Israel has launched the first phase of a major military offensive to seize Gaza City, deploying up to 60,000 reservists and entering into combat on the city’s outskirts. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the commencement of “preliminary operations,” and spokesperson Effie Defrin confirmed that troops are already positioning around key access points. The mobilisation comes even as the government contemplates a new ceasefire proposal that Hamas has accepted, aimed at pausing nearly two years of conflict.
The offensive, reportedly part of Operation Gideon’s Chariots II, was formally announced on August 20, although military activity, including incursions into central Gaza neighbourhoods, had begun earlier. The build-up signals an intensified campaign to dismantle Hamas’s control in the city.
Amid the intensification of fighting, mediators from Egypt and Qatar are negotiating terms for a ceasefire, possibly including a 60-day pause contingent on partial hostage release—an idea analysts say may influence Israel’s strategic decisions.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has issued an urgent call for a ceasefire, warning that continued fighting in Gaza City will lead to catastrophic civilian casualties. He also highlighted the need for unimpeded humanitarian access and criticised Israel’s announcement of a controversial new settlement in the West Bank.
In a parallel escalation, Israel has granted final approval for the settlement plan in the E1 area, which would significantly expand housing east of Jerusalem and effectively divide the West Bank. The project has drawn condemnation from the international community, including the UN and several European states, as a major blow to prospects for a two-state solution.
Inside Gaza, residents report devastating destruction in eastern neighbourhoods like Zeitoun, where buildings have been demolished and civilians are fleeing in droves amidst a deepening humanitarian crisis. Aid groups continue to report widespread displacement, food shortages, and collapsing infrastructure.
Israel’s advance comes amid high stakes: Prime Minister Netanyahu has raised the tempo for ground operations even as international pressure mounts to shift toward diplomacy. The US remains a significant, if quiet, voice in the evolving scenario; European leaders and the UN continue to decry both the offensive and settlement moves as violations of international norms. Meanwhile, pundits suggest Israel’s mobilisation may be aimed both at military objectives and applying pressure in hostage talks.
Also Read: UIDAI Partners with Starlink to Enable Aadhaar-Based KYC for Indian Customers
