Israel has intensified its military operations in Gaza, expanding ground activities across the region as violence escalates. The move comes after Hamas militants launched rockets toward Tel Aviv, marking their first military response to Israel’s renewed aerial bombardment and ground offensive. The conflict has drawn widespread condemnation and shattered a fragile ceasefire that had been in place since January 19.
The Israeli military announced that troops are conducting ground operations in the Shabura area of Rafah, near the Egyptian border, and have dismantled what they describe as “terrorist infrastructure.” Operations are also ongoing in northern and central Gaza. The offensive has resulted in significant civilian casualties, with Gaza’s civil defense agency reporting 504 deaths since Tuesday, including over 190 children. This toll is among the highest since the war began 17 months ago following Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.
Hamas’s armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, claimed responsibility for firing rockets at Tel Aviv, citing retaliation for civilian deaths in Gaza. Meanwhile, Israel intercepted a missile launched from Yemen by Iran-backed Houthi rebels, who claim to support Palestinians. The situation has further strained regional tensions.
The resumption of hostilities has also reignited domestic protests in Israel, with critics accusing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of prioritizing military action over securing the release of remaining hostages held by Hamas. Former hostage Eli Sharabi, addressing the UN Security Council, urged the international community to “bring them all home,” recounting his harrowing experience in captivity.
Netanyahu’s government has faced internal and external criticism for its handling of the conflict. The dismissal of Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, citing a “lack of trust,” has added to the political turmoil. Meanwhile, Hamas has called on Arab and Islamic nations to intervene at the UN to halt the fighting.
As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens, with civilians fleeing south to escape the violence, the international community faces mounting pressure to broker a lasting ceasefire. However, with both sides entrenched in their positions, the path to peace remains uncertain, leaving thousands of lives hanging in the balance.
