Israel Expands Ground Operation in Gaza with Massive Strikes
JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel announced on Saturday that it is escalating its ground operation in Gaza, deploying infantry and armored vehicles. The military is supported by “massive” air and sea strikes, including the bombing of Hamas tunnels. This move comes in response to Hamas’ incursion in southern Israel three weeks ago.
The Israeli military released images of tank columns slowly advancing in open areas of Gaza. They reported that dozens of Hamas tunnels and underground bunkers were targeted and destroyed by warplanes. Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, the army spokesman, stated that the forces are still on the ground and continuing the war. This marks the beginning of an anticipated all-out ground offensive in northern Gaza.
In the days leading up to the escalation, Israel had amassed a large number of troops along the border. Until now, the troops conducted brief nightly ground incursions before returning to Israel.
According to Hagari, the ground forces are supported by massive strikes from the air and sea. He added that two key Hamas military commanders were killed overnight, signaling that Israel is facing a weakened enemy. There has been no immediate confirmation from Hamas.
The new stage of the campaign began late Friday, with the bombardment causing a blackout of communication in Gaza. This has cut off the 2.3 million people living in Gaza from contact with the outside world. The blackout has enabled the Israeli military to control the narrative during this critical phase of the fighting, while Palestinians are left isolated and homes and shelters with dwindling supplies of food and water. Electricity was previously cut off by Israel in the early stages of the conflict.
The loss of internet and phone services has dealt a further blow to the already fragile medical and aid system in Gaza. Aid workers say the trickle of aid allowed to enter by Israel through Egypt is far less than what is needed. Gaza hospitals are struggling to find fuel to power emergency generators and life-saving equipment.
The communication blackout has also hindered the ability of international aid groups to reach their teams in Gaza. This has had a severe impact on providing healthcare to the injured. Tedros Adhanom, the head of the World Health Organization, expressed concern for the safety of their staff and health facilities.
The intensified air and ground campaign raised new concerns about the safety of hostages that were taken into Gaza on October 7th. Hagari confirmed that there are 229 hostages, with four being released recently through mediation by Egypt and Qatar. He dismissed media reports about a possible cease-fire deal tied to the release of hostages as a cynical exploitation by Hamas.
The families of hostages in Gaza have demanded a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, as they grow increasingly concerned about the fate of their loved ones.
The blackout in Gaza has also heightened anxiety for Palestinians with relatives in the territory. Wafaa Abdul Rahman, director of a feminist organization in the West Bank, said she hasn’t heard from her family in central Gaza for hours. She expressed concerns about the lack of information and the impact of the ongoing airstrikes.
Israel contends that its strikes target Hamas fighters and infrastructure, stating that the militants operate from among civilians, which puts them at risk. The Palestinian death toll in Gaza has surpassed 7,300, with over 60% of them being minors and women.
Israel reported that more than 1,400 people were killed in their country during Hamas’ attack on October 7th. At least 311 soldiers were among the casualties.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated that Israel expects a long and difficult ground offensive into Gaza. He mentioned that it will take time to dismantle Hamas’ extensive network of tunnels. There is an expectation of lower-intensity fighting as Israel destroys pockets of resistance. However, the endgame and how Hamas’ defeat will be measured remain unclear.
The conflict has raised concerns about a wider war in the region. Arab nations, including allies of the United States, have expressed alarm over a potential ground invasion, which could result in even higher casualties due to urban fighting.
With the ongoing bombings, residents of Gaza have limited options but to seek shelter in their homes, schools, and hospitals. The night sky is illuminated by fireballs and clouds of smoke from the airstrikes.
Magdy, reporting from Cairo.