TEL AVIV - Israel is preparing a large-scale and intensive military operation in the Gaza Strip. This was announced by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a video announcement published today on the social network X. The aim of the new offensive, he said, is the definitive defeat of the Palestinian radical movement Hamas. However, the Prime Minister did not give specific details on the scope of the intervention or the areas the Israeli army plans to occupy.
"We are preparing for the decisive phase of the fight. The operation will be tough and consistent, but it is necessary to ensure the future security of our citizens," Netanyahu said. He added that Israel was determined to achieve a military victory over Hamas, which he described as the main obstacle to peace in the region. In his statement, the Prime Minister also indicated that the offensive would be accompanied by "population movements", without specifying whether these would be evacuations of civilians or forced relocations. This formulation has raised concerns among the international community and humanitarian organisations, which warn of a further escalation of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Tensions have been rising in the area for several weeks, with Israeli forces stepping up air strikes and intensifying combat operations near the border. According to military officials, Israel is preparing a coordinated air and ground intervention. Palestinian sources report an increased number of civilian areas hit and warn of a growing number of civilian casualties.
The reactions from abroad to Netanyahu's announcement did not take long. Germany and France called for maximum restraint and the protection of civilians. The United States reiterated its support for Israel's right to self-defence, but also called for the need to minimise the humanitarian impact and allow unrestricted access for humanitarian aid. The United Nations expressed concern about the possibility of forced population transfers, which could be classified as a serious human rights violation under international law. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights called on Israel to be transparent and respect its international obligations.
The situation in the Gaza Strip remains very tense and opaque. Humanitarian organisations working in the area warn that any new offensive could worsen an already dire situation, with the UN estimating that more than 80 % Gazans depend on humanitarian aid. The Israeli government has not yet provided a detailed timeframe for the operation or specific objectives. The public and international partners are thus anxiously awaiting further developments.
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