Israel Launches Ground Offensive in Gaza, Escalates Attacks on Lebanon and Syria
Israel has announced the start of a new ground offensive in Gaza City, following a surge in military activity across the Palestinian territory. The latest operations have resulted in the deaths of at least 30 people since dawn, according to Gaza’s civil defense agency. The new offensive is part of Israel’s broader strategy to reclaim territory and pressure Hamas to release hostages captured in their October 2023 attack.
In addition to operations in Gaza, Israel has escalated airstrikes in neighboring Lebanon and Syria, marking an intensification of military actions in the region. In southern Lebanon, an Israeli strike targeted a Hamas commander, killing him and his son. The Israeli military stated that the commander, Hassan Farhat, was responsible for orchestrating multiple attacks on Israeli forces during the ongoing conflict.
Ground Operations in Gaza
The Israeli military confirmed that ground troops began operations in Gaza’s Shujaiya area to expand its security zone. In Khan Yunis, a single Israeli airstrike killed at least 25 people, a medical source reported. Residents have described the situation as dire, with many trapped in their homes due to the intense fighting.
Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, outlined plans to increase Israel’s military presence in Gaza, aiming to eliminate terrorist infrastructure. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that the operation was designed to divide Gaza and force Hamas to free the remaining hostages.
Civilian Casualties and Attacks on Shelters
Tragically, civilian casualties continue to rise. On Thursday, Gaza’s civil defense agency reported that at least 31 people, including children, were killed in an Israeli strike on a school being used as a shelter for displaced Palestinians. The attack has sparked outrage, with many fearing for the safety of those still in the area.
Israel’s military claimed it targeted a Hamas command and control center near Gaza City, although it remains unclear if this attack was linked to the school strike.
Death Toll in Gaza
Since Israel resumed intense airstrikes on March 18, Gaza’s health ministry has reported a staggering 1,249 deaths in the region, bringing the total death toll to over 50,000 since the war began.
Israeli Strikes in Lebanon and Syria
Israel’s military actions have extended beyond Gaza. In Lebanon, an Israeli airstrike killed two Hamas members, including Commander Hassan Farhat, in the city of Sidon. Israel claims Farhat was behind several deadly attacks on Israeli forces. Lebanese officials have condemned the strike, calling it a violation of Lebanese sovereignty.
In Syria, Israel has continued to target military sites, defying warnings from the United Nations about the impact of such strikes on Syria’s stability.
Conclusion
The ongoing violence has escalated tensions in the region, with civilians bearing the brunt of the conflict. As military operations intensify, both sides remain locked in a brutal struggle with no immediate end in sight.
Israel Launches Ground Offensive in Gaza, Escalates Attacks on Lebanon and Syria
