Israel’s security cabinet approved an expanded military offensive in the Gaza Strip and called up tens of thousands of reserve soldiers to intensify its operations against Hamas. This decision coincided with a missile attack launched by Yemen’s Houthi rebels targeting Israel’s main international airport, Ben Gurion. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a meeting to discuss the next steps in response to the ongoing conflict, which escalated following the October 7, 2023, terrorist attacks by Hamas.
The Israeli military aims to exert increased pressure on Hamas to secure the release of hostages taken during the initial attacks. Army chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir stated that troops would operate in additional regions and aim to destroy both above-ground and underground infrastructures used by Hamas.
In Gaza, the humanitarian situation has deteriorated significantly. The enclave is experiencing its longest blockade of humanitarian aid since the conflict began, with Israel enforcing a ban on food, fuel, and medical supplies for nearly three months. According to the Palestinian Health Ministry, over 51,000 people have died in Gaza during the Israeli offensive, including many women and children. In contrast, Israeli counts reported around 1,200 fatalities in southern Israel attributed to Hamas attacks, with approximately 250 individuals taken hostage, marking a severe escalation in the long-standing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The ongoing violence and humanitarian crisis highlight the complexities and tragedies stemming from this decades-old struggle.
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