Imagine a fragile ceasefire shattering like broken glass. That’s what happened between Israel and Hamas, two sworn enemies, after a brief lull in fighting. The Israeli military has now launched a ground operation in the Gaza Strip, aiming to create a buffer zone. This move comes after two days of intense airstrikes that left hundreds dead.
Let’s break it down. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced they’re expanding their ground operation, pushing deep into the Gaza Strip. They’re focusing on a strategic area called the Netzarim Corridor, a vital road that divides the northern and southern parts of the strip. The IDF wants to create a partial buffer zone between these two areas.
Here’s the situation on the ground:
- The IDF has started targeted ground operations to create a buffer zone.
- They’ve warned people to evacuate areas where they’ll be operating, including the city of Beit Hanoun in northern Gaza.
- The United Nations reported that two people, including one of their staff members, were killed in an explosion at a UN building in Deir al-Balah.
- Israel’s Foreign Ministry said they’ll investigate, but denied any involvement.
A recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas seems to have fallen apart. Israel resumed its attacks on Gaza, including airstrikes and artillery fire, killing over 430 people. The first phase of the ceasefire ended on March 1, but the two sides couldn’t agree on what’s next. Israel and the US want to extend the ceasefire and demand that Hamas release more hostages. However, this could delay the start of a more permanent ceasefire, which would require Israel to withdraw its troops from Gaza. Hamas has rejected this proposal.
Sources:
BBC News