‘Extensive’ new ground operations begin in Gaza…

Israel has initiated extensive new ground operations in the Gaza Strip, resulting in airstrikes that killed over 100 people, including numerous children, overnight and into Sunday, according to hospitals and medics. The bombardment led to the closure of the main hospital in northern Gaza due to direct strikes.

The offensive, which began on Saturday, is the largest since the ceasefire was broken in March, with the objective of seizing territory and displacing hundreds of thousands of Palestinians. Israel is urging Hamas to agree to a temporary ceasefire that would release hostages from Gaza without necessarily ending the conflict. In contrast, Hamas insists on a full withdrawal of Israeli forces and a clear path to concluding the war as part of any agreement.

Residents like Abu Mohammad Yassin expressed dismay over the ongoing violence, with many fleeing the offensive on foot or in donkey carts. Israel’s military, having called up tens of thousands of reservists, announced that the ground operations are taking place throughout the north and south of the Palestinian territory. The plans reportedly involve essentially dividing the strip.

Before the ground operations were announced, airstrikes in the southern city of Khan Younis claimed the lives of over 40 people, including women and children. Additional strikes in Jabaliya resulted in the deaths of multiple family members. The Israeli military attributed civilian casualties to Hamas, citing the group’s presence in civilian areas.

Efforts for a ceasefire deal were ongoing in Qatar, with Israel indicating it was exploring options that could end the fighting in exchange for the release of hostages and the disarmament of Gaza. However, Hamas has rejected the idea of leaving Gaza or disarming.

Tensions have been escalating, with Israel imposing a blockade on Gaza for several months, resulting in concerns of a looming famine. The conflict, which commenced in 2023, has seen significant casualties on both sides, with health officials citing the destruction of Gaza’s healthcare system. The ongoing violence has prompted widespread displacement and humanitarian concerns.

In Gaza City, grieving families mourned the loss of loved ones, emphasizing the toll the conflict has taken on civilians.