Israel Escalates Gaza Ground Operations Following Intense Air Strikes
Israeli forces have reportedly expanded their ground operations within Gaza, commencing after a significant wave of air strikes. According to the Hamas-controlled health ministry, these aerial bombardments resulted in the deaths of over 430 individuals in a span of two days.
IDF Deploys Troops to Netzarim Corridor
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that its troops have advanced into the Netzarim Corridor. This area effectively bisects the Gaza Strip, separating its northern and southern regions.
Ceasefire Agreement Dissolved
This renewed military action in Gaza signifies the collapse of the recent ceasefire agreement, which had been in effect since January.
UN Compound Incident Under Investigation
Earlier reports from the UN indicated that an explosion at their compound in Deir al-Balah resulted in two fatalities, including a UN staff member.
A foreign ministry spokesperson announced an investigation into the incident but denied any Israeli culpability.
“Targeted Ground Activities” and Evacuation Orders
The IDF has described its ground operations as “targeted ground activities,” aimed at establishing a “partial buffer zone” between northern and southern Gaza.
The BBC has confirmed the issuance of evacuation orders for areas currently being entered by the military, notably including Beit Hanoun in northern Gaza.
Numerous evacuation directives have been issued to residents across a substantial area bordering Gaza, suggesting the potential for a broader ground offensive imminently.
Panic and Displacement Among Gazan Civilians
These directives have triggered widespread panic among Palestinian families, many of whom are already displaced multiple times due to the ongoing conflict and had recently returned to their residences during the ceasefire period.
Reports indicate families are fleeing on foot, carts, and vehicles, carrying essential belongings as they seek refuge away from the zones designated by the Israeli military.
Defense Minister’s “Last Warning”
In a video address on Wednesday, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz delivered a “last warning” to Gaza, demanding the release of remaining hostages held within the territory.
Israel maintains that Hamas continues to hold 59 hostages, with 24 believed to be still alive.
Minister Katz reiterated the demand for the dismantling of Hamas, asserting that failure to meet these demands would lead to “total destruction and devastation”.
UN Staff Member Death and Incident Details
The troop movements occurred after the UN reported the death of a staff member following damage to its Deir al-Balah compound on Wednesday.
The UN Office for Project Services (UNOPS) reported that an “explosive ordnance was dropped or fired” at the facility, situated in a “remote” location. The exact nature of the incident and the type of ordnance remain unconfirmed.
Jorge Moreira da Silva, head of UNOPS, expressed his belief that “this was not an accident,” describing the situation in Gaza as “unconscionable.”
UN Secretary General António Guterres has called for a comprehensive inquiry into the incident.
Ceasefire Negotiations Fail, Combat Resumes
On Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel had “resumed combat in full force,” indicating that any future ceasefire discussions would occur “under fire.”
Air strikes persisted on Wednesday, but the initial barrage was the most intense since the fragile ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement commenced on January 19.
Negotiations between Israel and Hamas to extend the ceasefire beyond its initial phase have been unsuccessful, despite expectations for discussions to have commenced six weeks prior.
Hamas reportedly declined to renegotiate the ceasefire under Israel’s proposed terms. However, they offered to release a living American hostage (and four bodies) to prolong the existing arrangement.
Israel imposed a complete blockade on food, fuel, and medical supplies entering Gaza in early March, aiming to exert pressure on Hamas.
Israel is now demonstrating its readiness to employ military force to compel Hamas to agree to the renegotiated ceasefire deal being proposed in conjunction with the United States.
Context of Recent Conflict
The Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, resulted in approximately 1,200 fatalities and the capture of 251 hostages. During the initial ceasefire phase, 25 hostages were released alive.
Israel’s subsequent military offensive has, according to the Hamas health ministry, resulted in over 48,500 Palestinian deaths, along with widespread damage to residential areas and infrastructure.