Israel says new military offensive to take over Gaza City has begun
Offensive to take over Gaza City has begun, Israel says
- The Israeli military has begun the initial phase of a planned operation to take full control of Gaza City, with troops already encircling its outskirts.
- This operation, approved by Israel’s security cabinet, aims to force Gaza's 2.3 million population south and will involve calling up tens of thousands of additional reservists.
- Israel's stated objectives for the offensive include establishing security control over the entire Strip, disarming Hamas, securing the return of hostages, demilitarising Gaza, and setting up an alternative civil administration.
- The planned offensive has drawn international condemnation, with concerns raised by the UN and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer about increased bloodshed, humanitarian crisis, and the safety of remaining hostages.
- Amid severe food shortages and ongoing bombardments, Hamas has accepted a new ceasefire proposal from Arab mediators, though Israel and the United States have yet to respond.