hunger, collapsing medical systems, and shelter shortages as winter temperatures drop.
The conflict, now entering its fourth month, has resulted in one of the deadliest military campaigns in recent history. Gaza health officials report over 21,000 Palestinians killed, while Israel mourns approximately 1,200 deaths from Hamas's initial October 7th attacks that triggered the current hostilities.
International diplomatic efforts continue behind the scenes, with Qatar and Egypt attempting to broker a new ceasefire agreement. However, both sides appear entrenched in their positions, with Hamas demanding a permanent end to hostilities and Israel refusing any arrangement that leaves Hamas in power in Gaza.
The United Nations Security Council has faced multiple deadlocks over the crisis, with the United States using its veto power to block resolutions calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. The Biden administration has instead advocated for "pauses" in fighting to allow aid delivery while supporting Israel's right to self-defence.
