Israel’s Military Actions in Gaza
Israel’s Defence Minister has directed the military to increase its territorial control in Gaza and issued threats to annex parts of the region unless Hamas releases 59 Israeli hostages still being held there.
Escalation of Military Offensive
Israel Katz’s warning on Friday coincided with a ramping up of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) offensive initiated on Tuesday, which involved intense airstrikes that disrupted a tentative truce that had been in place since mid-January.
Continued Attacks and Humanitarian Impact
Overnight, there were further relentless attacks across much of Gaza. An aid worker in Gaza City described the situation, stating, “It’s all day and all night. Drones, planes, artillery, tanks … all the time. It’s as bad as it’s ever been.”
Israeli Military Advancements
Israeli forces have regained control of the strategic Netzarim corridor that separates northern and southern Gaza and have progressed towards the northern town of Beit Lahiya, as well as the southern border city of Rafah.
Threats from Israeli Officials
Israeli officials have heightened their threats, urging Palestinians in Gaza to overthrow Hamas or face dire consequences. Katz stated, “The more Hamas refuses to free the hostages, the more territory it will lose, which will be annexed by Israel.” He also warned of expanding buffer zones around Gaza unless Hamas complies.
Status of Hostages and Civil Casualties
The Gaza civil defense agency reported that 504 individuals have been killed since the resumption of bombardment, marking one of the heaviest death tolls since the conflict reignited over 17 months ago. An NGO head described the recent violence as being unprecedentedly severe, inducing constant fear among residents.
International and Domestic Responses
The Trump administration reiterated its backing of Israel, with White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt warning Hamas of severe repercussions if the hostages are not released. Amidst the conflict, Israel also faces internal dissent, with protests against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing him of undermining democratic processes while managing military operations.
