Israel launches precise ground offensive amid Gaza tensions
The Israeli army announced on Wednesday that it has begun a "precise" ground operation in the Gaza Strip. Its goal is to expand the buffer zone and regain control over part of the Nezarim corridor.
What do you need to know?
- The Israeli army has launched a ground operation in the Gaza Strip to expand the buffer zone and regain control over the Nezarim corridor.
- Local authorities in the Gaza Strip report over 400 casualties from Israeli attacks, mostly women and children, since Tuesday.
- Israel emphasizes that the offensive is a response to Hamas's rejection of a ceasefire extension proposal, which led to an impasse in negotiations.
Why did Israel decide on a ground operation?
The Israeli army announced on Wednesday that it has begun a "precise" ground operation in the Gaza Strip. The aim of this operation is to expand the buffer zone and regain control over the Nezarim corridor, which divides Palestinian territory into southern and northern parts.
The decision to initiate ground actions followed the resumption of attacks on the Gaza Strip, which until now were conducted from the air and sea.
"The IDF will continue to operate against terrorist organizations in the Gaza Strip in order to protect the citizens of the State of Israel," reads the military communiqué.
What are the reactions to Israel's actions?
Al Jazeera reported that Israeli soldiers have blocked the Salaha al-Din route, one of the main roads in the Gaza Strip. The Israeli army also issued evacuation orders for civilians in areas adjacent to the buffer zone, which media interpreted as preparation for ground actions.
Local authorities in the Gaza Strip stated that over 400 people, mostly women and children, have been killed in Israeli attacks since Tuesday.
What next for negotiations between Israel and Hamas?
Israel launched a new offensive, emphasizing that it is a response to Hamas's rejection of further proposals to extend the ceasefire. Negotiations on this matter have stalled.
The Israeli government pressed Hamas to agree to an extension of the ceasefire in exchange for the release of hostages and a promise to negotiate a lasting truce. Hamas declares readiness for talks, but with a condition to halt the fighting.
