Israel Begins Controversial Military Operation in Gaza City
Israeli troops have started an assault on Gaza City, marking the first stage of an operation to seize full control of the densely populated area, according to various international news outlets. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have reportedly taken control of the city's periphery, while call-up letters have been sent to 60,000 reservists to bolster the operation, which is expected to continue until next year.
Background and Context
Gaza City, the capital of the Gaza Strip, is home to 750,000 inhabitants, over 70% of whom are under 25 years of age. The city, which is bracing for a prolonged assault, has 14 districts and a history spanning thousands of years. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has instructed the military to expedite the defeat of Hamas, the Palestinian political and military organization governing the Gaza Strip.
Key Developments
The IDF's first phase of operations has already begun, with troops moving into Gaza City. The Israeli government has approved the expansion of the offensive, despite international criticism and the potential for significant casualties and mass displacement. Israeli defense minister Israel Katz's decision to dispatch more troops to Gaza City is expected to exacerbate the already catastrophic humanitarian situation in the territory.
According to reports, the situation in Gaza City is catastrophic,
with large numbers of people fleeing from the eastern neighborhoods. Mustafa Qazzaat, the chief of the Gaza municipality’s emergency committee, has stated that the Israeli military has caused extensive damage to buildings and displaced thousands of residents.
Reactions and Implications
The United Nations has warned about the effects the assault could have on an already dire humanitarian situation. In addition, the Palestinian movement Hamas has accused Israel of ignoring mediators' efforts to reach a ceasefire by launching this new assault, describing it as a new act of genocide
against Palestinians.
Despite the warnings and criticism, the IDF is reportedly preparing to present its plan for the capture of Gaza City to Netanyahu soon. Meanwhile, the Israeli government is deliberating on a new ceasefire proposal, amidst international calls for de-escalation.
Current Status and Consequences
As the offensive continues, fears are growing that the campaign will worsen the already catastrophic humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Nightly bombardments have intensified, with residents reporting heavy artillery fire and aerial bombardment. Israel's operation has already entered its tenth day, leading to mass displacement and significant damage to Gaza City's infrastructure.
The international community, including Italy and 20 other countries, has condemned the West Bank settlements. Yet, as Israel maintains pressure on Gaza City, the world watches anxiously, waiting to see the further implications of this contentious operation.