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Israeli forces have launched ground operations against Hamas in Gaza, marking the second phase of a three-week-long war aimed at crushing the Palestinian militant group. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the goal of these operations is to destroy Hamas’ governing and military capabilities and to bring home the more than 200 hostages held by the group.

Although initial ground operations appear limited for now, Netanyahu emphasized that this is just the beginning, with the intention to target Hamas both above and below ground. Israel has been tightening its blockade and bombarding Gaza since Hamas carried out a devastating attack on October 7th, resulting in the deaths of at least 1,400 Israelis, the deadliest day in the nation’s history.

While Western countries have generally supported Israel’s right to self-defense, there has been growing international concern over the mounting number of casualties and calls for a humanitarian pause to allow aid to reach civilians and alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Medical authorities in Gaza report that 7,650 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s campaign against the Iran-backed militants.

As buildings crumble and shelter becomes scarce, the people of Gaza are facing severe shortages of food, water, fuel, and medicine. Their situation worsened when communication and internet services were cut, leaving them in near-total isolation. The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres referred to it as a “humanitarian catastrophe.”

Israel deployed ground troops and tanks into Gaza, focusing on targeting Hamas’ extensive tunnel network. Palestinians stated that nowhere is safe, as bombs continue to destroy homes throughout the territory. The United Nations Security Council plans to hold a meeting on Monday to address the Israel-Gaza crisis.

Amid fears of a regional conflict, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant assured that Israel has no interest in expanding the fighting beyond Gaza but is prepared on all fronts. Pro-Palestinian demonstrations took place in cities around Europe, the Middle East, and Asia in response to the ongoing conflict.

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