What's happened
Israeli forces prepare for a ground offensive in Gaza City, with mounting civilian casualties and famine. Palestinian resistance launches operations, while international efforts for ceasefire and aid face obstacles. The conflict continues to deepen, with significant regional implications.
What's behind the headline?
The escalation in Gaza reflects a complex interplay of military, political, and humanitarian factors. Israel's plan to occupy Gaza City will likely result in further civilian suffering and displacement, deepening the humanitarian crisis. The recent launch of Hamas operations indicates a strategic effort to resist Israeli advances and negotiate from a position of strength. The international community's inability to broker a ceasefire or humanitarian access underscores the deep divisions and geopolitical stakes involved. The ongoing conflict risks expanding regionally, especially with Yemen's Houthis firing missiles at Israel, signaling broader proxy tensions. The situation will likely worsen unless diplomatic breakthroughs occur, but current military strategies suggest a protracted and devastating conflict that will continue to impact civilians and regional stability.
What the papers say
The articles from The New Arab provide detailed updates on the ongoing violence, civilian casualties, and regional tensions, emphasizing the humanitarian toll and military developments. They highlight Israel's military buildup, Hamas's response, and international diplomatic efforts, including Pope Leo's call for negotiations. Contrasting perspectives include Israel's focus on military objectives and Hamas's resistance, with some commentary on regional implications, such as Yemen's missile attacks. The coverage underscores the severity of the crisis and the difficulty of achieving a peaceful resolution amid escalating violence and geopolitical tensions.
How we got here
The conflict in Gaza escalated after Hamas's attack on southern Israel in October 2023, prompting Israel to declare Gaza a combat zone and intensify military operations. The ongoing blockade, combined with Hamas's resistance and regional tensions, has led to a severe humanitarian crisis, including famine and mass displacement. International actors have called for ceasefire negotiations, but Israel continues its military escalation, aiming to seize Gaza City and displace its population, while Hamas seeks to negotiate a comprehensive deal to end the war.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Is Israel Refusing a Ceasefire in Gaza?
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has led to intense military operations and widespread humanitarian suffering. Israel's refusal to consider a ceasefire raises questions about its motives, the risks involved, and the international response. Below, we explore the reasons behind Israel's stance, the impact on civilians, and what global leaders are doing about the crisis.
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How Do Ongoing Conflicts and Disasters Impact Global Stability?
Recent conflicts in Sudan and Gaza, along with natural disasters like hurricanes and health crises, are shaping the world in profound ways. Understanding how these crises influence international stability, aid efforts, and future preparedness can help us better navigate these challenging times. Below, we explore key questions about the global impact of ongoing conflicts and disasters.
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How Do Natural Disasters and Conflicts Shape Policy and Public Opinion?
Recent events like hurricanes, conflicts, and health crises have a profound impact on government policies and public attitudes. Understanding how these crises influence decision-making and societal responses can help us better navigate future challenges. Below, explore key questions about how disasters and conflicts shape our world and what lessons we can learn from past and present events.
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Gaza Conflict: What’s Happening and Why It Matters
The Gaza conflict has escalated dramatically, with ongoing Israeli strikes and mounting civilian casualties. Many are asking what the latest developments are, why international efforts are stalled, and how civilians are affected. This page provides clear answers to these pressing questions, helping you understand the complex situation unfolding in Gaza and its regional implications.
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What’s Causing the Gaza Conflict to Escalate Now?
The Gaza conflict has recently intensified, raising concerns worldwide. Understanding why the violence is escalating now involves looking at recent military actions, regional tensions, and international responses. Many are asking what’s behind this surge in violence and what it means for civilians and global stability. Below, we explore the key questions about the current situation and its broader implications.
More on these topics
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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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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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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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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 Houthi movement, officially called Ansar Allah and colloquially simply Houthis, is an Islamic political and armed movement that emerged from Sa'dah in northern Yemen in the 1990s.
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Isaac 'Bougie' Herzog is an Israeli politician. He served as a member of the Knesset between 2003 and 2018 and held several ministerial posts, including Minister of Welfare and Social Services.