Israel has expanded its ground operations in Gaza, following two days of intense air strikes that the Hamas-run health ministry says killed more than 430 people.
The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed troops had advanced to the Netzarim Corridor, a strategic zone that divides northern and southern Gaza, as part of what it called “targeted ground activities” to establish a “partial buffer” between the regions.
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This latest offensive ends the fragile ceasefire that had held since January. It comes amid evacuation orders for areas including Beit Hanoun in the north, signaling a possible larger ground invasion. The military has urged civilians to flee wide swathes of territory along Gaza’s land borders, prompting panic among displaced Palestinian families. Many are once again on the move, carrying belongings by foot, carts, or vehicles in search of safety.
In a video statement on Wednesday, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant issued a stark warning to Hamas, demanding the return of all hostages—59 in total, 24 of whom Israel believes are alive. He warned that failure to meet this demand would result in “total destruction and devastation” in Gaza.
The renewed military push comes after an explosion at a UN compound in Deir al-Balah killed two people, including a UN staff member. The UN Office for Project Services (UNOPS) reported that “explosive ordnance was dropped or fired” at the isolated facility.
While Israel has denied responsibility, UN Secretary General António Guterres has called for a full investigation. UNOPS chief Jorge Moreira da Silva stated, “This was not an accident,” and described the humanitarian situation in Gaza as “unconscionable.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said combat had resumed “in full force” and stressed that any further ceasefire negotiations would now take place “under fire.” Wednesday’s airstrikes, which followed Tuesday’s initial bombardment, mark the heaviest assault since the January ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement.
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