Israel has launched a major new offensive in Gaza, sparking widespread condemnation from the United Nations and aid organizations. The offensive aims to destroy Hamas and free hostages, but critics say civilians are bearing the brunt of the expanded assault.
At least 262 people have been killed and 675 others injured since Thursday, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health. The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, has described the situation in Gaza as “beyond description, beyond atrocious & beyond inhumane.”
Israel’s military launched extensive attacks on strategic areas in Gaza as part of its Operation ‘Gideon’s Chariots’ campaign. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been in close contact with negotiations team in Qatar, seeking a ceasefire deal and the release of hostages.
The new offensive comes amid growing differences between Israel and the US over the conflict. President Donald Trump concluded his visit to the Middle East without securing a ceasefire deal, despite saying he wanted an end to the “brutal war” in Gaza.
A joint statement from Arab leaders attending a summit in Baghdad called for an immediate ceasefire and urged international pressure to bring an end to the bloodshed. The UN has warned that one in five people in Gaza are facing starvation, with the entire population at risk of famine.
Israel’s blockade on aid reaching Gaza has been criticized as violating international law. The Israeli government has refused to be swayed by criticism, saying it aims to destroy Hamas and prevent emigration outside the Gaza Strip.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/05/16/middleeast/gideons-chariots-israel-new-gaza-offensive-latam-intl