The Israeli military said it started ground operations in Gaza. BBC
Israel has widened its ground operations in Gaza, following intense airstrikes that have killed over 430 people in two days, according to Gaza’s health ministry. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that troops have advanced to the Netzarim Corridor. This area cuts through Gaza, splitting the northern and southern regions.
The recent attacks signal the end of the fragile ceasefire that had been in place since January. The ceasefire fell apart as both sides failed to agree on new terms. Hamas rejected Israel's conditions for renegotiation, even though it offered to release an American hostage and four bodies.
The ground operations have sparked panic among Palestinians. Families who had briefly returned home during the ceasefire are fleeing once again. People are seen carrying their belongings and moving by foot, cart, or vehicle, trying to escape areas marked for Israeli military action.
Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, gave a stern warning in a video message. He demanded the return of 59 hostages still held by Hamas, with 24 believed to be alive. Katz declared that if the hostages are not released and Hamas does not surrender, Gaza will face "total destruction."
The situation has become even more dire after an explosion struck a United Nations compound in Deir al-Balah, killing two people, including a UN staff member. The UN’s project services office reported that an "explosive ordnance" hit the isolated compound, though the exact cause remains unclear. The head of the office, Jorge Moreira da Silva, believes the strike was deliberate. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has demanded a thorough investigation.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue the assault with "full force." He stated that any future ceasefire negotiations will only take place "under fire."
The violence began in October 2023 when Hamas launched a deadly attack on Israel, killing about 1,200 people and capturing 251 hostages. In response, Israel launched a major military offensive. Since then, Gaza’s health ministry claims more than 48,500 Palestinians have been killed. The war has devastated homes, infrastructure, and the overall living conditions in Gaza.
Israel’s recent ground operations, combined with its strict blockade on food, fuel, and medical supplies, aim to pressure Hamas into accepting a new ceasefire deal. The situation remains tense, with no sign of the conflict slowing down.
