Prime Minister Netanyahu: War on Hamas in Gaza to continue for “many more months”
In a recent announcement on Saturday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel’s war on Hamas in Gaza will continue for “many more months.” This declaration comes as the international community continues to call for a cease-fire due to the escalating civilian deaths, hunger, and mass displacement in Gaza.
Netanyahu expressed gratitude to the Biden administration for its ongoing support, including the approval of a new emergency weapons sale and prevention of a United Nations Security Council resolution seeking an immediate cease-fire. However, the Biden administration has also urged Israel to take more precautions to avoid harm to Palestinian civilians.
In the latest developments, Israeli warplanes struck the urban refugee camps of Nuseirat and Bureij in the center of the territory, while ground forces made advancements into the southern city of Khan Younis.
The Health Ministry in Gaza reported that more than 21,600 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s air and ground offensive, with 165 deaths occurring in the past 24 hours. Additionally, the conflict has led to the displacement of 85% of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents, leaving the population in need of basic necessities.
Displaced individuals have been seeking shelter in overcrowded areas, and many are facing challenges related to accessing clean water and food. The ongoing conflict has also led to widespread destruction of homes and infrastructure, contributing to the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.
While there have been international efforts to broker a temporary cease-fire and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid, the United Nations has reported that aid distribution in Gaza remains inadequate. Philippe Lazzarini, head of UNRWA, stated that nearly the entire population in Gaza is dependent on humanitarian aid, and a quarter of the population is currently facing starvation due to insufficient supplies.
As the conflict continues to unfold, the inhabitants of Gaza are left grappling with a humanitarian crisis that shows no signs of abating, while international leaders remain divided over the best course of action to address the ongoing violence and its impact on civilians.