In brief
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announces an intensified military operation around Gaza City, urging civilians to evacuate. The move comes as Hamas considers a controversial new peace plan from US President Donald Trump, with Israeli armed forces declaring Gaza City as a critical stronghold. Medical organizations report severe casualties and a cessation of operations due to the escalating violence.
Israel's defense minister has announced that its forces are ‘tightening the siege’ around Gaza City by extending their control over a military corridor leading to the coast. Israel Katz warned residents that those remaining will be considered supporters of terrorism as the military campaign intensifies against Hamas.On Wednesday, it was reported that 45 Palestinians were killed as conflict escalates, further distorting the humanitarian landscape. According to hospitals, 29 of the casualties were taken to al-Ahli hospital in the southern Zeitoun area following strikes on the region.The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has now suspended operations in Gaza City, citing dire conditions for civilians and a critical need for humanitarian aid. Meanwhile, Israel continues to press an assault, positioning Gaza City as Hamas's `last stronghold`, aiming to isolate the organization while also securing the release of hostages held by Hamas.Amidst these military actions, a new peace plan presented by US President Donald Trump, aimed at putting an end to the war, is eliciting mixed reactions. While Turkish and Arab mediators stress the necessity of a favorable response from Hamas, internal reports suggest the organization might reject the proposal.Katz indicated that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are finalizing the control of the Netzarim corridor along Gaza’s western coastal border. He labeled the current moment as the ‘last chance’ for residents wishing to evacuate, framing the situation as a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict.Civilian casualties continue to emerge, as medics detail attacks directly targeting emergency responders, including a severe incident where personnel were injured while responding to strikes on sheltering schools in Gaza. The ongoing military operations and humanitarian crises raise urgent questions regarding international humanitarian laws and responsibilities in wartime, further complicating the geopolitical landscape in the region.
