Israeli military forces have launched a significant ground incursion into the heart of Gaza City, marking a major escalation in the ongoing conflict with Hamas. The operation, confirmed by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), targets what it describes as the militant group's central stronghold.
The assault comes after a week of intense aerial bombardment and follows the collapse of US-mediated ceasefire negotiations in Doha. The talks stalled primarily over Hamas's refusal to provide a full account of the 124 Israeli hostages still believed to be held in the territory, a key Israeli demand.
‘A Necessary Phase’
In a national address, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the operation as a "necessary phase" in the campaign to dismantle Hamas's military capabilities and secure the release of the hostages. He stated the offensive would continue until Israeli objectives are met, despite international pressure.
The United States, while reiterating its support for Israel's right to self-defence, has expressed deep concern over the potential for further civilian casualties. A State Department spokesman emphasised the urgent need for a "humanitarian pause" to allow aid into the besieged strip.
Deepening Humanitarian Catastrophe
The ground push has exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation. Aid agencies report that the renewed fighting has crippled the limited aid distribution that was occurring. The main aid corridors from Israel and Egypt have been effectively severed, halting the flow of essential food, water, and medical supplies to Gaza's 2.3 million residents.
UN officials have issued stark warnings of a complete collapse of civil order and a public health disaster if aid is not resumed immediately.
Regional Tensions Soar
The escalation has triggered alarm across the Middle East. Hezbollah in Lebanon and other Iranian-backed groups have issued statements of solidarity with Hamas, raising fears of the conflict broadening into a wider regional war. Global leaders are urging extreme restraint on all sides to prevent further escalation.
The international community watches with apprehension as the ground offensive in Gaza City unfolds, with the fate of the hostages and the civilian population hanging in the balance.
