Israel has launched a major new offensive in the Gaza Strip, hours after fresh ceasefire talks between Hamas and Israeli mediators began on Saturday. The military operation, dubbed “Operation Gideon’s Chariots,” comes amid negotiations over the release of hostages.
Hamas has proposed releasing nine hostages under a proposed deal that also includes a 60-day truce and Israel’s release of Palestinian prisoners. However, Israel has demanded proof of life and detailed information about remaining hostages.
At least 300 people have been killed in the deadliest wave of strikes in Gaza in months, with thousands more dying since Israel resumed airstrikes on March 18. Aid agencies warn that Gaza’s humanitarian situation has worsened due to a blockade of supplies, including food, for 10 weeks.
The new offensive is being widely condemned by international leaders and aid agencies, with UN officials expressing alarm at the risk of famine among Gaza’s 2.1 million population. The Israeli government has rejected claims of a food shortage in Gaza, but footage and accounts show emaciated children suffering from malnutrition under the blockade.
Gaza’s hospitals are struggling to cope with the influx of wounded patients, with medical staff exhausted and losing weight due to the lack of supplies. The UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, and Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani have all called for a permanent ceasefire in response to the escalating violence.
The conflict has killed over 53,000 people since October 2023, with Hamas still holding 58 hostages.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd7geg3lvz1o