JERUSALEM, Aug 9: Israel’s plan to intensify its 22-month war with Hamas by taking over Gaza City has sparked renewed fears for Palestinian civilians and the remaining Israeli hostages held in Gaza.
The move is also drawing increased international criticism and pressure for an end to the conflict, which has already displaced most of Gaza’s population, killed over 61,000 people (according to Gaza’s Health Ministry), and pushed the territory toward famine.
Though the exact start date is unclear, an official stated the operation would be “gradual,” involving the mobilization of around 30,000 troops and forced evacuations. Critics warn it would further worsen the humanitarian crisis.
The UN Security Council scheduled an emergency meeting on the matter, while countries like Germany have begun to restrict military exports to Israel over concerns about civilian suffering.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed broader ambitions to take full control of Gaza, beyond the current Israeli hold of roughly 75% of the territory.
While Israel claims the campaign is necessary to eliminate Hamas, critics argue that continued escalation risks the lives of the 50 remaining hostages in Gaza, of whom around 20 are believed to be alive.
Mediators from Egypt and Qatar, backed by Arab Gulf states, are working on a new ceasefire framework that would see the release of all hostages in exchange for an end to the war and the withdrawal of Israeli forces.
The proposal also includes provisions for Hamas to relinquish power and possibly freeze its weapons. A transitional Palestinian-Arab committee would oversee Gaza’s reconstruction, potentially paving the way for a new Palestinian administration.
Meanwhile, public support for the war within Israel is waning. Families of hostages have staged protests demanding a ceasefire and comprehensive deal.
U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff told hostage families that Israel is now pursuing an “all-or-nothing” deal to end the war and secure hostage releases.
On the ground, Gaza City—devastated by repeated Israeli bombardments—remains in ruins. Many who returned after fleeing report uninhabitable conditions, with one resident describing it as “a sandpile.”
Another major ground operation could displace more civilians and further hinder aid delivery.
Tensions escalated further on Friday when Israeli forces allegedly shot dead six Palestinians and wounded over 140 at the Zikim Crossing, where UN aid convoys enter. The military has yet to comment. (AP)
