Israel readies for ground attack as Gazans displaced

Israel continued its preparations for a major ground operation in Gaza as the conflict with Hamas entered its second week. The IDF Chief of Staff emphasized the need to target Hamas infrastructure and operatives. Official figures stated that at least 1,284 individuals in Israel have been killed in the conflict. The IDF urged residents of northern Gaza to evacuate southward, citing the opening of humanitarian corridors. Prior to warnings, over 400,000 Palestinians were internally displaced. The Gaza-based Palestinian Health Ministry reported over 2,670 people killed by Israeli airstrikes with over 9,600 injuries. UN Secretary-General Guterres called for humanitarian aid to enter Gaza and urged Hamas to release hostages.

Concerns persist about the conflict expanding, with tensions between Hezbollah and Israeli forces in Lebanon’s border area. Israeli Defense Minister Gallant expressed a desire to avoid escalation but warned of consequences if Hezbollah chose war. Iranian Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian called for an end to attacks on Gaza to prevent further crisis. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated China’s commitment to preventing the conflict’s expansion and providing humanitarian assistance through UN and bilateral channels. U.S. Secretary of State Blinken emphasized the international determination to contain the conflict during his regional tour.

Source – CGTN