ISRAEL, GAZA – Israel’s defense minister, Yoav Gallant, has announced to soldiers stationed near the country’s border with Gaza that all restrictions have been lifted and that they will eliminate anyone who fights against them. This comes as Israel prepares for a potential ground invasion of the Hamas-controlled territory. In a recent airstrike, Israeli forces targeted the family home of Mohammed Deif, the reclusive leader of Hamas’ military wing, resulting in the deaths of his father, brother, and two other relatives.
The Israel Defense Forces have been carrying out relentless retaliatory strikes against Gaza since Hamas launched an attack on Saturday. In a statement, the IDF confirmed that they had targeted an important Hamas operational, political, and military center, the Islamic University. Gallant emphasized that Israeli children being murdered will not be tolerated and that all measures at their disposal will be used to eliminate those who fight against them.
The death toll continues to rise, with over 1,200 people killed in Israel, including 155 Israeli soldiers, and around 1,055 confirmed deaths in Gaza, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health. The impending fuel shortage further exacerbates the situation in Gaza, as the territory’s power plant is expected to run out of fuel, leaving the area without electricity. Palestinians in Gaza have long relied on generators, but without fuel imports, they will face significant challenges in powering homes, offices, and hospitals.
The United Nations’ World Health Organization has reported that supplies pre-positioned for seven hospitals have already run out, further straining the healthcare system. Doctors Without Borders has also expressed concern over the dwindling supplies of surgical equipment, antibiotics, fuel, and other essential items in the hospitals they operate in Gaza.
Israel has mobilized 360,000 reservists, indicating a growing likelihood of a ground offensive into Gaza. The exact number of Israeli forces near the Gaza border remains unclear. The IDF has not responded to requests for comment.
In the midst of escalating tensions, the international community is closely monitoring the situation, with concerns growing over the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. The ongoing violence and loss of life underscore the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.