Israel Launches Operation to Capture Gaza City Amid Escalating Conflict
In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, the Israeli military has begun the initial stages of an operation to seize control of Gaza City. The move comes after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu instructed the military to accelerate efforts to defeat Hamas, the Palestinian armed group that has been at the center of the conflict.
According to IDF spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin, Israeli forces have secured the outskirts of Gaza City and are preparing to intensify their attacks on Hamas strongholds in the densely populated area. Netanyahu has ordered the military to present a comprehensive plan for the capture of Gaza City, with the IDF expected to submit its proposal on Thursday.
The operation follows the recent rejection by West Jerusalem of a proposal by Hamas for a 60-day ceasefire and the release of ten Israeli hostages. The proposal, based on a framework developed by US President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff, was dismissed by Israel, which has vowed to press on with its military campaign.
Hamas has condemned the Israeli operation, stating that it demonstrates a “blatant disregard” for the efforts of mediators seeking to broker a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The group has also accused Israel of escalating the violence, citing the wounding of three IDF troops on Wednesday in an attack by Hamas fighters near Khan Younis.
The conflict in Gaza began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched an incursion into southern Israel, killing over 1,200 people and taking 250 hostages. Since then, more than 62,000 people have been killed, and around 156,000 wounded in Israeli attacks on the Palestinian enclave, according to Gaza’s health ministry.
As the conflict escalates, concerns are growing about the humanitarian impact on the civilian population in Gaza. With the Israeli military preparing to launch a major operation in Gaza City, the international community is watching with bated breath, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
In preparation for the operation, the IDF has called up an additional 60,000 reservists, increasing its military presence in the region. The Israeli government has reiterated its commitment to defeating Hamas and securing full control over Gaza, but the consequences of this operation remain uncertain.
The situation in Gaza is becoming increasingly dire, with civilians caught in the crossfire and humanitarian aid struggling to reach those in need. As the conflict rages on, the international community must redouble its efforts to broker a peaceful resolution and prevent further bloodshed.
