Israel launches decisive ground operation in Gaza pursuit
The Wall Street Journal reports that Israeli authorities plan to conduct a large-scale ground operation in the Gaza Strip. According to information from the newspaper, the leadership of the Jewish state believes that capturing and maintaining a significant portion of the Palestinian enclave will enable them to achieve ultimate victory over Hamas.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his close circle believe that, with the support of offensive actions by the new US administration and the weakening of Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Israeli army possesses sufficient capability to carry out a large-scale ground operation in the Gaza Strip, writes "The Wall Street Journal."
The newspaper, however, notes that to achieve an ultimate victory over Hamas, Israel would need to completely destroy the underground tunnel system used by the organisation. This — according to the "WSJ" — could take several months or even years.
Opponents of Netanyahu's new strategy believe that eliminating the radical organisation without a political resolution to the conflict is simply unfeasible.
Israel announces ground operation
The Israeli army announced on 19 March 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 Netzarim corridor, which divides Palestinian territory into southern and northern parts.
The decision to start the ground actions followed the resumption of attacks on the Gaza Strip, previously conducted from air and sea.
What's next for negotiations between Israel and Hamas?
Israel launched a new offensive, emphasising that this is a reaction to Hamas' rejection of further proposals to extend the truce. Negotiations on this matter have stalled.
The Israeli government pressured Hamas to agree to extend the ceasefire in exchange for the release of hostages and the promise to negotiate a lasting truce. Hamas declares readiness for talks but on the condition of halting the fighting.
