Israeli Tanks Advance in Gaza While Biden Calls for Peace Efforts

Photo : AFP

In a significant escalation of the conflict, Israeli forces have advanced further into the central and southern Gaza Strip, clashing with Hamas fighters. The Israeli military reported that its operations in the region have intensified over the past 24 hours, with significant activity in Deir Al-Balah and Khan Younis, targeting military structures and militants. According to the Israeli military, 50 militants were killed in Rafah, while local health officials confirmed at least 22 casualties from Israeli strikes across Gaza.

The escalation follows a recent call from U.S. President Joe Biden to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging an urgent push for a truce and the release of hostages. Biden's call came amid ongoing, yet unproductive, ceasefire negotiations that have struggled to resolve the conflict that began in October 2023, following a violent Hamas attack on Israeli territories.

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In the town of Beit Lahiya, an Israeli strike on a house resulted in the deaths of 11 people, while another strike in Al-Maghazi camp killed six, including a journalist. Other strikes in southern Gaza resulted in five additional deaths. The intensification of the Israeli military campaign has led to significant displacement, with residents fleeing their homes in Khan Younis and Deir Al-Balah due to advancing tanks and aerial bombardments. Many families have sought refuge on the beach or roadsides, enduring harsh conditions and ongoing attacks.

The conflict has led to widespread destruction and loss of life. More than 40,000 people have been reported killed in Gaza since the conflict began, with over 2.3 million displaced. The war erupted on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants launched a large-scale assault on Israeli communities and military bases, resulting in approximately 1,200 Israeli deaths and around 250 hostages taken.

The current military actions have exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where safe zones are increasingly scarce and reports of casualties continue despite ongoing ceasefire talks.