Gaza caught in renewed conflict as Israel reignites ground offensive

Israel has launched a renewed ground operation in the central and southern regions of Gaza, escalating its military campaign following a brief period of relative calm. The Israeli military confirmed on Wednesday that its forces had advanced into multiple areas, reinforcing their presence along the strategic Netzarim Corridor. This latest maneuver comes amid ongoing airstrikes that have killed at least 48 Palestinians in the past 24 hours, according to local health authorities.

The offensive marks a significant shift after a temporary ceasefire, which had been in place since January, appeared to break down entirely. On Tuesday, one of the deadliest days in the ongoing conflict saw more than 400 Palestinians killed in Israeli airstrikes. The escalation raises concerns about the long-term implications for Gaza’s civilians, already suffering from mass displacement, food shortages, and deteriorating infrastructure.

Israel’s military justified the renewed operations as a “focused” maneuver aimed at reinforcing control over key areas and preventing the resurgence of Hamas activity in regions it had previously withdrawn from. However, Palestinian officials have condemned the incursion, calling it a violation of the fragile ceasefire agreement that had offered a brief respite after months of devastating conflict.

What Role Does the Netzarim Corridor Play in the Conflict?

The Israel ground operation has centered around the Netzarim Corridor, a strategically significant route that effectively splits the Gaza Strip into northern and southern sections. By securing this area, Israel aims to disrupt Hamas’ movement and communication while exerting greater control over access points between regions.

Hamas has strongly opposed the move, calling it a “new and dangerous violation” of the ceasefire terms. The militant group has urged international mediators to intervene, arguing that Israel’s actions threaten to dismantle any remaining hopes for a negotiated settlement. Israeli military officials, however, insist that the operation is necessary to neutralize Hamas strongholds and prevent further rocket attacks on Israeli cities.

The Israeli campaign has already drawn widespread international criticism. The United Nations reported that a strike on a U.N. compound in central Gaza City resulted in the death of a foreign staff member and injuries to five others. While Gaza’s health ministry attributed the attack to Israeli forces, the Israeli military denied responsibility, stating that its target was a Hamas weapons site.

How Has the United Nations Responded to the Renewed Violence?

The latest Israeli offensive has intensified concerns within the international community, particularly regarding the safety of humanitarian workers and civilians in Gaza. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for a full investigation into the strike on the U.N. facility, noting that it brings the total number of U.N. personnel killed in Gaza since October 7, 2023, to at least 280.

Jorge Moreira da Silva, the executive director of the U.N. Office for Project Services, emphasized that the targeted compound was well-known to Israeli forces as a humanitarian site. His remarks have further fueled calls for accountability, with several Western nations urging restraint.

In the wake of these developments, Israel’s ambassador to Bulgaria, Yosef Levi Sfari, extended condolences for the death of a Bulgarian citizen working with the U.N. in Gaza. While Israel pledged to investigate the incident, initial statements from Israeli officials claimed there was “no connection” between the U.N. strike and military operations.

What Is the U.S. Position on the Conflict?

As diplomatic efforts falter, the United States has reiterated its support for Israel while emphasizing that a ceasefire extension remains a viable option. Washington has proposed a “bridge” deal designed to prolong the ceasefire and facilitate the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.

State Department officials have warned that the opportunity to implement the deal is narrowing, placing responsibility on Hamas for the breakdown in negotiations. U.S. officials described the group’s response as “totally unacceptable,” asserting that Israel had the right to continue its military campaign.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has signaled an uncompromising stance, stating that the renewed military actions are “just the beginning.” Defense Minister Israel Katz echoed this sentiment, warning that Israel would deploy “force you have not yet seen” if hostages were not released.

How Is the Situation Affecting Gaza’s Civilians?

The intensification of airstrikes and ground operations has led to renewed displacement orders for residents in both northern and southern Gaza. The Israeli military has dropped leaflets instructing civilians to evacuate, although safe passage remains uncertain due to continued hostilities.

Israeli airstrikes have targeted multiple locations, including Beit Hanoun, where four people were killed and 10 others injured, according to local medics. In Beit Lahiya, a separate strike hit a mourning tent, killing 24 people. The main north-south route, Salahuddin Road, has also become a battleground, with Israeli tank shelling reported in the area. Witnesses say the violence has deterred civilians from attempting to move between regions, further complicating efforts to find safety.

Palestinian health authorities report that the total death toll in Gaza has surpassed 49,000 since the start of the war. The ongoing conflict has also deepened the humanitarian crisis, with severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies exacerbating an already dire situation.

What Are the Political Repercussions in Israel?

The decision to resume full-scale military operations has triggered backlash within Israel, particularly among families of the remaining hostages in Gaza. With 59 captives still unaccounted for—24 of whom are believed to be alive—public anger is growing against Netanyahu’s government.

Protests have erupted in multiple cities, with demonstrators accusing the prime minister of prioritizing military escalation over efforts to secure the hostages’ release. Critics argue that Netanyahu is using the war to maintain political leverage rather than pursuing a resolution that could bring captives home.

Internationally, France, Germany, and regional mediators such as Qatar and Egypt have condemned the resumption of hostilities, warning that the conflict risks spiraling further out of control. Jordan’s King Abdullah has called for an immediate ceasefire restoration and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza, calling Israel’s actions an “extremely dangerous step.”

As the situation continues to unfold, the prospect of renewed diplomatic efforts remains uncertain. While calls for de-escalation grow louder, both Israel and Hamas appear entrenched in their positions, leaving civilians trapped in the crossfire of a conflict showing no clear path to resolution.