Israel Intensifies Gaza Campaign with Expanded Ground Operations and Hostage Ultimatum
Over 700 Palestinians have been killed since the ceasefire's collapse, as Israel targets Hamas leadership and considers a large-scale ground offensive.
- Israel has eliminated dozens of senior Hamas leaders and targeted key infrastructure, including hospitals allegedly used for military purposes.
- The Israeli Defense Forces have begun ground operations to create a buffer zone and are planning a potential large-scale offensive involving tens of thousands of troops.
- Defense Minister Israel Katz has threatened to annex parts of Gaza if Hamas does not release the 59 hostages it holds.
- The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has worsened, with aid blockades, mass displacement, and severe shortages of essential supplies.
- Efforts by Egypt and Qatar to mediate a renewed ceasefire have increased, but no progress has been made toward a resolution.