Israel Launches Ground Offensive to Occupy Gaza City
The Israeli military initiated its ground offensive on October 23, 2023, targeting Gaza City in a move described by the Netanyahu government as essential for dismantling Hamas. The operation marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict that has persisted for nearly two years. Israeli officials have expressed concerns that this military action will further increase the death toll and worsen the humanitarian crisis in the region.
According to the Gaza health ministry, nearly 65,000 Palestinians have died since the beginning of Israel’s offensive following Hamas’ attack on October 7. The situation in Gaza City remains dire, with escalating air strikes and the destruction of numerous high-rise buildings claimed to be used for military purposes by Hamas.
Current Military Action and Humanitarian Impact
In the lead-up to the ground offensive, the Israeli military intensified air strikes in Gaza City, targeting buildings associated with Hamas. Concurrently, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) urged the approximately one million residents of Gaza City to evacuate south to designated “humanitarian areas.” Reports indicate that around 300,000 Palestinians have fled Gaza City since these calls for evacuation began.
Despite the military’s preparations, there are growing concerns among Israel’s security leadership. High-ranking officials, including IDF Chief of Staff Gen. Eyal Zamir, have advised against launching the ground operation, highlighting the potential risks involved. These include putting the lives of Israeli hostages at risk, incurring substantial casualties among IDF soldiers, and the possibility of failing to dismantle Hamas, which could force Israel into direct governance over Gaza’s two million residents.
International Reactions and Domestic Criticism
The timing of the offensive coincided with a meeting between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, where Rubio conveyed U.S. support for the operation but emphasized the need for it to be executed swiftly. A senior Israeli official stated that the Trump administration is allowing Israel to make independent decisions regarding its military actions in Gaza.
As tanks entered Gaza City, former President Donald Trump cautioned Hamas against harming the remaining 20 Israeli hostages. He indicated that Hamas had allegedly relocated hostages to positions above ground to shield themselves from Israeli attacks. In a post on Truth Social, Trump warned Hamas leaders of the consequences if they endangered the lives of hostages, labeling such actions as a “human atrocity.” Netanyahu publicly thanked Trump for his support, reaffirming the significance of U.S. backing during this critical period.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum has raised alarms regarding the implications of the ground offensive on hostages, stating that the decision to proceed could jeopardize their safety. The families of the hostages emphasized the urgency of the situation, asserting that this could be the last night for some of those held captive in Gaza.
As the conflict escalates, the human cost continues to rise, drawing increased scrutiny both domestically and internationally. The unfolding events in Gaza City will likely shape the future of the region and the ongoing struggle between Israel and Hamas.
