GAZA/JERUSALEM. Israeli forces have encircled Gaza City, the main city in the Gaza Strip, in their ongoing offensive against Hamas, according to Israeli military statements. Hamas, however, is using hit-and-run tactics from underground tunnels to resist the Israeli advance.
Israel has focused its attack on Gaza City, located in the north of the Gaza Strip, with the aim of dismantling the command structure of the Islamist group and urging civilians to move to the south.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated, “We’re at the height of the battle. We’ve had impressive successes and have passed the outskirts of Gaza City. We are advancing,” but provided no further details.
Israeli military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari confirmed the encirclement of Gaza City, which is seen as the focal point of Hamas’ activities. Israeli forces are encountering mines and booby traps as they advance.
Hamas’ armed wing’s spokesperson, Abu Ubaida, claimed in a televised speech that Israel’s death toll in Gaza is higher than what the military has reported, warning, “Your soldiers will return in black bags.”
The conflict has taken a heavy toll on Palestinian civilians, leading to shortages of food, fuel, drinking water, and medicine. The White House is exploring options for temporary pauses in the conflict to allow for safe evacuations from Gaza and humanitarian aid deliveries.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is on a visit to the Middle East to discuss measures to minimize harm to Gaza’s civilians and address the future of Gaza, with a focus on laying the groundwork for future Palestinian statehood.
The latest conflict began when Hamas fighters breached the border on Oct. 7, leading to a series of events that have resulted in significant casualties and damage. The situation continues to escalate, drawing international concern.
In Washington, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a Republican proposal to provide $14.3 billion in aid to Israel, despite objections from Democrats and a potential White House veto. The U.S. government is considering a broader emergency spending package, including funding for Israel, humanitarian aid, and other priorities.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with many hospitals unable to function properly, and the overall humanitarian situation described as catastrophic. The conflict shows no signs of immediate resolution, leaving civilians in a state of distress and uncertainty.
Reuters contributed to this report.
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.
