Netanyahu declares Israel's control over Gaza strip, amidst ongoing conflict

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that Israel is to assert control over the whole Gaza Strip, during a new military operation in the conflict-battered region. The Israeli army has launched a new ground operation in Gaza with the objective of occupying the entire region. Netanyahu declared, "Fighting is fierce and we're advancing. We will capture the whole region of the strip. We won't give in."

Humanitarian crisis unfolds

In spite of the continued war, Israel has pledged to provide minimum levels of rations and other materials to the Gaza Strip due to diplomatic and pragmatic reasons. Netanyahu stressed that Israel cannot allow the population of Gaza to starve since it would be detrimental to its global image. Netanyahu said, "Fighting is fierce and we're advancing.

Civilian casualties mount

The Hamas-controlled Gaza health department reported at least 22 people slain in Israeli air strikes, as well as more than 125 reported two days prior. Hundreds died in the recent bombings, according to an estimate by Gaza health workers. The Israeli military reported killing dozens of militants and hitting more than 670 targets during the previous week.

International pressure

Israel is facing growing international pressure, including from its prime benefactor, the United States, to remove the total blockade placed on Gaza two months ago. US President Joe Biden has also called for Israel to relax the blockade and admit more humanitarian aid to Gaza. Most importantly, the blockade has resulted in acute shortages of food, clean water, petrol, and medicines, worsening the humanitarian crisis.

Historical context

The Gaza conflict started on October 7, 2023, and has since been ongoing, causing a high rate of loss of life and displacement. It was initiated by a surprise attack on Israel by militant groups linked to Hamas, killing 1,195 Israelis and foreign citizens. Israel's invasion of Gaza has resulted in the loss of more than 52,000 Palestinians, with countless others injured or displaced.

Global response

The war has triggered mass demonstrations and demands for a truce across the world. Pope Francis has asked the faithful not to forget the pain of the victims of the war. The United Nations and other international agencies have warned of an impending famine and humanitarian disaster in Gaza.

Key developments

• Gaza Strip:  Israel's occupation of the land is to eradicate Hamas's military capacity.
   
• Humanitarian Aid: Israel to provide basic rations and materials to avoid famine and keep diplomatic channels open.
• Civilian Casualties: Recent attacks have reportedly resulted in the deaths or injury of hundreds of Palestinians.
•  International Pressure: US and other nations pressure Israel to lift blockade and provide more humanitarian aid into Gaza.