Israel’s army chief has warned that the war with Hamas will continue for “many more months” as the military escalates its strikes in the Gaza Strip. The ongoing conflict has already claimed the lives of over 20,000 people and raised concerns about a worsening humanitarian crisis. Additionally, incidents involving Iran-backed groups supporting Hamas have heightened fears of a broader regional conflict.
In a separate development, the United States reported intercepting a barrage of drones and missiles fired by Yemen’s Huthi rebels over the Red Sea. Israel’s leaders, however, have stated their determination to continue their offensive until Hamas is completely destroyed. Army chief Herzi Halevi emphasized that the war’s objectives are crucial but challenging to achieve, indicating that it will not end soon.
The war initially broke out when Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7, resulting in approximately 1,140 casualties, mostly civilians. Hamas also took around 250 hostages, with 129 still held captive in Gaza, according to Israeli authorities. In response, Israel launched a relentless bombardment and a ground invasion. The campaign has resulted in the deaths of at least 20,915 people, predominantly women and children, according to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry.
The siege has led to severe shortages of water, food, fuel, and medicine in Gaza, affecting its 2.4 million inhabitants. Limited aid has been able to enter the territory, leaving an estimated 1.9 million Gazans displaced. The situation has prompted the UN Security Council to call for the safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance, leading to the appointment of Sigrid Kaag as the UN’s humanitarian coordinator for Gaza.
Amidst the ongoing conflict, Israeli forces continue their operations in the southern Gaza Strip and central camps area. Three additional Israeli soldiers were killed on Tuesday, bringing the total to 161 since the ground invasion began. The UN Human Rights Office expressed grave concern about the continued bombardment of Middle Gaza and the forced relocation of residents.
The war’s impact has extended beyond Gaza, with armed groups supported by Iran escalating their activities. The US military intercepted multiple attack drones and missiles launched by Yemen’s Huthi rebels in the Red Sea without causing damage or injuries. The Huthis have been carrying out these actions in solidarity with Gaza. In response, Israel’s military intercepted a hostile aerial target in the Red Sea area. Additionally, the US military launched strikes on pro-Iran groups in Iraq, and Hezbollah fighters in Lebanon carried out an anti-tank missile attack, resulting in casualties on both sides.
These recent incidents underscore the potential for the Israel-Hamas conflict to ignite broader regional tensions. As the situation continues to unfold, concerns over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the risk of a wider conflict persist.
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