Israel continues bombing campaign in Gaza as Hamas faces dissolution
Israel persisted with its airstrikes on Gaza, asserting that its ongoing efforts have brought the Palestinian militant group Hamas to the brink of dissolution. Humanitarian leaders express concern over the potential humanitarian crisis in the besieged territory, urging Israel to intensify measures to safeguard civilians.
On Tuesday, fierce clashes unfolded in central Gaza, with Hamas reporting confrontations and witnesses detailing deadly Israeli strikes in the southern region. Targets included Khan Yunis, now a focal point of the conflict, and Rafah, a city on the Egyptian border where tens of thousands seek refuge.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant declared on Monday, “Hamas is on the verge of dissolution—the IDF is taking over its last strongholds.” The conflict originated from Hamas’s October 7 attacks, resulting in 1,200 deaths, according to Israeli figures, and around 240 hostages taken back to Gaza.
Israel’s military offensive, aiming to dismantle Hamas, has devastated much of Gaza, claiming at least 18,200 lives, predominantly women and children, as per the Hamas-run health ministry. Israel’s army chief Herzi Halevi emphasized securing accomplishments in strategic locations.
The UN estimates that 1.9 million out of Gaza’s 2.4 million population have been displaced, with half being children. Heavy bombardment in the south has left few safe places for civilians.
As the conflict intensifies, basic supplies in Gaza are running out, and sanitary conditions are deteriorating. International aid organizations face challenges delivering supplies, with only the Rafah crossing in Egypt open. Under pressure, Israel announced additional checkpoints for aid screening.
The UN General Assembly is set to vote on a non-binding resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. Despite Security Council failure to make such a call, diplomatic efforts continue amid growing fears of a wider conflict, including Iran-backed groups targeting US and allied forces and exchanges of fire along Israel’s borders.
In response to heightened tensions, a general strike in solidarity with Gaza occurred in the Israeli-occupied West Bank and Lebanon, closing shops, schools, and government offices. The situation remains critical, with the international community urging a swift resolution to prevent further humanitarian suffering.
