Israel began its largest ground assault in Gaza City early Tuesday, deploying more than 60,000 reservists and launching the pivotal Operation Gideon's Chariots II. This marks a defining moment for both military strategy and civilian survival in the heart of the prolonged Israel-Hamas conflict.
The escalation follows months of sporadic airstrikes and urban clashes, pushing Gaza City to the edge amid mounting international concern. Global leaders and humanitarian organizations warn of dire consequences as fighting intensifies around Palestinian neighborhoods.
Why did Israel escalate its ground campaign in Gaza City?
Israel’s decision to intensify its offensive comes after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu identified Gaza City as Hamas’s last stronghold. The government believes the ground campaign is necessary to dismantle remaining militant networks and regain control over contested urban areas.
Defense officials argue that delaying further would risk Israeli security and prolong instability. Military leaders initiated the operation on the heels of failed ceasefire negotiations, with optimism low for diplomatic breakthroughs.
According to reports, advancing ground divisions represent Israel’s bid to gain decisive leverage before any potential talks resume. The offensive is considered a response to continued rocket fire and increased resistance from entrenched fighters.
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What is Operation Gideon's Chariots II, and who leads it?
Operation Gideon's Chariots II is the Israeli Defense Forces’ largest recent military mobilization, involving multiple divisions and extensive reservist activation. Defense Minister Israel Katz described the offensive as a campaign where “Gaza is burning,” aiming to wrest control from Hamas and diminish its command capabilities in the city.
The tactical plan includes integrated ground advances, coordinated air support, and logistical deployments designed for urban combat. Katz and the IDF's top brass continue to exercise leadership, but Netanyahu's government influences strategic choices. Reservists support regular infantry as divisions move deeper into Gaza City.
How are civilians impacted by the Gaza City offensive?
Civilians are facing unprecedented hardship due to the ongoing offensive. Hundreds of thousands remain trapped, reporting a lack of food, water, and medical care as fighting escalates.
Despite repeated evacuation orders from Israeli forces, most cannot leave due to financial constraints or fear of travel through active combat zones.
Casualties are piling up in hospitals, especially at Shifa Hospital, where doctors receive bodies from morning until night.
The health ministry confirmed at least 34 deaths in the first hours, and warnings persist that additional ground operations will further strain already depleted resources and infrastructure.
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What were the diplomatic reactions to Israel's new offensive?
The operation triggered swift international responses, with European nations like Germany urging Israel to halt its campaign and return to negotiations.
Meanwhile, recent U.S. diplomatic efforts focused on mediating ceasefire prospects, as Secretary of State Marco Rubio left meetings in Israel for urgent talks in Qatar.
Qatar objects to Israeli actions, notably condemning the recent airstrike on its territory as “cowardly and treacherous.” The Gulf state remains a central mediator, even as skepticism rises over Hamas’s willingness to participate in future negotiations. The Trump administration continues to back Israel’s right to advance militarily.
Is the humanitarian crisis worsening in Gaza City?
Conditions in Gaza City show little sign of improvement, with widespread malnutrition and overcrowding exacerbating daily suffering. The local health ministry reported a total of 428 malnutrition deaths, including 146 children, and the humanitarian situation is projected to deteriorate as ground combat intensifies.
Evacuations remain partial, as hundreds of thousands cannot leave the city. Relief agencies struggle to deliver aid, while hospitals and field clinics face resource shortages and increasing patient loads.
The challenges speak to a broader crisis gripping the region’s most vulnerable population.
As Operation Gideon's Chariots II progresses, the stakes for both sides and the international community striving for peace escalate.
The outcome will likely reshape not only Gaza City but also wider diplomatic and humanitarian relations in the Middle East.
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