What's happened
Israeli forces have begun circling Gaza City, with plans for a full military takeover amid ongoing bombardments and mounting humanitarian crises. Over 62,000 Palestinians have been killed since October 2023, and a ground offensive threatens to escalate the conflict further. International protests and diplomatic efforts continue.
What's behind the headline?
The Israeli military's move to encircle Gaza City signals a significant escalation in the conflict, with the potential for widespread civilian casualties and further displacement. The planned full takeover aims to dismantle Hamas' infrastructure but risks prolonging the war and deepening humanitarian suffering. The international community's condemnation highlights the risk of a broader regional crisis. The timing suggests Israel is prioritizing military objectives over diplomatic solutions, which could lead to a protracted and devastating ground war. The ongoing protests and diplomatic efforts indicate global concern, but the situation remains highly volatile, with no clear path to de-escalation. The conflict's escalation will likely intensify regional instability and complicate international relations, especially with neighboring countries and global powers involved.
What the papers say
The articles from The Independent, The New Arab, and The Times of Israel collectively depict Israel's intensifying military campaign in Gaza, with plans for a full ground invasion and widespread destruction. The Independent emphasizes the escalation and humanitarian toll, noting the call-up of reservists and ongoing bombardments. The New Arab highlights the worsening humanitarian crisis, including famine and medical evacuations, and reports protests worldwide condemning the siege. The Times of Israel provides context on Israel's strategic objectives, the political debate within Israel, and the international reactions, including protests and diplomatic efforts for ceasefire negotiations. While all sources agree on the escalation, they differ in focus: humanitarian impact, regional protests, and political strategies.
How we got here
Israel announced plans earlier this month to conquer Gaza City, claiming it as Hamas' last stronghold. The move follows a series of clashes and escalating violence since October 2023, with Israel aiming to take full control of Gaza and force its population south. The conflict has led to widespread destruction and a humanitarian crisis, with over 62,000 Palestinians killed and millions suffering from famine and displacement. International efforts for a ceasefire have so far failed, with Israel citing security concerns and Hamas rejecting proposed truce terms.
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Common question
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What Are Israel's Plans for Gaza City?
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What’s happening with the Gaza City military operation?
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What’s Happening in Gaza Right Now?
The Gaza conflict has escalated dramatically, with Israeli forces preparing for a full takeover of Gaza City amid ongoing bombings and a worsening humanitarian crisis. Thousands of Palestinians have been killed, and international protests are calling for peace. If you're wondering about the latest developments, the reasons behind Israel's military plans, and what world leaders are saying, this page has all the answers.
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Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni-Islamic fundamentalist militant organization. It has a social service wing, Dawah, and a military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades.
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Gaza City, often simply called Gaza, is a city in the Gaza Strip, Palestine, and the capital of the Gaza Governorate. Located on the Mediterranean coast, 76.6 kilometres (47.6 mi) southwest of Jerusalem, it was home to Palestine's only port. With a popula
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Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician serving as Prime Minister of Israel since 2009, and previously from 1996 to 1999. Netanyahu is also the Chairman of the Likud – National Liberal Movement.
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The Israel Defense Forces, commonly known in Israel by the Hebrew acronym Tzahal, are the military forces of the State of Israel. They consist of the ground forces, air force, and navy. It is the sole military wing of the Israeli security forces, and has
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
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The Gaza Strip, or simply Gaza, is a self-governing Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, that borders Egypt on the southwest for 11 kilometers and Israel on the east and north along a 51 km border.