Israel's defense minister has stated that Israeli forces are tightening the siege around Gaza City, marking a significant escalation in military operations. The military corridor extending along the coast is aimed at increasing pressure on Hamas, as he warned civilians to evacuate southward, labeling those who remain as terrorists and supporters of terror.
On Wednesday, hospitals reported that 45 individuals had died due to Israeli airstrikes, while the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) announced the suspension of its operations in Gaza City. The intensified assault is set against the backdrop of Hamas's deliberations regarding a recent peace proposal from the United States intended to resolve ongoing hostilities.
Arab and Turkish mediators have encouraged a positive response from Hamas, but officials indicate that the group may ultimately reject the offer. The proposal, which calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the release of all hostages held by Hamas, has met skepticism from within the organization's ranks.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) describes Gaza City as the last stronghold of Hamas and insists the offensive is necessary to achieve the group’s “decisive defeat.” The targeting of civilian medical professionals has drawn criticism, with allegations of violations of international law surfacing amidst ongoing military operations.
Although about 800,000 people are reported to have left Gaza City since the start of military operations, many remain trapped, with UN reports indicating only 397,000 have successfully relocated to safer zones. Irrespective of their intentions, civilians face dire conditions, struggling with basic needs amid continuous militarized violence.
As the humanitarian situation deteriorates, the Israeli government pushes forward its military strategy. This change in tactics and the harshest phase of the siege highlights the precarious plight facing civilians caught in the conflict, raising urgent questions regarding the future of peace in the region.
