Tel Aviv/Gaza City – Israel has launched an offensive in Gaza Strip, further exacerbating an already serious conflict, only hours after former U.S. President Donald Trump left after failing to broker ceasefire between Hamas and Israel during his diplomatic visit.
On Friday morning, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced they have begun “Operation Iron Vow,” a large-scale military campaign targeting what it characterized as terrorist infrastructure and leadership nodes across Gaza Strip. Beginning with airstrikes followed by ground incursions into northern and central Gaza regions, this offensive marked one of the most intense escalations since war rekindled several months earlier.
Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari of the Israeli Defense Force stated in a televised briefing: “We are taking swift and decisive measures to reduce Hamas and other militant organizations’ threats posed by Gaza-based militant groups such as Hamas.” This operation will continue until security for Israeli citizens has been restored.
According to Palestinian health officials, initial bombardments have claimed at least 42 lives and more than 100 injuries; rescue workers continue their attempts to reach affected areas in an effort to reach victims quickly. Many of those killed include women and children – heightening international concerns over civilian security in an already overpopulated enclave.
Hamas, which governs Gaza, responded by firing an intense barrage of rockets at southern Israel. Air raid sirens sounded across cities such as Ashkelon, Sderot and Beersheba as most were intercepted by Israel’s Iron Dome defense system; however, several hit residential areas, leading to injuries and property damage.
Trump recently concluded his three-day visit to the Middle East, meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and representatives from several Arab nations, but no agreements were made to temporarily ceasefire or open diplomatic channels.
Trump told reporters before boarding his plane in Tel Aviv: “Both parties need to want peace; for now all we can do is keep the door open.”
Donald Trump’s visit had inspired some analysts with hopes that his political influence and close ties to Israeli leadership might break through the current deadlock. Unfortunately, after his departure a military campaign launched within hours, leading critics to wonder whether its success.
International reactions have been swift. The UN called for an immediate cessation of hostilities while European Union countries and several Middle Eastern states encouraged both sides to return to negotiations. Human rights organizations raised alarm over potential humanitarian impacts on Gaza; with its healthcare infrastructure already on its last legs being threatened.
With tensions rising to their maximum and diplomatic efforts seemingly stalling, the situation on the ground remains highly unstable. Both parties seem ready for prolonged conflict to ensue with civilians caught between two opposing camps once more being caught in its crossfire.: