Gaza City declared as a war zone by Israel, halt to all humanitarian aid resumptions enacted
In a significant development, the Israeli government has approved a plan to mobilize around 60,000 reservists for a military operation in Gaza City. This decision comes amidst an escalating conflict and a dire humanitarian crisis in the region.
The Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, expressed gratitude to commanders and fighters for a successful operation, without providing specific details. The city, which is home to some of the territory's critical infrastructure and health facilities, is claimed to be a Hamas stronghold, with a tunnel network that remains in use by militants.
The announcement follows the recovery and return of the body of hostage Ilan Weiss, who was murdered by Hamas during the October 2023 attacks and his body kidnapped. Another hostage's remains were also returned, although the name was not immediately released. Netanyahu vowed to continue efforts to return all kidnapped people, both the living and the dead.
The United Nations has warned that the offensive will have a "horrific humanitarian impact." The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) recently declared famine in Gaza, with hunger, starvation, and child malnutrition surpassing thresholds in the besieged strip. The city could lose half of its hospital bed capacity if Israel invades as planned.
The tactical pauses covering Gaza City, Deir al-Balah, and Muwasi, where hundreds of thousands of displaced people have been sheltering, have been suspended. The IDF did not say whether it had notified residents or aid groups about the plans to resume daytime hostilities.
No information was provided about any negotiations or plans regarding the remaining hostages. Last week, the wife and daughter of another hostage were previously kidnapped and released from captivity in November 2023.
The conflict in Gaza City continues to unfold, with both sides expressing determination and resolve. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a swift resolution that minimizes human suffering.
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