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Israel’s military has announced the start of the main phase of its ground operation to take control of Gaza City. This move comes after top U.S. diplomat Marco Rubio met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The offensive, described as being in its “initial phases,” will see a gradual increase of troops in the city, with the goal of operating as quickly and safely as possible for both troops and civilians.
Civilian Displacement and Humanitarian Concerns
An Israeli military official stated that an estimated 40% of Gaza City’s residents have already moved south, a number that has been challenged by UN estimates. The official also mentioned that Israel is “continuing to expand humanitarian operations” in southern Gaza. However, Israel has also rejected a recent U.N. report that accused it of committing genocide in Gaza.
Political and Military Context
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel had launched a “significant” operation in Gaza while giving a testimony in court. The military estimates that thousands of Hamas members are still in Gaza City and is prepared to operate for “as long as we need to.” The operation aims to take control of the city center.
You can watch this video for more information on the protests outside the court where Netanyahu testified, which coincided with the ground operation in Gaza City. Netanyahu on Trial: Protests Coincide With Ground Operation
