Intensified combat has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, raising international alarm.
Major Military Offensive Launched by Israel in Gaza
Major Military Offensive Launched by Israel in Gaza
Israeli Forces Target Hamas while Addressing Humanitarian Concerns
Israel's military has initiated a comprehensive offensive known as "Operation Gideon's Chariots," aimed at dismantling Hamas and ensuring the release of hostages held by the group. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed through its Hebrew X account that troops have been mobilized to seize "strategic areas" within the Gaza Strip. Reports from the Hamas-controlled civil defense and health ministry indicate approximately 250 casualties due to Israeli bombardments since Thursday.
The conflict has intensified following Israel's imposition of an aid blockade in March, which occurred after a ceasefire that lasted two months broke down. US President Donald Trump remarked on Friday that many individuals in Gaza were enduring severe hunger as a result of the condition. Notably, the IDF did not employ the operation's name in its English-language communications.
The military stated its objective is to dismantle Hamas's influence and secure the return of all hostages, having reportedly targeted over 150 sites associated with Hamas in just 24 hours. Alongside this offensive, Israel’s military has bolstered its armored presence along the Gaza border, drawing increasing international concern regarding the escalation and the urgent call for renewal of ceasefire negotiations.
The Times of Israel reported that "Gideon's Chariots," named after a biblical warrior, aims to seize and maintain territory, urge civilians to evacuate to southern Gaza, and ensure that Hamas cannot control humanitarian aid efforts. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu mentioned earlier this month preparations for a significant military incursion into Gaza, indicating readiness to act post Trump's recent Middle Eastern engagements.
UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk expressed that the recent escalation could infringe upon international law, saying, "The methodical destruction of neighbourhoods, coupled with the denial of humanitarian assistance, seems to promote a demographic shift in Gaza that defies international law and resembles ethnic cleansing."
In the UK, reconstructive surgeon Victoria Rose, operating at Nasser hospital in Khan Younis, shared on BBC Radio 4 that medical staff are facing severe exhaustion and rising cases of malnutrition among children. A UN assessment highlighted the "critical risk" of famine facing Gaza's population, while the Israeli government disputed claims of any food scarcity.
The military operation follows Hamas's deadly cross-border attack on October 7, which left approximately 1,200 dead and led to the abduction of 251 individuals, of whom 57 are still held captive.
The conflict has intensified following Israel's imposition of an aid blockade in March, which occurred after a ceasefire that lasted two months broke down. US President Donald Trump remarked on Friday that many individuals in Gaza were enduring severe hunger as a result of the condition. Notably, the IDF did not employ the operation's name in its English-language communications.
The military stated its objective is to dismantle Hamas's influence and secure the return of all hostages, having reportedly targeted over 150 sites associated with Hamas in just 24 hours. Alongside this offensive, Israel’s military has bolstered its armored presence along the Gaza border, drawing increasing international concern regarding the escalation and the urgent call for renewal of ceasefire negotiations.
The Times of Israel reported that "Gideon's Chariots," named after a biblical warrior, aims to seize and maintain territory, urge civilians to evacuate to southern Gaza, and ensure that Hamas cannot control humanitarian aid efforts. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu mentioned earlier this month preparations for a significant military incursion into Gaza, indicating readiness to act post Trump's recent Middle Eastern engagements.
UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk expressed that the recent escalation could infringe upon international law, saying, "The methodical destruction of neighbourhoods, coupled with the denial of humanitarian assistance, seems to promote a demographic shift in Gaza that defies international law and resembles ethnic cleansing."
In the UK, reconstructive surgeon Victoria Rose, operating at Nasser hospital in Khan Younis, shared on BBC Radio 4 that medical staff are facing severe exhaustion and rising cases of malnutrition among children. A UN assessment highlighted the "critical risk" of famine facing Gaza's population, while the Israeli government disputed claims of any food scarcity.
The military operation follows Hamas's deadly cross-border attack on October 7, which left approximately 1,200 dead and led to the abduction of 251 individuals, of whom 57 are still held captive.
