The Israeli military has resumed ground operations in Gaza, marking a major escalation in the conflict. This comes after two days of intense airstrikes that have killed hundreds of Palestinians, shattering a fragile ceasefire that had largely held since January.
According to Gaza’s health officials, at least 48 people were killed in Wednesday’s attacks alone. The previous day saw over 400 deaths—the deadliest episode since the war began in October 2023.
Israel’s Ground Operation and Hamas’ Response
Israel’s latest ground maneuver focuses on the Netzarim Corridor, a strategic area that cuts across Gaza. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claim the operation is meant to establish a security buffer between the northern and southern parts of the enclave.
However, Hamas has condemned the move, calling it a “dangerous violation” of the ceasefire agreement. In a statement, the group urged international mediators to take action and hold Israel accountable.
U.N. Worker Killed as Global Concerns Grow
The violence has also affected humanitarian workers. A U.N. staff member was killed, and five others were injured in a strike on a U.N. facility in Gaza City. While Gaza’s health ministry blamed Israel, the Israeli military denied responsibility, claiming it had targeted a Hamas site preparing to launch attacks on Israeli territory.
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned the attack, calling for a full investigation. So far, over 280 U.N. personnel have been killed in Gaza since the war began.
U.S. Backs Israel but Pushes for Ceasefire
Washington has stood firmly behind Israel but is also pushing for a ceasefire extension. The U.S. government blames Hamas for breaking the truce and has proposed a “bridge” agreement aimed at resuming peace talks and securing the release of Israeli hostages.
However, with both sides blaming each other and Israel vowing that its latest military campaign is “just the beginning,” hopes for a ceasefire seem to be fading.
Escalating Violence and Humanitarian Crisis
The war has taken a devastating toll on Gaza’s 2.3 million residents. Palestinian health officials report that over 49,000 people have been killed since the start of the conflict.
Israel insists that Hamas is using civilians as human shields, a claim the group denies. Meanwhile, residents continue to face severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies, deepening the humanitarian crisis.
Growing Domestic Pressure on Netanyahu
In Israel, the renewed fighting has sparked protests, with critics accusing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of using the war for political purposes. The families of the remaining 59 hostages held in Gaza are demanding urgent action, fearing that military escalation could jeopardize their loved ones’ lives.
What’s Next?
As Israel intensifies its military campaign, the conflict is at risk of spiraling further out of control. With diplomatic efforts struggling to gain traction, the war’s end remains uncertain.
