The Israeli military has initiated a major ground offensive in Gaza City, significantly escalating the conflict in the region. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described the situation as “Gaza is burning,” following a series of heavy airstrikes targeting the city. The offensive began on Monday night, with ground forces moving to secure key areas within Gaza City. This operation comes after weeks of rising tensions and ongoing airstrikes.
International Reactions
The global response has been immediate and varied:
- Several Muslim leaders have condemned the recent strikes and called for ceasefire negotiations.
- The conflict has displaced thousands of residents, creating a humanitarian crisis as many flee the violence.
- U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited the region, expressing support for Israel’s security while stressing the importance of minimizing civilian casualties.
Diplomatic Developments
Amid the tension, Qatar and the United States are moving closer to an enhanced defense cooperation agreement. This is partly in response to the recent Israeli attack on Hamas political leaders in Doha, highlighting the complex geopolitical dynamics involved.
Significance of the Offensive
This ground operation represents a new and critical phase in the Israel-Gaza conflict, with significant implications for peace and security across the Middle East. The situation remains highly fluid, with events unfolding rapidly.
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