On Monday, Israel’s security cabinet approved an expansion of its military operations in the Gaza Strip, coinciding with the mobilization of tens of thousands of reserve soldiers. This decision follows a missile attack by Yemen’s Houthi rebels on Israel’s main international airport, Ben Gurion, shortly before Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s crucial security meeting. The Israeli military aims to intensify its campaign against Hamas to pressure the group into returning hostages taken during the October 7, 2023, attacks.
Israeli army chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir stated that the military will expand its operations into additional areas and target all relevant infrastructure, both above and below ground. This marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, which has already led to over 51,000 casualties in Gaza since Israel began its offensive. The humanitarian situation is dire, with the enclave under its longest blockade, restricting all goods, including essential food, fuel, and medical supplies, now entering its third month.
The casualty figure includes thousands of women and children, showcasing the heavy toll of the conflict. Conversely, Israeli reports indicate that around 1,200 people were killed during the initial Hamas attacks, with approximately 250 taken hostage. This escalation has heightened tensions in a conflict that has persisted for decades, further complicating the already intricate geopolitical landscape in the region. The situation remains fluid, with both sides poised for significant military engagements as Israel intensifies its offensive in Gaza amidst calls for humanitarian relief and concerns over the scale of civilian casualties.
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