Israel Vows to Keep Fighting in Gaza, Despite International Calls for Cease-Fire
Israel has promised to continue its offensive in Gaza until Hamas is eradicated, despite mounting international pressure to declare a cease-fire. The brutal ambush in Gaza City last Tuesday was one of the most deadly battles of the war, resulting in the deaths of 116 soldiers since the ground offensive began on October 27.
Hamas demonstrated its resilience during the attack, raising questions about Israel’s ability to defeat the militant group without destroying Gaza. As support for Hamas among Palestinians grows and international allies, including the U.S., express discomfort over civilian casualties, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has remained resolute in continuing the offensive. “We are continuing until the end, there is no question,” Netanyahu emphasized.
The United States has called for Israel to take greater measures to protect civilian lives, with National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan planning to visit Israel. President Joe Biden’s remarks earlier this week suggested that Israel is losing international support due to the civilian toll of its campaign.
The fighting has been concentrated in heavily populated areas, with much of northern Gaza under siege and massive civilian displacement. More than 18,600 Palestinians have been killed in the conflict, with thousands more missing and feared dead beneath the rubble. Nearly 1.9 million Palestinians have been driven from their homes, and thousands remain in the north despite evacuation orders.
The humanitarian crisis has deepened as Israel’s offensive continues, with aid organizations struggling to reach the affected areas. U.N.-run shelters are at a breaking point and families have been forced to set up tent camps in inhospitable areas, with heavy rain and cold compounding their misery.
The conflict has also had a significant impact on the political landscape in the region. Against Israel’s hopes, support for Hamas among Palestinians has surged, with 44% of respondents in the occupied West Bank expressing support for the militant group.
Meanwhile, the U.S. has expressed support for reviving the long-defunct peace process and the creation of a Palestinian state. However, Israel’s government remains firmly opposed to Palestinian statehood and has signaled its intent to maintain security control over Gaza.
The conflict has also raised questions about the future of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, with nearly 90% of respondents rejecting his leadership and calling for his resignation.
Despite mounting pressure and calls for peace, the situation in Gaza remains dire, and the toll of the conflict is growing. As international concerns over the civilian cost continue to mount, it remains to be seen how Israel will proceed in its offensive.