Israeli military officials announced that Israeli forces currently control 40 percent of Gaza City, as intense bombardment continues to displace residents. This statement was made by Brigadier General Effie Defrin during a news conference, where he noted that the Israeli army’s operations have caused significant civilian casualties, with 53 people reported killed on Thursday alone, primarily in Gaza City.
Defrin indicated that the military’s focus is on dismantling Hamas’ infrastructure, particularly in the neighborhoods of Zeitoun and Sheikh Radwan. He stated, “The operation will continue to expand and intensify in the coming days,” emphasizing that the mission would persist until Israel’s remaining hostages are returned and Hamas’ governance ceases.
Concerns about post-conflict governance have arisen, with army Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir reportedly informing cabinet ministers that without a comprehensive strategy, military rule in Gaza might become necessary. This proposition has garnered support from far-right members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu‘s government, who advocate for establishing settlements in Gaza, although Netanyahu has thus far rejected this approach.
The latest offensive, which commenced on August 10, 2023, aims to eradicate Hamas militants from Gaza City, a region where fighting has been particularly intense. The campaign has drawn international scrutiny due to the escalating humanitarian crisis and has sparked internal tensions among Israeli military and political leaders regarding strategy.
Amid this turmoil, residents like Um Nader, a mother of five from Gaza City, expressed despair, stating, “I want to die here. It doesn’t matter if we move out or stay.” Many civilians are caught in the crossfire, with reports indicating that the Israeli military has targeted districts including Sabra, Tuffah, and Shejaia, resulting in significant destruction and loss of life.
According to local health officials, at least 370 people, including 131 children, have died from malnutrition and starvation due to acute food shortages, particularly in recent weeks. The humanitarian situation is dire, as the Israeli military continues operations on the outskirts of the city to uncover militant tunnels and weapons caches.
Israel has encouraged civilians to evacuate Gaza City for their safety, reporting that approximately 70,000 individuals have complied by relocating south. However, Palestinian officials contend that this number is inflated, citing that fewer than half have left, while many thousands remain in the conflict zone.
The war, which began on October 7, 2023, following a surprise attack by Hamas that resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 people in southern Israel, has since claimed over 63,000 Palestinian lives, according to local health reports. The majority of these casualties are believed to be civilians, as much of Gaza has been ravaged, leaving countless residents to navigate the destruction.
As the conflict continues, the situation remains fluid, with the international community closely monitoring developments and the humanitarian crisis deepening in the region.
