DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip. A renewed wave of heavy fighting engulfed Gaza on Sunday, with Israeli forces intensifying their offensive following the U.S. veto of a proposed international cease-fire. The move came amid escalating international condemnation and calls for an end to the conflict, fueled by the high civilian casualties and mass displacement in the beleaguered territory.
The U.S., a key ally of Israel, further solidified its support by blocking United Nations Security Council efforts to halt the hostilities, garnering criticism from various quarters. In a controversial move, the U.S. also expedited the emergency sale of over $100 million worth of tank ammunition to Israel, reinforcing its commitment to backing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s military objectives.
Expressing gratitude for the crucial military aid, Netanyahu thanked U.S. President Joe Biden, emphasizing the importance of the provided ammunition for the continuation of the war. The offensive aims to crush the military capabilities of Hamas and address the fallout from the Oct. 7 attack that triggered the conflict. In that incursion, Hamas militants infiltrated southern Israel, resulting in the death of 1,200 people and the capture of around 240 hostages.
The U.S. has pledged steadfast support for Israel’s objectives, rejecting international appeals for de-escalation. The offensive has, however, resulted in a dire humanitarian crisis, with approximately 90% of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents displaced and U.N. agencies highlighting the absence of safe havens within the besieged territory.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, addressing a forum in Qatar, warned of the situation’s rapid deterioration, describing it as a potential catastrophe with irreversible implications for Palestinians and regional peace. Qatar’s prime minister, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, affirmed ongoing mediation efforts to end the conflict and secure the release of hostages but lamented the lack of willingness from both parties.
Israel’s national security adviser, Tzachi Hanegbi, acknowledged the absence of a set deadline from the U.S. for achieving Israel’s goals, emphasizing the complexity and potential duration of the operation. Secretary of State Antony Blinken indicated that discussions with Israel involve considerations of the campaign’s duration and strategy against Hamas, emphasizing that these decisions ultimately rest with Israel.
As the conflict continues, the international community remains deeply divided, with concerns growing over the humanitarian toll and the broader implications for regional stability.
(with inputs from agencies)
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
